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ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING <br /> MINUTES FOR MAY 3, 1999 <br /> March for Parks, Continued <br /> Wilson commented that the Parks Commission should discuss whether this event should <br /> continue to be held in the future given the poor turnout, noting that more time and effort should <br /> be given to promoting this event if the City wants to make this event a success. <br /> Ilse stated that she approached her church and school in an effort to promote this event, but <br /> that support from more people in the City is needed to help make the event a success. Ilse <br /> commented that full support from the Parks Commission would also help make the March for <br /> Parks a success. <br /> Ilse noted that prizes were awarded to the top pledge earners in the various categories. Ilse <br /> remarked that this event did receive some good publicity in the local papers and City <br /> newsletter. <br /> Silber extended her thanks to Ilse for all her efforts on this event. <br /> McDermott noted that Long Lake had withdrawn from this event, which hurt the pa�ticipation, <br /> and that perhaps the Parks Commission will need to discuss in the future whether this event <br /> should continue to be held. <br /> Ilse noted that Mound is very interested in participating in this event again. <br /> STATUS REPORTS <br /> 8. Dakota Rail to Trail -Trail Class with the DNR <br /> McDermott stated he attended a class sponsored by the DNR, which was very informative and <br /> provided some good resources for funding. McDermott commented that there was good interest <br /> in the Dakota Rail to Trail expressed and that Rick Meyers is very interested in working on this <br /> project. <br /> Flint stated they are looking at whether a grant might be available to buy the Dakota Rail, but <br /> at this time they are not certain that the rail is for sale. Flint stated this trail is in Hennepin <br /> County's long-range plan. Flint stated the Dakota Rail is presently being purchased on a <br /> contract for deed by a corporation called Rail America, Inc., who also owns other smaller <br /> railroads throughout Minnesota. Flint indicated he will be attending a meeting tomorrow <br /> moming with Doug Bryant to discuss the grant. <br /> Silber inquired whether the Rails to Trails Coalition could provide any funds or technical <br /> support for this project. <br /> McDermott stated they have information available on how grants can be obtained and will <br /> give an update on this project at the next meeting. <br /> 9. Spring Hill -Site Meeting Results <br /> McDermott stated that Gappa, Flint, and himself reviewed the trails at Spring Hill this week, <br /> noting that some of the trails have been roughed in but that the trails are not presently open <br /> to the public. McDermott indicated that he did question whether the fence could be moved, <br /> and was told that this item would need to be discussed with the Board. <br /> Page 4 <br />