11-07-2022 Park Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION November 7,2022 6:00 o'clock p.m. VOTE: A es6,Nayss 0. Y 2. SUMMIT BEACH MASTER PLAN Chair Roath shared history of the project including surveys and recent open houses to receive feedback from the public. Taking those results,the Committee put together a draft Master Plan proposal which was presented at the last Work Session and the third open house on October 13, 2022.He shared that they received great feedback on the Master Plan and will now move the plan forward to City Council on November 14,2022. Carter moved,Porter seconded,to recommend approval of the Summit Beach Master Plan to the City Council.VOTE: Ayes 6,Nays 0. 3. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN(CIP) Chair Roath noted the Commissioners are here representing the citizens of Orono and will make some recommendations regarding the parks within the City. He would like to focus on the next three years and from the discussion tonight, Edwards and Lemons can put together their recommendations for the CIP. He shared about possible golf course plans and the reviewing of the feasibility of pickleball courts, an ice rink, expanding parking, adding a fire pit, and a shelter. The Commissioners discussed golf course open houses,receiving feedback from the public on plans, looking at a second option other than the golf course, cross country ski trails,kitchen remodel,and budget. Chair Roath noted the Commissioners discussed Lurton Dog Park earlier, including expanding parking and looking at fees. The Commissioners discussed the timing of the parking lot expansion project at Lurton Park, looking to put in on the 2024 schedule. Chair Roath shared about Hackberry Park,noting the Commission hears from the sports associations how much they need additional fields, and for the fields to drain better in the spring. Edwards stated the City went through the drainage infrastructure, cleared it and did some repairs.Until they do something with the grades of the fields,there is not a long-term solution. The Commissioners recommend spending the money in 2023 to do the planning and engineering work with construction beginning in 2024-2025. Commissioner Carter shared about Lowry Woods, stating the goal is to provide public legal access from the Luce Line into the park using signage, fencing, and other low-cost options. Chair Roath spoke about Antoine Park and a recent listening session held by the City. It is a tight-knit community and they asked the Commission to put a picnic table, shelter, or gathering point to enhance the feel of the neighborhood. Page 3 of 5