04-12-2004 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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I MINUTES OF THE CITY OF ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACES, AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING Monday, March 1, 2004 7; 15 o’clock p.m. Halvorson indicated that she had a strong opinion regarding this request. She maintained that Bedcrwood is a public park, which should be available for use by Orono residents. She staled that it is a shame that no one uses this neat facility, though it was built with dugouts and bleachers for this use. Pesek concurred, stating that it would be crazy not to recommend the City Council hold a public meeting over Bederwood’s use. Silber agreed, adding that Bedcrwood has adequate parking to support the use. She mentioned that, in her opinion, ‘a well used park is a well loved park ’. Chair McDermott was reluctant to take a position. Halvorson moved to allow use of the Bederwood field bv OB A. Rice questioned whether limitations should be placed on the use or whether it should be up for grabs Monday-Friday. He asked if the proposed improvements would be permanent. Palmquist stated that OBA would likely request use of the facilities Monday-Friday 5:30-8:30 P.M., and Saturdays until 6 P.M. at the outset. Silber suggested the motion be amended to make the recommendation subject to public consideration. Pesek maintained that Bederwood is a park within Orono which should be used. He stated that he was astounded that anyone would object to a request for usage. In conclusion, Pesek indicated that he would encourage this use and the improvements offered to be paid for by the organization. Chair McDermott stated that, ty|>ically, Orono has not provided facihties for organized sports ii Halvorson repeated her motion to recommend to the City Council that the City allow the Orono Baseball Association use of the Bederwood baseball fleld. In addition. Bouchard stated that any limitation that would be put upon the Orono Ba.scball Association approval by the City Council should be based upon public input from a public heanng. Pesek and Halvorson disagreed, slating that it is a public park and no limitations should be placed upon a public park. Council member Murphy asked what the general policy regarding parks was. PAGE 3 j f