01-13-1997 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 4, 1996 o (ff3) DISCUSSION OF WINTER PARK PLANS (JOHN GERHARDSON): A. SKATING RINKS Gerlwdson reported that three rinks were maintained last year, Bederwood, Hackberry and Casco Pomt. It appears that Bederwood received the least amount of usage It was noted that there were no lights at Bederwood. Use reported that she has received co^ents from people in the area that they were unaware of the rink being there. Use said It w'as important that the services provided in the winter time be highlighted by notifications to Orono residents. McDermott suggested a mailing be sent out to the residents. Goetten suggested that the Park Commission do their own public relations work, possibly with a newspaper article. Gerhardson asked the Commission for their recommendation for ice rinks for this winter season. Gerhardson did not have any costs for rink upkeep. McDermott noted that it had been decided last year to close Antoine. Flint said the closure was done to enable a better job to be performed on the remaining rinks after it was shown that Antoine was not used very often. McDermott asked about a past conversation regarding the use of equipment belonging to the City of Wayzata. Gerhardson said he was unaware of that and has not spoken with anyone from Wayzata. Beal noted there were comments received regarding the slushy conditions and smell of the ice at Antoine. Gerhardson said the difference between Antoine and the other locations is that the land at Antoine was filled about 15-20 years ago and has never stabilized. It has not been determined why these air pockets have developed. The other rinks are located on grade. The only imported portion of the rinks at Bederwood and Hackbeny are the berms. Flint suggested maintaining the same three ice rinks this year. He noted that the neighbors of Antoine should be informed that it is too late this year to change to four rinks and still maintain quality ice. He also asked that the Bederwood neighbors be informf^d that the rink is there. Regard’mg a light at Bederwood, Gerhardson said there is power in the street but might be offensive to the neighboring homes. McDermott suggested a timer be used. Use asked if the light could be directed toward the rink and shielded from the neighboring homes. Gerhardson said a flood light would have to be used and located high on the pole. This would result in fallout from the light. The light has not been budgeted for but it would be similar to the light on the existing pole at Casco. Use noted that there has been problems with people partying in the parking lot and questioned whether the Commission should advocate putting in a light. She said it is quite common to see a number of cars in the lot. Gerhardson asked Use to speak with the neighbors regarding this issue, and he, in turn, would peruse the police records to research the history of problems. A decision will be made later regarding a light for next year. L,