09-05-2017 Park Commission Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING Tuesday,September 5,2017 6:30 o'clock p.m. Meyers asked if the yellow lines depict trails that could be constructed tomorrow if the City had the money. Barnhart stated those were goals identified in the 2008 Comprehensive Plan. Barnhart pointed out the Orono Preserve property on the overhead. Barnhart stated when that project came through,there was quite a bit of discussion about whether a trail easement should be granted. The Council at that time recognized that if they do not acquire an easement at the time of development, it would be very difficult to get one later. In addition, an easement along the Eisinger property was granted. Barnhart stated he would recommend that if there is a trail easement that is vital, the Parks Commission identify that. Barnhart stated Staff can spend the resources to go through the files to see if there is an easement but that in his view it would be more beneficial for the Parks Commission to identify potential trails or connections. Meyers stated he is more interested in trail connections and that the Parks Commission should look into that. Meyers stated one of the biggest goals is to make the connection between the Luce Line and the Dakota Trail. Johnson stated he thought perhaps the minutes would show when and where easements were granted. Barnhart stated an easement is recorded against the property and that Staff would have to go through file by file to see whether an easement exists. Barnhart recommended the Parks Commission identify the trail and then Staff could see whether easements exist. Barnhart stated the survey would help identify areas where there is interest in a trail. The survey would also provide support for the trail. Rief stated in the City he was at previously, they were able to obtain over a 10 percent engagement by utilizing social media. Rief stated one of the things he has seen in other cities is a huge demand for trails, which they will likely see in this area,and that the Comprehensive Plan is kind of the Parks Commission wish list. Meyers noted ten years ago Orono did not have the Dakota Trail, which increased bicyclists in the area ten-fold, and that in his view there is a big demand for trails. Williams asked how the survey was administered. Rief indicated it was all done on Facebook and online and they spent less than $100. Ruegemer moved,Berg seconded,to recommend that the City Council consider conducting a citizens survey regarding parks,trails and recreation as part of the Comprehensive Plan Update. VOTE: Ayes 6,Nays 0. 5. PUBLIC WORKS PARKS UPDATE Edwards reported on the following items: Page 10 of 14