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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-02-05 Parks & Recreation SummaryKENAI PARKS/k RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA FEBRUARY 5, 1998 CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS CHAIRMAN RICHARD HULTBERG ITEM 1' CALL TO ORDER/k ROLL CALL ITEM 2: AGENDA APPROVAL ITEM 3: APPROVAL OF MINUTES - January 2, 1998 ITEM 4: PERSONS SCHEDULED TO BE HEARD a. Jessica Sterling - Restoration and Improvement of Bernie Huss Fitness Trail. ITEM 5' OLD BUSINESS a, Discussion - Hansen Park- Review and Design Work ITEM 6: NEW BUSINESS ao Discussion - Batting Cage Proposal/Don Wright ITEM 7: DIRECTOR'S REPORT ao Kenai Peninsula Winter Games Men's Basketball Tournament Elks Hoop Shoot Results Kenai Municipal Cemetery- Water Budget Report ITEM 8: OUESTIONS & COMMENTS ITEM 9: CORRESPONDENCE ITEM 10: PERSONS PRESENT NOT SCHEDULED TO BE HEAleD ITEM 11: INFORMATION a. Council Action Agenda (1 / 7/98 and 1 / 21 / 98) Beautification Committee Minutes of January 13, 1998 Valentine Wallyball Tournament Recreation Center Quarterly Inspection Teen Center Calendar of Events 1997-98 Men's City League Basketball (A&B Division) ITEM 12: ADJOURNMENT KENAI PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION *** MINUTES *** February 5, 1998- 7:00 P.M. City Hall Council Chambers Chairman Richard Hultberg ® ® ® ® CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Acting Vice Chairman Tim Wisniewski called the meeting to order at approximately 7'00 p.m. Members Present: Ronald Yamamoto, Jack Castimore, Tim Wisniewski, Alicia Brewer (Student Rep), Kelly Gifford (arrived at 7:05 p.m.) Members Absent: Richard Hultberg, Dale Sandahl Also Present: Director Bob Frates, Public Works Director Keith Kornelis, Councilman Hal Smalley, Bonnie Juliussen (Kenaitze Indian Tribe), Dr. Pete Hansen, Contract Secretary Barb Roper APPROVAL OF AGENDA AGENDA WAS APPROVED AS PRESENTED. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - January 2, 1998 MINUTES FOR THE MEETING HELD JANUARY o., 1998 WERE APPROVED AS WRITTEN. PERSONS SCHEDULED TO BE HEARD a® Jessica Sterling - Restoration and Improvement of Bernie Huss Fitness Trail. Frates introduced Jessica Sterling who is involved with the Senior Girl Scouts on the Kenai Peninsula. Sterling contacted the Parks and Rec Department and expressed interest in restoring and improving the Bernie Huss Fitness Trail. This would be in effort to achieve a gold award through the Girl Scout program. Sterling reported her applicatiOn for the gold award was submitted and she was waiting for approval. Frates reminded the Commission that discussion had taken place previously regarding the Bernie Huss Fitness Trail and the desire to clear the front area to make it more visible to the public and the police. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 1 This is a result of the vandalism over the years. People would be more apt to utilize the area if it was cleared and more visible. Frates explained Sterling planned to work with various community service organizations, Parks and Rec, the Elks, Eagles, etc. in accomplishing the project. Sterling thought work would begin apprOximately the first week of July. Frates stated this program would be similar to the Lions Club project and would certainly help the Parks and Rec Department. When asked who would be responsible for the crew, Sterling replied the girl scouts would arrange to get other groups involved in helping out, getting the required equipment, etc. Frates indicated that Wisniewski and Slavik will also work with the girl scouts to develop a plan. It was confirmed that adult supervision would always be present. It was asked if this would be a joint effort with other girl scout groups in the area. Sterling indicated her group is the oldest and will probably be the only group involved. Frates felt that with assistance from ~Visniewski, Slavik, Parks and Rec and the girl scouts, they could developa viable, decent plan. Discussion took place on the wall that sits in front and whether or not it should be removed to make the area more visible. Wisniewski pointed out the sign was sandblasted into the wall and it should probably stay. Frates reported he discussed the plan to renovate and clear the park with the Huss family and they were pleased with the concept and would leave any changes up to the City. It was felt the Huss family should be involved and stay included in the planning process. ~Visniewski requested to be invited to the planning meetings. Brewer thought the plan to improve the park was a great idea and reported she used to use the trail for cross-country skiing but hasn't used it for some time due to the condition. Frates reported the trails are groomed. Smalley asked who would be responsible for hauling the debris. answered the City wold be. Frates CASTIMORE MOVED TO ACCEPT THE RESTORATION AND IMPROVEMENT PLAN FROM JESSICA STERLING FOR THE BERNIE HUSS TRAIL. MOTION WAS SECONDED BY YAMAMOTO. Parks as Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 2 Sandahl Absent Yamamoto Yes Gilford Yes Castimore Yes Wisniewski Yes Brewer Yes Hultberg Absent Motion passed unanimously. Wisniewski thought spring would be a good time to start work in the park. Sterling stated she will wait for approval of her application before she started to contact other groups to help. Castimore suggested the Moose be asked for cash donations for equipment, benches, etc. as they are always looking for projects such as this one. OLD BUSINESS Discussion - Hansen Park - Review and Design Work Frates brought attention to the proposed park design that was included in the packet. It was pointed out the pads would be gravel rather than concrete due to the instability of the soils. A fabric pad would be laid beneath the gravel to eliminate any soil, mud, etc. to come up through. It was also pointed out that the gravel pathway around the park will be compacted to allow handicap accessibility. Dr. Hansen asked about the additional parking. Kornelis reported the original plan had half as many parking spaces than what is shown now. Additional parking was incorporated to eliminate the potential of people parking on the street, at the restaurant or on private property. Dr. Hansen expressed concern that the additional parking may take space away from the park. After a general discussion it was noted the additional parking spaces should be incorporated now as it would be difficult to add at a later date. Smalley pointed out that without the additional parking spaces complaints would come from people that live in the area as people would begin to park on their properties. Kornelis thought perhaps a gate type barricade would need to be erected to eliminate people from going in. The residents could be given a key. It was noted that at least two or three of the parking spots would be designated as handicapped. Dr. Hansen asked if any provision was made for a wall at the edge of the bluff to keep people from walking down to the beach. Kornelis answered that some type of a low, decorative fence is being considered which would be made of wood. Discussion took place on the existing fence on one side of the proposed park. Dr. Hansen reported this existing fence is Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 3 encroaching at least 15 feet onto the park property which will become City property. The fence needs to be moved. Dr. Hansen again asked about the possibility of putting in a rock wall at the edge to keep people from accessing the beach and adding to the erosion problem. Kornelis answered, the sub-base is unstable and will not support a concrete wall. Kornelis added, the City is asking the State to close the area below the park to dipnetting. If that happens then some of those problems should be eliminated. Dr. Hansen asked if soil samples could be taken by using an auger. Kornelis stated that could be done but Mr. 13ookey previously dug in the area and it is very silty way down deep. Juliussen expressed concern with digging in the area as it is considered a Dena'ina burial ground and human remains were found in that area yea_rs ago. Juliussen continued, the Tribe would like to see signage that indicates the area as being a burial ground. Kornelis confirmed the signage would include such information. Dr. Hansen stated that although he liked the design of the park he had concern with people coming up to the park and walking through the grass to get to the bluff. Kornelis explained that fencing would go along the front between the parking lot and the park to force people to use the pathway. Kornelis also pointed out that the parking spaces would have concrete bumpers to keep vehicles in the parking lot. Discussion took place on the type of fencing to use in the park and suggestions included redwood, treated lumber with metal tubing, beetle kill logs, etc. Kornelis suggested the beetle kill trees removed from some City properties be used as material for the park fencing. Castimore indicated that "Sawmill Bill" would be interested in assisting in a limited manner. A lengthy discussion took place on the signage. Dr. Hansen expressed his satisfaction with a chronological timeline of the area. Frates reported he had a conversation with Rita Smagge regarding the Kenaitze Indian Tribe's interest in helping with the signage. Smagge did express interest but did not specify the extent of involvement. Juliussen confirmed they want to help as much as they can. Frates brought attention to the chronological time line report included in the packet and stated a natural breaking point was required as signage is very expensive. Frates thought a number between 3 and 10 signs would be appropriate to start with then later giving business and other entities the opportunity to sponsor additional signs. Castimore suggested that sponsorship come right up front to help with the cost. Castimore continued, a small indicator could be included at the bottom of each sign stating who the sponsor is. Frates informed the group that the Historic District Board has an interest in the project as they want to include it in their walking tour. They would also like to see the gold rush included as part of the history of Kenai. Frates wasn't sure what they wanted with regard to the gold rush. It was noted by Dr. Hansen Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 4 that the gold rush did not have a lot to do with the City of Kenai. reported the Historic District Board had a meeting scheduled for February 17 at 7:00 p.m. and encouraged members to attend. Frates Dr. Hansen expressed concern that the signs may obscure the view offered by this particular property. Discussion took place on placement of the signs. Frates pointed out the proposed signs would be knee high and should not obscure the view. Yamamoto left at 7:45 p.m. I(ornelis explained how the signs would be placed and the type of material to be used for sign posts. The signs would be placed in sleeves to allow for easy removal during the winter months. This also allows for changes should they need to be made. Frates reiterated his desire to have the number of signs decided upon so that it can get to Council as soon as possible or at least by February 18, 1998. Gifford suggested the number of signs be kept at a minimum in order to prevent cluttering the area. The size of the proposed signs should be able to contain a lot of information. Frates reported that he met with the sign maker and the size proposed is 32" x 18". Frates drew a sketch of the design on the blackboard. The design is basically very simple, vandal-proof and inexpensive. Frates also showed how the signs could be mounted to allow for easy removal. Frates reported that Sign Pro thought they could do ten signs for under $1,000.00. Dr. Hansen asked about maintenance around the signs. Kornelis pointed out the signs would be placed in the gravel so mowing would not be a problem. Kornelis continued, the thought they had in building the park was to go in with a grader and level the area then outline the walk ways with reinforcement bar and 2 x 6's would then be placed right next to the reinforcement bar and attached. Top soil would be spread against the 2 x 6 and the gravel would be spread. Filter fabric would also be used to ensure easy maintenance. Dr, Hansen also suggested the park benches be placed on the gravel as well to eliminate the need for mowing around them. Dr. Hansen asked if the survey of the area could be used as it would be closer to scale than the Auto Cad drawing provided in the packet. He would prefer that and the aerial photo be provided to Council as it is more to scale. Discussion took place on the proposed sprinkler system. It was pointed out the system Dr. Hansen prefers would need a power source for the control. The cost for the project is approximately $5,900.00. Frates Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 5 ® pointed out the estimate provided includes a manual sprinkler system. Kornelis stated although the estimate is priced having the entire project contracted out, a lot of the required work could be handled in-house. Wisniewski stated that more work was required with regard to the signs and asked if the Kenaitze Indian Tribe and Dr. Hansen would come up with more suggestions and historical information for the next meeting. Frates reported that Jim Evenson is also very interested in the project and can probably provide some valuable information. Smalley asked if the historical information sheet could be made available for Council at the February 18, 1998 meeting. Frates will provide the information. It was decided the maximum number of signs would be ten. NEW BUSINESS Discussion - Batting Cage Proposal / Don Wright Frates reported that Wright submitted another proposal to set up and operate two batting cages in the parking area adjacent to the softball fields in downtown Kenai. The only change is keeping the cages up a little longer than last year. It was noted that Administration did not have a problem with the extended period of time. CASTIMORE MOVED TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY WRIGHT. MOTION SECONDED BY GIFFORD. VOICE VOTE: All in favor, motion passed unanimously. Gifford pointed out the completion date of September 31, 1998 should be changed to September 30, 1998 in Wright's proposal. Director s Report a. Kenai Peninsula Winter Games Men's Basketball Tournament Frates handed out the schedule for the Men's Basketball Tournament to be held February 7 and 8, 1998 and invited everyone to attend. It was noted there will be five out of town teams. The Merit Inn offered good room rates, Little Ski-Mos is offering a basketball burger special, and Country Foods has donated a case of apples and bananas. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 6 be Ce de Elks Hoop Shoot Results Frates reported that 630 young children participated in the Elks Hoop Shoot. Kristen Lazenby shot 15 out of 25 and had tied with another girl from the State. Kenai Municipal Cemetery- Water Frates reported that a part of the water tank could be placed underground so it should not be too much of an obstruction. The tank would be operated with a hand pump. Gifford expressed desire to have a iron fence in front of the cemetery. Frates reported the funds would not be included in this years budget but he would check on prices. Cross-Country Ski Clinic Frates reported that Parks and Rec is working with the KCHS Ski Team to develop a cross-country ski clinic. A flyer was provided. Kenai River Fish Festival Letter Frates reported a letter was received from the Kenai River Fish Festival committee to once again request use of the city property by the FAA on June 13 and 14. This request will be submitted to Council for approval. Budget Report Frates reported there isn't anything out of the ordinary in the budget other than a few equipment requests. Things will be tight as the Eric Hansen Scout Park will compete with other items within the Park and Rec budget. Some requested equipment items include a computer to facilitate office needs; transportation will be increased to allow for McCauley to keep her aerobic certification current; park play ground equipment will include smaller components such as rockers; a flatbed pick up truck and a utility tractor are included as the existing equipment is old and unsafe (used equipment is budgeted for as a new item is unrealistic); a water fountain at the softball field will be included; the rental line item may be slightly increased to allow for a handicapped accessible porta-potty; also included is a porta-potty for the ski trails; the improvements line item includes the Eric Hansen Scout Park; repairs and maintenance will increase due to contracting out the pumping of the restrooms; Beautification will be increased to include small tools and equipment for banners. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 7 Castimore asked about the Eric Hansen Scout Park and stated that he was under the impression that Council was going to take the cost out of a separate account and not Parks and Rec. Castimore suggested that Council be reminded of that as the project was dumped on Parks' lap and there are other priorities such as equipment and all the other things the department has done for the community. Castimore continued, when Bannock was at the last two meetings he specifically said they were going to take care of the funding. This did not represent something that Parks and Rec would have to trade off part of the program for, that was above and beyond what Parks could expect. Smalley responded by stating he wasn't too sure that Bannock was correct but the issue will be revisited with Council. After further discussion it was noted that other Parks and Rec Commissioners understood that Council would take care of funding for the Eric Hansen Scout Park. Frates welcomed Alicia Brewer to the Parks and Rec Commission. Brewer is the new student representative. QUESTIONS &~ COMMENTS Commissioner Castimore stated that when Yute Air first came into the community the President said they would contribute $1.00 for each person who flew Yute Air for a hockey facility for Kenai, up to $25,000.00. Yute Air is now pulling out and Castimore asked if any such donation was made. Frates answered, to his knowledge a donation was not made but he will follow up on it with Council. Commissioner Gifford reported she will not be at the next meeting. Commissioner Wisniewski welcomed Brewer to the Commission and pointed out her input is welcomed and appreciated. Councilman Smalley made the following Council report: A Board of Adjustment hearing was held on February 4, 1998 to appeal a Planning and Zoning Commission action. This was for a conditional use permit for property across from the high school. Council heard two hours of public hearing and has 30 days to respond. Barry Norwood, a local six year old donated $116.01 to the animal control shelter. These funds came from donations given to him from friends attending his birthday party. A resolution and an ordinance to recognize Norwood will be presented on March 7 during the grand opening of the animal control shelter. Norwood will be the guest of honor. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 8 0 10. 11. The grand opening of the new City well will be held on March 7 at 3:00 p.m. Council is meeting with the Board of Fish to request stopping dipnetting from the unnamed creek at the bottom of the hill back up river with hopes to control the bank erosion problems. The State will bring in dumpsters, restrooms, and will provide signage. Commissioner Wisniewski asked about the status of the hockey facility. Smalley answered, it is difficult to get any answers from the Bureau of Recreation {BOR). At this point the City is dealing with the land issues and there has to be an exchange of equal amounts of value of properties. It is BOR's understanding the entire golf course was under this category and it is the City's understanding that it is not. The City wanted to dedicate another portion of the golf property for BOR certification. Smalley continued, BOR regulations state that facilities funded by BOR need to be 3-sided, open air facilities. The City is still interested and continues to pursue the property through the Borough level and through state legislators. It is possible to locate two facilities on that piece of property. Wisniewski asked if the school system would work toward putting an ice facility in. Smalley thought the school district would not as their budgets are very tight, if it was up to the Borough they would discontinue high school hockey. General discussion took place on various funding sources and it was noted that Ted Steven's office said recreational funds available. CORRESPONDENCE- None PERSONS PRESENT NOT SCHEDULED TO BE HEARD - None INFORMATION Council Action Agenda (1/7/98 and 1/21/98) Beautification committee Minutes of January 13, 1998 Valentine Wallyball Tournament Recreation Center (~uarterly Inspection Teen Center Calendar of Event 1997-1998 Men's City League Basketball (A&B Division) Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 9 12. ADJOURNMENT MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Barbar~ ~op~r, C~)n~ra~ct Secretary Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting February 5, 1998 Page 10