Arts, Parks, and Recreation Committee

ARTS, PARKS, & RECREATION COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS March 7th, 2023 The Amery Arts, Parks, and Rec. Committee met on March 7th, 2023, at the Amery City Center. The meeting was called to order at 4:30 p.m. Present: Members Colleen Adams, Tommy Dusek, Denise Johnson, and Catherine Olson. Absent: None. Others Present: Clerk-Treasurer, Ben Jansen; Deputy Clerk-Treasurer, Taylor Larson, Mayor, Chad Leonard; Administrator, Patty Bjorklund; and Public Works Director, Jeff Mahoney. New Business 1. Keller Avenue Beautification Discussion – This item was brought forward for discussion by Catherine Olson because of the upcoming closures on Hwy. 63 & 65. With the closures Hwy. 46 will be the main thoroughfare going north for the entire summer. One of the items that was brought up was flowers and the flower pots that used to sit on Keller Ave. It was felt that bids should be solicited from different vendors for the flowers to get the best price. Member, Olson volunteered to call around and get bids from different local vendors. The monies that were set aside from Design Amery were also discussed at length. Possible uses for these funds include benches, garbage cans, flags, and other décor items for downtown. The City has already applied for a Vibrant Spaces Grant that would also help with some of these items. The final item that was discussed was the recognition of international athletes from Amery. It was felt that these individuals should be recognized on signage coming into town on both ends. City staff will look into policies that other municipalities have regarding this. 2. Pickleball Court Discussion – The conversation started with Clerk-Treasurer, Jansen clarifying the terminology for the request public hearing. It would not be a public hearing but more of a meeting to solicit public input. The Committee questioned if the Pickleball enthusiasts could fundraise to help the construction of the new courts. Mayor, Leonard; stated that he would like to see the current property sold and converted to housing with the proceeds of the sale going towards the construction of new pickleball courts in North Park. The Committee also felt that a public information session regarding the pickleball courts was unnecessary. Mayor Leonard and Clerk-Treasurer Jansen would contact Bob Rasmussen (who has led the Pickleball players requests) to give him an update. Prior to adjourning future goals were discussed. The need for a Strategic Plan and goals for the Committee will be on the next agenda. A future meeting was also set for April 11th at 4:30. Motion by Johnson; seconded by Adams; to adjourn at 5:24 p.m. Ayes – 4 Nays – 0 Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Ben Jansen Clerk-Treasurer March 8th, 2023. 1