Park Commission

Minutes of a Regular Parks Commission Meeting November 4, 2014 A regular meeting of the Blue Springs Park Commission was held on Tuesday, November 4, 2014, 6:00 p.m., at SportsCity. The Chairman called the meeting to order. Richard Mitchem – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Dennis Dovel George Deibert – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Steve Willman Bill Landrum – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Justin Stuart Keith Hannaman – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Randy Cooper Dena McLean - Present Parks Dept. Staff: Pam Buck Jack Gilliland – Absent Parks Dept. Staff: Carol Reed Maureen Johnson – Present City Council Liaison: Jeff Quibell - Absent Brandon Jackley – Present Jennifer Splittorff – Present A motion was made and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda; it passed unanimously. Visitors/Correspondence: Past Parks Commission member Linda Edison and spouse attended the meeting. Past Parks Commission member Larry Sparks and spouse also attended. Kim and Russ Krohn were also present. Program/Activity Spotlight: Pam Buck reviewed three Halloween activities held by the department. These are Trick or Treat Main Street held downtown Blue Springs, Boo Springs Trick or Treat held at Vesper Hall, and the Vesper Halloween Costume Contest, also held at Vesper Hall. Finances: No report Staff Reports: Justin Stuart reported that most outdoor activities have ended for the year. Steve Willman said the tapestry “Earth, Wind, and Fire” which is on display at the conference center, will be purchased for permanent display. The sculpture “Breath” may also be purchased if funds are available. “The Visit”, a piece of art on display at St. Mary’s Medical Center, will be moved to St. Mary’s Manor. Steve also reported that the number of participants at the recycling center has increased and revenue is up nearly $10,000 this year. Randy Cooper said the gazebo at City Hall has been renovated and the crew is beginning winter activities. Pam Buck reviewed new activities at Vesper Hall including a craft fair and pickleball tournament. 1 Dennis Dovel reported a tentative schedule for renovation of the SportsCity facility. The goal is to be open mid-August 2015. Staff will be out next week to attend an athletic business conference. Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman’s Report: None City Council Liaison Report: None Old Business: A tour of the SportsCity facility was followed by presentation of the conceptual design of the renovated facility. New Business: Dennis Dovel distributed a chart of rate comparisons at local community centers. A discussion of membership rates and policies followed. Members were asked to send their thoughts and opinions to Dennis to be compiled for review at the November meeting. A discussion regarding placing a sales tax initiative on an upcoming ballot was held. After discussion, Dena McLean moved that the Commission recommend moving forward with a half-cent sales tax initiative on the April 2015 ballot. The motion was seconded by Bill Landrum, and was approved with 7 ayes, 1 nay. Park Report – No report this month Activity Report – No report this month Miscellaneous: None As there was no further business, a motion for adjournment was made and seconded. ___________________________________ Jennifer Splittorff, Chairman 2