Park Commission

Minutes of a Regular Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting May 2, 2017 A regular meeting of the Blue Springs Parks Commission was held on Tuesday, May 2, 2017 at the Fieldhouse. The Chairman called the meeting to order. Richard Mitchem – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Dennis Dovel George Deibert – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Steve Willman Kathy Richardson – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Justin Stuart Keith Hannaman – Present Parks Dept. Staff: James Farris Dena Duhon - Present Parks Dept. Staff: Nichole Cogbill Jack Gilliland – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Jen Talaski Maureen Johnson – Absent Parks Dept. Staff: Carol Reed Brandon Jackley – Present City Council Liaison: Kent Edmondson Michelle Brown – Present A motion was made and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda; it passed unanimously. Visitors/Correspondence: Dennis Dovel reported he had received an email thinking staff for removing tree and storm debris and for getting the fence back up. Program/Activity Spotlight: Justin Stuart introduced new staff members. In November Jen Talaski filled the new Recreation Supervisor position. She introduced herself and discussed her education and experience. She also mentioned some hobbies and personal interests. James Farris has been on staff for two months. He is responsible for all youth and adult sports programming. He reviewed his education and background, and said some special events coming up include the Mud Volleyball Tournament and the Skate Board Competition. Nichole Cogbill has been on staff for one month, and is responsible for youth and family programming. She reviewed her background and education. She is currently involved with summer day camp, the Fishing Derby and planning for the July 4th celebration. Finances: Dennis Dovel reviewed the April financial report. Staff Reports: Staff reviewed their reports. Justin Stuart reviewed his report. He said spring softball leagues are finishing up and summer leagues will begin soon. We will offer a summer session of volleyball and a spring basketball league began this week. 1 Attendance at the Fieldhouse has dropped some, depending on the weather, but group exercise classes continue strong. Two high school lock ins will be held during May. New fitness activities and events continue to be offered, including an event for Mother’s Day, Buddy Boot Camp, and Run Club. T-ball League is underway with 120 kids this year, up from 72 last year. Little All Stars T-ball will begin in June and is filling quickly. Day camp preparation is in full swing, and staff is currently being hired. 80 reservations have already been received. Pam Buck said the number of congregate meals has increased and now averages 55 daily. 10 people are on the waiting list for home delivered meals. Special events held include the indoor garage sale, AARP tax assistance, and square dancing. A new program, Aging Mastery, began April 26th. Steve Willman reported that staff has finished budget preparation for next fiscal year. The Arbor Day event was re-scheduled because of inclement weather, and is currently set up at the Fieldhouse. A drawing will be held to give away a red bud tree. Restoration of Blue Springs.Net will begin May 1 and will take approximately 3 weeks to complete. Randy Cooper discussed spring right of way maintenance which is currently the focus of maintenance staff. The contract with the current mowing contractor has been terminated and a contract will be approved with a new vendor. Dennis reported that Fieldhouse membership has declined slightly but is to be expected at this time of year. Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman’s Report: Brandon discussed the formation of the Parks Sales Tax sub-committee, and volunteered to serve. Keith Hannaman and Dena Duhon also volunteered to serve. Dennis asked for a volunteer to serve on the CIP Committee. Richard Mitchem volunteered to serve, but cannot meet during the day. City Council Liaison Report: Councilman Edmondson said he is happy to be back as liaison to the Parks Commission. Old Business: Sales Tax Timeline Discussion – Dennis Dovel reviewed the proposed timeline for park improvements, and said it will be presented to Council in June or July. Staff has begun looking at vendors for playgrounds. Neighborhood meetings may be held for residents of the Ward Park area to review plans and get public feedback. A question was asked concerning unified signage for the parks, Dennis replied signage is not part of the plan in the next year, but could be considered in the future. 2 New Business: None Miscellaneous: Dennis reminded members that election of new officers will be held at the June meeting. Brandon Jackley will not be eligible to serve another term as Chairman. As there was no further business, a motion for adjournment was made and seconded. ___________________________________ Brandon Jackley, Chairman 3