Park Commission

Minutes of a Regular Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting August 1, 2017 A regular meeting of the Blue Springs Parks Commission was held on Tuesday, August 1, 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: Justin Stuart Kathy Richardson – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Randy Cooper Keith Hannaman – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Pam Buck Dena Duhon - Present Parks Dept. Staff: James Farris Jack Gilliland – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Carol Reed Maureen Johnson – Present City Council Liaison: Kent Edmondson - Absent Brandon Jackley – Present Michelle Brown – Absent A motion was made and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda; it passed unanimously. Visitors/Correspondence: None Program/Activity Spotlight: Dennis Dovel introduced James Farris, Recreation Supervisor, and James told the members a little about his background. He reviewed the leagues and activities he is currently supervising. James discussed the Little All Stars program, and said registration for the program has increased dramatically in the past few years. Flag football league will be offered for kindergarten through 1st grade this fall. This winter basketball leagues for kindergarten through 2nd grade will be offered. Dennis said we will partner with the school district for the youth basketball program, and will practice and play games at a school gym. Registration in adult sports is increasing as well. Finances: None Staff Reports: Staff reviewed their reports. Pam Buck reviewed special events held at Vesper Hall during July. 12 outside groups rented Vesper Hall for events and Alzheimer’s and grief support groups also meet there. The July 4th celebration was a big success. Concerts in the Park and Downtown Car Cruises continued in July. Randy Cooper reviewed his report, saying staff spent much of their time on special events including the July 4th celebration, BMX events, and the annual Wood Bat Tournament. 1 At the dog park, gate latches were replaced, and an eagle scout project created a new picnic area at the Community Gardens. Staff is working on a replacement for the old water wheel at Old Mill Park, and it will be switched out soon. Justin Stuart reported that fall sports are starting up soon, and only two weeks are left of summer camp. The Fall Activity Guide should be mailed to homes in late August. Fieldhouse staff is looking forward to fall and winter activities. Several staff openings are currently advertised and should be filled soon. Dennis Dovel reported that membership numbers are down this month, but day passes continue stronger than last summer. He also said an HVAC replacement will probably be necessary in the next six to eight weeks, and a firm has been selected to design the renovated bunkers at Adams Pointe Golf. Effective July 31st Justin Stuart will be Assistant Director of the department. Randy Cooper will pick up additional building duties, and a Recreation/Fieldhouse Manager will be hired. Bids are being accepted for upgrading the tennis courts and staff continues to work through the process of administering the anticipated sales tax funds. Staff and the Sales Tax Sub-Committee are looking at, and are excited about, new playground designs. Dennis discussed plans for the renovation of Old Mill Park. Staff has asked architects to look at placement of all the amenities in the park, and additional parking. We have also asked for a design for consistent signage for all Blue Springs Parks. Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman’s Report: None City Council Liaison Report: None Old Business: None New Business: The members reviewed and discussed the 7 final design ideas for a new department logo. Dennis reported that additional land had been purchased and Southwest Park, originally 25 acres, now contains 60 acres. Miscellaneous: None As there was no further business, a motion for adjournment was made and seconded. ___________________________________ Brandon Jackley, Chairman 2