Park Commission

Minutes of a Regular Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting July 11, 2023 A regular meeting of the Blue Springs Parks Commission was held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at the Fieldhouse. The Chairman called the meeting to order. Jon Burke -- Present Parks Dept. Staff: Dennis Dovel Keith Hannaman -- Present Parks Dept. Staff: Justin Stuart Gabriel Mejia – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Derek Mayden Ken Horrell – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Mary Herrington Nick Brummel – Present Parks Dept. Staff: Matt Asikainen Tony Lopez – Absent Parks Dept. Staff: Jayla Coleman Almitra Buzan – Present City Council Liaison: Ron Fowler –Absent Debbie Canfield – Present Tara Johnson – Present A motion was made by Ken Horrell and seconded by Almitra Buzan to accept the Consent Agenda. It passed unanimously. Visitors/Correspondence: Blue Springs BMX Track staff presented on the installation of a roof structure at Pink Hill Park. While the BMX organization has a strong volunteer base and has played a vital role in providing recreation opportunities for all residents, there are certain considerations that need to be addressed regarding the roof structure. Financial impact is a big issue that needs to be decided on before construction. The Parks Department’s concern is who will take on the financial burden of the maintenance if BMX funds do not allow them to. Jon Burke asked if there were financial statements that were available to present. Ben Harves with BMX answered that there were not at the time, but something can get sent over to Dennis Dovel. Dennis asked what the timeframe the organization is requesting to have the structure built by due to it first needing approval from City Council. Ben answered that the organization would like to move forward as soon as possible being that there is a large event in September at the track and they would love to have the structure completed by then. Dennis explained that staff is not opposed to the installation of the roof structure, however, staff strongly recommends against using wood as the material. Wood structures require more frequent maintenance and have a shorter lifespan compared to metal structures. Staff believes that by installing a metal structure, we can ensure the longevity and low maintenance requirements that have been established. It is crucial for Parks and Recreation Department to maintain a positive working relationship with the BMX organization for years to come. They have provided recreational opportunities for residents and have been an economic generator for the community through their events. Their contributions are valued, and the departments wants to continue supporting their endeavors. Program/Activity Spotlight: None Finances: Dennis presented on financials. Staff Reports: Staff reviewed their reports. Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman’s Report: None City Council Liaison Report: None Old Business: None New Business: None 1 Miscellaneous: Park commissioners presented park visit reports. Ken Horrell went to Burris Old Mill Park. He observed that the park is heavily used with full shelters and parking lot. Dennis added that many patrons outside of Blue Springs service area contribute to the use of the park. As there was no further business, a motion for adjournment was made by Nick Brummel and seconded by Ken Horrell. 2