Parks Commission

CITY OF MANISTEE PARKS AND BEAUTIFICATIflN COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, March 17, 2010 5: 15 P. M. Members Present: Lynne Reinhardt, Mark Tomaszewski, Priscilla Rulison, Wendy Staffeld, Ed Tegler and John Rozga Members Ezcused: Ron Cowden, Ben Kubiak Also Present: Gary Niesen, Kathie Boyle, Richard Knechtges and Andrew Loura A meeting of the Manistee Parks and Beautification Commission was held on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 in the 2"d Floor Conference Room,City Hall. Meeting was called to order by Chairperson Lynne Reinhardt at 5:15 p.m. Chairperson Reinhardt introduced Mr. Richazd Knechtges who represents the Non- Motorized Commission and National Association ofPhysical Handicap.Mr.Knechtges discussed proJects in the City/County of Manistee. One of his major cancerns centered araund Rietz Park and the inability of wheelchairs to get though the park area where the sidewalks end in grass. He would like to see the sidewalks repaired a.nd replaced in the park and picnic azea. Mr.Knechtges informed the commission of the availability of grants under the ADA, DNRE and the Kellogg Foundation. Chairperson Reinhardt recammended that he begin with Mr.Rose's offiee before caming to Parks/ Beautification Commission and City Council as Mr.Rose applies for gra.nts. Kathie will send Richard a copy of our Five Year Master Plan which includes upcoming projects. Ed Tegler brought up an option to purchase portable sidewalks, such as those that have been installed at both beaches. A MQTION hy Ed, Second by John to adopt the November 18, 2044 minutes and place on file. OLD BUSINESS T-Ball Field at Morton Park - John checked with Jon Rose and Mitch Deisch and was informed that it was too late to apply for any grants. Lynne talked tQ Vieky SheffieId from the MRA and she will attend our meeting in April,she also talked to Mortons and was told to ga ahead and pursue this idea. A sub- comunittee may be formed to continue additaanal study. Further discussion and tabled till next month's meeting. Winter Garden - a sub carnmittee was formed consisting ofLynne,Wendy,R.on and R. ick Richert. Ed will assist but not be on the committee. The preliminary work will begin immediately. Parks are for People Day & Garden Party - wait until we have a cause for any fund raisers. NEW BUSINESS Council Meeting Mazeh 16, 2010 - Ed attended council meeting and pointed out that our approved To bylaws and Ordinance state that under our Bylaws Section 11. Duties of the Commission (B). " in advise the City Council,City Departments and City Boards and Commissions identifying, Parks and pIanning and implementing pubtic and private beautifieation projects. AtsQ BeauNfication Committee Ordinance Chxpter 289.03 of the 1' Vlanistee Code of Ordinances states "Review all signiricant parks improvemenfs projects. Since June nothing ha.s passed the Parks/ Beautification Commission table regarding upcoming grant applications. Where does our commission fit in ihe process. No response zvas given by council. Commission needs to follow up. Lynne would like the eammission to focus on one or two parks per season before taking on additional responsibilities. Consensus to adjourn. REmEMBER : Next meeting date. April 21.2010 at s:IS p.m. - Wednesda,~. seeond,flraor canference room. Respectfully submitted, athie Boyle Recording Secretary