City Council

City Hall Meeting Minutes 601 4th Avenue E Olympia, WA 98501 City Council Information: 360.753.8244 Tuesday, April 17, 2018 5:30 PM Council Chambers Study Session 1. ROLL CALL Present: 7 - Mayor Cheryl Selby, Mayor Pro Tem Nathaniel Jones, Councilmember Jessica Bateman, Councilmember Jim Cooper, Councilmember Clark Gilman, Councilmember Lisa Parshley and Councilmember Renata Rollins 2. BUSINESS ITEM 2.A 18-0382 Artesian Commons Update Parks, Arts and Recreation Director Paul Simmons presented an update on the Artesian Commons. He shared the history of the park. Mr. Simmons gave an overview of the Artesian Leadership Committee which was formed in April 2015 to provide ongoing feedback and guidance for the operation and development of the park. He shared park improvements that have occurred over the years. Mr. Simmons noted in 2017 there were increased behavior challenges and he shared some statistics related to illegal behaviors at the park. He shared some of the impacts of managing the Artesian Commons to other areas of the parks system and to Downtown. He shared some positive changes that will be implemented in 2018. Mr. Simmons presented several policy questions to the City Council regarding the park. Councilmembers asked clarifying questions and discussed the park further. Councilmember Cooper stated that in 2012 a plan for the Park was set aside due to cost; this park included a skate park and other amenities. He would like that plan re-examined. He would also like the crime statistics shared in the context of statistics for all of downtown. Mayor Pro Tem Jones noted the Artesian Commons has created programs and engaging activities for idle youth and he would like to maintain that function. He also emphasized the importance of the well and for the City to maintain it. City of Olympia Page 1 City Council Meeting Minutes April 17, 2018 Councilmember Parshley asked about the effects of the Park on surrounding businesses, as well as impacts the expanded rangers and walking patrol have. She requested an update sometime midsummer. Councilmember Bateman asked staff to share feedback from past surveys with Councilmembers. Councilmember Cooper asked for staff to review a timeline for when a downtown parks plan will be developed. The study session was completed. 3. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 6:33 p.m. City of Olympia Page 2