HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Ames Park and Recreation Commission Meeting 03/24/2022AMES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
DATE: December 1, 2022
COMMISSION
PRESENT: Jeremy Bristow, Sarah Cady, Duane Reeves, Nathan Shimanek, Rachel Cramer,
Jacob Ludwig
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Keith Abraham, Joshua Thompson, Courtney Kort, Steve Schainker
CALL TO ORDER: 4:02 PM
PUBLIC FORUM
No public forum
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CIP)
Abraham gave an overview and update regarding the proposed CIP.
Abraham spoke on CIP projects and reviewed any changes from the previous CIP discussion.
In addition to the original list, leveling the sand under the ice at the arena has been included.
Abraham also pointed out that the budget/expenses of these projects were on the back of the
handout.
Abraham turned the meeting over to Schainker.
Schainker explained how local option sales tax provides the funding for the CIP. He also
explained that 60% of the funds collected go to property tax reduction. The other 40% goes to
community betterment, including human service agencies, the arts, Parks & Recreation,
accessibility, and the Ames Public Library.
Schainker also explained General Obligation Bonds and when a bond referendum vote is
required and when it isn’t.
Cramer asked if the process for the reverse bond in urban revitalization areas was just in Iowa.
Schainker explained to her that he is focused on Iowa law, not anywhere else.
Schainker explained property tax levies and other funding sources and stated Ames is in good
shape.
Local option sales tax is collected on purchases made in Ames and goods delivered to Ames,
such as internet orders, or goods purchased outside Ames but delivered to residents, such as
furniture.
The first year of the CIP is funded in the annual budget, and the other four years are the plan
for the future. The priorities are safety, maintenance and repairs, and items that improve the
parks and recreation system.
Schainker explained that costs are going up, so the projects have to be prioritized.
There are already big projects that have not been completed, such as the soccer pitch, splash
pad, and ninja course. He does not want to overwhelm the staff with those projects plus the
aquatic center and the plaza.
Cady asked about residential density, such as medium-density duplex and triplex housing
types.
Abraham reminded the Commission that sometimes other opportunities come up, and we don't
want to say no to them. A group is willing to raise funds to put in a wheelchair-accessible
swing, which will most likely be located in Hira or Daley Park.
ADJOURNMENT
Ludwig moved to adjourn. The meeting concluded at 5:07 PM.
NEXT MEETING
Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 4:00 PM (City Hall Council Chambers)