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HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Ames Park and Recreation Commission Meeting 02/16/2012AMES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES DATE: February 16, 2012 COMMISSION PRESENT: Jane Acker, Alisa Frandsen, Vikki Feilmeyer, Jim Gunning, Ed Moran, and Jason Schaben STAFF: Keith Abraham, Nancy Carroll, and Kevin Shawgo CALL TO ORDER: 4 PM APPROVAL OF MINUTES Moved by Feilmeyer, seconded by Frandsen to approve the January 19, 2012 meeting minutes. Motion carried PUBLIC FORUM: None DIRECTOR’S REPORT Request from ISU to Locate a Golf Maintenance Building on the Southwest Corner of Moore Memorial Park Carroll reviewed that in April 2011 that Commissioners had met at Moore Memorial Park’s southwest corner to provide staff with input regarding a request from ISU to locate an approximate 5,000 square foot golf maintenance garage at this park location. Carroll said that the University’s existing golf maintenance facility is located in the floodplain and excessive damage has occurred to their building multiple times over the past several years. She said that long-term the University is considering construction of a new clubhouse and practice green on the south side of their driveway. She noted that due to a lack of available land, outside the floodplain, would make it difficult, if not impossible to also locate a go lf maintenance building on ISU property. Carroll said that in October of 2011 approximately 350 letters were mailed to property owners that live in the Northridge and The Green subd ivisions and that in November staff hosted a public meeting that approximately 23 residents attended. Following the meeting, staff met with members of Trees Forever (TF) met with staff to discuss the impact this facility would have on the 911 Memorial planting. Carroll said that the TF members shared that although they are not opposed to this facility being located at this park site they wanted to meet with their entire Board to gain reaction and then provide the City with a written response. Carroll said that of the 350 letters that were mailed-out the response rate was approximately 10%. She noted that generally support exists for the City to enter into an agreement for ISU to lease this parcel of land for this intended purpose. She also stated that some residents are adamantly opposed to this request. Carroll reviewed the Trees Forever formal response that ideally they would like for the building to be located on ISU golf course property. However, she said that they did acknowledge that if that is not possible that 911 Memorial could be relocated to a different location at Moore Memorial Park or to another City park. Carroll then talked about the bequest from the Moore family that the City accepted in the late 1980’s. She said that Resolution 87-250 was adopted by the City Council incorporating the following conditions: 1) The City may sell a portion of the land and use the proceeds to develop the remaining land for park purposes 2) The City may exchange a portion of the land for other land for park purposes 3) The City may lease a portion of the land to another party for development and / or operation for park purposes She noted that Condition #3 was enacted in 1988 when the City and ISU entered into a lease agreement for 40 acres of land at Moore Memorial Park, west of Squaw Creek. She reminded Commissioners that the University uses this parcel for research plots, paying the City $3,000 annually in rent. These funds are deposited into the “Moore Memorial Park Fund” and used to enhance this park. Carroll said the City Attorney’s office has provide an opinion on the legality of the City leasing part of Moore Memorial Park to ISU for the purpose of constructing and maintaining a golf maintenance building at this site. She noted that their legal response included that the City can lease a portion of the real estate to a third party for park purposes. Carroll said that City staff believes this language affords the City two legal options to meet the criteria of “for park purposes” as follows: Option 1: ISU could be assessed a fee with proceeds being directed to making enhancements at Moore Memorial Park; or Option 2: ISU would allow the City to utilize the structure by storing park maintenance equipment (lawn tractor, snow removal equipment, etc) and supplies inside their building. Carroll emphasized to the Commission that the City Attorney’s office stated that though they believe the likelihood of a legal challenge is small, one could arise and policy makers should be made aware of that possible risk if an agreement is approved. Carroll concluded her comments by noting that s taff does not support charging the University a rental fee. Rather, she staff recommends that the City would store park maintenance equipment and supplies inside their building. She commented that this would advantageous as it would significantly reduce travel time and fuel usage for staff going to and from the existing Park Maintenance Shop which is located on East 13th Street. Public Comments: Virginia Stafford, 2872 Greensboro Circle Ms. Stafford stated that she is opposed to the building, parking, storage, and that it will be an attractive nuisance placed into a beautiful park setting. She said she believed the Moore family gave the land to the City for children. She noted that the park has been developed to memorialize the Moore’s and that they would have appreciated that it has a farm like theme. She said that the park is heavily used by neighbors and the overall community. She warned the Commission to be very careful with altering something that works so well. She said that the walking loop is great but noted that attention needs to be given to landscape the utility fenced in area. She concluded her comments by reinforcing that the park is a precious place and that allowing this building to be constructed would not be a good idea. She advised the Commission to not support ISU’s request. Diane Brotherson, 400 Ash, President of Trees Forever She stated that Trees Forever ideally would like to see the facility placed on ISU land but that if that was not possible that they understood the need to cooperate with ISU. She said that they would be willing to work with staff to determine another location for the 911 Tree Memorial within the park system. Ms. Brotherson then read a letter from Bill LaGrange (attached). The essence of Mr. LaGrange’s comments included that he is adamantly opposed to this building being located at Moore Memorial Park. George Serovy, 2827 Greensboro Dr. Mr. Serovy questioned if this is the “best use of this land”. He believes the best use is “for residents as park land”. He said that the Moore’s intention was for it to be park land. Mr. Serovy commented that the park’s existing character is an asset within the overall community and that if this got approved the building would be just a few feet from the trail and too close to the 911 Memorial. He said that, if allowed, this would be one of the poorest decisions in his 60 years of living in Ames. He noted that the best use of the land is to make no changes and to deny ISU’s request. Bernie White, 2842 Torrey Pines. Mr. White expressed appreciation to staff for notifying them about this meeting. He expressed concern that it would be unfortunate to lose the view of the golf course if the building is allowed and to have to move the 911 Tree Memorial. Mr. White said that the City allows this facility to built he hoped that would contextual with existing buildings, with perhaps “red siding”. He suggested that the Commission assure that the written agreement include that “no equipment be can be stored outside”. Cathy Brown, ISU Facility Planning and Management Ms. Brown thanked the Commission for considering the University’s request. She said that ISU staff appreciated the comments that they had received from the public. She said that the 2010 flood caused significant damage to the current maintenance building. She noted that insurance and FEMA will reimburse for damages if building is relocated. Ms. Brown commented that ISU does not have adequate land (out of the flood plain) to construct this structure. ISU hosts the Iowa Masters tournament and the current configuration of the course is ideal for major golf competitions. She said if ISU land were to be used the course would have to be reconfigured and that could compromise a quality golf experience. She said that another factor is ISU long-term desire to construct a new clubhouse and practice green west of the existing clubhouse. Again, commenting that if they had a viable spot they would have pursued that option. Ms. Brown said that in the event this project is approved by the City, ISU will plant trees to screen the building from the north side. She said that park walkers will still be able to come and go to the park because green open space will be maintained on the east side of the structure. She said that ISU will address the exterior of the building with the goal of trying to make it feel like the other structures in the park. Mr. Serovy addressed the Commission informing them that a maintenance facility already exists at the ISU Laboratory – adjacent Scholl Road. He said that this is close to the golf course and ISU’s land. Ms. Brown responded that this location would be too challenging of a location because staff would have to cross the creek and for lost staff time (driving back and forth to the course). Commission Comments: Gunning questioned if ISU has another option - in the event the City denies this request. Ms. Brown responded that they do not, and stated additionally that no funding has been identified for constructing a new clubhouse. Acker said that Moore Memorial Park is beautiful and that getting to look out onto the golf course has been an added bonus. She noted that the “golf course has been a good neighbor to the park too – so this is a balancing act”. Gunning asked Carroll who would monitor the “no parking of equipment around building”. Carroll commented that City staff will be at the park frequently and that she anticipated that park users would also notify staff immediately if ISU does not adhere to the agreement. Moran said asked if ISU equipment and City equipment will both fit into in this building because the conceptual footprint looks about the same size as the current building. Ms. Brown responded that the new building will be bigger and that it will include a lower level to accommodate additional storage. She also noted that ISU golf course employees will park at the lot adjacent the existing maintenance building. Frandsen said that she had learned a lot about this park’s history and appreciated the additional background information. She said that this is difficult because there are people who support ISU request and those who do not. She noted that it would be important for the building to fit into the overall feel of the park and its existing buildings. Moran commented that he was concerned as to the fate of 911 Memorial trees. He also said he concurs with Mr. White’s comments that the building should fit contextually with the other park buildings. Feilmeyer commented that she agrees that aesthetically the building needs to fit into the park. She noted that this may be a nice improvement long-term. Gunning said that he too wants the building to aesthetically fit with the other park building. Acker said that appropriately addressing the 911 Memorial is critical. Ms. Brown addressed the Commission stating that no equipment will be parked outside after work hours and no equipment / supplies will ever be left out on the north and east side of the structure. Carroll asked for Mr. Brown to respond to the Commission member comments related to ISU assuring the building fits into the park contextually / aesthetically. Ms. Brown said that ISU has trying to make the structure feel more like it fit into the Veenker – like a golf building versus a park structure - and then screen it with trees. She said they were trying to not make the building look like a destination for park users. She acknowledged the Commission’s input regarding the need for ISU to assure the building is aesthetically pleasing and in concert with other park structures. She said ISU staff would return to a future Commission meeting so Commissioners could react and provide input on the final design. Acker noted that a white metal roof might increase glare and questioned if a dark color could be more appropriate. Ms. Brown commented they will take the Commission’s concerns into account and report back at a future date. Gunning moved Alternative #1 as follows: That the Commission recommend that the City Council: a. Enter into a 50 year no fee lease agreement with Iowa State University whereby allowing ISU to construct an approximate 5,000 square foot golf maintenance facility on the southwest edge of Moore Memorial Park. b. At ISU’s expense, direct staff to work with members of Trees Forever to re-establish the 911 Memorial Planting to an acceptable location within the park system c. ISU staff will return to the Commission to afford Commissioners the opportunity to “review and react” to the building contextually and aesthetically. Members of the Commission expressed concern that the building needs to “honor the feel of the park”. Feilmeyer seconded the motion and commented that it is difficult to recommend that the City Council approve an agreement when specific details are still unknown. She commented to Ms. Brown that ISU needs to understand the importance aesthetics plays with this structure. Feilmeyer also questioned if it would be possible to increase screening of the building and who would be responsible to accomplish that work activity. Carroll responded that staff would work with ISU to assure adequate screening at the University’s expense. Feilmeyer said she views this as an improvement and that she appreciates the history and beauty of this site, but understands that ISU does not have other viable alternatives for locating this structure. Moran said that though it is a tough decision he understands that maintenance buildings need to be close to the work activity. He too echoed other Commissioners comments that the structure needs to be aesthetically pleasing. Acker reminded the Commission that they serve in an advisory capacity to the City Council and that ultimately it will be the Council that has the authority to enter into an agreement with ISU. Carroll commented that subject to City Council approving the agreement the Commission’s action would allow the building to be constructed with no requirement that the Commission approve the final look of the building. She noted that the Commission’s action stipulated that they would provide “reaction” on the building’s exterior. Commissioners responded that they understood, but wanted assurance they would receive an “opportunity to review” the final drawings. Ms. Brown said that she will return to a future meeting so Commissioners can review and provide reaction to the structure. Motion passed Wellness Services / Facility Usage Agreement with Green Hills Retirement Community Carroll reviewed that the Executive Director of Green Hills Retirement Community (GHRC) contacted staff inquiring as to the feasibility of GHRC contracting with the Department of Parks and Recreation to provide fitness and aqua exercise classes for their residents. Carroll said that GHRC is currently expanding their facilities to include a warm water therapeutic pool, a fitness room and weight / cardio room. Carroll commented that the population served at GHRC is comprised solely of older adults. She said that for decades the Parks and Recreation Department has successfully programmed public fitness and aqua exercise classes for this population. She said that staff contacted the owner of Ames Racquet and Fitness Center to gain his reaction to the City providing these services at GHRC, versus the private sector. Carroll said the owner agreed that historically Parks and Recreation has successfully provided these types of services to this age group and that he did not have concerns with the City accommodating the GHRC request. Carroll then highlighted a few key points from the agreement (attached). GHRC will pay the City $25,000 annually and receive for the following services • Administrative oversight / coordination of wellness services • Instruction for up to six (6) fitness or aqua exercise classes per week for 48 weeks – GHRC residents will not be charged a fee • An on-site wellness staff member for up to 10 hours per week to assist GHRC residents with using the weight / cardio equipment, provide wellness education, assist residents with program registration, etc GHRC will make its fitness facilities available to the City as follows: • Conducting older adult fitness and aqua classes for the general public • The City will pay GHRC $3 per participant / per session • Revenue, that exceeds direct program expenses for the public classes, will be split 50 / 50 between the City and GHRC Carroll noted that either party can terminate the Agreement by providing a 30 day written notice. Approve a Wellness Services / Facility Use Agreement with the Green Hills Retirement Community from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013 Moved by Frandsen, seconded by Gunning to approve a Wellness Services / Facility Use Agreement with the Green Hills Retirement Community from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013. Motion passed MONTHLY REPORT Feilmeyer inquired if staff could investigate having a dedicated terminal located at the Ames Public Library for people to register for Parks and Recreation programs. Carroll will inquire with the Library staff to gain their reaction to this idea. Gunning said that we should also ask them to consider putting a Parks and Recreation icon on desktop of the Library computers. Carroll said staff would bring this idea before the Library staff too. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS Acker noted that the community Ames has been selected for a site visit from Blue Zones. Carroll commented that the visit will occur on February 27th. Frandsen asked if there is anything the community can do to support the Blue Zones effort. Carroll said that she had forgotten to bring promotional materials to the Commission meeting but encouraged those watching on Channel 12 to visit “bluezonesproject.com” to pledge their support. Carroll said that the Ames community needs to continue to increase their support through pledging on -line because we need to show 25% support by mid-April She said currently support totals approximately 10%. Gunning asked Carroll when she anticipated bringing an update to the Commission on the Geitel Winakor bequest. Carroll said that she anticipates that the estate will be settled in late spring and that anticipates hosting a conversation on how to evaluate potential project ideas within a couple of months. Meet Adjourned: 6:16 PM