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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Parks & Recreation Commission Nov. 2, 2005 CITY OF PALM DESERT PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 I. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Munson convened the meeting at 8:31 a.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Absent: Vice Chair Julie Munson Chair Randy Guyer Commissioner Phill Babcock Commissioner Terry Scheurer Commissioner Dan Barnes Commissioner Gerald Dawson Commissioner Connor Limont Commissioner Terry Schukart Commissioner Van Tanner Staff Present: Robert Spiegel, Council Member Homer Croy, ACM for Development Services Janis Steele, Parks & Recreation Services Manager Jay Niemczak, Parks Maintenance Supervisor Monica Loredo, Administrative Secretary III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Mr. Stan Ford, Coachella Valley Recreation & Parks District (CVRPD), communicated that they have received a draft of their master plan. Once their Board adopts it, he would share the plan with the Commission. He noted that their administrative office is moving to a building in Indio. Mr. Ford also noted that for next year, they will be become a chapter for the First Tee Golf Program. He thanked Councilman Spiegel for encouraging him to pursue the program. Last, he mentioned that they will co-host a Disney Institute Program next year. Mr. Rob Ballew, YMCA, announced that on October 20, 2005, they celebrated after school programs across the nation. It was held at the Teen Center behind Palm Desert Middle School. They had approximately 125 people in attendance celebrating the occasion. The YMCA also 1 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 took the opportunity to make people aware of programs that are available for after school. IV. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 5, 2005 Minutes of Parks and Recreation Commission of October 5, 2005, were approved with a change to the first paragraph of page three of the minutes that dogs are allowed in Homme Park under voice control. Motion moved/seconded by Tanner/Dawson and carried by a 7-0 vote with Chairman Guyer and Commissioner Scheurer ABSENT. V. PRESENTATIONS A. ICE ARENA PROPOSAL Ms. Steele introduced Vonne Combs, Center Ice Skating Arena. She noted a copy of their proposal was included with the agenda packet. Ms. Combs informed the Commission that she is currently owner/partner of the Ontario Skating Arena. She introduced Debra Latham, Michael Garren, Marshall Campbell, and her daughter and attorney Tasha Thomas, who are also here for the presentation. They are proposing a sports complex, entertainment complex, and an arts and cultural center in the City of Palm Desert. She stated the ice arena would be Olympic size, and that it would be the second Olympic size arena in southern California. The other Olympic size arena is in Paramount with the ice arena in Ontario being a National Hockey League size arena. They are also proposing a rock climbing wall, a soft floor running track, a stage for children’s theater, and a dance floor in the arena. Ms. Combs disclosed her and her group’s experience with ice skating. She introduced Ms. Debra Latham. Ms. Latham stated that she has been in the desert for approximately 11 years, and at that time she was asked to teach at the local ice skating rink (Westfield). Since the rink closed, she has been the only skating professional that picks up her students from school or home, and drives them to the Ontario Ice Arena. She stated that this type of project could sustain itself in the valley. She thanked the Commission for their time. Ms. Combs introduced Mr. Michael Garren. Mr. Garren stated that he is a professional skating coach with 25 years of experience, and lives in the valley. He thinks that the ice arena is a great business opportunity for everyone. He noted that the pictures included in the proposal are 2 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 examples of state-of-the-art arenas similar to what they are proposing. Mr. Garren introduced Mr. Marshall Campbell who will talk about the arts center. Mr. Campbell stated that his background began with ice skating and he coached in Palm Desert. When the ice rink closed, he then branched out to other things. He stated that he has a master’s in Children’s Theater and Puppetry. Mr. Campbell disclosed his work in Seattle. He is currently working with the Desert Fine Arts Academy teaching children’s theater and puppetry. He stated the arts work along with ice skating because you need the drama and the music for skating. He thanked the Commission for allowing him to speak. Ms. Combs thanked the Commission for their time and asked if they had any questions. Commissioner Schukart asked Ms. Combs if they completed a needs assessment or gap analysis that would demonstrate what some of the needs are in the valley. Ms. Combs responded that they plan on completing a needs assessment. She stated that there is need for a place for teens to go on a Friday and Saturday night. She mentioned that the arena would be converted to a dance club for teenagers. Ms. Combs stated that she has not found a rock climbing wall in the valley. The only wall she has seen is in Palm Springs that is brought in every Thursday night. Commissioner Tanner asked Ms. Combs if she was still financially involved with the three rink startups. Ms. Combs responded that she is not. She indicated that two were sold, and is currently involved with the Ontario Ice Arena. Ms. Combs noted that the Ontario Arena is doing great. Commissioner Tanner asked where the arena in Ontario is located. Ms. Combs responded that it is located at 201 South Plum Avenue. She also mentioned that the City of Ontario gave them 2.25 acres for the Ontario project. Councilman Spiegel asked how many acres they are requesting. Ms. Combs replied that they need 10 acres so that they can expand. Commissioner Babcock asked if the facility in Ontario is ten acres. Ms. Combs responded that it is not. It is a postage stamp of approximately 2.5 acres, which is limited. For that reason they are requesting ten acres. Commissioner Babcock asked if the facility in Ontario has enough room for parking and activities. Ms. Combs responded that they do not. They are utilizing other parking adjacent to the arena. Commissioner Babcock 3 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 suggested that for the future, they provide enough parking and not only a building. Ms. Combs replied that is one reason why they are requesting ten acres to provide adequate parking. She commented that the ten acres would also include two structures, and one other structure to be added in the future for housing. They would like to provide housing for European skaters that are being trained by their Olympic coach. Councilman Spiegel asked if they had financing in place. Ms Combs replied that they do. She referred to a letter of commitment that was included in the proposal. Councilman Spiegel asked if there is going to be seating around the arena. Ms. Combs responded that seating would be provided. Commissioner Babcock commented that they are providing many activities, and asked if they would be overlapping activities with other agencies. Ms. Combs replied no. They are proposing a total profit project. She noted that Ms. Latham has a non-profit organization and has nothing to do with the project, but would have an office in the arena. Commissioner Babcock also noted that in their proposal they are offering exercise, swimming, etc. Would those activities be in the same building. Ms. Combs replied yes, but that they do not have swimming. If in the future they were making enough profit to build a pool, they would not object to having one. She stated that they want to have many venues to pay for their costs. They would then like to put money aside to build the other facilities. Commissioner Babcock stated that the valley has the YMCA, CVRPD, and other private enterprises, and asked Ms. Combs if they had similar agencies in Ontario and if they have any conflicts with them. Ms. Combs responded no. She commented that they would have many activities to offer and that they would have an adequate draw. Commissioner Schukart asked if they have been able to forecast admission fees for their various activities. Ms. Combs responded that they would call other area agencies, and they would set their fees along the same line with every one else. Councilman Spiegel asked if they envision using a 600-seat theater. Ms. Combs responded no. It would be 100-150 seats. Commissioner Barnes commented that they are requesting 10 acres of land, and asked if they City has ten acres. Councilman Spiegel responded that it is possible. 4 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Councilman Spiegel asked how much of the ten acres do they envision is parking. Ms. Combs responded one-fourth. She briefly explained the plans for the project, such as a nice entrance and landscaping. They would like to provide charity events and ice shows. The events would bring in people, such as Dorothy Hamil. Councilman Spiegel asked if these types of events are offered in Ontario. Ms. Combs responded no, her Russian partners do not understand these types of events. Councilman Spiegel asked if her Russian partners would come out to the desert. She responded no. Commissioner Barnes asked if they have made their proposal to other cities in the valley. Ms. Combs responded no. She indicated that the City of Cathedral City did offer their group seven acres of land. They need ten acres not seven. Mr. Garren commented that their business cards are included in the proposal. If the Commission had any questions, please give them a call. Ms. Latham indicated that they would like to fast track this project to coincide with an Olympic year. She asked that the Commission let them know if additional information is needed. Councilman Spiegel asked that they explain the housing. Ms. Combs communicated that she visited an area outside of Zurich, Switzerland, which has a similar complex that includes a swimming pool, and this is where she got the idea. She indicated that across the street from the complex is a sports housing complex, and is run by a husband and wife. Councilman Spiegel asked how large the housing facility in Switzerland. Ms. Combs responded that the facility sleeps approximately 30 to 40 people. Commissioner Barnes commented that there have been five proposals brought to the Commission, and that today’s presentation has been the most ambitious and most extensive. He does not think it is something that the City would want to rush into as fast as they want to besides requesting ten acres of land. Commissioner Tanner noted that the proposal would be the greatest single expense to Palm Desert. Ten acres of land would cost approximately $5 million. Councilman Spiegel asked what would happen if they were to go belly-up. The Commission agreed and asked the same question. 5 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Commissioner Schukart commented that an analysis was not done concerning what needs are not being served. Did they contact Mr. Ford? Ms. Steele responded that they have only met with her and Mr. Niemczak. Commissioner Schukart stated that there needs to be a lot more done by the group before he can be serious about the project. Councilman Spiegel explained that City Staff wants to know from the Commission if they agree with the concept for our city. Commissioner Tanner responded that they all have talked about an ice arena, and that they all agree that there is need for one. Mr. Ford suggested that Ms. Steele talk to the City of Bakersfield. They have built an arena. Commissioner Tanner asked Ms. Steele how successful or not successful the ice rinks that she has been involved with are doing financially. Ms. Steele responded that the ice rinks that she has been involved with are huge and open nearly 24 hours a day. Mr. Niemczak also commented that when he was in Chicago, ice rinks were open 24 hours a day. Commissioner Limont asked what the demand is for an ice arena. There are families that could barely afford housing. She asked if families are going to be able to afford for their kids to play hockey. Ms. Steele responded that the Commission could receive answers through the survey. Commissioner Tanner stated that they would need to know what the fees for the activities are going to be. He then mentioned that might be a question the City might want to include in the survey. Ask families if they are willing to pay the fees for activities in the ice skating rink. Councilman Spiegel mentioned that it was quite an ordeal when the ice rink at the mall closed down. The question is “Does the Commission want City Staff to pursue an ice rink?” He noted that the City is looking at another regional park in the north sphere. The City does not own the land yet, but is looking at another regional park. Commissioner Babcock communicated he has a concern with the activities offered by the YMCA and CVRPD. Is the ice arena going to overlap with their activities? Mr. Ballew responded that the ice arena would be a great place to take the kids. He also commented that the more activities for this valley the better. 6 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Mr. Ford responded that they do not see a problem with it either. It was mentioned that it is a great idea to incorporate the ice arena into the citizen survey. Ms. Steele mentioned that she and Mr. Niemczak visited the ice arena in Ontario, and that it was busy at 11:00 a.m. during the week. The Commission agreed that at this time the ice arena should be included in the survey. Commissioner Barnes asked if there has been any updated information from any of the previous proposals. Ms. Steele responded that the groups are still interested. Mr. Croy explained that the presentation was only a proposal. The next phase is to actually engage in more in depth information, such as an analysis. The first step is whether the Commission interested as a group. The next step, City Staff would gather more information, and the last step would be the negotiating stage and the City Council would get involved. VI. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS A. COMMISSIONER E-MAIL LIST Vice Chair Munson requested that if they had any changes to the e-mail list, please let Staff know. Commissioner Barnes is the only Commissioner that does not have an e-mail address. B. JAZZERCISE FEE INCREASE AT THE RECREATION CENTER Ms. Steele explained that the City Council received letters concerning fees, and that she provided the report as an informational item to the Commission. She asked the Commission if they had any questions. Commissioner Barnes asked what is jazzercise. It was explained that it is dancing and exercising. VII. NEW BUSINESS Added Agenda Item: The Commission approved to add the Palm Desert Senior Softball League request to approve the use of all four fields at the Civic Center. 7 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 A. SENIOR SOFTBALL LEAGUE REQUEST Ms. Steele reported that the Senior Softball League is requesting to use all four fields at the Civic Center at no charge. The request to not charge the Senior Softball League for the use of the fields for was approved. Motion moved/seconded by Tanner/Barnes and carried by a 7-0 vote with Chairman Guyer and Commissioner Scheurer ABSENT. B. AMPHITHEATER Ms. Steele reported that she met with Chairman Guyer and Commissioner Dawson to discuss the redesign of the amphitheater. They discussed an automatic movie screen, dressing room and bathroom, storage, additional shade, stage ventilation, lighting and acoustics, concrete apron in front of stage, signage, audience lighting, and stage size. Commissioner Schukart commented that the report says the amphitheater has been a free venue, and asked if the area would fenced-off and have an admission fee. Ms. Steele responded no. They want to design the amphitheater for future expansion abilities. Councilman Spiegel asked Ms. Steele if she has talked to Mr. Young. Ms. Steele responded that she has not. He noted that he designed the current amphitheater. Ms. Steele noted that she has only met with the sub- committee. Ms. Steele circulated pictures of some different shade structures samples. She apologized that some of the pictures did not come out clear. Commissioner Tanner asked if the structures are portable or permanent. Ms. Steele replied that they would be permanent. Councilman Spiegel suggested that they look at the airport structures. Commissioner Dawson commented that they also talked about naming the theater and creating a logo. For example, “Palm Desert Stage,” and not using such a long word like amphitheater. Gradually people would know where and what it is by just using the name. Commissioner Babcock asked what happened with the tree. Councilman Spiegel responded that there were concerns with the metal heating up in the summer and whether it was something that really was wanted. He mentioned that there has been money put aside for the redesign of the amphitheater. 8 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Councilman Babcock commented that he is concerned with the current audio system. He stated that it has to be acoustic. Vice Chair Munson asked Ms. Steele what she needs from the Commission. Ms. Steele responded that if the Commission agrees with what was discussed concerning the amphitheater; staff would move forward. Commissioner Babcock asked if there was any information on the acoustics. Ms. Steele replied that there is no information at this time. The Commission recommended that staff move forward with the concepts that were discussed. VIII. CONTINUED BUSINESS - None XI. OLD BUSINESS A. CIVIC CENTER WATER FEATURE Mr. Niemczak reported that he contacted the manufacture to check the condition of the water feature. The manufacture responded that would come to the Palm Desert to check the inventory and the condition of the water feature for $2,500. He asked if the Commission was interested in having the equipment checked. Commissioner Tanner recommended that the City spend the $2,500 to find out the condition of the water feature, and then try to sell it. That is only if it is in working condition. Commissioner Dawson commented that the company might want to buy it back. Commissioner Barnes stated that the company has been very uncooperative as far as he is concerned. Commissioner Tanner motioned for City Staff to proceed and spend the $2,500 to find out the condition of the water feature. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Dawson and carried by a 7-0 vote with Chairman Guyer and Commissioner Scheurer ABSENT. 9 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 B. LAWN BOWLING Ms. Steele stated that lawn bowling has been mentioned before she began working for the City. She mentioned it in July and suggested a site, which was over by the skate park. Ms. Steele asked the Commission if they want to proceed with this project, if so, Staff would request a proposal to find out the costs. She also requested discussion concerning sites for lawn bowling. Mr. Duke Ackerman, Lawn Bowling Association, stated that at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting in May 2005, Ryan Stendell was going to put a package together for Ms. Steele. He commented that the last estimate that the Association received to put in a high quality green would cost $125,000-$150,000. With a high quality green, they could possibly have national/international tournaments. He said that he has not talked to Mr. Stendell since the last meeting. Ms. Steele indicated that Mr. Stendell had not given her a package with information. Mr. Ackerman mentioned that he has talked to experienced lawn bowling installers, and they indicated that there needs to be some curing time. He stated that they are currently fine at the Senior Center for this year. Councilman Spiegel explained that Mr. Michael Barnard, Joslyn Senior Center, said that it was costing the Center money to maintain the lawn bowling. Mr. Barnard then asked the Lawn Bowling Association to find another place to lawn bowl. In the meantime, Mrs. Joslyn heard about it, and said that if there was not enough money coming in from the lawn bowlers that she would pick up the difference. Councilman Spiegel mentioned that he has a concern with putting it in next to the skate park. He indicated that the lawn bowling area would have to be fenced. If its not fenced off, the kids would get into it and it would not last. Councilman Spiegel noted that he was happy when Mrs. Joslyn came up with the money. The lawn at the Joslyn Senior Center is secluded, and seems to stay in good shape. Besides using the area for lawn bowling, the Center might use it for bocce ball. Councilman Spiegel stated if the Association is happy at the Joslyn Senior Center, his recommendation to the Commission is that lawn bowling stay at the Center until something happens. Mr. Ackerman pointed out that they had done some research after Mr. Barnard’s claim. They show that the Lawn Bowling Association is paying their way. Councilman Spiegel stated he could recommend to the City Council that if Mr. Barnard feels that he is not receiving enough money, the City could 10 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 pick up the difference. He feels that Joslyn Senior Center is a great location for lawn bowling. Mr. Ackerman commented that there are two other factors. They are growing approximately 20% a year. And if they had a quality green, they could have national/international tournaments. He indicated that they could informally get by at the Senior Center. It would be nice to have something formal for those people that come into the valley for the Senior Games. He commented that there were approximately a dozen people turned down for lawn bowling last year for the Senior Games. Councilman Spiegel stated that he was not aware that people signed up for lawn bowling. Councilman Spiegel asked Mr. Stan Ford to look at lawn bowling at the Senior Games. Mr. Meathe communicated that Mr. Barnard indicated to the Lawn Bowling Association that they do not want them at the Center. He said Mr. Barnard told him that it is okay for this year. Councilman Spiegel stated his concern as to where it is going to be put and who is going to secure it. Mr. Meathe responded that the area the Ms. Steele pointed out is perfect. The sprinklers, restrooms, and parking are already there. He commented that they would not last long at the Senior Center. Councilman Spiegel indicated that the area would only be dedicated for lawn bowling, and no one else would be able to use it. Mr. Meathe responded that if it’s put next to the skate park; it would be used by lawn bowlers’ everyday. Mr. Ackerman commented that they are currently isolated, and if they were to move to the Civic Center, more people would be interested, and younger people might want to learn how to play. Commissioner Tanner has a concern with lawn bowling being next to the skate park. The kids using the skate park are known in having offensive language. He does not think with lawn bowling being so close is a good mix. Commissioner Tanner commented that he would not urge the City to spend money. He feels that the two groups do not mix. Mr. Meathe responded that they are bowling in the middle of the week when kids are in school, and there should not be a conflict. Due to the heat in the summer, they do not bowl. Commissioner Tanner asked what should be done with the space while it is not being used for the summer. 11 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Mr. Meathe asked what do they now with the area. It is an open belt green area. Commissioner Babcock asked if they had had lawn bowling on artificial turf. Mr. Ackerman responded that there is some lawn bowling played on artificial turf. Commissioner Babcock noted that the soil in the park is not very good, which creates a drainage problem. They might want to look at artificial turf for lawn bowling. Mr. Ackerman responded that they have somewhat checked into artificial turf, but his understanding is that there is more maintenance to it than it appears. He briefly explained the maintenance. Mr. Meathe commented that they had also talked to the City of Santa Maria concerning artificial turf. It would have to be replaced about every ten years. Commissioner Tanner asked how many people they have in their group. Mr. Ackerman replied that in a full time basis they have approximately 40, and during the season up to 50. Commissioner Barnes asked if croquet could be played on lawn bowling surface. Mr. Meathe responded that the only concern is the holes made by the hoops. Ms. Steele mentioned that she would check what information Mr. Stendell might have. Councilman Spiegel asked Ms. Steele to check if lawn bowling could be included in this year’s Senior Games. The Senior Games are scheduled for February 9-12, 2006. Commissioner Dawson stated that the Commission should request financial information on the costs to update and maintain lawn bowling at the Joslyn Senior Center. Vice Chair Munson commented that the Commission should already have that information. The City recently paid for new boards. Councilman Spiegel asked that Ms. Steele to look at if there is something that could be done for the lawn bowlers to keep it at the Joslyn Senior Center for now. C. PARKS AND RECREATION NEEDS ASSESSMENT RFP Ms. Steele reported that she included a copy of the RFP that was advertised for the needs assessment. She is requesting two Commissioners to volunteer to review and rate the proposals. Vice Chair Munson and Commissioner Limont volunteered. 12 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Councilman Spiegel asked when the survey would be done. Ms. Steele replied that hopefully soon. Councilman Spiegel asked why the survey was being done. Mr. Croy responded and briefly explained the need to find out what the citizens want in their community. Commissioner Tanner commented with the survey the Commission could find out how many people are interested in an ice skating rink, lawn bowling, and swimming. He noted that the demographics have changed. Commissioner Babcock asked if the cost of the survey coming out of the City’s budget. Ms. Steele responded that it would come out of the Parks & Recreation Professional Services account. X. REPORTS AND UPDATES A. AQUATIC CENTER Commissioner Tanner reported that the City Council did not have any questions or concerns, and they approved the conceptual design. There was no discussion by the Council. Commissioner Schukart asked if Aquatic Design brought in a redesign that would fit in the 2.2 acres. Ms. Steele responded no, and that the redesign would come in the design phase. The Commission briefly discussed the design and the location. Ms. Steele communicated that she received a call from a lady regarding pools, and she provided her website with more information. Ms. Steele circulated a copy of a page from the website including the web address. She said that she thought it was something the Commission would like to look at. B. JOE MANN DOG PARK Ms. Steele provided the Commission with pictures of the dog park showing the fence dividing the small and large dog park. Commissioner Limont mentioned that there is a little gap between the fencing and the very small dogs could get through. Ms. Steele responded that there are some little things that they are working on and having them taken care of. 13 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 C. HANDBALL COURTS Commissioner Barnes asked where the three-wall handball court came from. Mr. Niemczak responded that it came from a letter to the Handball Association from the Parks and Recreation Commission. Commissioner Barnes commented that he has never heard of a three-wall handball court. He asked Mr. Niemczak if he is familiar with the handball courts at the high school. The courts have a wall with wings. Mr. Niemczak indicated that the wings could be addressed when contractors ask questions. Mr. Croy mentioned that he was asked at his Rotary meeting when the handball courts were going to be completed. He told them that they were going to be done, but did not say when. Commissioner Babcock joked that Commissioner Barnes has waited 10 years for the handball courts. Does he have to wait another four years to see additional pavilions at the Civic Center Park. Councilman Spiegel communicated that they have talked about adding additional pavilions at the back of the park in junction with the handball courts and restrooms. He asked if that would be coming back to the Commission. Ms. Steele responded that they would bring back the restrooms and pavilions. She indicated that Mr. Stendell told her that initially they wanted to bid the handball courts, bathrooms, and pavilions all together. Mr. Niemczak informed the Commission that he has not received any responses for the handball courts. He stated that Staff might look at a whole package for the next go around. Mr. Croy stated the when he was looking at the handball courts. He found concrete contractors that know how to build them, and not general contractors. Commissioner Barnes suggested that Staff find out who made the courts at the high school. Commissioner Tanner suggested that a general contractor build the restrooms and that they sub-contract a contractor to build the courts. Councilman Spiegel noted that City Staff has already gone out to bid for the courts. 14 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 D. PLAYGROUND UPDATE Mr. Niemczak reported the playground contractor is on site. The new playground should arrive this week. The estimated completion date is the week of November 7, 2005. He noted that there was delay with the shipment of the equipment. E. PALMA VILLAGE PARK ARTWORK/FOUNTAIN Ms. Steele stated that the City Council chose to reject the artwork at Palma Village Park due to the potential safety hazard. Richard Twedt, Art Manager, is open to any suggestions. Councilman Spiegel commented that it is a passive area. He would like to see something nice so he can sit and read a book. Commissioner Babcock noted that the maintenance crew at Palma Village is doing a good job. F. LEGENDS FIELD HONOREE UPDATE Ms. Steele stated that she included a bio of Charlie Passarell in the agenda packet. Commissioner Barnes requested an update on the columns. Mr. Niemczak responded that he has talked to three contractors, including the original builder. The original builder is going to give him the cost for a single column, and the figure out how many we want to install at that price. Commissioner Barnes asked if the columns were going to be installed in the circle. Mr. Niemczak responded that they were thinking of continuing the line of columns. Commissioner Barnes recalled that the Commission decided non-baseball players are put in the circle. G. PARK INSPECTIONS Vice Chair announced that park inspection sheets are due at the next Commission meeting. Ms. Steele agreed. Councilman Spiegel remarked that the park inspections report is terrific, and requested that staff send a copy of the report to the Council with a memorandum explaining that the Commission is inspecting the parks. 15 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 Commissioner Babcock commented that there is still a sign up in Cahuilla Park that says, “City Ordinance-Dogs on Leash”. He noted that one sign was taken down, but there is one still up. Mr. Niemczak responded that he knows what sign Commissioner Babcock has mentioned. He explained that he also received a call from a resident that there are vehicles on a dirt road creating dust along the wash that leads to the trailheads. The resident asked what could be done about it. He told the resident that it is a public road. The resident pointed out that the sign says, “Authorized Vehicles Only.” Mr. Niemczak stated Staff would be taking down both signs, which addresses the vehicle and dog problem. Commissioner Babcock indicated that the entrance of Cahuilla Park and the exit/entrance of Homme Park, there are two cement blocks, and asked the status of what would be going there. Mr. Niemczak responded that there is suppose to be a kiosk. He said that he would get an update from Mr. Stendell. Commissioner Babcock asked if the area/park next to BLM belong to the City. It is not being inspected. The Commission responded that they were not sure if it was City land or not. City Staff would check into it. Ms. Steele gave a brief report on the park inspections. She mentioned that Mr. Niemczak is getting costs for the removal of the palm logs and for the installation of the boulders. Commissioner Barnes asked if the City Council approved the boulders. Ms. Steele responded that they have not gone to the Council. Staff first needs to get the costs. IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Commissioner Barnes commented that the area by Magnesia Falls where the date grove monument would be installed, only one car at a time could pull into the driveway. He also commented that he thinks there is a sign there to enter at your own risk. He asked for the status of the monument. Mr. Niemczak responded that he in the process of contacting the builder that installed the monument in Baja Park. It was stated that the monument would be installed on the side of Magnesia Falls. Ms. Steele reported that she met with the contractor that is reviewing the plans for Freedom Park. There were some items that they wanted to 16 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 2, 2005 address. She stated that they are trying to fast track the project the next couple of weeks so bid documents are ready to go out. Ms. Steele indicated the contract would not be awarded until after the first of the year, and breaking ground in late February. She apologized for being late, but she wants to make sure all the documents are correct so that the City does not have to pay more money to fix mistakes. Mr. Croy announced that Ms. Steele’s probation period ends November 4, 2005. He made the decision to change her status to a permanent employee. Commissioner Babcock thanked Councilman Spiegel and the Council for the brunch at Desert Willow. X. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Munson adjourned the meeting at 10:25 a.m. Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary 17 C:\\Users\\nmartin\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\14426 (2)_937950\\14426 (2).doc