HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Parks & Recreation Commission 03-21-2006\(1-Fj
CITY OF PALM DESERT
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES
MARCH 21, 2006
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Randy Guyer convened the meeting at 8:30 a.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present:
Chairman Randy Guyer
Commissioner Phill Babcock
Commissioner Michael Barnard
Commissioner Dan Barnes
Commissioner Roger Dash
Commissioner Gerald Dawson
Commissioner Connor Limont
Commissioner Terry Schukart
Excused Absent:
Vice Chair Julie Munson
Staff Present:
Robert Spiegel, Council Member
Janis Steele, Parks & Recreation Services Manager
Jay Niemczak, Parks Maintenance Supervisor
Monica Loredo, Administrative Secretary
INTRODUCTIONS
A. NEW COMMISSIONER — MR. ROGER DASH
Ms. Steele introduced new Commissioner Roger Dash. Ms. Grace
Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk, swore in Mr. Dash.
Mr. Dash introduced himself to the Commission. He stated that he is a
retired university dean with the California State University of Los Angeles.
Prior to the university he worked many years in education with the Los
Angeles Unified School District. Mr. Dash mentioned that he has been
living in Palm Desert for the past 15 to 16 years, and resides at Palm
Valley Country Club.
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IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Stan Ford, Coachella Valley Recreation & Park District (CVRPD),
provided the Commission a book with the results of the Senor Games. He
stated that the Senior Games had 901 competitors.
Mr. William L. Kinzel, 267 Calle Del Verano (Monterey Country Club),
Palm Desert, requested that the Commission add to their next agenda the
issues relating to the ball fields lights. He stated that the glare and infusion
of the lights are going into Monterey Country Club. He feels the lights
should have an appropriate shield or have the lights adjusted to reduce
the glare. Mr. Kinzel stated that he read the Light Trespass Ordinance for
the City of Palm Desert, and it appears that some of the lights from the
fields violate the ordinance. He commented that he has talked to Mr.
Niemczak, and that they both went to the fields so that he could point out
the lights that are really intrusive. Mr. Kinzel also stated that there should
be local control of the lights. He commented that a company that is two
thousand miles away controls the lights, and they do not know what the
weather is like or when a ball game has been canceled. He feels that if
there are no games in the fields that the lights should not be left on, and
that the City is paying a substantial amount of money for unused and
unnecessary electricity. Mr. Kinzel stated that their homeowners'
association would be meeting on Thursday, and would like to let them
know that the issue concerning the lights would be added to the next
Parks & Recreation Commission agenda.
Mr. Niemczak stated that he has met with Mr. Kinzel to discuss the issues
with the ball fields lights. He commented that in April he will be scheduling
the re-lamping of the soccer fields, and at that time he will have the lights
re -aimed at the ball fields.
Mr. Kinzel invited Staff to view the lights from his patio.
Chairman Guyer directed Staff to complete a follow up report
regarding Mr. Kinzel's issues for the next Parks & Recreation
meeting.
V. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FEBRUARY 21, 2006
Minutes of Parks & Recreation Commission of February 21, 2006, were
approved as submitted. Motion moved/seconded by Dawson/Barnes
and carried by an 8-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT.
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VI. PRESENTATIONS - None
VII. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS — None
Vill. NEW BUSINESS
A. ARTWORK IN PALMA VILLAGE PARK
Recommendation on artwork in Palma Village Park
Ms. Steele stated the Commission originally did not support the original
artwork for the Palma Village Park. The Arts Manager wanted to share the
proposed new artwork for the park, and the pictures are included in the
agenda. She stated that the Art in Public Places Commission have already
looked at the pictures and wanted the Parks and Recreation Commission
to take a look at the art before being taken to the City Council. She
requested that the Commission rate their choices for artwork, and if they
had any comments to let her know.
Commissioner Barnes recalls having an interactive water fountain in the
Civic Center Park, and that part of the fountain was a beautiful statue of a
boy and girl. He asked where that statue in now located. Staff responded
that they believe it is still around City Hall.
Commissioner Barnes stated that he would rather see the statue at Palma
Village Park instead of paying money for another piece of art.
Commissioner Limont and Commissioner Babcock agreed with Mr.
Barnes.
Ms. Steele commented that she could make that recommendation to the
Arts in Public Places Commission, but that funding is set aside for art from
development projects. The money for art would be spent at some point.
Commissioner Barnes asked Ms. Steele for the status of the interactive
water feature. Ms. Steele responded that the company has not
communicated with her. She would contact the company again.
Commissioner Barnes inquired about a statue of a mother and daughter
that was suppose to be in front of the YMCA and the Community Center.
Councilman Spiegel responded that the statue is located at the Civic
Center Park by the playground.
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B. COACHELLA VALLEY RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT
SERVICES
Discussion concerning financial records of the CVRPD.
Ms. Steele reported that the Commission had requested information on
CVRPD financial records. She requested if the Commission had any
questions, comments, or concerns to please write them down and let her
know.
Commissioner Barnes asked CVRPD if they are maintaining the ball fields
at the High School and the Civic Center. Ms. Steele replied that City Staff
maintains the fields, and that CVRPD schedules the fields.
Ms. Steele commented that the proposed budget was recently completed,
and that at the next meeting she could bring information on funds spent by
the City for Parks & Recreation.
Commissioner Barnes asked CVRPD if they still send their personnel to
Cahuilla Hills to open and close the tennis courts everyday. Ms. Steele
replied that they do. She mentioned that Staff is looking at updating the
contract with CVRPD. Ms. Steele briefly listed some of the services
CVRPD provides to the City.
Commissioner Barnes commented that he thought CVRPD controlled the
lights in the ball fields, and could not figure why Mr. Kinzel mentioned that
a company that is two thousand miles controls the lights for the ball fields.
Ms. Steele stated that the company is out of Iowa. They program the lights
based on what is scheduled in the fields. She noted that Staff would
prepare a report so that the Commission could better understand the
process.
Commissioner Babcock asked if the Palm Desert Golf Course is being
used for junior golf. Councilman Spiegel responded that he was hoping
that it would happen, but that the course is not being used enough and is
losing money.
Commissioner Babcock asked Mr. Ford if they offered any golf programs.
Mr. Ford replied that they have contacted First Tee, which is the largest
junior golf program in the country. They recently signed an intent letter to
bring First Tee to the valley. CVRPD is looking at starting the program in
Fall 2006.
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Commissioner Barnes asked if the company controls the lights in the ball
fields by Magnesia Falls. Mr. Ford replied that the lights at Magnesia Falls
are controlled manually.
Chairman Guyer noted that the lights at the Soccer Park are focused
down on the fields, and that maybe Staff could find better screens for the
lights at the Civic Center ball fields.
Commissioner Schukart noted that College of the Desert has trimmed
trees on the property line of Monterey, and he has received complaints
from residents concerning the lights from the ball fields going into their
patio.
IX. CONTINUED BUSINESS
A. DISC GOLF
Discussion and recommendation for a proposed disc golf course
site.
Mr. Niemczak communicated that Mr. Chad Dean, Disc Golf
Representative, approached the City and the Commission requesting an
area for a disc golf course. City Staff and Mr. Dean felt that the Soccer
Park is suitable for disc golf. He indicated that in the agenda packet there
is an aerial picture for a proposed disc golf course, and that the Staff
Report also indicates some of the rules showing when the disc golf course
could and could not be used.
Commissioner Dawson asked if the tees where going to be concrete. Mr.
Niemczak replied that the Staff Report represents a price for permanent
tees.
Commissioner Barnes commented that he could not see concrete in the
middle of the soccer fields. Commissioner Schukart explained that tees
are on the perimeter of the soccer fields, and it does not appear it would
interfere with soccer.
Commissioner Limont asked if Staff has checked with the soccer coaches
concerning the proposed disc golf course at the Soccer Park. Mr.
Niemczak responded that he would contact them.
Ms. Steele indicated that she recently received a call from another group
that is interested in disc golf. The person that contacted her works for
Time Warner, and they are interested in sponsoring or covering some of
the costs for the disc golf course. She asked the Commission if that were
something they would like Staff to look into.
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After a brief discussion on sponsorships, it was decided that it would not
be a good idea due to a conflict of interest.
Chairman Guyer asked Mr. Dean if he had any questions or comments.
Mr. Dean responded that they would not have a problem with either
permanent or portable tees.
Mr. Niemczak asked the Commission if they would prefer permanent or
temporary (would have to be stored) baskets. Chairman Guyer
commented that he has concern with the kids possibly running into
permanent baskets.
Commissioner Schukart commented that permanent baskets would be
preferred if they are well placed. It would be more accessible by all
people.
Councilman Spiegel added that he feels the City does not need another
company to pay for the installation of a disc golf course. If the Commission
agrees with the proposed course, the Commission could approve the
recommendation and take it to the City Council.
Commissioner Limont asked if there is any maintenance cost. Mr.
Niemczak answered that the baskets have sleeves and could be taken out
if there was a need.
Commissioner Limont asked if someone would need a card to play.
Chairman Guyer explained that it would be the same as if you were going
to play tennis on the tennis courts or volleyball on the volleyball courts.
Councilman Spiegel briefly explained disc golf to newly appointed
Commissioner Dash.
Commissioner Barnes referred to Ironwood and commented that he is
against passive parks. He commented that at the previous meeting,
Ironwood Park was mentioned as a possible location for disc golf. The
Commission had all agreed at the previous meeting that they would want
to keep Ironwood as a passive park; therefore, everyone agreed to pursue
another suitable location for disc golf.
Commissioner Babcock commented that there have been several people
that did not know Ironwood Park existed or they like it because it is quiet.
Commissioner Barnes asked if there have been any problems at Ironwood
with teenagers. Commissioner Limont and Schukart responded that they
have not seen beer bottles or cans in a while.
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Commissioner Dawson moved to recommend to the City Council to
install a disc golf course at the Soccer Park after the Soccer League
has been contacted regarding the course being installed at the
Soccer Park. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Barnard and
carried by a 7-0-1-1 vote with Commissioner Barnes ABSTAINING
and Vice Chair Munson ABSENT.
X. OLD BUSINESS
A. ICE ARENA RECOMMENDATION
Request to continue to the April Commission meeting.
Ms. Steele reported that she is scheduled to meet with Redevelopment
and the City Manager on Wednesday, March 22, regarding land for the ice
arena. She explained that after she meets with the City Manager and
Redevelopment, she would have more information for the Commission in
regards to land availability for the ice arena. She recommended that this
item be continued to the next meeting.
Ms. Steele stated that she received a pro forma from Desert Hockey
(Cathedral City). She noted that she has not had a chance to look through
it.
Councilman Spiegel noted that the City Manager would let City Staff know
if there is land available for an ice arena.
XI. REPORTS AND UPDATES
A. PARKS & RECREATION NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY
Ms. Steele reported that she incorporated the information she received
from the Commission into to the survey. She asked the Commission if
they had any additional information that they would like to have
incorporated to let her know. She noted that the survey was provided to
the City Council and Staff has received some feedback from them.
Commissioner Dash commented he was not aware of the number facilities
in the City. He mentioned that the answers for Questions No. 3 and No. 20
may be implicit due to the public not knowing that the parks and facilities
listed exist. Commissioner Dash noted that overall the survey was very
good.
Councilman Spiegel commented that there are some facilities that are not
geographically identified. For example, Palm Desert Soccer Park on
Hovlev Lane.
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Commissioner Babcock mentioned that at previous meetings it was noted
the amount parks in the City and the lack of publicity. Ms. Steele indicated
that Councilman Spiegel requested the City calendar for 2007 be
dedicated to City parks. Ms. Steele added that she is looking at preparing
a marketing piece to promote the parks that will include maps showing
where the parks are located.
Commissioner Limont stated that at the last meeting it was mentioned to
incorporate a question regarding fees and usage of facilities and
programs. She did not see the question in the survey.
Commissioner Babcock asked what would be the authenticity of the
survey. Ms. Steele responded that Staff requested a statistically valid
survey with a 95% confidence level, +/- 4 percent from the surveying firm.
Commissioner Dash asked how the survey would be distributed. Ms.
Steele responded that the ETC Institute would be mailing out 3,000
surveys and follow up with phone calls. The Institute needs to receive 600
surveys from the 3,000.
Commissioner Schukart noted that he has talked to other cities that have
done surveys similar to what Palm Desert is doing, and they were very
pleased with their results.
The Commission discussed some of the concerns Commissioner Babcock
had with the survey.
B. AQUATIC CENTER DESIGN
Ms. Steele asked the Commissioner of there was anyone interested in
being part of the Aquatic Center Design Committee to let her know.
Chairman Guyer, Commissioners Babcock, Barnard, Barnes, and
Schukart volunteered.
Commissioner Barnes stated that he had requested for someone to take
him across the street and show him exactly where the Aquatic Center is
going to be located and a sketch of the layout. Commissioner Schukart
stated that he would take Commissioner Barnes to the exact location of
the 2.2 acres for the Aquatic Center.
Commissioner Barnes again voiced his concerns with parking.
Councilman Spiegel reminded him that there is extensive parking be
added to the College of the Desert (COD) as part of the remodeling.
Commissioner Barnes requested the exact number of parking spaces that
are going to be needed and what will be available.
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Ms. Steele responded that the first step with the architect is the layout of
the pool, and the reason to form an Aquatic Center Design Committee is
so that they could receive input.
Commissioner Barnes voiced his concern with COD using the pool in the
morning when there might be people that would want to do lap swimming.
Ms. Steele responded that the City would work with COD on the
programming.
Commissioner Babcock asked if CVRPD and the YMCA would have
programs and how they would be coordinated. Commissioner Barnes
suggested a bulkhead. Ms Steele responded that lanes lines could also be
used.
The Commission discussed the usage of the pool and that it could be
successful.
Ms. Steele briefly described a bulkhead.
C. DOG PARK UPDATE
Ms. Steele thanked those Commissioners that made it to the City Council
meeting on February 23. She received direction from the Council, and
they requested Staff to return with less restrictive measures. Some of the
options are more signage, more dog bags posted, empowering Park
Patrol doing a little more, etc.
Commissioner Limont asked if City Staff has taken over the maintenance
of the dog park. She commented that the park has improved within the last
two weeks and looks great. Mr. Niemczak remarked that his Staff is
supplementing what the current landscape contractor is doing. He
explained that they put signage up that the dog park is closed for a couple
hours while Staff completes maintenance.
Councilman Spiegel noted that Staff would work on some less restrictive
recommendations.
Commissioner Barnes stated he was tremendously disappointed in the
attitude the City Council took regarding restricting dogs at the Soccer
Field. He noted that soccer is a contact sport unlike baseball where it is a
matter of cleaning your shoes. He read an article from Parade Magazine
from the Sunday, March 5, 2006, Los Angeles Times called "Are Your
Pets Making You Sick?" Commissioner Barnes read the article to the
Commission.
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`Hookworin and roundworm are parasites that
flourish in dog poop, and some can live in the soil for
years. Children who contract these parasites while
playing on contaminated ground or in sandboxes are
at risk of rashes, organ damage and even blindness.
Pregnant women can put their unborn babies at risk,
and anyone picnicking or playing with a
contaminated Frisbee can get sick. Romidwornis
clone infect about lo,000 Americans a year. 147hat
can you do? Don't be one of the 30% of dog owners
tvho say they never pick up after Fido. Always wash
your hands afterward, and be sure that your
children know to stay away from pet waste. Take
hand wipes ivith you to the sandbox or park, and
clean kids' hands before they put them in their
mouths. Mang vets advise giving dogs a inonthly
heartworm pill. Visit www.StODworms.com to learn
more.
Commissioner Barnes stated that it is one thing to step in it, but is another
thing to roll in it. Councilman Spiegel asked Commissioner Barnes if he
has a copy of the article for Ms. Steele's files. He replied yes.
Commissioner Limont requested that a copy of the article is sent to Mayor
Jim Ferguson. She said at the City Council meeting the Mayor stated,
"The City does not have a problem because he does not hear about it."
Councilman Spiegel suggested having a person like a doctor testify when
the subject comes up again.
Commissioner Barnes noted that he has found dog poop at the tennis
courts.
Commissioner Barnard asked if Staff has received any correspondence
from the Soccer League concerning the dog issues. Ms. Steele responded
that it all has been verbal. It was mentioned that it would be helpful to
have someone from the Soccer League attend the Council meeting.
Chairman Guyer mentioned that some of the people that attend the soccer
games bring their dogs to the games and would eliminate themselves if
they were to do a petition.
Commissioner Babcock asked Staff if they are moving in the direction of
having cards to enter the dog park. Staff replied no per Council's direction.
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Commissioner Barnes asked if there is any reason why there has to be a
wait for a regional park to be developed to put in a dog park. Why can't a
piece property be taken that is designated for a future park and build a
temporary dog park? Councilman Spiegel responded that is a thought. He
mentioned that there are some small community parks going in, and we
can find out if the community is willing to put in a dog park. Ms. Steele
noted the University Park project does include a dog park.
Councilman Spiegel stated that it would be easier to persuade neighboring
cities to build their own dog parks.
Commissioner Schukart expressed that the City Council is not supportive
of identification cards for the dog park and/or closing the Soccer Park to
dogs. He stated that the City Council is not going to listen to the
Commission's recommendations, and that other people from the
community need to be brought to the Council meeting to bring up the two
issues.
Commissioner Dawson moved to continue the dog park issues with
the City Council to a future Parks & Recreation Commission meeting.
Motion was seconded by Commissioner Babcock and carried by an
8-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT.
D. FREEDOM PARK UPDATE
Ms. Steele announced that there is a pre -construction meeting scheduled
for Friday, March 24. She hopes everything will start moving fast forward.
Chairman Guyer questioned the bid results. Mr. Niemczak responded the
two higher prices are from Los Angeles contractors. He noted that James
E. Simon Company is local and has worked on other parks in the City.
James E. Simon Co. is more familiar with what the costs are to build a
park in the desert. Ms. Steele also noted that James E. Simon Co. have
their own concrete trucks, which makes a big difference.
Commissioner Babcock asked Staff if they could ask James E. Simon Co.
about building a handball court and kiosks. Mr. Niemczak responded that
he is scheduled to talk to an architect on Wednesday, March 22, to look at
designing the handball courts, the swamp area, and the columns in
Legends Fields.
Commissioner Babcock asked if there are contractors that could build the
handball courts. Mr. Niemczak responded that they first need the designs
for contractors to process a bid. Ms. Steele commented that she would
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talk to James E. Simon Co. regarding the handball courts and the swamp
area.
Commissioner Limont asked what the weekend hours at the Community
Center are. Ms. Steele responded that it is 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on
Saturdays. Commissioner Limont asked why their hours are so limited. Mr.
Ford answered that there is more staff than there are people using the
facility. He stated that the hours used to be noon to 6:00 p.m.
E. PARK INSPECTIONS
Ms. Steele reported an incident occurred at the community park by the
Palm Desert Middle School. There was a small fire started in one of the
restroom stalls. She mentioned that the Fire Department talked to several
kids when there were fires in the Civic Center Park, since then there have
not been any fires at the Civic Center Park. It now seems that the fires
have shifted to another location. She notified the Fire Marshal regarding
the incident.
Mr. Niemczak also reported that the fence at the Civic Center Dog Park
was damaged. A car jumped the curb, hit a fire hydrant and light pole, and
ran into the fence at the Dog Park. The car stopped inside the dog park.
Commissioner Babcock indicated that more and more people are using
the trails and asked that a restroom be considered in the future.
Ms. Steele commented that she would assign Commissioner Dash a park
and provide him with an inspection sheet.
XII. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Commissioner Barnes asked for an update on the fence for
Homme/Adams Park. Mr. Niemczak responded that he is meeting with a
contractor on Wednesday, March 22, for an estimate to install a split rail
fence. He mentioned that there were a couple of Council Members that
had a problem with the boulders because off -road bikes and smaller
vehicles would be able to go through.
Commissioner Schukart asked for an update on the palapa that was
burned. Mr. Niemczak answered that the company could not invoice the
City. A check is being processed so that the palapa could be replaced.
Commissioner Limont regretfully announced that Mr. Lujack thanked the
Commission for the possible nomination, but would prefer to be taken out
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of the pool. He indicated that he is 81 years old and trying to calm his life
down and be a little more private.
Commissioner Babcock asked for an update on the trail to the Bump and
Grind. Mr. Niemczak replied that he would have to ask Mr. Ryan Stendell.
Councilman Spiegel suggested that Mr. Stendell be invited to the next
meeting. Ms. Steele responded that she would invite him so he can give
an update on the trails.
Commissioner Dawson asked for an update on the amphitheater in the
Civic Center Park. Ms. Steele responded that the committee has to meet
again and move forward. She explained that she has been working on
several projects, and the amphitheater is a project that she put on hold.
Ms. Steele stated that she would provide the Commission with more
information on projects for the next meeting.
Councilman Spiegel commented that the music program in the Civic
Center Park would be starting soon, which will last through September.
Hopefully, by September Staff would have come up with some ideas, and
if is not something major, it could be done by the beginning of next year.
Commissioner Barnes asked for an update on the baseball fields by the
High School. Ms. Steele answered she recently met with the City Manager
and a couple of school representatives. She revealed that Oleson Field
would be available to the City until June 2007. The school district indicated
that if the City needs the field that the City would need to maintain it. The
school district does not want to maintain the fields during the construction.
The fields on Rutledge will be gone as of June 1, 2006. The school district
mentioned that they are installing a small track behind the tot lot, but
would not be ready until September 2006. The area could be used for tee
ball practice. Ms. Steele stated she is looking for space at some of the
other elementary schools during the summer. She stated the school
district is planning on maintaining the tot lot at Rutledge. The school
district is looking at taking the tot lot out to expand the playing fields or
leaving it as is. Ms. Steele requested that the Commission give it some
thought if they would like to leave it as a tot lot.
Commissioner Babcock requested the issue concerning the tot lot
be added to the next agenda.
Ms. Steele commented that she would be meeting with the school district,
and she could invite them to a Commission meeting for a presentation on
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what they are planning. She noted that it has not been made public to the
City.
Commissioner Babcock stated that the school district always wants more
and more land. He asked if there would be an agreement with the district
so the land could be used for a park and the park would be able to be
used during the summertime. Ms. Steele explained that the City currently
has a contract with the school district, which is renewed every year. She
noted that either party could end the agreement at anytime.
Ms. Steele briefly noted which ball fields will or will not be available during
the district's remodeling process.
Councilman Spiegel also noted that other cities are building their ball
fields, which would take some pressure of Palm Desert ball fields.
Chairman Guyer mentioned that in the past, it felt like the City never
received the good end of the deal with school district. Councilman Spiegel
replied that might have been true before Doris Wilson became
superintendent. He feels that things could be done now, which could not
have been done before.
Commissioner Barnes commented that it is going to cost $10 million to
build Freedom Park and another $10 million for the Aquatic Center, is
there money? Ms. Steele responded that the money for Freedom Park is
identified on page 42 of the meeting agenda, and the money has been put
aside. She noted that the City Manager is working very strongly towards
finding the funding for the Aquatic Center. Ms. Steele stated that the City
currently has $4 million for the Aquatic Center, and approximately another
$4 million is needed.
It was mentioned that next year Washington Charter would be moving
back, and the school by Freedom Park would be a new elementary
school. Other schools were mentioned that would be opening soon in
other areas.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Upon motion by Commissioner Dawson, second by Commissioner
Schukart, and unanimous vote of the Commission, Chairman Guyer
adjourned the meeting at 10:40 a.m.
Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary
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