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HomeMy Public PortalAbout2022-07-26 minutesPark Resources & Planning Committee Meeting July 26, 2022 Memorial Park Family Aquatic Center 120 Binder Dr, Jefferson City, MO Commissioners present: Mary Schantz, Stu Murphy, Roger Schwartze Committee members present: Taylor McNail, Karen Siegel (Griffin), Mark Leesman, Eugene Bushmann, Tina Casagrand, Delora Scaggs, Mark Kaiser, Celeste Koon Park staff present: Assistant Director JJ Gates, Rena Barron, Julie Haupt Visitor: Anna Watson- News Tribune Call to Order Commissioner Mary Schantz called the meeting to order at 12:02 noon. Introductions Attendees introduced themselves. Commissioner Mary Shantz introduced Aquatics Program Manager, Julie Haupt. Presentation-Julie Haupt, Program Manager-Aquatics Aquatics Program Manager, Julie Haupt reviewed her employment and experience history with the Aquatics program. She made note of the seasonal hours of daily operation, the number of pool staff for both Ellis-Porter and Memorial facilities, and the programs held for patrons at the pools. Extensive course in-service training is done weekly, and audits are done without staff knowledge to be sure standards and best practices are in place. Approximately 1,200 patrons enjoy the pool facilities each week. Memorial Pool was built in the 1940’s and Ellis-Porter pool was built in the 1970’s. Both pools have received renovations throughout the years. Capital Improvements Projects Updates Assistant Director, JJ Gates presented the following park updates: Grant Street Improvements The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of August 2022. Greenway at Cole County Park A 550-foot greenway has been completed. It runs behind the baseball field at the Cole County Park and provides a pathway from the neighborhood to the park. Debra Cooper Park Phase II is in the process, which consists of an outdoor shelter, a life-size chessboard, commercial hammocks, a restroom, electric to the island, more plantings, and other amenities. 2 63 Diamonds Sports Complex Architect Alliance has been contracted for a site masterplan. Hickory Adams Park New playground equipment has been ordered and is scheduled to be delivered in November 2022. The goal is to have the park completed by Spring 2023. The park will also host a half basketball court. Renderings of the renovations were displayed. Ellis-Porter Riverside Park Caretaker’s Residence Rehabilitation Verslues Construction was approved to finish Phase II, which is the second floor of the manor. Park Operations Update Assistant Director, Gates advised fencing has been removed at the skate park in Washington Park, and the two older tennis courts in the skate area have been removed. Water stations & dog bowl stations will be installed at the Bicentennial Bridge, and one at the Hyde Park area which includes a bench. Monthly park operation reports were made available to the committee. What are you hearing/seeing in the community? Committee member, Eugene Bushmann, expressed expanding the planting of trees. At this time, Parks plants (2) trees for every (1) tree that is taken out. The Botanical Garden that is budgeted in Fiscal Year 2023 will help with the planting of trees in our community. Committee member, Tina Casagrand, mentioned concerns referencing contact with VenuWorks director. More diversity group entertainment is wanted at the new amphitheater. Commissioner Schantz inquired about the upkeep and replacement of a Memorial Tree. Park staff takes care of the trees and replaces a young failing tree at no cost to the original purchasers. Committee member, Celeste Koon, mentioned the park trails are in good shape. The wildflowers along the Edgewood greenway are a nice addition. Other Business Assistant Director, Gates gave an update on the structure fire which occurred at the North Jeff pavilion in the early morning hours of Monday, July 25th. Fencing is being obtained to keep people away from the pavilion and an insurance adjustor has been contacted along with a fire restoration agency. The budget process was pushed back due to the pay increase process for city employees. The FY23 budget will be presented soon. Next Meeting Tuesday, October 25, 2022, Noon; location: Oak Hills Golf Center Adjournment Commissioner Schantz called the meeting adjourned at 12:48 p.m.