HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-08-2016 Parks & Recreation CommissionIowa City
Parks and Recreation Commission
Wednesday, June 8, 2016 — 5 p.m. ... ,..w.
Robert A. Lee Recreation Center
Meeting Room B
220 S. Gilbert St.
ITEM1. CALL TO ORDER
ITEM 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
ITEM 3. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
ITEM 4. CHAUNCEY SWAN PARK PLAN — ELEANOR DILKES, CITY ATTORNEY
ITEM S. HICKORY HILL PARK MASTERPLAN — DON MARNER, SNYDER & ASSOCIATES
ITEM 6. THORNBERRY OFF -LEASH DOG PARK POND UPDATE-DAVE BOURGEOIS
ITEM 7. REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
a) Recreation Division Superintendent —Chad Dyson
b) Parks Division Superintendent —Zac Hall
c) Parks and Recreation Director—Juli Seydell Johnson
1. Commission Summer Schedule
ITEM8. CHAIRS REPORT —CLAY CLAUSSEN
ITEM 9. COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ITEM 10. ADJOURN
MINUTES
PARKS AND RECREATION
DRAFT
MAY 11, 2016
MERCER PARK AQUATIC CENTER/SCANLON GYMNASIUM — P & G ROOM
Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Maggie Elliott, Wayne Fett, Cara
Hamann, Lucie Laurian, Paul Roesler, Joe Younker
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Chad Dyson, Matt Eidahl, Zac Hall, Tammy Neumann
Others Present: Jennifer Carpe, Brett Douglas, Genus Landscape Architects, Ella Fast, Hannah
Fast, Sam Fast, Steve Rohrbach, Genus Landscape Architects
RIBBON CUTTING AT NEW MERCER PARK PLAYGROUND:
Commission members met at the new playground at Mercer Park where a ribbon cutting ceremony
commenced. The event was hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department with lemonade and popcorn
served. There was a good turnout for this event.
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5:13
STAFF INTRODUCTION:
Seydell Johnson introduced Matt Eidahl, Program Supervisor for Youth Sports and Teen Programs, to the
Commission. Eidahl has worked for the department for 16 years. He is a graduate of Coe College and has
experience working with at risk youth while employed at the Cedar Rapids Boys and Girls Club. He also
worked at the YMCA in Marion prior to his employment with the Iowa City Recreation Center. In this
position, he manages youth sports programming for preschool aged children through sixth grade in both
individual and team sports. Eidahl also manages special events that are held at Mercer. Elliott
commended Eidahl for always being available to patrons of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center and also
complemented the staff at Mercer. Claussen mentioned that he has sponsored both T-Ball and flag
football teams, which are programs run by Eidahl. Eidahl confirmed that sponsorships are always
welcome.
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Fett, seconded by Laurian, to approve the April 13, 2016 minutes as written. Passed 9-0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 11, 2016
Page 2 of 6
EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT PRESENTATION — SAM FAST:
Eagle Scout Sam Fast was present at tonight's meeting to present his request to complete his Eagle Scout
project by constructing a Gaga Pit in a city park. Fast distributed photos and the rules of the game to
Commission members. He described a Gaga Pit as an octagonal enclosed area that would have walls
made of treated lumber and a surface of crushed limestone. The game is similar to dodge -ball except the
ball is hit or slapped with an open hand. If a player is hit below the knees with the ball or the ball is
caught, that player is out of the game. The last player standing is the winner of that round. Fast shared
that he has attended many scout camps that have Gaga Pits and they are by far the most popular activity
amongst the campers. He further noted that it is a game that can be played by almost any age and any skill
level. The game can be played with as little as 3 people or as many as 20. Fast had suggested that a pit be
placed in Upper City Park. Laurian and Roesler agreed that this would be a good location. Brown
suggested that Lower City Park may be the better choice as there may be siblings of kids playing in ball
tournaments that could take advantage of the facility. Seydell Johnson said that staff has concerns about
City Park as the location and will be discussing alternate possibilities with Fast in the near future. Elliott
asked how people will know what the facility is for when they come upon it. Fast said that there would be
a sign on the outside of the pit. Brown asked what kind of a ball is used. Fast said generally it is a kick-
ball. Laurian asked if there could be an entrance made low enough for smaller children to enter. Fast
included a photo of one with such an option. It was agreed that this certainly could be part of the plan.
Seydell Johnson noted that all of the funding for this project will be provided by Fast as part of his Eagle
Scout project requirements.
Moved by Younker, seconded by Fett, that department staff work with Eagle Scout Fast to
determine an appropriate location for a Gaga Pit within a city park. Passed 9-0.
CHAUNCEY SWAN PARK PLAN — BRETT DOUGLAS, GENUS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Seydell Johnson reminded Commission that Chauncey Swan Park located at 405 E. Washington Street
will be closed for a time so that the ground may be used as a staging area for the construction of The
Chauncey. The developer of the building has agreed to redesign and rebuild the park for public use at the
end of the construction project and has agreed to fund the redevelopment up to $500,000. Brett Douglass
from Genus Landscaping was present at tonight's meeting to present the plan for Chauncey Swan Park
reconstruction. Douglas noted that the construction will begin in November of this year and will run
through 2019. He further noted that for the time frame of March through October the west side of the park
will be blocked from construction and left available for Farmers Market use. Douglas presented
renderings that show the park in its completion which included items such as street trees, planting areas
with one to include a tranquil space, a seating wall, bike racks, drinking fountain including a dog
fountain, concrete paving, sloped lawn with irrigation and a terrace garden to name a few. He also
mentioned that there will be electrical outlets placed throughout as well as a possible crosswalk from the
park to City Hall providing a safer crossing for pedestrians. Discussion ensued about the possibility of
planting trees in the future in the open green space area. Rohrbach from Genus said that it would be
possible to plant trees over the geothermal wells; however, the plan was to leave this area open for
activities in the park. Claussen asked Hall if he saw any issues with the park being shaded a great deal of
the time. Hall said he really could not comment on that at this time. Douglas noted that the irrigation
system should keep the vegetation in good condition. Laurian suggested that perhaps plants that would
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 11, 2016
Page 3 of 6
not require irrigation be planted, thereby eliminating the need. Douglas responded that while that could be
an option, there are some areas that will be pretty tight so would suggest that the irrigation system still be
installed as planned. Laurian mentioned concerns about noise from Gilbert Street during the showing of
movies. She suggested that Council designate an area of the park to build a future structure that could
serve as a sound buffer. Seydell Johnson expressed her concern about space restrictions. Rohrbach
commented that the trees planted along Gilbert St. as well as the seating walls, will provide a buffer.
Laurian also asked if the pathway from the west could be extended eastward through the park allowing
for easier wheelchair access. Douglas said that the slope of the land may prevent this; however, he will
take a closer look. He further noted that ADA requirements will be met. Laurian has asked to see the plan
for the geothermal wells wondering if they can be placed closer together. Seydell Johnson said that the
agreement for well placement has already been agreed upon. Laurian would like to see the square footage
that was designated for this project, asking if the plan includes the ally. Seydell Johnson believes that the
development includes the ally. Rohrbach confirmed that it is a part of the agreement with the City. There
was some discussion regarding the cost of the stairs and whether or not the construction of such is part of
the cost to restore the park or if this will be included in the building budget. Seydell Johnson will look
into this and report back. Brown said that he likes the plan and that the developer has done a good job in
the process. He feels it will be a great draw for the community. Seydell Johnson explained that this is
somewhat of an unusual process as much of the project has already been agreed upon. She further
explained that tonight is for Commission to review and give any input to refine the plan. Claussen noted
that like Laurian, he too had the understanding that trees could not be planted in the park due to the
underground geothermal wells. Other commission members concurred. Claussen said that he likes the
plan, likes the green space and the terracing. Laurian agrees that there are wonderful parts of the plan, but
now appears that there doesn't have to be a lawn area. Younker requested that a City staff member
present the agreement between the City and the developer at a future meeting. Seydell Johnson said that
her understanding is that the lawn area was agreed upon. Claussen stated that this is a park and that it can
be changed over time but at this point there has to be a starting point and that there can be no more
roadblocks as the project is going to move forward. Planting trees can certainly be part of a future plan.
Roesler finds the open lawn concept will provide a great place for activities, perhaps may even offer a
more appealing location for events such as the Friday Night Concert Series. Douglas said that the intent of
the plan is flexibility. He also stated that the public has requested an open green space in the Pedestrian
Mall which has not been able to be done. He believes that with its proximity to downtown, this space will
meet that need. Seydell Johnson agreed that this space will provide a place for many different activities.
Bentler commented that she would like to see permeable pavers used as they would be a better option
than adding an expensive irrigation system. Rohrbach said that the irrigation concept came in late but was
found not to be all that expensive. He further noted that this is a LEED project and will have green roofs
on most of the buildings.
Elliott departed the meeting at 6 p.m.
Laurian said she would like to see more research done on the placement of geothermal wells. Hamann
said that the Commission was misled when told that trees could not be planted in the park due to the
underground geothermal wells. Fett said that he would like to close the discussion for tonight and have
staff present the agreement at a future meeting as stated earlier by Younker. Other members agreed.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 11, 2016
Page 4 of 6
PARKS & RECREATION FOUNDATION INFORMATION:
Seydell Johnson noted that as a follow-up to the April Parks and Recreation Commission meeting,
members of the Foundation met on Thursday, May 5, to discuss the possibility of redirecting funds to the
Community Foundation of Johnson County. The Foundation unanimously agreed that this is in the best
interest of the department and also agreed to dissolve the current Parks and Recreation Foundation. The
current balance in the Foundation is $73,115.16, of which $29,958.41 is designated for specific projects.
The Foundation will spend the designated funds and transfer the rest to the Community Foundation. The
Community Foundation offers an opportunity for the foundation funds to be administered under a much
larger umbrella. Seydell Johnson has followed up with the City Attorney to get a final opinion and is
awaiting a response. Claussen noted that the commission will still have an active role in future
fundraising plans.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Recreation Division Superintendent (Chad Dyson):
• Dyson said he and other staff were very pleased with the turnout for the ribbon cutting for the
new playground at Mercer Park.
Dyson reported that department staff is very busy preparing for summer programs. Staff is
prepping City Park Pool for its Memorial Day weekend opening, as well as the splash pads and
spray pad. Day camp registration is going very well.
Dyson reminded Commission that the funding for the Playgrounds program was reduced last
season, thereby making it necessary to eliminate several locations. He was happy to announce
that the program will return this season as funding is again available.
Parks Division Superintendent (Zac Hall):
• Hall announced that the department has hired Steve Erickson for a parks maintenance position.
He transfers from Transportation Services and has an environmental service background and a
history working in park districts. Hall said that the department will hire a second maintenance
worker in July.
• Hall announced that the first Party in the Park event will be at Glendale Park on June 2 from 6:30
to 8 p.m. Members were encouraged to attend.
• Hall received great comments from those who attended the Vicious Circle Disc Golf Tournament
that was held at the Peninsula course in Iowa City. The organizer said that they had the largest
turnout ever with 100 players attending. One of the players is a top ten touring professional who
stated that he was very impressed with how well the City worked with the group. They mentioned
that they will be looking into hosting a larger regional tournament in Iowa City in the future.
Parks & Recreation Director (Juli Seydell Johnson):
■ Seydell Johnson announced that the Hickory Hill Master Plan public input meeting is scheduled
for May 15 from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Hickory Hill Park shelter at the south park entrance, 1439
Bloomington Street. Rain location is the Recreation Center Social Hall. There will also be a
public input meeting for Happy Hollow Park on Wednesday, May 25 from 4:45-5:45 p.m. at the
park. There will also be a meeting scheduled in the near future for Frauenholtz Miller Park.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 11, 2016
Page 5 of 6
CHAIRS REPORT — CLAY CLAUSSEN
Claussen would like to invite Jim Glasgow and David Bourgeois to the next Commission meeting to give
the group an update on the pond at Thomberry Dog Park.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Younker commended staff for a job well done on the Mercer playground stating it is a huge hit with his
daughter.
Hamann asked for a follow-up on the recycling at parks and event venues discussion from last month
Seydell Johnson will invite Jennifer Jordan, Recycling Coordinator, to a future meeting.
Hamann was questioning what concerns The Avacentre has about allowing kegs at event facilities.
Seydell Johnson said that they have experienced difficulty with maintaining demeanor and clean up at
parties where kegs have been allowed. Seydell Johnson said that she will continue to explore this option.
Bender thought that the smaller kegs should be allowed and that perhaps it needs to be determined if this
rule is deterring people from renting the facilities.
Fett mentioned that he too would like to have more discussion about recycling options for public
facilities.
Bender wanted to draw attention to a letter that was enclosed in the packet. This is a letter from Robert
McKay regarding the preservation of woodland wildflowers at City Park. He is encouraging staff and
commission to plan so that the least amount of damage is done to this area.
Laurian said that she is very impressed with the Hickory Hill plan. She has heard positive comments
about the dog park pond as well.
Roesler said that his family too is really enjoying the new Mercer playground. He said that it is the only
playground where he has seen kids waiting in line to play. Seydell Johnson added that the Optimist Club
has donated $2000 for the renovation of the fire truck at Mercer.
Brown asked about some cabling that is being run through City Park from above. Hall said that this is part
of the utility work for the Gateway project.
Hamann mentioned the Bike Boulevard program that will be riding from City High to the Farmers Market
on May 21. A temporary bike lane will be set up on College Street from 8 a.m. to noon. The route will
begin at City High and end at the Farmers' Market at Chauncey Swan Park. The goal is to encourage
people to push for a more bike -friendly city and to educate the community on bike safety. The group will
also hand out educational material at both ends of the route.
Hamann also reminded Commission of the Move Naturally to the Market program. When a person walks
or rides their bike to the market, they will receive a $2 coupon to use at the market. This program will run
Saturdays in May.
Laurian noted that Iowa City Mayor Jim Throgmortan issued a "Regenerative City Day" proclamation at
a recent City Council meeting. This proclamation states that the city "must take decisive action to
significantly reduce community -based greenhouse gas emission.: The goals of a "Regenerative City" is
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 11,2016
Page 6 of 6
to plant native prairies and trees to store carbon in the soils; expand urban agriculture to power the city
and neighborhoods efficiently through green building designs and renewable energy.
Moved by Bentler, seconded by Hamann, to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m. Motion passed 8-0
(Elliott absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
May 11, 2016
Page 7 of 6
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
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EXPIRE
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Suzanne
1/1/17
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bentler
David
1/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Bourgeois
Larry Brown
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
Clay
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Elliott
Wayne Fett
1/1/19
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
Cara
1/1/16
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Hamann
Katie Jones
1/1/18
X
X
*
Lucie
111115
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
Laurian
Paul Roesler
1/1/18
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
X
OX
O/E
X
X
X
Joe Younker
1/1/16
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member at this time
Date: June 2, 2016
To: Parks and Recreation Commission Members
From: Juli Seydell Johnson, Parks and Recreation Director
Re: Chauncey Swan Park Redevelopment Plan
Commission Role:
CITY OF IOWA CI 1 Y
• Ask questions of City Attorney, Eleanor Dilkes, regarding development agreement for
Chauncey Swan Park.
Background:
• Chauncey Swan Park, located at 405 E. Washington Street will be closed for a time so that
the ground may be used as a construction staging area for the new Chauncey building.
• The developer of the building has agreed to redesign and rebuild the park for public use at
the end of the construction project.
• Design staff from Genus will present a concept plan for the new park for Commission review
and discussion.
• Geothermal wells for the building project's heating and cooling will be located in a large area
of the park, limiting the amount of structures and plantings that may take place in the center
of the park.
Attachment:
• None -The development agreement was sent via email to commission members following
the May meeting.
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
Date: June 2, 2016
To: Juli Seydell Johnson, Parks and Recreation Director
From: Zachary Hall, Superintendent of Parks and Forestry
Re: Hickory Hill Park Master Plan
Commission Role:
CITY OF 1 O W A CITY
1. Provide input for the following items of the draft Hickory Hill Park Master Plan:
a. Goals and Objectives
b. Park Design
c. Phasing
Background:
• The redesign Advisory Committee, consisting of staff and representatives from The
Friends of Hickory Hill Park, has been working with the design team from Snyder and
Associates to create a redesign of the trails, bridges, signage and amenities of Hickory
Hill Park.
• A trails and bridges study was conducted in 2011 identifying areas of the park with
erosion issues impacting trails and bridges primarily due to seasonal flooding. The 2011
study inventoried and categorized the condition of each bridge and trail within the park.
• Since the 2011 study the park has sustained seasonal flooding in 2013 and 2014
exacerbating the trail and bridge issues previously studied. The displacement of a major
bridge connection at the Vt Ave entrance is an example of the impact from these past
flood events.
• The replacement of the bridge is a separate FEMA project anticipated for a Fall 2016
completion. The new bridge will be incorporated into the Hickory Hill Park Master Plan
final design.
• The 2011 study did not address specific park features such as access, signage/way-
finding, programming, park sections, park branding, surfacing materials or other
amenities.
• Seasonal flood impacts and input from the Friends of Hickory Hill Park and the public
identified the need for a more complete master plan for the entire park.
• The Hickory Hill Park Master Plan addresses these missing features and analyzes the
entire park's strengths and weaknesses for opportunities to provide better services to its
users.
• Public meetings to gather input were held on March 13 and May 15.
Project Timeline:
The Hickory Hill Park Master Plan has $600,000 allocated in CIP funds to be phased over the
next 3 years. The final master plan is anticipated to be completed by July 2016. A construction
schedule will be set once phasing of the project has been determined.
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
CITY OF I O W A C I T Y
Date: June 1, 2016
To: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation
From: Chad Dyson, Superintendent of Recreation
Re: Thornberry Dog Park Pond Project
Commission Role:
Provide comments or questions regarding project.
Background:
• Discussions regarding the pond renovation at Thornberry Dog Park began in the spring
of 2015. The pond was original to the park when it opened in 2006.
• Jim Glasgow with Glasgow Construction reviewed with Commission the plans for
renovating the pond at the August 12, 2015 meeting. Project scope included deepening
pond to 15' in the center, clean and shape east side for rock placement, rip rap
perimeter with 4" or larger stone, install dock, and install windmill.
• Construction began in September 2015.
■ Project reached substantial completion and opened to the park users on May 28, 2016.
• Construction and materials donated by Glasgow Construction, JC DogPac contributed
$5,000, and City contributions of $10,000.
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
From: Katie Runde [mailto:runde.katie@gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2016 2:16 PM
To: parksandrecreation
Subject: THANK YOU- Mercer Park Playground
Dear Parks and Recreation,
I just wanted to say how wonderful the new playground at Mercer Park is and how much I
appreciate all the time, money, and effort that must have gone into building it. I have been there
twice with my 2-year-old and it's been just amazing to see how kids from toddler through middle
school age just love it. It's thoughtfully designed, full of really innovative activities, challenging
for all ages, and absolutely beautiful. The looks on the faces of kids and parents as they explore
and play is like nothing I've ever seen. I spent a summer as an intern for a website that reviewed
every single playground in New York City, and this Mercer Park playground stands out as one of
the best playgrounds I've ever seen.
Places like this are one reason we moved back to this area, and this project really reflects Iowa
City's commitment to maintaining infrastructures for families and to going above and beyond for
public projects.
Thank you again!
Katie Runde
From: MARY Kirkpatrick [mailto:PATCHWORKMARY]@msn.com]
Sent: Sunday, May 22, 2016 8:57 PM
To: parksandrecreation
Cc: Fred Meyer
Subject: Thank you for the edible landscape!
I want to express my gratitude to Iowa City Parks and Recreation for your willingness to
establish edible landscapes in parks and public areas. What progressive, forward thinking
projects!
I have enjoyed harvesting cherries in the Children's Discovery Garden so I am an Iowa City
resident who benefits from the food being planted. I am grateful for the local, organic food! I
know that the need and desire for this local food will continue to grow.
As an avid gardener, I know that there is work involved with growing food. I hope to see Iowa
City's commitment to local food in public spaces grow. I encourage the city to allocate funds to
provide staff to help establish and maintain these valuable edible landscapes.
Thank you!
Mary Kirkpatrick
431 Elrnridge Avenue
Iowa City
Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet
Upcoming Events
June
July
August
May 11, 2016
• June 4-5, Iowa Soccer League East Challenge at IC Kickers Park.
• June 6, Summer Playground Program open at Highland, North Market Square,
Wetherby, and Willow Creek Parks.
• June 6, Summer Camp starts.
• June 10-12, Hosting Iowa ASA SU, 12U A/8 and 14U A/B State Championships
at Napoleon Park.
• June 13-17, Iowa City Kickers Camp at IC Kickers Park.
• July 16, Seize the Carp in collaboration with Take A Kid Outdoors at Lower City
Park.
• July 23, Youth Triathlon at Mercer Park.
• July 25-29, Cedar Rapids Rampage Soccer Camp at IC Kickers Park.
• August 20-21, Iowa City Alliance Soccer Tournament at IC Kickers Park.
August 20, UI Rugby Alumni vs ISU Rugby Alumni Game at Scott Park
Future Commission Items
June 8, 2016
• Discussion of Chauncey Swan Park Design —Juli & Eleanor Dilkes
• Hickory Hill Park Master Plan — Presentation by Snyder & Associates
• Thornberry Dog Park Pond —Dave B & Jim Glasgo
July 13, 2016
• Tentative Parks Tour
August 10, 2016
• Tentative —Joint Meeting with City Council
® Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet j City of Iowa City
Status — Previous Commission Items and Discussions
April Commission Meeting
➢ Recycling Request for Facilities and Parks
• Parks & Recreation staff met with Jennifer Jordan to discuss equipment and
process for adding bottle and can recycling to TTRA Lodge and the Ashton
House. Plans are to have recycling available to users by June 1, 2016.
• Jennifer Jordan, Recycling Coordinator, will be scheduled for
presentation/discussion at a future Parks Commission meeting.
➢ Alcohol Policy Questions—TTRA and Ashton House
• Staff discussed polity with Ava Center event staff. The Ava Center has
strong concerns about allowing kegs for events at TTRA and the Ashton
House.
• Staff has made inquiries to the City Attorney and City insurance provider
regarding allowing kegs and home brewed beer and wine at the facilities.
• May Commission Meeting
➢ Iowa City Parks & Recreation Foundation
• Waiting for attorney review.
➢ Chauncey Swan Park
Development Agreement distributed to commission members on 5-13-16.
• Agenda Item for June
➢ Eagle Scout Project — Gaga Pit
• Staff to schedule meeting with Eagle Scout to discuss possible locations.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff
Parks
• Hickory Trail Park improvements are being completed such as a mowed trail loop,
tree plantings, a potential playground shade structure, and the installation of
memorial benches and plaques.
Recreation
• As of June 1' both recreation center Sunday hours changed form 1pm-8pm to
11am-8pm.
Cemetery:
• Staff assisted with the Memorial Day Service at Oakland Cemetery. Around 30 to 40
people gathered at the cemetery to witness the tribute to the Grand Army of the
Republic, Color Guard presentation, rifle salute, and renditions of taps and the Star
Spangled Banner. There was also a reading of the Gettysburg Address and Gen.
John Logan's Order No. 11.
Facilities:
• Cabin Project Update- City staff met on site with Shive-Hattery, Inc. on Tuesday,
May 315t. Negotiating an agreement for consultant services. The grant application
was submitted to the Historic Resource Development Program (HRDP) for additional
funds for a cedar shingled roof replacement on the structures. Additionally,
architectural historian, Marlin Ingalls is contracted as the cabin restoration
consultant.
• Robert A. Lee Recreation Center- there will be a temporary shutdown to repair
leaking domestic hot and cold water pipes for showers in the boiler room on June
7th
• Additional upgrades were also made to pool temperature controls in both Mercer
Park Pool and Robert A Lee Recreation Center.
• McComas Lacina Construction is fabricating the new ADA Service Counter for City
Park Pool. The high central room ceilings of the bath house were painted.
• The City is acquiring quotes for refinishing vs. stripping and waxing the gym floors in
both Scanlon and Robert A. Lee Gymnasiums. The work will take place after
summer programs end in late August.
• Design work to begin on a Public Park restroom and Park Shelter for Happy Hallow
Park.
Administration
• Director Seydell Johnson was a speaker at the Morning Optimist Club and Noon
Optimist Club May meetings.
■ 25 Residents attended neighborhood meeting at Happy Hollow Park on May 25 to
provide input into redesign of shelter and restrooms.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet 1. City of Iowa City
Top Staff Issues
Parks
• Staff has been addressing mechanical issues with the City Park Rides, spray/splash
pads, shelters and restrooms.
4 Parking policy/enforcement in all areas.
Recreation
• Considering removing and repurposing Mercer Fitness room to make room for
youth group fitness program and meeting/party rental space.
• Memorial Day opening saw several mechanical issues with splash and spray pads
that led to delayed opening of the facilities.
• Staff has had considerable issues filling our seasonal employment positions.
Cemetery
Staff will begin gathering leftover grave decorations from Memorial Day beginning
on June 6`h. Staff will begin working on sidewalk extensions at the Center & Reno
street entrances.
Facilities
• Water temperature issues continue at RALRC. Water temperatures have been
holding at 79" which is 3-4 degrees below normal. Baker Group installed a clutch
release valve last week to help remedy the issue.
Administration
• EBT and Debit/Credit tokens continue to be popular at the Farmer's Market. As of
Saturday, May 28 there have been 315 EBT (food stamp) tokens and 1,327
Debit/Credit card tokens purchased at the farmers market bringing the total sales to
$6,950. This is money that may not have otherwise been spent at the Iowa City
Farmers Market. We have received a lot of positive feedback from both customers
and vendors about the program.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Project Master List
Project
Timeline
Status
Facilities - HVAC Control
Multi -year Implementation for all City
Staff preparing RFQ for consultant
Software
Buildings ($535,000 CIP)
selection process.
Project may begin July 1, 2016 ($75,000
Staff preparing consultant selection
Admin: Park Master Plan Update
Gen Fund)
process
Project may begin July 1, 2016 ($75,000
Staff preparing consultant selection
Forestry: Tree Inventory
Gen Fund)
process
Construction Summer/Fall 2016 ($155,000
City engineer staff reviewing
Ashton House - Project Green
Reap Grant)
construction documents.
Fraunholtz Miller Park Design &
Construction
Construction Spring 2017 ($200,000 CIP)
Staff Preparing Preliminary Design
Hickory Hill Park Master Plan &
$200K per year: 2016, 2017, and 2018
Upgrades
(CIP)
Park Commission review in June.
Construction Summer 2016 ($25,000
Highland Park Playground
CDBG &—$8,000 in Neighborhood raised
Redesign
funds)
Playground installation begun
Consultant completing construction
City Park Cabin Restoration
Construction Fall 2016 ($200,000 CIP)
documents.
City Park Pool Cabana Shelters
Construction Summer 2016 ($65,000 CIP)
Staff preparing bid documents.
Pheasant Hill Park Renovation
Construction Fall 2016 ($60,862 CIP)
Preliminary Design
Happy Hollow Shelter &
Construction Summer/Fall 2016 ($150,000
Bathroom Upgrades
CIP)
Preliminary Design
Willow Creek/Kiwanis Park
Trail completed, Restroom under
Master Plan
Construction to be Completed Spring 2016
construction
($75,000 CIP, $25,000 Park Improvement
Staff researching site and design of
Tennis Courts/Pickle Ball Court
Fund)
Pickle Ball Courts/ Applying for grant.
East Side Sports Complex
Final Stakeholder review to be held
Feasibility Study
Study complete in Spring 2016
June 2016.
Lower City Park Master Plan
Study complete in Spring 2016
Staff reviewing final draft report.
Wetlands construction & stream bank
Staff completing consultant selection
Riverfront Crossing Park, Phase 1
stabilization 2017 (Fed Grant)
process.
Thornberry Dog Park Pond
Renovations
June 1, 2016
Complete
TBD — Park rebuild at end of building
Consultants completing design
Chauncey Swan Park
project.
based upon Commission comments.
Ground breaking event to be held on May
RALCRC Outdoor Edible
15, 2016—full implementation completed
Classroom
in 2017.
Complete
Hickory Hill Bridge Replacement I
Construction Fall 2016
Design/Engineering Being Completed
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Oakland
Cemetery
FY 16 Revenue
Report
** shaded areas represent previous Syr
average
Revenue
from Lot
Sales
Lot Sale
Syr
Average
# of
Intermen
is
Interment
sSyr avg.
Revenue
from
Interments
5 year Avg.
on
Interments
Total
Revenue
Syr Avg. on total
revenue
July
$4,300.00
$5,030.00
10
5.4
$4,075.00
$2,627.00
$8,375.00
$7,657.00
August
$11,400.00
$6,180.00
8
7.8
$6,900.00
$3,268.00
$18,300.00
$9,448.00
Sept
$7,100.00
$5,160.00
7
7.0
$3,750.00
$3,524.00
$10,850.00
$8,684.00
Oct
$10,150.00
$6,450.00
10
7.0
$5,915.00
$3,259.26
$16,065.00
$9,709.26
Nov
$4,800.00
$6,050.00
7
5.4
$3,042.50
$2,632.00
$7,842.50
$8,682.00
Dec
$2,600.00
$1,830.00
7
2.8
$3,350.00
$1,290.00
$5,950.00
$3,120.00
Jan
$6,400.00
$3,040.00
1
3.0
$700.00
$1,920.00
$7,100.00
$4,960.00
Feb
$0.00
$7,750.00
2
3.2
$750.00
$1,873.00
$750.00
$9,623.00
March
$9,750.00
$4,390.00
7
5.6
$5,080.00
$3,178.00
$14,830.00
$7,568.00
April
$4,400.00
$7,930.00
4
7.4
$3,630.00
$3,038.00
$8,030.00
$10,968.00
May
$7,600.00
$5,530.00
7
6.8
$2,750.00
$2,881.00
$10,350.00
$8,411.00
June
$5,630.00
8.0
$3,666.59
$0.00
$9,296.59
Totals
$68,500.00
$64,970.0
0
70
69.4
$39,942.50
$33,156.85
$108,442.50
$98,126.85
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet f City of Iowa City
'arty in the r irk!
Thursdays, &30 - 8 p.m. , a ,
Connect with friends, family and neighbors.
Enjoy live music, games, crafts, and frozen treats.
No fee. Open to the public! �,, T;. , ,N, , .,,
DATE_ PARK / LOCATION MUSIC BY
6.2
Glendale Park —
1250 E. Jefferson Street ............................Old
Capital String Band
6.9
Tower Court Park
— 1 124 Tower Court..........................................................Nancita!
6.16
Reno Park — 516
Reno Street .......................................................
Bob & Kristie Black
6.23
Fairmeadows Park
— 2500 Miami Drive ......................................... Mike Haverkamp
6.30
Creekside Park —
1858 7th Avenue Court ................................... Cedar Creek Cobras
JULY
7.7
Willow Creek Park
— 1117 Teg Drive.......................................................... Ron Hills
7.14
Court Hill Park —
2825 Friendship Street ...........................
Loren & Margaret Brumm
7.21
Wetherby Park —
2400 Taylor Drive .............................................
Pennies on the Rail
7.28
Oakgrove Park —
700 Page Street .......................... Larry
Mossman & Peter Rolnick
AUGUST
8.4
8.11
Highland Park — Highland Avenue & Keokuk Street...............Marc & Brandi Janssen
Mercer Park — 2701 Bradford Drive............ Kalimbaman and the Yahoo Drummers