HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-09-2016 Parks & Recreation CommissionIowa City
Parks and Recreation Commission
Wednesday, November 9, 2016 — 5 p.m.
Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center— Meeting Room B
220 S. Gilbert St.
ITEM 1. CALL TO ORDER
ITEM 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
ITEM 3. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
ITEM 4. WELLMARK FOUNDATION 2016—JULI SEYDELLJOHNSON
ITEM S. RECYCLING IN PARKS AND FACILITIES —JENNIFER JORDAN
ITEM 6. POLICY FOR MEMORIAL TREES, BENCHES, AND PARK FURNISHINGS — JULI
SEYDELLJOHNSON
ITEM 7. PARKS AND RECREATION FOUNDATION—JULI SEYDELLJOHNSON
ITEM 8. FARMERS MARKET UPDATE — TAMMY NEUMANN
ITEM 9. 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
ITEM 10. CHAIRS REPORT — CLAY CLAUSSEN
ITEM 11. COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ITEM 12. ADJOURN
MINUTES DRAFT
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 12, 2016
RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Maggie Elliott, Cara Hamann,
Lucie Laurian, Paul Roesler
Members Absent: Wayne Felt, Joe Younker
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Chad Dyson,
Others Present: Patrick Alvord, Michael Blank, Keith Billick, Dell Holland, Steve Seefeld,
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5:00
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Brown, seconded by Bentler, to approve the August 10 2016 minutes as written Passed
7-0. Fett & Younker absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None
MERCER PICKLEBALL/TENNIS COURT RESURFACING:
Seydell Johnson explained that the department is very busy working with consultants on multiple
projects, many of which she hopes to have bid out and complete by next spring.
Dyson noted that this project will include resurfacing three existing tennis courts along with the removal
of three tennis courts to be replaced by eight pickleball courts. The project includes a complete
resurfacing of the courts, repainting of the lines, additional fencing, and replacement of the nets. He
pointed out that while the original plan was just to resurface the courts, with the increased interest in
pickleball, it was determined that this will be a good opportunity to paint lines on the courts to
accommodate pickleball. Pickleball is a sport that is played with a wooden paddle and combines
elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis.
Dyson announced that the department received a Wellmark grant to support the addition of a sports court
at Wetherby Park. At a public input meeting there was a lot of interest in adding a basketball court to this
area as well as a space to play futsal. Futsal is a modified form of soccer played with a smaller ball on a
smaller field. A combination of Wellmark and CDBG money will fund this project. Roesler asked if the
court would be lit. Dyson said no. Seydell Johnson also commented that having no lights was determined
partially by design as it is a neighborhood park and staff does not want to encourage patrons to use the
park well into the night. Bentler asked how the department learned of this grant. Seydell Johnson said that
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 12, 2016
Page 2 of 6
Marcia Bollinger with Neighborhood Development Services brought it to staffs attention. Laurian asked if
there would be a need for any tree removal. Dyson said there would not. She asked if it would be wise to
have some shade trees in the area. Seydell Johnson stated that this area is also used for disc golf so more
trees may not be feasible.
CARDIGAN PARK MASTER PLAN REVIEW:
Seydell Johnson explained that the department has been working with a team of consultants from
Confluence to create a design for Cardigan Park, a 3-acre neighborhood park located at 500 Huntington
Dr. Patrick Alvord with Confluence was present to share the design with the Commission. Seydell
Johnson noted that there are currently no funds to cover the cost of construction. Those funds are
scheduled in the FYI budget year. Alvord shared that there was a public meeting held at the park on
September 8 where approximately 12 residents attended to provide feedback. Following that gathering,
Confluence put together a design to bring to the Commission for input. Those that attended the public
meeting expressed that they would like to preserve as much of the open space that is currently present in
the center of the park as possible, while providing hard -surfaced pathways around the perimeter of the
lawn making it ADA accessible. Other amenities recommended were a small play structure that would
include a swing, a 20' x 20' park shelter with a few picnic tables, a drinking fountain, bike parking, and a
butterfly garden. They agreed that there should be no restroom in the park. There was also discussion of
including a fire pit in the southeast comer of the park. Elliott asked if there are any other Iowa City parks
that include fire pits. Seydell Johnson said that this would be a first. Laurian expressed her concern of a
fire pit presenting a hazard to park users, especially children. Seydell Johnson said that the fire pit would
be an elevated structure with the fire in the center, therefore preventing someone from walking into the
pit. Laurian asked if Confluence had considered a natural play area. Alvord said that the more traditional
play stricture was chosen due to cost as well as consistency with other parks of this size. Claussen and
Elliott both expressed their support of a fire pit structure.
FRAUENHOLTZ-MILLER PARK DESIGN REVIEW
Seydell Johnson noted that Parks and Recreation staff have been working with a design team from Shive-
Hattery to create a plan for Frauenholtz-Miller Park, a 2.6 acre space located at 4326 St. Patrick Drive.
This is also a project that is in the current CIP budget and she hopes to put it out to bid in
November/December with construction in the spring of 2017. A public input meeting was held at the park
on September 15 with approximately 60 residents attending. Keith Billick with Shive-Hatterv_ was
present at tonight's meeting to present the design plan to the Commission. He reiterated that there was a
very good tumout at the public meeting. He pointed out that due to previous planning already in place,
there were some items that were not on the list of items for discussion. Overall those present requested
that the northern half of the park remain an open space as a number of people use this area for activities
such as soccer. There was some desire for the placement of a bus shelter in the southwest corner of the
park. Seydell Johnson has shared this with the Transportation Services Department. There was also some
discussion of there being a small amount of parking available. Again, she passed this on to the
Transportation Services Department as well as the Metropolitan Planning Organization staff for further
discussion. The design also includes two small (18'x18') park shelters and a playground with swings.
Billick also said they there will be an added curve to the pathway that runs through the park. The idea is
that this will slow bicyclists that travel through the park. The plan also shows the placement of a couple of
berms that would serve as a privacy barrier between the playground and one of the shelters. These too
should slow down the bicycle traffic. Brown suggested that perhaps more of the property be left as open
space than what the plan is showing as he often sees a number of groups playing in this area. Seydell
Johnson pointed out that the design calls for over half of the space as open field.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 12, 2016
Page 3 of 6
2017-2021 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) BUDGET SUBMISSION•
Seydell Johnson directed commission to the list of new/revised CIP projects that were included in their
commission packets. She noted that CIP project requests were submitted to the Finance Department for
their review at the end of September. A staff committee reviewed proposals on October 10. Council will
consider projects during the 2018 budget process in December and January.
Seydell Johnson reviewed the list as follows: Hickory Hill Park funds have all been consolidated to
FY 17, whereas before this project was to be phased over three years. This will allow for the project to be
bid as one. The Frauenholtz-Miller Park Project will go out for bid this winter. The Pheasant Hill
playground equipment has arrived and is in storage until next spring. I lappy Hollow shelter and restroont
project is in process. The Ashton House project has been out to bid twice with no acceptable offers.
Therefore, the specifications will be reviewed and possibly revised and then out for bid again. Bentler
inquired about the large budget for the Pedestrian Mall, Seydell Johnson said she is not entirely familiar
with the project as Geoff Fruin is overseeing it directly, but she said that it includes costs for both
landscape and hardscape projects. She further explained that anything alive and growing is the
responsibility of the Parks Division and solid stationary items are the responsibility of the Transportation
Division.
Seydell Johnson continued to review new CIP requests with Commission. There are two requests
submitted for improvements of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center. She explained that there were plans in
place to do a cost -share with Alexander School, however, that did not come to fruition. Because this
money is bonded for a joint use facility only, of which Mercer qualifies, those funds are being requested
to replace the boiler and the HVAC system at Mercer. The second project is for masonry repair and tuck -
pointing of the facility. Other projects include roof replacement of the Cemetery maintenance building,
additional parking at the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, and Cardigan Park Development. She pointed
out that staff is requesting $30,000 to install berms and tiling to help mitigate flooding on the playground
at Mercer Park which had to be closed four times during 2016. Staff has also submitted a request for
$65,000 to identify, plan and develop a bike park area within the City. Cyclocross, mountain biking, and
off -road cycling are extremely popular activities and a designated facility would be well used.
Seydell Johnson also discussed renovation of the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center. These renovations
would bring the facility up to current ADA, mechanical and plumbing codes, and modernize the 1960
design to current public needs and enhance operational efficiencies. The project will involve remodeling
of the second level, replacement of corroded cast iron plumbing systems from the boiler room to the
locker rooms and restrooms. The second phase of the project involves remodeling the existing racquet
ball court to create a multi -purpose recreational space. The second part of this project will continue
modifications, updates and modernization of the gymnasium. Claussen asked if there has ever been a push
to vacate this property. Seydell Johnson said not at this point. Laurian asked if the building is worth the
renovations. Seydell Johnson explained that it is important that staff show what needs to be done to keep
it a safe environment for public use. Laurian asked if the commission could make a recommendation on
this project.
Seydell Johnson noted that there is $250,000 in the 2019 budget for the addition of a boat ramp at
Waterworks Park, She said that there haven't been many public requests for this so it may be removed in
favor of other projects. Bentler mentioned that it might be worthwhile to ask for public input.
Seydell Johnson stated that there may be shifts in some of these projects as the department progresses
with the Iowa City Park & Bicycle Master Plans.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 12, 2016
Page 4 of 6
Laurian expressed her concern about the amount of money requested for sports fields at the Eastside
Sports Complex. Dyson explained that field construction is very expensive and did not feel that this was
out of line.
Other projects mentioned were the 2019 request for a maintenance storage building for Parks. This would
provide a covered space for mulch, sand and other loose materials, Other 2019 budgeted items included
Wetherby park renovations to include a new shelter, more recreation center improvements. There is also a
request for a west side park development as more development occurs in this area.
IOWA CITY PARK MASTER PLAN:
Seydell Johnson explained that this master plan will include outdoor spaces only. RDG is the consultant
that was hired to develop this plan. They will begin focus group meetings next week for which invitations
will go out soon. Commission members will be included. These focus groups will discuss wishes and
needs for the future of the parks. The entire process will take approximately 10 months. Along with that,
the City just finished interviewing developers to create a bike master plan which will also include focus
group discussions. It is very possible that these focus groups will be combined. The City is also in the
process of creating a third master plan for natural areas. This will focus on prairie areas, woodlands, and
stream bank restoration to mention a few.
Roesler asked if there had been any more discussion about the possibility of an archery range in Terrill
Mill Park. Seydell Johnson that this will be discussed in the master plan.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Recreation Division Superintendent (Chad Dyson):
• Dyson announced that the department will hold its 78th Halloween Parade and Carnival on Friday,
October 21. Families meet at the fountain downtown and parade back to the Recreation Center.
]'here is also a Monster Mash scheduled at Mercer for toddler age children on October 28.
• September 24 was the annual Dog Paddle at City Park which went well as usual. The pool was
shut down the following day for the season. Other facilities that were closed for the season
include City Park Rides and splash pads.
• Recreation staff is busy working on the budget process. During this process staff looks at current
programming. Staff is discussing ways to be more accommodating to adult schedules. The
department currently offers customized scheduling for swimming lessons which has been very
well received.
Parks Division Superintendent (Zac Hall):
• In Hall's absence, Seydell Johnson reported that the Parks staff is very busy wrapping up the
summer season within the parks and winterizing facilities.
Parks & Recreation Director (Juli Seydell Johnson:
• No report beyond earlier topics already discussed.
CHAIRS REPORT — CLAY CLAUSSEN
Claussen asked that discussion about the Parks & Recreation Foundation be placed on the November
agenda.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 12, 2016
Page 5 of 6
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS,
Laurian said that she has discussed her concems about the pond plan that is included in the City Park
Master Plan with a hydrologist. Her concerns include erosion, stabilizations of the banks, etc.
Bentler thanked Parks staff for taking down the construction fence at Ned Ashton Park that had been there
for years. Bentler also asked where the discussion of recycling at park facilities stands. Seydell Johnson
said that Jen Jordan, City Recycling Coordinator, will be at the November commission meeting.
Laurian complemented staff on the playground at Highland Park.
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Elliott seconded by Bentler, to adjourn the meeting at 6:27 p.m. Motion asked 7-0 ett
& Younker absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 12, 2016
Page 6 of 6
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
v,
TERM
ti
M
p
M
ti
C
EXPYRES
=C
Suzanne
1/1/17
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
` a
Bentler
X
X
X
X
David
111115
X
X
O/E
Bourgeois
Larry Brown
1/1/18
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Clay
Claussen
1 /1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Maggie
Elliott
1/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/F,
X
O/E
X
X
X
Wayne Fett
1/1/19
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
O/
E
Cara
1/1/16
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Hamann
X
Lucie
Laurian
111115
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
O/
X
X
E
Paul Roesler
1/1/18
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Joe Younker
1/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
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
3
1
Date: November 2, 2016
To: Parks and Recreation Commission IIIV "I
From: Marcia Bollinger, Neighborhood Outreach Coordinator
Re: Wellmark Foundation 2016 Matching Assets to Community Health (MATCH) Grant
Commission Role:
1. To recommend authorizing the City Manager to execute the attached Certification of
Matching Funds for the Wellmark Foundation Matching Assets to Community Health
(MATCH) Grant awarded August 25, 2016.
Background:
• In May of 2016, Neighborhood Services staff applied for a Wellmark Foundation
Matching Assets to Community Health (MATCH) Grant to fund the installation of a multi-
use sports court in Wetherby Park. A multi -use sports court contains multiple options for
play including basketball, soccer/futsal, tennis, pickle ball, etc. (See attached concept
plan.) Recreation opportunities, particularly for junior high through adult age groups are
very limited in the park — except for one half -court basketball area and Frisbee golf.
• The Wellmark Foundation approved the application in August (attached).
• The cost estimate for a multi -use sports court is no great than $170,000. The Wellmark
MATCH application request is $75,000. A set aside of Fiscal Year 2017 Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds identified for "Neighborhood Improvement' was
pledged as the required $75,000 matching funds. Additional CDBG funds will be made
available to fund any overage of the $150,000.
• The City of Iowa City is required to certify the availability of the committed matching
funds to the Wellmark Foundation by December 12, 2016 (see attached). The City
Manager is the authorized representative for the grant and requests that the Parks and
Recreation Commission authorize his execution of the certification.
Project Timeline:
The Wellmark Match Grant will be disbursed to the City after receipt of the certification and it is
expected the project will commence this spring with completion early summer.
Attachments:
• Concept Plan for Multi Use Sports Courts at Wetherby Park
• Wellmark Foundation Matching Asset to Community Health (MATCH) Letter of
Notification and Certification of Matching Gifts
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
The Wellmaricw 111.
qFoundation
An Independent Licensee of the Bile Crou and
Blue Shield Association
August 25, 2016
Marcia Bollinger, Iowa City Neighborhood Outreach Coordinator
City of Iowa City
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
Dear Ms. Bollinger:
Ores. 605.373.7429
It is with pleasure we inform you of The Wellmark Foundation Board of Directors' approval of a $75,000 Matching Assets
to Community Health (MATCH) challenge grant to the City of Iowa City for the Multi -Use Recreational Court at
Wetherby Park grant project (ID# 241901). We commend you for your interest in the health of your community and
individuals you will be serving.
As a challenge grant award, you and your coalition have from now until December. 12, 2016. to demonstrate a $1 for $1
match to your grant award amount. Per the RFP, this can be satisfied by a combination of in -kind staff commitments of
time and/or already secured funding support (up to a ceiling of 50 percent of your match). The remaining 50 percent of
the match should be from newly committed dollars that can be documented and secured by December 12, 2016. Funding
will be disbursed in December after the attached Certification of Matching Gifts form is returned and we have a signed
grant agreement between our two organizations.
We would like to work with you to consider issuing a joint press release and/or small media event regarding your grant
award at a time that makes the most sense to your project. If this is something in which you are interested, please
contact me.
Please contact me upon receipt of this letter to let us know you received it and confirm you will be pursuing
your match for this challenge grant award.
Congratulations on your grant award, and we look forward to supporting your initiative. Please don't hesitate to contact
me if you have questions or concerns regarding your proposal or obtaining your match.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Perry, Manager
(605) 373-7429, perryss@wellmark.com
The Wellmark Foundation 0 1331 Grand Avenue ❑ PO Be. 9232 ❑ Station 5W447 o Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9232 0 www.wellmark.comHoundalm
The Wellmark®
Foundation
An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and
Blue Shield Association
Off.- 605-373-7429
Certification of Matching Gifts
Wellmark Foundation 2016 Matching Assets to Community Health (MATCH) Awardee
Grantee Organization: City of Iowa City Award Amount: 875,000
The amounts entered in the columns below represent gifts conttnitted or received to match this challenge grant award.
Donor Categories (within the above table)
1 ) Individuals. The total of eligible gifts donated by individual persons.
2) Corporations and businesses. The eligible amounts from businesses, corporations and company -affiliated or corporate
foundations.
3) Private or public foundations. Amounts of gifts from national, state, county or conmmnit_v foundations.
4) Labor unions or professional or trade associations.
5) Nou-federal governmental units, such as county boards or municipals sources.
6) Affiliated groups. Eligible amounts from pooled rather than individual sources of other separate but associated groups.
Examples could include an alumni association, group gift, membership feeds, or "friends groups."
7) Special events and benefits. The amount of net proceeds from events such as auctions, rattles, benefit or other special
fiord -raising events.
8) Stafli commitment. Portion of an existing or new staff person that will logically be dedicating a portion of their
professional time to specifically advance the grantee project.
9) Other. The eligible amounts of gifts from miscellaneous sources not classified above (United Way, estate gift).
The Wellmark eoundatlon 1 1331 Grand Avenue I PO Box 9232 1 station 5W447 I Des Moines, Iowa 593e 9232 1 w .wellmark.cromrToundadon
The Wellmark. OXII.
V
Foundation
An Independent Licensee of the Blue Crass and
&ue Shield Asmation
Of m: 6O5-373-7429
Certifications: i certify that tire information contained herein is true and correct; that all restricted gifts were made in response to
The Wellmark Foundation MATCH challenge Pant; and that these gifts meet the intent of the definitions of the donor categories
above.
Authorizing Signature (on behalf of grantee organization):
Date:
The Wellmark Foundation 1 1331 Grand Avenue I PO Box 9232 1 Station SW447 I Dres Moines, Iowa 50306-9232 1 y cwellmark,,Wountl ti
CITY 01-- IOWA CITY
To: Parks & Recreation Commission Members
From: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation
Date: November 2, 2016
Re: Update to Memorial Donation Policy
Commission Role:
Provide review of proposed administrative policy for memorial
donations.
Background:
Donations for memorial trees and bench installations have been very
popular in recent years. Nine trees and eight benches have been
donated in the past year. Staff would like to update the policy and
procedures used for these donations to streamline the process and
ensure better service to the requesting parties.
Attachment:
• Proposed Memorial Donation Policy
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
DRAFT— Memorial Policy/Guidelines
Trees —
• City staff will maintain a list or map of tree locations and species for each along with up-to-date
donation amount for each tree.
• Tree placement and tree species selection are done with park and users need as a priority.
Other sites may be considered at donor request.
• Cost of the tree program is $150-$275. This includes the tree and continued maintenance of the
tree.
• After the tree is planted, the contact person will receive a certificate and map of the planting
location of each tree.
• Trees may be donated at any time of the year; however, they will only be planted during tree
planting season. Trees that are donated between October 1 and April 30 will be planted during
the months of April and May; Trees donated between May 1 and September 30 will be planted
during the months of September and October.
• Memorial trees will be listed with location and "In Honor of information on the City's website.
Plaques are not placed with the trees at the park.
• Memorial tree installations are guaranteed for one year. If a tree dies during this period it will
be replaced at no charge.
• Occasionally, memorial trees must be removed or moved due to construction or other
unforeseen circumstances. The City will consider moving smaller trees, but may not be able to
do so in all cases. When contact information is available, the City will contact the donor to
discuss options and provide notification. The City does not guarantee that a memorial tree can
be moved or will be replaced.
Memorial Benches —
• City staff will maintain a list or map of park sites in need of benches. Click here _ for a map
of bench locations and up to date donation amount for each bench.
• Memorial benches will be of a style and design consistent with the park design. Individual or
personalized designs will not be considered.
• Bench placement and bench design selection are done with park and users need as a priority.
Other sites may be considered at donor request.
• Memorial benches will be listed with location and "In Honor of information on the City's
website at . One plaque may be placed on each bench. Maximum size of a
plaque is 8" x 2". Each sign will accommodate 3 lines of text with 18 characters maximum per
line (including spaces).
• Cost of the bench program is $1,200 per bench, including a commemorative plaque, materials
and a concrete base. Benches are steel reinforced to stand the test of time. They are covered
with a powder coating that prevents them from rusting.
• Benches must be ordered and paid in full by March 30 of each year to be installed the following
summer/fall. Benches are installed from June through October.
• Memorial benches become part of the park furnishings once placed. Maintenance and/or
replacement due to wear and tear or vandalism will be done in a similar manner to other park
furnishings. Memorial plaques will be maintained on donated benches for a period of_ years
or the life of the bench, whichever is longer.
• Occasionally, memorial benches must be removed or moved due to construction or other
unforeseen circumstances. The City will consider moving benches to an alternate location, but
may not be able to do so in all cases. When contact information is available, the City will
contact the donor to discuss options and provide notification. The City does not guarantee
lifetime placement at a particular site or that a memorial bench can be moved or will be
replaced.
Date: November 2, 2016
To: Parks Commission
From: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks and Recreation
Re: Iowa City Parks and Recreation Foundation
f' ITY OF I OWA CITY
Commission Role:
1. Provide consideration and recommendation to the City Council regarding future
depository of Iowa City Parks and Recreation Foundation Funds with the Community
Foundation of Johnson County.
Background:
• As a follow-up to the April and May Parks Commission meeting, members of the Iowa
City Parks and Recreation Foundation met on Thursday, May 5th. The Foundation
member recommended that administration of the fund be moved to the Johnson County
Community Foundation.
• The Iowa City Parks and Recreation Foundation was established in 1986 as a 501(c)3
organization with the purpose to raise money to support department facilities and
programs.
• Current balance in the fund is $73,115.16. $29,958.41 of these funds are designated for
specific parks or projects.
• The Foundation currently pays $1,200 each year for tax preparation. This is the only
administrative expense charged to the foundation each year.
• The Community Foundation of Johnson County offers an opportunity to have the funds
and administration of the Parks Foundation under the larger organization umbrella.
Sheila Boyd will attend the Commission meeting to share information and answer
questions concerning this option.
Project Timeline:
The fund can be set up and moved to the Community Foundation of Johnson County at any
time.
Attachments:
None
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
C 11 Y " F 1 a W A C I T Y
To: Parks & Recreation Commission Members
From: Tammy Neumann, Administrative Secretary
Date: November 2, 2016
Re Iowa City Farmers Market Year in Review
During the 2016 season fifty-two markets were held in the Chauncey Swan Parking Ramp from
5-7 p.m. on Wednesdays and 7:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays from May 7 through October 29
during its 441h season in operation. In addition there were fourteen markets held on Tuesday
evenings from 3-6 p.m. in the Mercer Park parking lot from May 31 through August 30. On
November 19 and December 10, the tenth annual Holiday Farmers Markets will take place from
8 a . to 1 p.m. in the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center.
The farmers market continued hosting the weekly Market Music program, co -sponsored by the
Farmers Market and the University of Iowa Community Credit Union, Taste of Market, also co-
sponsored by the credit union, and Kids Day. The market also reintroduced the Chef at Market
program this year. Special event days included the 241h annual Taste of Market and 9ch annual
Kids Day.
This season the market became more accessible with the addition of the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP). Shoppers were able to bring their Electronic Benefit Transfer
(EBT) card, debit or credit card to the market information table and swipe their cards in
exchange for tokens that corresponded with the amount they chose to spend. All eligible
vendors were required to accept SNAP tokens and all vendors accepted the debit/credit card
tokens. As of September, customers purchased $51,458 in tokens, with approximately $4,000
being SNAP transactions.
The market took this program one step further by participating in the Double Up Food Bucks
program, a statewide healthy food incentive food program. This program matches the value of
federal nutrition benefits spent at participating farmers markets.
A post season meeting will be held with vendors to review market regulations and discuss the
upcoming ban on the use of plastic bags at the market. Staff completed several investigations
of rule infractions during the season, but no vendors were suspended.
Staff recommends not continuing the Mercer Market. After trying this market in this location for
two seasons and one season at Sycamore Mall, it simply did not attract vendors or shoppers.
The Iowa City Farmers Market continues to thrive. It's a great way to have fun while supporting
the community.
220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487
Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet
Upcoming Events
November
December
November 9, 2016
• November 8, General Election, Robert A Lee and Mercer/Scanlon
• November 19, Holiday Farmers Market, 8 am-1 pm, Robert A. Lee
• December 10, Holiday Farmers Market, 8 am-1pm, Robert A. Lee
• December 17, Winter Solstice Special Event atTTRA
Future Commission Items
November 9, 2016
• Policy for Memorial Trees, Benches, and Park Furnishings —JuIi Seydell Johnson
• Parks & Recreation Foundation —JuIi Seydell Johnson
• Recycling in Parks and Facilities —JeniferJordan
• Project updates
December 13, 2016
• Riverfront Crossings Park, Phase 1 Design Review
• Eagle Scout Projects Process and Policy—Juli Seydell Johnson
• 2017 Fees and Charges
January11, 2017
• Discussion of Communications Plan—Juli Seydell Johnson & Amanda Opitz
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Status — Previous Commission Items and Discussions
• May Commission Meeting
Chauncey Swan Park
• Development Agreement distributed to commission members on 5-13-16.
• Preliminary design approved with recommendations and concerns from
Parks Commission. Final design and cost estimate requested from
developer.
Eagle Scout Project — Gaga Pit
• Staff met with Eagle Scout on site at City Park. Determined 2-3 potential
locations. Utility locates have been requested to aid in determining final
site.
• June Commission Meeting
w Discussion of Marketing/Communication Plan
• October Commission Meeting
> Commission Member Laurian preparing research on water feature proposed at
Lower City Park.
® Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff
Parks
• The Kiwanis Park restroom was accepted and officially opened.
• All restrooms and water features within the park system have been prepped for
winter and are officially closed until spring.
• As part of a statewide "Healthy Woodlands" initiative the Parks, Forestry and
Sustainability divisions are working with the Iowa DNR to inventory and assess
parcels of woodland within the Parks system.
Recreation
• Halloween parade and carnival was held on October 2st at the Robert A. Lee
Community Recreation Center. There was an estimated 800 people in attendance.
• Halloween Tot Monster Mash was held on October 281h at Scanlon Gym. Our
Facebook page has a great video of the program for all to see.
• Youth Sport Affiliates have concluded their fall seasons. All outdoor sports
complexes are closed for the winter,
• The first proof of the Winter/Spring program guide has been completed. The guide
will be available mid -December.
Cemetery:
• The cemetery hosted 3 class tours by local elementary schools in October.
• Cemetery was very busy with visits to the Black Angel on the week leading up to
Halloween. The staff did not work security for Halloween night this year and have
no damage or vandalism to report.
• A large brick pillar at the cemetery entrance was accidently knocked over on Sunday
10/30 by the City of Iowa City leave removal crew.
Facilities:
• Scanlon Gym Floors were completed sanded and sealed with new paint lines
• Robert A. Lee Gym floors were screened and sealed
• Natural gas at H2O facility for winter heat, no longer using propane on site.
• Cabin Restoration Project will be bid in February 2017
• Terracon reviewing rusting lintels and masonry issues at Mercer
• New STEAM mural project in Robert A. Lee Recreation Center- funded by Art
Committee
• Interior signage for City Hall
• Charlie's weld replaced panels at entrance rail at Robert A. Lee Recreation Center.
• Mercer/Scanlon had a power outage and pool shut down on Friday afternoon of
October 21, MidAmerican found a squirrel had blown out a fuse.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Administration
• A series of 10 focus groups were conducted during the last week of October and
first week of November by consultants from RDG as a kick-off to the Park Master
Plan process. Much of the accessibility audit was also completed in the parks.
• Staff submitted Operating and Capital budget requests for consideration by the City
Council.
• Director Seydell Johnson along with Council member's Pauline Taylor and John
Thomas traveled to Ankeny on November 1st to receive an Healthy Hometown
Founders award from Governor Branstad as part of the Healthiest State Initiative.
• Farmer's Market completed a successful season on Saturday, October 29.
® Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Top Staff Issues
Parks
• Due to restroom facilities being closed evening staff have transitioned to seasonal
daytime duties such as over seeding turf areas, invasive species removal and trail
cleanup.
• Staff has been assisting the Streets division with leaf collection.
• Staff continues to mulch leaves at the heavily treed areas such as Upper City Park,
Hunters Run Park and Willow Creek/Kiwanis Park.
• Eagle Scout project completed at TTRA. Osprey platform installed with assistance
from MidAmerican.
Recreation
Temporary staff recruitment and retention, hiring process presenting challenges
that are affecting our ability to plan and implement programs in a timely manner.
Resolved leaking hydrostatic valves at Mercer Pool.
Adult sport numbers in decline, looking to be innovative in identifying alternate
adult sport interests.
Cemetery
• Staff at the cemetery is busy with leaf mulching/removal.
• Staff will shut down water throughout the cemetery in next week.
Facilities
• We have a full team back in place with the recent hires of Justin Hendrix and Caleb
Burkholder (a retirement and a resignation opened the opportunity for the new
hires). With the new hires, there were shifts in schedules for custodial service
afternoon and evening coverage at Robert A. Lee and Mercer/Scanlon Facilities.
Administration
• None
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
Software
Buildings ($535,000 CIP)
Admin: Park Master Plan Update
October 2016 —June 2017
Focus Groups held in Oct/Nov. Park
facility evaluation in November.
RDG/HBK Consultants
Admin: Natural Areas Plan
October 2016— December 2017
In progress. AES Consultants
Admin: Bicycle Master Plan
October 2016 -
Focus Groups held in Oct/Nov.
Alta/RDG Consultants
Forestry: Tree Inventory
Project may begin July 1, 2016 ($75,000
Consultant Selection — October 2016
Gen Fund)
Ashton House - Project Green
Construction Summer/Fall 2016 ($155,000
Project being rebid for a 3rd time
Reap Grant)
with bids due this winter.
Frauenholtz Miller Park
Construction Spring 2017 ($150,000 CIP)
Project ready for bid. Spring
construction.
City Park Cabin Restoration
Construction Fall 2016 ($200,000 CIP)
Project ready for bid.
Received $25,000 State REAP Grant
City Park Pool
($65,000 CIP)
Project amended to included study
of pool shell viability.
Pheasant Hill Park Renovation
Construction Spring 2017 ($60,862 CIP)
Playground purchased. Installation
spring 2017.
Happy Hollow Shelter &
Construction Spring 2017 ($150,000 CIP)
Consultant to be hired for shelter
Bathroom Upgrades
and restroom design.
Mercer Tennis Courts/Pickle Ball
($75,000 CIP, $25,000 Park Improvement
Projects ready for bid. Construction
Court & Wetherby Sport Court
Fund) (Weatherby - $75,000 Grant)
in Spring.
Riverfront Crossing Park, Phase 1
Wetlands construction & stream bank
December Commission Presentation
stabilization 2017 (Fed Grant)
Chauncey Swan Park
TBD — Park rebuild at end of building
Preliminary design complete.
project.
Hickory Hill Bridge Replacement
Construction Spring 2017
Design/Engineering Being Completed
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Oakland
Cemetery
FY 17 Revenue
Report
** shaded areas represent previous Syr
average
Revenue
from Lot
Sales
Lot Sale
5yr
Average
# of
Interment
s
Interments
Syr avg.
Revenue
from
Interments
5 year Avg.
on
Interments
Total
Revenue
Syr Avg. on total
revenue
July
$7,200.00
$4,790.00
9
6.0
$6,900.00
$2,632.00
$14,100.00
$7,422.00
August
$3,900.00
$7,760.00
9
8.2
$3,915.00
$4,228.00
$7,815.00
$11,988.00
Sept
$2,800.00
'$5,810.00
9
7.6
74,320.00
$3,888.00
$7,120.00
$9,698.00
Oct
$5,100.00
$6,870.00+
7
7.6
$4,250.00
$3,822.26
$9,350.00
$10,692.26
Nov
$6,170.00
5.8
$2,780.50
$8,950.50
Dec
$1,810.00'
3.6
$1,500.00
$3,310.00
Jan
$4,020.00
2.8
$1,980.00
$6,000.00
Feb
$7,050.00
2.8
$1,577.00
$8,627,00
March
$5,140.00'
6.0
$3,454.00
$8,594.00
April
$7,250.00
7.0
$3,294.00
$10,544.00
May
$5,530.00
7.8
$3,271.00
$8,801.00
June
$7,440.00'
7.0
$3,156.59
$10,596.59
Totals
$19,000.00
$69,640.0
34
72.2
$19,385.00
$35,583.35
$38,385.00
$105,223.35
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City