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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-11-2019 Parks and Recreation CommissionITEM 1 ITEM 2 ITEM 3 ITEM 4 ITEM 5 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Wednesday, December 11, 2019 a. _• 5 P.M. Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center — Meeting Room B AGENDA CALL TO ORDER APPROVAL OF NOVEMBER 20, 2019 MEETING MINUTES PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA FAREWELL TO OUTGOING JOHNSON TREE UPDATE — ZAC HALL MEMBERS —JULI SEYDELL ITEM 6 PARK PROJECT UPDATE PRESENTATION - DON MARNER, SNYDER & ASSOCIATES Scott Park — Fairmeadows Park Napoleon Playground - Weatherby Park ITEM 7 REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF a) Parks & Recreation Director—Juli Seydell Johnson b) Recreation Division Superintendent— Brad Barker c) Parks Division Superintendent—Zac Hall ITEM CHAIRS REPORT —JOEYOUNKER ITEM 9 COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ITEM 10 ADJOURN If you will need disability -related accommodations in order to participate in this program/event, please contact Tammy Neumann, Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department at 3191356-5210 or tammy- neumann@iowa-city. org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs. IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PRELIMINARY MINUTES NOVEMBER 20, 2019 ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MTG ROOM B Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, Stephen Bird, Ben Russell, Angie Smith, Jamie Venzon, Brianna. Wills, Blake Winter, Joe Younker Members Absent: Cara Hamann Staff Present: Brad Barker, Kate Connell, Matt Eidahl, RaQuishia Harrington, Jeff Sears Juli Seydell Johnson, Sydney Stodola Others Present: Vicki Arnold, Alesa Case, Nancy Footner, Sam Gavin, Mary Lou Hillery, Pamela Kottemann, Donna Larew, Bob Lehman, Vicki Lehman, Della McGrath, Daissy Owen, Pat Schneider, Marlene Slaubaugh, Elnom Smith, Elaine Tarnutzer, Lisa Washington CALL TO ORDER Chairman Younker called the meeting to order at 5 p.m. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action): None OTHER FORMAL ACTION: Venzon noted that she was listed as being present at the October 2019 meeting, however, she was absent. Moved by Venzon, seconded by Smith, to approve the October 9, 2019 meeting minutes as amended. Passed 8-0 (Hamann absent). PUBLIC DISCUSSION A group of Arthritis Foundation aquatics program participants were present at tonight's meeting to introduce a proposal to the Commission. Della McGrath spoke on behalf of the group sharing that they are proposing that the Commission make a recommendation to the City that a therapeutic pool be added to Mercer Park Aquatic Center. She said that there are currently two classes offered at Mercer, one at 8 a.m. and one at 11 a.m., five days a week. McGrath shared some talking points with the commission which are attached to these minutes. Younker asked McGrath which location would the group prefer for the addition of a therapeutic pool They unanimously agreed that Mercer would be their preference. McGrath explained that the group understands that the water at Mercer needs to be maintained at a lower temperature for swim team participants, and that they realize that the water temperature at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center is warmer, however, they would prefer to continue their classes at Mercer Pool. She stated that Mercer is more convenient for them to get in and out, that the pool is larger, and the parking is free and convenient. Pam Kottermann stated that she fords the Recreation Pool to be too small for water-walldng as it is necessary to turn around often due to the short length of the pool. Sam Gavin said that she has not been able to attend at all because of the water temperature, but would like to, further stating that "not everything needs to be downtown." An audience member asked if the City has an agreement with the school district. Seydell Johnson said that there is a formal agreement in place between the school and the City for shared use. One idea that the group shared is perhaps expanding upon the small concrete area at the southeast corner of Mercer. Seydell Johnson clarified that Mercer Pool is one large body of water so does not allow for varying temperatures throughout. Bird asked McGrath what the usual attendance is an arthritis aquatics class. She answered that there are usually 9 to 15 participants in each class but believes attendance would PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 2 of 9 be higher if the water were warmer. She further noted that some have come to try out the class but have not returned stating that the water is too cold. Following her presentation, Younker asked Commission for their input. He noted that after some discussion this evening, the topic will need to be added to a future agenda as a formal topic of discussion. Seydell Johnson shared that one of the items proposed in the fiscal year 2020 budget is to complete a more comprehensive master plan that will include the three pools. There will be an opportunity for public input during the process. She invited the group to be a part of that discussion when the time comes. She explained that the process will likely start in about one year, noting that she will be sure to communicate with McGrath when that date has been set so that she can share with the rest of the group. Elnora Smith noted that she has been an Iowa City Resident since the 1960's and is now 78-years-old. She wanted to commend the commission members for being a part of this very important board and further stated that she appreciates the commission considering their proposal. CITY PARK POOL PRIVATE RENTALS -BRAD BARKER Barker distributed a memo (attached to these minutes) to the commission members regarding City Park Pool Rentals. In short, this summer was the first time that the Recreation Department offered weekend evening rental options of City Park Pool. He shared that in 2018 the pool was closed due to low attendance one-third of the season during weekend/evening hours due to low attendance. Staff discussed ways in which to increase attendance. Staff decided to offer private pool rentals to community groups. This had been a request from various groups over the years. Barker further noted that 11 hours of lap swim time was added to the morning hours on the weekend. Barker noted that with Mercer Pool and the Robert A. Lee Recreation Pool offering open swim during weekend evening hours, there are options available for individual swimmers. Seydell Johnson explained that the changes were made to get more individuals to use the pool. Staff is recommending that the department continue to offer City Park Pool for private rentals during the weekend/evening hours. Wills asked if staff have reached out to the various PTA's in the area letting them know of this option. Seydell Johnson that that staff has, however, there was not a lot of time to get the news out to everyone this past season. Wills asked what the rental fee is. Connell reported it is currently $225 for an hour and a half. Wills asked if the indoor pools can also be rented for private parties. Connell said that they can, further stating that individuals can reserve the Robert A. Lee pool for a private party on Saturday and a section of the pool at Mercer on the weekends. Wills asked if it might be possible to reserve part of the City Park Pool for a private party while leaving the remainder open to the Public. Seydell Johnson said that most of those reserving want their events to be private. Wills asked if parties could be offered a later time in the evening. Connell explained that it would not be possible as there are no underwater lights in City Park Pool. Russell asked if lights could be added. Seydell Johnson suggested that this be part of the future discussion when creating the master plan. Connell further noted that the most recent estimate for adding lights to the pool came back at $100,000+. Bird asked to discuss the City website and the fact that it has not been helpful when looking to see if the pool is open or closed. He noted that the current site is not very dynamic. He expressed his frustration this summer when taking his family to the pool in the evening on a weekend and finding that the pool was closed. Seydell Johnson said that the website is part of the larger organization. There is a rainout hotline that can be used for such updates. Bird would like to add this topic to a future agenda for further discussion. Nancy Foomer, a member of the public and a City Park Pool patron, was present at the meeting. She said that she loves going to the City Park Pool on the weekend during the evening because it is quiet. She asked if the threshold of 25 people needing to be present for the pool to remain open still is the case. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 3 of 9 Connell said that it was changed to 15 or less. Seydell Johnson noted that at the indoor pool there may only be the need for two lifeguards where the City Park Pool requires approximately 12. Footner suggested that staff do a public survey, and that perhaps they should stay open at least one weekend evening. She gave the example that the library doesn't close because of low attendance. She noted that a lot of people that she has asked were not aware of the change in use, saying that it seemed to be decided before anyone in the public was notified of the changes. She again stated that City Park Pool is a public pool that is supported by the tax payers and that it should be open to the public at least one night per weekend. Younker thanked Foomer for her comments. He suggested adding this item to a future agenda. Younker reiterated that he understands that it is staff s recommendation to continue private rental options during weekend/evening hours and that staff will reassess next fall. Barker said that staff will make a concerted effort to take attendance of these parties. Smith asked if there might be a time frame where, if not rented, the pool could then be opened to the public. Barker talked of the communication issues that come with that type of a policy as well as the challenge to get staff scheduled at the last minute. He is confident that as the word gets out about the private rental option, it will be booked for most weekends. Connell noted that all other pools in the area close at 6 p.m. and offer private rentals. RECREATION STAFF REPORTS: Recreation Program Supervisors were present at tonight's meeting to update commission members on notable highlights, plans for future programming, and upcoming outreach efforts in their specific areas. Barker shared that that 2019 has been a year of transition. He has officially completed his first year as Recreation Superintendent, Kate Connell was promoted to the Aquatics Program Supervisor, Matt Eidahl was promoted to Assistant Recreation Superintendent, and staff is currently completing the interview process to replace the Communications/Special Events Program Supervisor left open by Lyndsay Kent who left the department in early July. Barker reported that staff will be focusing on programming with a purpose in 2020. This has been an ongoing discussion during staff meetings. Staff will be working collaboratively on special events moving forward. Staff will inventory current programs, reevaluate them, reorganize some and focus more on special events to provide more social activities to the public. For example, staff will create special events that hone in on aquatics, bicycle safety, outdoor education and experiences. Staff is also looking forward to creating an annual signature event that people can look forward to every year. Each supervisor presented to commission as follows: Matt Eidahl, Youth Sports Supervisor: Eidahl has been a member of the Recreation staff for 19 years as Youth Sports Supervisor. As noted by Barker, he has just recently been promoted to the Assistant Recreation Superintendent. Eidahl will continue with his youth sports program supervision along with the duties of his new position in assisting Barker in his Recreation Superintendent role. Eidahl shared that some of the newer programs that have been added in the last few years include a youth triathlon, a strider bike event, and one -day camps that allow kids to take part in many various activities. Two new youth programs added in 2019 included ballet and tap dance instructed by Tippi Toes. Other programs for youth that were added include wrestling, pickle -ball, NBA skills and lacrosse. He announced that the department was awarded a $1,300 grant that was used to fund the lacrosse program offered to 2"d through 51 graders. With the success in enrollment, the department could purchase more equipment and expand the lacrosse classes to 1" graders. Staff has received very positive feedback about this program from the parents. Eidahl said that the Recreation Department will offer quidditch as a new activity in 2020. Quidditch themed parties will be added to the party option list as well. With the growing popularity of Harry Potter over the last several years, there have been several requests for the addition of this program PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 4 of 9 to the recreation program roster. He also shared that the strider bike program will expand by offering bikes at the Party in the Park series in the future. Wills asked if the department had any plans to add adult exercise programs. Barker said that while we offer tumbling and yoga for kids, the department has not had much luck with adult classes. Part of that may be due to the competition of other facilities in the area that do offer them. RaOuishia Harrington. Program Supervisor for Special Populations Involvement (SPI) and Underserved Population: Harrington thanked the Commission for inviting them to share information about their programs. She invited all to the community -wide Thanksgiving Feast on Friday, November 22 from 5:30- 8 p.m. hosted by the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County. Harrington has been with the department for nearly three years. The Special Olympics program has over 300 athletes registered through the Iowa City Recreation Department. While many of the athletes participate in the unified sports programs (in partnership with the University), many do not attend competitions. This is due in part to the fact that many of the athletes in the area are aging. if participants are not interested in sports and competitions, there are also programs that teach life skills and socialization. Many of the SPl participants use the Recreation Center workout facility. Harrington announced that of the athletes that participate in the departments programming, 3 of them were able to compete in the unified basketball tournament in Kansas City for the first time. They will also have the chance to participate in a unified volleyball tournament which will include an overnight stay. As mentioned, with many of the participants aging, Harrington will focus future planning on programming more suitable for them. Harrington shared that there were 22 kids that registered to participate in the Teen Dynamics program in the summer of 2019 with about 13-15 attending regularly. This program was structured around outdoor recreation opportunities. Having a smaller group allowed staff to transport participants to various activities in the community. Also moving the program from evenings to day time hours this year opened off -site opportunities as well. Seydell Johnson noted that the department will focus on more local activities for the participants of these programs. Harrington talked about outreach and community building efforts including building a relationship with the south district neighborhood association. Brad Barker reported on behalf of Joyce Carroll who was not able to attend tonight's meeting. He noted that the Party in the Park program was supervised by Carroll in past years was transferred to the Communications/Event Planning Supervisor. However, due to that position becoming vacant, this went back to Carroll later in the summer. Parry's in the Park saw record numbers attending each event with an average of over 150 attendees at each. The department is looking forward to the continued growth of these programs. Other programs Carroll supervised this year included kayaking and fishing at the Tent' Trueblood Recreation Area (TTRA). Carroll also supervises the Green Iowa AmeriCorps team. Moving forward Carroll will create programs with a strong STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) emphasis. She has created a "makers space" in the Recreation Center craft room which will open on January 25. This will be used for drop -in programs on Thursdays and Saturdays for youth ages 5 to 12.Other plans include an increased focus on outdoor programs, climate change and sustainability. Venzon praised the Recreation Staff for a great job in planning and advertising the Party in the Park programs this summer. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 5 of 9 Jeff Sears, Adult Sports Coordinator: Sears noted that his position has transitioned a great deal. The department no longer manages adult softball leagues. He continues to schedule all of the traveling team tournaments that are held on Iowa City fields for baseball, softball and soccer leagues. This includes 20 ball fields and 23 soccer fields. He also schedules events on the disc golf course as well as the bocce courts. He noted that there has been an increased interest in indoor and outdoor futsal from the community as well. Sears worked closely with Iowa Corporate Games in 2019. This program allows "weekend athletes" from youth to senior citizens, to participate in statewide, Olympic -like competitions. Sears shared that City of Iowa City staff won the 2019 Tug -of -War competition. Sears continues working with scheduling and monitoring cross-country meets held at the Iowa City Kickers complex. This site has become a very sought-after venue by several area school athletic programs. This program has grown over the past five years with one Regina meet at that time to seven meets hosted this year including one "super meet" with over 600 runners participating. Sears manages the City of Iowa City community garden program. Over 225 garden plots were leased in 2019. He assists with scheduling of special events in the parks that include family reunions, weddings, birthday parties, etc., as well as many walks/runs. In 2019 he reserved parks/trails for 46 runs/walks and 8 bicycles rides. He further noted that there are already 20 scheduled for the 2020 season. Sears noted that in 2020, all staff will be working cooperatively on the Big Splash event. According to the website(httus://hancher.uiowa.edu/BigSplashl this event is as follows: A SPECTACULAR RIVERSIDE CELEBRATION on the banks of the Iowa River AUGUST 14-16, 2020 CELEBRATING 100 YEARS of The University of Iowa's IIHR— Hydroscience & Engineering THE BIG SPLASH! Aquatic high -diving demonstrations, brass bands, evening concerts, an epic water parade on the Iowa River, science experiments, high -wire performances by The Flying W allendas, and much, much more — all free and open to people of all ages. Come celebrate with us, make friends, bring a picnic (and something to share), and feel the joy and wonder. Prepare to be inspired! Celebrating 100 years of the University of Iowa's IIHR-Hyroscience and Engineering, THE BIG SPLASH! is also the culminating event of Flow Together, the 2019 University of Iowa Theme Semester. Kate Connell, Aquatics Supervisor: Connell just completed her eighth summer with the department and is currently in her first year as the Aquatics Program Supervisor. She noted that City Park Pool was open 103 days with 110 staff working at the pool during the summer of 2019. The City held its largest Dog Paddle this year with over 300 dogs participating. Connell continues her work to increase the number of patrons taking advantage of the departments low income discount by subsidizing about $2000 in swim lesson funds. This was the first year that the department offered a free swim event at City Park Pool on July 4. She said it was a wonderful event with some people attending that had never been to City Park Pool or the park itself. This event coincided with the 41 of July Party in the Park event held at City Park. This summer the department was contacted by the University of Iowa who was to host a large swim meet, however, due to an accident they had broken glass in their pool. When this occurs, a pool is required to PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 6 of 9 shut down, drain, clean and refill. This process will take several days. Within a few hours, Iowa City Recreation Staff could pull together and schedule the event at Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Over 1500 athletes participated in this event. Connell held the second annual "Floating Pumpkin Patch" at the Recreation Center Pool on October 26. This event was one of the most visited Facebook posts for the department. Connell and staff continue brainstorming new ideas for programming at the pool as well as outreach. They are discussing ways to reach a larger population letting them know of water fitness classes offered. Connell noted that one of the programs that Matt Eidahl supervises is the Tot Time Program which runs daily Monday through Friday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. This is an open play time in the gymnasium and Mercer/Scanlon and is quite popular. Connell is planning a similar program within the pools. Other plans include rewriting the descriptions of the water fitness classes in hopes of attracting a more inclusive group of participants. Connell will continue work on increasing marketing for the aquatics program. Tammy Neumann, Administrative Secretary: Neumann reported that the Iowa City Farmers Market continues to do well. One program that has contributed to the success of the market is a centralized token program, where customers can purchase tokens at a staff table at the market and use them as a form of payment when making purchases at vendor stalls. She noted that vendors are still able to take all forms of payment that they have always been able to, however, this program offers an additional option. The program was initially implemented to allow recipients of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as food stamps) benefits to purchase $1 tokens with their EBT (electronic benefit transfer) cards at the staff table and then use those at any of the vendors who sell items that are SNAP approved. Over the years, the number of vendors who had the ability to accept SNAP payments at their stalls had dwindled to a point where there were only a couple of vendors who accepted this type of payment, most of them siting the transaction fees as the reason for no longer taking this type of payment. This greatly limited access to fresh produce/foods to this population within the community. Staff worked towards creating a centralized system whereby the City covers the transaction fees and opens the buying opportunities to SNAP recipients that visit the market. The following season, the Iowa City Market was invited by the State to participate in a pilot program called Double Up Food Buck. This is where a SNAP recipient may purchase any amount of SNAP tokens as they wish and then will receive additional dollars to spend up to $10 at each market they attend. These can be used for fruits and vegetables only. These card readers can also accept debit/credit cards; therefore, another token was added. These tokens are worth $5 each and can be purchased with debit and credit cards. These tokens are accepted by all market vendors. These are treated just like cash. For example, if a shopper buys an item that costs $3 and uses a $5 token as payment, the vendor then gives $2 cash back in change to the customer. Staff has seen a steady increase in the amount of SNAP tokens sold with approximately $3000 dollars sold the first year and $6000 sold in 2019; the debit/credit card tokens sales have increased sharply with $65,000 dollars sold in 2016 and $125,000 sold in 2019. The City of Iowa City covers all transaction fees which grew to approximately $7000 in 2019. DEER MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES IN PARKS — JULI SEYDELL JOHNSON Seydell Johnson noted that a press release went out to the public on Tuesday, November 19, alerting them to the planned deer management program that will run in Iowa City at various parks and the cemetery from December 1 through December 22. Select City parks will close each day from 3 p.m. to dawn to allow for deer management. White Buffalo, Inc. has been hired to carry out sharpshooting measures. The list of parks are as follows: Waterworks Prairie Park, Thomberry Off Leash Dog Park, City Park, The Ned Ashton House property, Terrell Mill Park, Hickory Hill Park, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (including Sand Lake trail), and Oakland Cemetery. Signs will be posted at various points in each park. Seydell Johnson shared some of the frequently asked questions by the public. Per the website PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November20,2019 Page 7 of 9 httt)s://www.icizov.org[proiect/deer-population-management-nroiect those questions and answers are as follows: Why are the parks closing at 3 p.m.? A consistent closing time prior to sunset, allows for visual site inspection, and allowing time for the areas to quiet following the departure of visitors This will give sharpshooters ample time to ensure the area is clear for then- work and that the deer have repopulated the area Why so long? The length of the closure is geared to maximize culling efforts during the sharpshooting phase of the City's five-year deer management plan_ Sites used each day vary based upon weather conditions Providing a consistent closing time throughout the process allows operations to change frequently without worrying about last minute public notification. Why Thornberry Off -leash Dog park? Due to deer population estimates and property access issues, this area was chosen by our contractor as a necessary location for culling efforts. Rita's Ranch Off -leash Dog Park remains open for use. Will we be able to access the pedestrian bridge over the Iowa River in the Peninsula Neighborhood during this closure? No. The bridge is part of the park, and will be off limits. Why use parks to host sharpshooters? In order to maximize culling efforts, the City and its contractor acquired access to a combination of both public and private property for sharpshooting Successful culling necessitates the use of the park. Bentler asked if there were events that had to be cancelled for this program, naming specially the Ashton House and the Lodge at TTRA. Seydell Johnson noted that the schedule for Ashton House would be checked and handled accordingly. (Since the meeting, the Ashton House schedule has been reviewed and no events were noted.) The sharpshooting at Terry Trueblood Area will not affect the area of the Lodge so no cancellations of events will be necessary at this location. Bentler also expressed her concern that some of the parks that are included in the plan were not part of the initial study. She found that there were a few things that were different including that the media release went out yesterday without any prior discussion with the Commission. REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF: Parks & Recreation Director — Juli Seydell Johnson: Seydell Johnson shared that Snyder & Associates Staff will be present at the December Commission Meeting to present 2020 projects planned for Wetherby, Scott, Napoleon, and Fairmeadows Parks. Parks Division Superintendent — Zac Hall: Seydell Johnson reported on behalf of Zac Hall who is on partial paternity leave as his wife gave birth to a baby boy earlier in the month. Seydell Johnson reported that parks projects have stalled, for the most part, due to the colder weather. This includes the playground projects at both Willow Creek and City Park. The Kenneth Selsun Four Module Piece sculpture is partially installed at Riverfront Crossings Park. Recreation Division Superintendent — Brad Barker: Barker announced that the Winter/Spring activity guide has been released electronically and hard copies will be available next week. He commended the recreation staff for their presentations tonight and their continued work on programming to meet the needs and desires of the community. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 8 of 9 Barker shared that the interview process for the Communications/Event Coordinator Supervisor position will be wrapping up soon Fill this position will bring the staff level to full capacity. CHAIRS REPORT Younker appreciated, and agreed, with comments from commission regarding communication practices and would like to add this item to a future agenda. Seydell Johnson suggested that this be after the new Communications staff person is on staff. COMMISSION TIME: Wills, noting the end of Younker's and Hamann's terms on the commission, asked if they had yet been replaced. Seydell Johnson said there have been two new commission members appointed and they will begin their terms in January 2020. Wills also asked if the future discussions regarding department communications will include the website. Seydell Johnson stated it would. Smith noted that she was recently asked about the possibility of adding platform tennis courts to Iowa City. She explained that her understanding is that it is done on a heated court with a different type of ball. Barker will investigate further. Smith also mentioned that she has been approached twice this month by people in the public stating that the City needs to plant more trees. She suggested that perhaps part of the communication discussion include adding the number of trees planted etc. to the website. Wills mentioned that Mid -American used to offer a tree planting program but doesn't know if they do that any longer. Wills noted that Highway 6 has not been landscaped. Seydell Johnson noted that this area is landscaped per state/rural guidelines. The City has taken over mowing of this area. Wills asked if the City can choose to landscape. Seydell Johnson thought it may be possible but would have to work with the State, however, also noted her concerns that with an emphasis on the Dubuque St. entrance and the Highway 1 entrance, it will be challenging to add more to the list of places to landscape without the additional resources. Moved by Venzon, seconded by Smith, to adiourn the meeting at 6:46 p.m. Motion Passed 8-0 (Hamann absent). PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION November 20, 2019 Page 9 of 9 PARKS AND RECREATION COMA ATTENDANCE RECORD NAME °D Q C, c. C, a c, a Q a C, TERM k EXPIRES Suzanne 12/31/20 X X NM X O/E X LQ X X LQ X X Bender Steve Bird 12/31/21 X X NM X X X LQ O/E X LQ O/E X Wayne Fett 12/31/18 X * Lucas 12/31/22 * x NM X X O/E LQ X Foelsch Cara 12/31/19 O/E X NM X X X LQ X X LQ X O/E Hamann Lucie 12/31/18 O/E * Laurian Ben Russell 12/31/21 X X NM X X X LQ X X LQ X X Angie Smith 12/31/21 X X NM X X X LQ X O/E LQ X X Jamie 12/31/20 X X NM X O/E O/E LQ X O/E LQ X X Venzon Brianna 12/31/22 * O/E NM X X X LQ X O/E LQ X X Wills Blake Winter 12/31/22 * * * * * * * * * * X X Joe Younker 12/31/19 X X NM X X X LQ X X LQ 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 now TALKING POINTS TO PRESENT TO THE IOWA CITY SWIMMING POOL COMMISSION REASONS WHY IOWA CITY SHOULD BUILD A THERAPEUTIC SWIMMING POOL ^ The healing power of warm water has long been recognized by the health community. Throughout history tourists have flocked to natural hot springs to immerse themselves in healing waters. Athletes soak in whirlpools of warm water following athletic events to soothe the aches and pains incurred in competition. Doctors regularly prescribe a warm water soak for patients suffering from sore muscles and joints. ^ According to the CDC, 22.7%, or 54.4 million adults in the US have doctor - diagnosed arthritis. By 2040 that number is projected to rise to 25.9%, or 78.4 million people. The prevalence of arthritis increases with age. ^ In 1983, the Arthritis Foundation established an aquatic program for people with arthritis as well as other diseases causing joint pain and deterioration. The objective was to encourage participants to enjoy an active lifestyle and improve their health through a program of exercise designed for an aquatic environment. Specific physical goals include: 1) reduction of pain and stiffness, 2) restoration and/or maintenance of joint range of motion, and 3) improvement of balance and coordination. The Arthritis Foundation aquatic exercise program is intended to be conducted in a warm water environment of no less than 83 degrees. The AFAP program at Mercer pool is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Although attendance data for all years is not available, attendance rose to over 6000 attendees in the peak years of 2011 and 2012. In recent years attendance has fallen somewhat to 4300 in 2018 due to a number of reasons, including pool closures. Coincidently, pool temperature has fallen as well. ^ In fact, pool temperature has long been a problem at Mercer. I he temperature never reaches the 83 degree threshold recommended by the Arthritis Foundation. This has lead to loss of participants and, oftentimes, attendees are forced to cut short their participation due to cold temperatures. At least one member has stopped participating altogether on orders from her doctor to not expose herself to cold pool water. Cold water is not a friend of arthritis. ^ Suggestions that the AFAP class relocate to the warmer waters of the Robert A. Lee pool overlooks the fact that the pool is not well designed for our use. The ramp to enter the pool enters into deep water that is too deep for many of our shorter members. Water walking, a vital component of our exercise program, cannot be done satisfactorily due to the depth of the water at the far end. The cost of parking is burdensome to members on a fixed income. ^ In discussions with Kate Connell, we know it is her vision specifically, and we are certain the commission's vision generally, that Mercer pool strive for inclusivity. Among other things, we believe inclusivity encompasses providing a safe and comfortable aquatic experience for all of the citizens of Iowa City and surrounding communities, including the older population. Iowa City is often mentioned in various publications as one of the best small cities for retirement. But one shortcoming is the absence of a public use, warm water, therapeutic swimming pool. ^ To achieve the goal of inclusivity and cement Iowa City's status as one of the premier small cities for retirement, we believe it is time for Iowa City to step up and build a therapeutic pool for its growing number of older citizens. TO: Jul! Seydell Johnson, Parks & Recreation Director FROM: Brad Barker, Recreation Superintendent Katherine Connell, Aquatics Recreation Program Supervisor DATE: November 19, 2019 RE: City Park Pool Rentals CITY OF IOWA CITY The Iowa City Parks & Recreation Department first began offering weekend evening rental options of City Park Pool (CPP) in Summer 2019. To make this possible, the evening open swim hours at CPP on Saturday and Sunday evenings would no longer be offered for open swim. The reasoning for moving in this direction were supported by the following criteria, observations and alternative solutions. Observations from past years had indicated that weekend evening use on Saturday and Sunday evenings had been minimal. True attendance data at CPP was not maintained at this time so there is no data to support this. In 2018, however, data indicated that the pool closed a third of the time in the evenings of Saturdays and Sundays. Although 4 evening open swim hours were removed from CPP on the weekends (6-8 pm on Saturday and Sunday), 11 morning lap swim hours each weekend were added (6:15-11:30 am on Saturday and Sunday). The additional lap swim hours were well attended The rentals could increase overall attendance to CPP during these weekend hours by serving a variety of user groups including community organizations, personal celebrations and church groups. Patrons would still be able to access open swim at the Robert A. Lee Swimming Pool on Sunday evenings and also at Mercer Park Aquatic Center on Saturday and Sunday evenings. CPP evening rentals were an option that many from the public had asked for from aquatic staff over the last several years. Public demand seemed to be viable. In our first year of rentals, 9 out of 24 rental blocks were reserved. Each party had 20-100 participants. Demand for rentals picked up significantly in July and August and 10 rental requests were unable to be filled during these two months due to prior bookings on the schedule. Staff believe the minimal rentals in June was due more to the initial offering not yet having robust marketing and word-of-mouth traction rather than a lack of demand. An early rental request date coupled with increased promotion will likely result in significantly more bookings in 2020. Promotional efforts will include attractive signage at CPP and recreation centers, social media ad campaigns and outreach to various organizations and groups within Iowa City. Groups that rented CPP in Summer 2019 included the Iowa City Autism Group, Park View Church, birthday celebrations and family reunions. Other groups such as Uofl Greek organizations and local churches expressed an interest late in the summer but their date requests could not be accommodated due to demand. Staffs recommendation is to continue offering weekend evening rental options to the public. These rentals provided our department to increase attendance numbers while providing an opportunity for groups to experience CPP in a different way. Staff has been asked it if would be possible to have open swim on weekend nights without rentals. Staff does not recommend this option because the opportunity for confusion and misinterpretation on what nights are available for open swim and how this information is communicated to the public in a timely manner is a concern. Currently, monthly schedules are posted on icgov.org and hard copies are available at all three swimming pools and both recreation centers. 220 S. Gilbert Street • Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1632 • (319) 356-5100 • FAX (319) 356-5487 CELEBRATE YOUR EVENT WITH US! Indoor private pool parties are 2 hours in length and will be held at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center. All pool parties include meeting room and private access to Robert A. Lee Recreation Center pool for up to 25 attendees (swimmers or non -swimmers). All parties must be scheduled at least 10-days in advance and paid in full at the time of reservation. PRIVATE PARTY TIMES OFFERED: (IF AVAILABLE) Saturdays: 1-3 p.m.; 3:30-5:30 p.m. FEES: • Private pool party base cost: • Additional attendees over 25: Maximum of 25 participants ($105) Per ten attendees ($25) Outdoor private pool parties are 1.5 hours in length and will be held at City Park Pool. All outdoor pool parties include private access to entire pool deck and pool (including baby pool). All parties must be scheduled at least 10-days in advance and paid in full at time of reservation. PRIVATE PARTY TIMES OFFERED: (IF AVAILABLE) Saturdays: 6-7:30 p.m. Sundays: 6-7:30 p.m. FEES: • Private pool party cost: • Additional attendees over 100: Maximum of 100 participants ($225) Per ten attendees ($25) Indoor pool parties during Open Swim can take place between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Your party will include a 3-hour room reservation and access to the pool during that time. Your total cost will be determined by which room you reserve and how many swimmers there are; the cost and capacities of the rooms are as follows: Mercer Meet) Room Mercer Wellness Room Proctor & Gamble Room Seats 20 total participants Seats 30 total participants Seats 50 total participants $26 per 3-hour increment $30 per 3-hour increment $46 per 3-hour increment Since parties at Mercer Aquatic Center take place during Open Swim, a time in which the pool is available to the public, pool admission will be charged differently than it is with the party package at Robert A. Lee at this time. Hosts are able to obtain pool admission in two different ways —first by paying the $4 Drop -In Fee for each swimmer, or by purchasing a 10-Punch Pass which can be purchased in increments of 10 for $31.00. Please note that 10-Punch Passes do not expire and can be used after the party if there are between 11 and 19 participants. Pool admission can be purchased at the start of your reservation at the front desk at Mercer Aquatic Center. All swim parties must have a least one parent or adult caretaker (16+) per four children (ages 11 and under) present at all times. Certified lifeguards are on duty for all pool activities. Children 11 and under will be asked to successfully complete a swim test before using deep end of pools and aquatic features. All party participants must adhere to all Iowa City Parks and Recreation facility and pool policies and procedures. Groups will have access to party room as listed on the facility permit. Any changes in party times must be made at least 10 days prior to event. Renters are responsible for verifying times listed on the permit by contacting Iowa City Parks and Recreation customer service at 356-5100. Iowa City Parks and Recreation staff will provide standard room set-up for Robert A. Lee Recreation Center private rentals. Groups are responsible for returning the room to standard set-up. Groups will be accountable for general cleaning including wiping off tables and countertops, sweeping gym flow and putting all debris in trash cans. Freestanding decorations are permitted. Non -marking tape can be used. Suction cups may be used on windows. All decorations must be removed from the facility upon completion of the event. Pinatas cannot be hung from ceiling in either party room. Food and delivered edible items are permitted. No alcohol or glass is allowed on the pool deck or area. Parties must strictly adhere to the maximum participants and guest limits. Participants will include individuals in the pool area regardless of intent to swim, this includes siblings. The Iowa City Parks and Recreation will provide the following in each room • Meeting Room A or B: 2, 8-ft standard tables and 20 chairs • City Park Pool deck: 4 picnic tables, various loungers and deck chairs For additional information, contact Aquatics Supervisor (319) 356-5100 or katherine-connell@iowa-at/.org Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet December 2019 Upcomine Events • Free Roller Skating; Robert A Lee Recreation Center, Saturdays, 6-7:4S pm • Iowa City Holiday Farmers Market; 8 am —1 pm; December 14 • Winter Solstice Celebration, Robert A. Lee Recreation Center, December 21, S-7 pm Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff Parks: • Focusing on management recommendations from the Natural Areas Inventory, staff recently used a forestry mulcher to remove invasive trees and woody plants from approximately 40 acres at Sand Prairie, TTRA, Water Works Prairie Park and a -number -of stream corridors. • In November, as part of a Prairie Establishment project, 25 acres of traditional turfgrass was planted into prairie. Applied Ecological Services (AES) is contracted to provide prairie establishment services for 100+ acres of traditional turfgrass identified by staff. Recreation: • The Winter/Spring 2019-20 Activity Guide is available online at www.icgov.org/pras well as in hard copy at the Recreation Center and Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Staff is partnering with several BASP programs to offer free swim lessons through the winter months Cemetery: • Received a quote to replace the center street gate that was destroyed by a large oak limb. Installation will take place in the Spring. Facilities: • The interior copper walls at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area Lodge are getting a good cleaning and will be sealed. • The failing pool pump at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center swimming pool was replaced before the Thanksgiving holiday. The new pump is more vigorous and the staff are making adjustments to the new equipment. Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet 1 City of Iowa City Top Staff Issues Parks • A quick cold snap and shortened Fall season has slowed progress on projects and maintenance within the Parks Systems. Parks staff have been assisting Streets with leaf collection. • Parks staff is transitioning equipment and operations for winter activities. Recreation • Staff working on winter/spring hiring and scheduling of temporary staff along with promotion of the activities and events scheduled during this time • Staff will begin this month collaboratively planning for Summer programs, events, and marketing tie-ins (ie Big Splash, RFX events) Cemetery • Staff has been busy mulching/collecting leaves around the cemetery. • All snow equipment has been serviced and is in place for use. Staff will hold off for another week before putting the cabs on the John Deere tractors as they are still being used for leaf collection/mulching. Facilities • City Hall maintenance staff are continuing to work with the contractor on wiring for the new BAS systems in City Hall. • New 75" Monitors are coming to meeting rooms A & B in RALRC, replacing the projector and screen system. Advanced Electrical has run power in meeting room A and will be running conduit in B. • The locker rooms in the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center were painted during the temporary pool shutdown for the pump replacement. © Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City City of Iowa City Facility Sustainability Projects One of the seven City of Iowa City Strategic Goals. Promote Environmental Sustainability Project Mercer/Scanlon Boiler and IIVAC Rephumnt (and Family Restroom/shower remodel) [R4331 and see below] Mercer/Scanlon Building Automation Systems (HAS) [R4332] Robert A. Lee Recreation Center RAS [R4332] Description Cost Rebate stage Replaced 1988 Boilers and AHU, $882,387.00 Trensfergas/no Punchlist/re with high efficient condensing construction rebate tainage boilers and separate water heaters. cost/ind. SAS Install HAS with Boilers/pool water temp/minimal AHUs Install SAS with Boilers/pool water temp/minimal AHUs City Hall Boiler Replacement and BAS project [R4129] Install BASto Boilers/pool water temp/AHUs City Hall MPO Lighting Replacement [E4522, +Energy payback fund] LED office lighting upgrade with remodel Mercer/Scanlon Exterior LED lighting Replacement Replace original hallide lights with LED Mercer Aquatic Center Natatorlum Lighting Replacment Replace original hallide lights with LEDs City Hall Exterior Lighting Replacment Replace fluroescent lights with LED Public Works Malnteance Facility- LEED certified building [133959] Public Works Solar Project Teny Trueblood Recreation Area Solar Project $1,936.00 rebate for Punchlist $90,000.00 Scanlon Gym portion incl. in total of SAS system costs above ($18,196) $91,330 $ 15,500 standard Accepting incentive and $1,839 bonus for a total of $17,339.00 $497,500 $16,700 for SAS& Bidding total'" boilers does not qualify Punchlist $28,250 Incentives pending Contracts pending pending Incentives pending pending $ 4,100.00 doesnotqualify installation Incentives pending Under construction pending Potential PPA Solar project on new Public Works Structure. pending pending Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City n/a n/a Pending RFP Pending RFP Oakland Cemetery FY 19 Revenue Report [". arevioui Syr averaze Revenue from Lot Sales Lot Sale Syr Average # of Interments interments 5yravg. Revenue from Interments 5 year Avg. on Interments Total Revenue Syr Avg. on total revenue July $3,810.00 $6,120.00 7 8.0 $3,380.00 $4,121.00 $7,190.00 $10,241.00 August $1,652.50 $6182.50 4 8.8 $2,970.00 $4,732.50 $4,622.50 $10,915.00 Sept $11,340.00 $7,193.75 6 8.0 $3,711.25 $4,665.50 $15,051.25 $11,859.25 Oct $7,320.00 $8,535.00 5 6.2 $2,355.00 $3,543.00 $9,675.00 $12,078.00 Nov $5,775.00 $4,320.00 3 6.4 $1,315.00 $3,033.00 $7,090.00 $7,353.00 Dec Jan Feb March April May June 1$43,628.751$52,446.25 Totals $29,897.50 32,351.25 25 1 37.4 1 $13,731.25 $20095M Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City