HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-10-2023 Parks & Recreation CommissionIowa City
Parks and Recreation Commission
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
5:00 P.M.
James Alan McPherson Park — Park Shelter CITY of IOWA CITY
1858 71h Ave Ct, Iowa City, IA 52240
Public Comment for each item will be limited to 3 minutes for each person and a total for no more than 30
minutes per item. Written comments submitted to parksandrecreation@iowa-city.orq, prior to 12 p.m. on
Wednesday, May 10, 2023 will be distributed to the Commission via email in advance of the meeting. Written
Comments submitted at meeting will be included in following month's packet.
[AMENDED] AGENDA
ITEM 1 CALL TO ORDER
ITEM 2 APPROVAL OF APRIL 12, 2023 MINUTES
ITEM 3 PUBLIC COMMENT ON ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
ITEM 4 INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMMISSION MEMBER — Dir. Juli Seydell Johnson
ITEM 5 REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
a) Parks and Recreation Director —Juli Seydell Johnson
b) Recreation Division Superintendent— Brad Barker
c) Parks Division Superintendent —Tyler Baird
ITEM 6 CHAIRS REPORT
ITEM 7 COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ITEM 8 ADJOURN
After adjournment, the Commission and the public are invited to plant trees along with the
Iowa City Forestry Staff. Staff will also have new forestry equipment to demonstrate.
If you will need disability -related accommodations to participate in this program/event please contact
Gabe Gotera, Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department at 319-356-5210 orggotero@iowo-city.org.
Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PRELIMINARY
MINUTES OF APRIL 12, 2023
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Alex Hachtman, Brian Morelli, Melissa Serenda, Connie Moore, Rachel
McPherson, Doloris Mixon, Missie Forbes,
Members Absent: Boniface Penandjo Lemoupa,
Staff Present: Tyler Baird, Matt Eidahl, Gabe Gotera
Others Present: Sue Protheroe, Jerry Protheroe
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action):
Moved by Moore, seconded by Forbes to recommend removing Commissioner Boniface Penandio
Lemoupa from the Parks & Recreation Commission due to unexplained absences. Motion passed
7-0 (Lemoupa Penandio Absent)
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Forbes, seconded by Serenda to move Item 7, "Consider the recommendation to remove
Parks & Recreation Commission member due to unexplained absences" & Item 8, "Election of Vice
Commission Vice Chair" to the too of the agenda. Motion Dassed 7-0 (Penandio Lemou)a absent).
Moved by Mixon, seconded by Serenda, to approve the February 8, 2023 minutes as written.
Motion Dassed 7-0 (Penandio Lemoupa absent).
Moved by Mixon, seconded by Morelli to elect Connie Moore as Vice -Chairman of the Parks and
Recreation Commission. Motion passed 7-0 (Penandio Lemoupa absent).
CONSIDER RECOMMENDATION TO REMOVE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
MEMBER DUE TO UNEXPLAINED ABSENCES — Chairman Alex Hachtman
Chairman Hachtman explains that according to the Commission bylaws, if a commission member has had
several unexplained absences in a row, the opportunity arises to recommend removing that member.
Hachtman recalls the lack of quorum at the attempted March 2023 meeting for consideration.
Commissioner Morelli asks if attempts to reach out to Commissioner Penandjo Lemoupa have been made.
Hachtman and Acting Director Baird confirms this and adds that the last meeting Penandjo Lemoupa had
attended was March 2022.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 2 of 8
Moved by Moore, seconded by Forbes to recommend removing Boniface Lemoupa Penandio
Lemoupa from the Parks & Recreation Commission due to unexplained absences. Motion passed
7-0 (Lemoupa Penandio Absent)
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Sue Protheroe introduces herself as a City Park Pool user since 1979 and makes the point that while she
loves the pool as is, she welcomes updates to the tub design and to the surrounding area. Protheroe recalls
listening to the podcast Watts Happening by local developer Gary Watts, who on April 4, 2023
interviewed Iowa City City Manager Geoff Fruin. Protheroe quotes Fruin as calling City Park Pool "truly
a unique gem here in Iowa City". Protheroe describes Fruin as talking about the pool's age and issues
before quoting Fruin as saying,
We'll be moving into a design phase because we anticipate the reconstruction of that pool in
2025. We need to find a balance between preserving the unique character while also making sure
that we're welcoming all types of swimmers and all types of users of different abilities. Right
now, the pool is really fantastic if you are a lap swimmer. For people just beginning, just
becoming swimmers, that pool is not as welcoming. We'll be going through a design process here
probably in the next year.
Protheroe discusses two concerns. The first concern being that Fruin has skipped over the first four steps
in the City's RFQ. These steps are to review data, evaluate the current conditions of the facility, prepare a
report of current conditions, and present the report to City Council, letting City Council decide whether to
renovate or rebuild. Protheroe questions whether City staff view the process laid out by the RFQ as words
on paper or as a process created to find the best outdoor pool for the community. Protheroe's second
concern is that both Fruin and Juli Seydell Johnson are pushing a narrative that City Park Pool isn't
welcoming and are pitting lap swimmers against other users. Protheroe says that while the pool entrance
and bath house have issues, the City's own data does not support the claim that the pool itself isn't
welcoming and goes further to say that she rejects this narrative. Protheroe says that when the claims of
[City staff] aren't data driven, the entire process feels disingenuous. Protheroe closes by saying one of the
reasons that City Park Pool is a gem is because the design allows many groups of users, including non-
swimmers to happily co -exist. Protheroe says that while moving forward in the repair process, she would
love to see City staff working with the community to arrive at a solution that works for everyone.
Jerry Protheroe introduces himself as a fan of City Park Pool before thanking the Commission for their
volunteer work. Protheroe says that he's heard talk about the pool being intimidating, and acknowledges
that even sometimes he, an accomplished strong swimmer, can be intimidated at City Park Pool before
asking for recognition of the fact that this is describing 50-meter lap swim hours. Protheroe does make a
point to recognize and thank the City for the expanded morning lap swim hours. Protheroe describes this
time as being well attended with 2-3 people swimming per lane which can sometimes make swimming a
bit chaotic. He makes the distinction that City Park Pool does not have ropes which can add to any
feelings of intimidation, but also that there are no instructions about how to swim in the facility, no depth
instructions, and no instruction from staff. Protheroe adds that the usual swimmers are very welcoming
and teaches new swimmers how to circle swim and how to properly use the pool during lap swim hours.
Protheroe says that all his points do not point to a pool design issue, but rather a programming problem,
and that while some may be intimidated by the design, a 50-meter lap swim should be, by nature,
challenging. Protheroe closes by passing out a handout regarding City Park Pool - Back to the Future
Vision, a fast-growing group that wants to engage with the community in a positive way, and to not
always be complaining.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 3 of 8
PRESENETAION OF IOWA CITY STRATEGIC PLAN —
Megan Alter: At -Large. Mayor Pro Tern
Megan Alter: At -Large, Mayer Pro Tern, presented the attached PowerPoint presentation to the Parks and
Recreation Commission regarding the City's Strategic Plan for FY23-FY28.
Commissioner Morelli asks where the Strategic Plan is currently in the process, specifically if the plan
has been approved and finalized. Alter replies that that Strategic Plan was approved in December of 2022
and has been finalized into the document that the City can be held to.
Commissioner Forbes asks how projects that are currently being funded by the American Rescue Plan Act
(ARPA) are anticipated to be sustained after funds are run dry. Alter says this can be seen by looking at
some of the commitments that are on the Strategic Plan. Alter says that applications are being taken in for
underestimated business entrepreneurs and small business folk, being funded with four million dollars of
ARPA funds for brick -and -mortar projects but also for programming. Alter adds that this would not be a
one -and -done deal and that the City is looking for projects that can be sustainable in their own right. Alter
continues that there is an awareness present now that the City must be able to support the projects that are
funneled through ARPA. Alter makes the clarification that this is not the case for all, as some projects are
end capped, but that discussions will take place on how projects can be more sustainable and how much
will the City be willing to commit.
Commissioner Morelli asks how the Strategic Plan will come to fruition and be measured against
decisions made by the City Council for accountability. Alter responded that while there is no rubric, the
trick would lie in working hard to get the Council to stick to the plan, especially when there are so many
different perspectives to consider during meetings. Alter says that the plan will be used as a prioritization
guide to determine how to adapt as something important crops up. The Plan will be used to guide what
projects will move forward, what kind of give-and-take must happen between projects to make something
happen, and deciding what projects get moved out of the way for the time being. Acting Director Baird
comments about how the Strategic Plan can be used for daily work, announcing that the plan has been
seen by all of the Parks Staff, who appreciate having the Plan as a long-term roadmap that can be used as
a lens for daily decision -making.
RECREATION DIVISION GOALS — Assistant Recreation Superintendent Matt Eidahl:
Assistant Recreation Superintendent Matt Eidahl introduces himself having worked for the City for 23
years with the last several years worked as the Assistant Recreation Superintendent. Eidahl explains how
the Recreation Division Goal Setting and Performance Measurement Plan is derived from the 2022
Recreation Masterplan through which, vital feedback and information was received from stakeholders,
community members, and staff regarding current and future programs. Eidahl adds that information was
also received regarding barriers that may prevent people from participating recreation programming.
Eidahl says that over the past 4 months, Recreation staff has used this feedback to create the framework
for this plan by establishing 5 different strategical themes oh what they want to accomplish in the next 10
years. Within these five strategical themes, staff came up with measurable goals. Eidahl says that when
goals are measured, it can be seen what goals are accomplished, ultimately helping keep staff on task
while making sure that they are held accountable and transparent.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 4 of 8
Eidahl describes the first strategic theme, Community Connections which would connect new audience
and enhance public awareness of the Department's programs, facilities, and amenities. Eidahl says that
Community Connection goals would include,
• Utilize language translation staff and technology to provide welcoming facilities and programs
that reach a broader community base.
• Provide equitable access to information through various channels to engage the community in
fresh and innovative ways.
Eidahl describes the second strategic theme, Recreation Programming, where staff would engage with the
community through programming, activities, and events that are intentionally designed to best align with
their needs. Eidahl lists the Recreation Programming Goals as,
• Consistently deliver high -quality programs and services that are in -touch with the needs of the
community.
• Grow participation in and access to learn -to -swim opportunities.
• Develop educational and skill -developing programming that focuses on lifelong benefits of
outdoor exploration, bicycle safety, and STEAM
• Provide adults the resources. Program opportunities and equipment access that promote active
living, lifelong fitness, and healthy lifestyles.
• Provide satisfying, positive experience through quality recreation programs, and services that
meet or exceed customer expectations.
Eidahl describes the third strategic theme, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion which would promote
community well-being through facilities, programs and services that instill a sense of belonging, inclusion
and are accessible to all. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion goals would include,
• Provide ongoing training and tools to increase employee skill and ability in applying equity best
practices and services.
• Deliver recreation experience that are accessible to various neighborhoods to reduce the need for
transportation
• Ensure that needs -based financial support for program and services are readily available,
promoted, and utilized.
Eidahl describes the fourth strategic theme, Partnerships and Outreach which would work to strengthen
community relationships and partnerships Eidahl says that the goal will be strengthen outreach and
engagement relationships with community -based organizations.
Eidahl describes the fifth strategic theme, Team Development would maintain a well -trained, high -
performing, and cross -capable division team. Eidahl says that the goal will be to ensure that staff have the
opportunity to leam through continued education and training.
Chairman Hachtman appreciates the work put into the plan, saying that when performance is measured,
performance is improved. Hachtman asks what opportunities are planned for reporting back. Eidahl says
that update reports will be given to the Commission and the City Council annually but that if
Commissioners want reports on seasonal accomplishments, that could be worked out as well.
Chairman Hachtman leaves the meeting at 5:58pm.
Commissioner Morelli leaves the meeting at 6:03pm
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 5 of 8
MECER PARK ATHLETIC FIELDS PROJECT — Eric Hornia; Hitchcock Design
In a pre-recorded video, Eric Hornig of Hitchcock Design presents the proposed designs for the Mercer
Park Athletic Fields Project in the attached PowerPoint presentation. Hornig explains how the project is
meant to address the aging infrastructure of the athletic fields at both Mercer Park & City Park while
maintaining a key focus on safety and accessibility. Staff had met with stakeholder groups, including
those involved with Pickleball/Tennis and Baseball in the area, to determine what would be desired in the
renovation.
Hornig details how the proposed plans for Mercer Park Field 1 would include updates to the lighting,
bleachers, spectator areas, edge drainage, and potential improve the grading. Mercer Park Field 4 would
see updates to the fencing, pathing, dugouts, bleachers, spectator areas, and improvements to both the
grading and drainage. Hornig says that the Mercer Park Tennis & Pickleball courts would receive updated
aisles, nets/posts, fencing/windscreens, asphalt surfacing, color coating, striping and a backboard in the
project. Hornig explains that to accommodate the regular use of the courts, the number of Tennis Courts
would be reduced to 2 while the Pickleball Courts would increase to 9. Hornig says that the Core Area of
the fields and courts would receive a new concrete basing while reworking the existing stairs/ramps for to
create a more accessible space. Homig adds that space for the Memorial in the Core Area would be
preserved.
Hornig explains that the City Park Tennis Courts would receive the same updated amenities as Mercer
Park and would include 6 Tennis Courts, including the striping for a single pickleball overlay per court.
Hornig details that Basketball Court would remain a half court with new surfacing and standards. Hornig
adds that there would be minor walkway adjustments to the nearby area.
Hornig wraps up his presentation, explaining the schedule of the project. Design development and input
gathering took place, October - February. Construction Documentation, the current phase started in
February and would end in April. The Bidding process would begin sometime in the late -spring early -
summer with construction beginning potentially as early as July.
Acting Director Baird explains that he will answer questions on the project in lieu of Hornig.
Commissioner Forbes asks if there is any worry that there will be no bids on the project. Acting Director
Baird explains that while this would always be a possibility, he does not see it as likely in this case as past
park projects always have a decent amount of interest and multiple bids from bidders.
Vice -Chairman Moore refers to Pickleball Players interest in additional seating and asks if these would be
included in the proposed designs. Acting Director Baird explains that the aisles were a larger focus than
seating in the actual design, but that enough space would be added to the aisles to create the opportunity
to add seating after the project is complete. Baird adds that the aisles also allow more fencing in between
the courts to allow more ball control and stop balls from rolling into other games.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Assistant Recreation Superintendent — Matt Eidahl
Programming: Acting Rec Supt. Eidahl announces that the Summer Activity Guide is out, with Summer
Registration for programming opening on April 18 for Iowa City residents and April 19 for non-residents.
Vice -Chairman Moore asks hiring for summer programs is coming along. Eidahl says that Recreation
Customer Service is at a stable amount, Aquatics could use more swim instructors, but that the main areas
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 6 of 8
where staff is lacking would be Summer Camps and possibly the Famers' Market. Commissioner Mixon
asks what kind of work staff at the Farmers' Market would do. Admin Coord. Gabe Gotem explains that
work would involve looking over set up & tear down of the market, making sure that vendors are in their
correct spots, and managing the token exchange.
Vice -Chairman Moore asks when water will be turned on at the Dog Parks. Baird says that water was
turned on at the Thornberry Dog Parks that day, April 12. Baird explains that Rita's Ranch Dog Park is
being reseeded and aerated due to the amount of turf damage over the winter but makes that point that the
water will be turned on when the dog park is open for the year.
Parks & Forestry Superintendent— Tyler Baird
Parks & Trails: Acting Director Baird says that nearly all restrooms and drinking fountains in the parks
are open. Baird explains that this process is heavily weather dependent and can be delayed by recent snow
fall. Baird says that work is continuing this spring on the single stack off -road bike trail system, which
would be in the Terrell Mill Park area. Baird details that mowing will take place soon, and that a lot of
recent focus has been on the athletic fields due to the large number of events this spring.
Tree Planting: Baird details 3 different planting events that are planned at James Allen McPherson Park,
Napoleon Park, & City Park with Commissioners getting a closer look at the process during the next
Commission Meeting at James Allen McPherson park. Baird says that while staff does handle some of the
planting projects, there will be a large contract that would regard planting around 300 trees this year.
Baird explains that the contract for the tree planting projects is close to being finalized.
Vice -Chairman Moore asks what types of tree are planned to be planted. Baird explains that across the
city, there are about 30 different species of trees, all spread out across the genus level. Baird details the
importance of this diversity and not just planting 15 different types of Oaks and Maples, pointing at the
Emerald Ash Borer which targets and kills all species of Ash Tree.
Commissioner Serenda explains that there are many utility flags still planted from last years contracted
tree planting and asks if this is something that the contractors can remove as soon as they are not needed.
Baird says that the contractors should be removing them as they are done to not confuse homeowners.
Baird make the point to share this note with the contractor.
Commissioner Serenda asks if there are any future plans to convert more land into prairies. Baird
responds that any upcoming plans would involve small pieces and enhancements to some that were
recently established. Baird says that a lot of the larger areas have already been covered but that the
department is open to suggestions and working with the neighborhoods to. Baird mentions that there was
a recent request to add prairie near Scott Park, to the opposite side of the road from the dam
Intercultural Development Inventory Assessment: Baird talks about the Intercultural Development
Inventory (IDI) assessment that is recommended for Commission Members to take part in. Baird adds
that staff involved with the Commission are already signed up. Baird describes the IDI as a 50 question
self -assessment to determine any biases that an individual may have. Baird continues that after the
assessment, there would be a private debrief with a member of the contracted company to explain your
results, what they mean, and how to work moving forward. Baird says that the Human Rights
Commission all took part in the assessment and found it valuable enough to suggest that it be made to
other commissions.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 7 of 8
CHAIRS REPORT:
None
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Serenda invites others to the South District Neighbors Association annual team up event
on Sunday, April 23 at 1 Oam. Serenda describes the event as the neighborhood coming together to clean
up trash, refresh flower beds along Broadway St, and working on the Edible Forest in Weatherby Park.
Commissioner Forbes asks where people would meet up for the event. Serenda responds that the
Neighborhood Centers location is along Broadway St. Commissioner Mixon asks for clarification on
what the Edible Forest is? Serenda explains how Backyard Abundance has fruit trees and various other
vegetation in Weatherby Park for people can forward freely from.
Vice -Chairman Moore adjourns the meeting at 6:26 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 8 of 8
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
M
M
O
7
N
O
7
ti
ap
x
N
TERM
�h
a
e
EXPIRES
Missie
12/31/25
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
O/E
LQ
X
Forbes
Alex
12/31/24
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
Hachtman
Rachel
12/31/26
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
McPherson
Doloris
12/31/26
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
Mixon
Connie
12/31/25
*
*
*
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
Moore
Brian
12/31/25
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
Morelli
Christopher
12/31/24
O/E
X
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
O/E
NM
X
O/E
LQ
Odinet
Boniface
12/31/23
O
O/E
O
O/E
O/E
O
O
NM
O
O
LQ
O
Penandjo
Lemou a
Melissa
12/31/23
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
Serenda
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
City of Iowa City
Strategic Plan
Fiscal Year 2023 - Fiscal Year 2028
Overview
Introduction & Environmental Scan
Our Strategic Values
Our Strategic Impact Areas & Action Steps
Resources
How we get it done!
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Challenges P Opportunities
Increasing preemption of local control by State Legislature.
State property tax reform
Higher expectations yet diminishing trust in local government.
Persistent racial and income inequality challenges.
Workforce attraction needs & staff recruitment and capacity challenges.
Continued COVID impacts, general inflation and economic pressures.
Climate change and increasingly severe weather events.
Regional population growth and more demand for services.
Outdated facilities in need of remodel/replacement.
Significant influx of federal funding opportunities.
"The best way to predict your future is to create it."
Paicr DrucGar
Values that guide How our strategy will impact the community
our strategy
and desired
� es
Resources needed to execute our strategy
People
Financial
Values
FY23-FY28
Iowa City Strategic Plan
Values Our values represent both a lens through which we will approach our work, as well as a
desired end state when our work is completed. Our values are embodied in every
element of this strategic plan (and the work we do as City leaders!).
Social Justice 'Yo
�Q do
ce ( N
&mate Action
et5hips & Engage
'P'f
A I
� i
5/4/2023
0
5/4/2023
10
5
Impact Areas
& Action steps
FY23-FY28 Strategic Plan
Note for Presenters:
There is A LOT packed into these impact areas and action steps and could be overwhelming.
Depending on your audience, consider:
Focusing on the impact areas and action steps most pertinent to your audience -hide the other
slides.
The slides with specific action steps for each impact area have been automatically hidden. Please
unhide if you wish to review any or all of these in your presentation.
If your audience either(1) is wholly focused on one impact area; or (2) has little role in most impact
areas; add your own slides and content to really emphasize what matters or to help draw
connections if it's not apparent.
Impact Areas
r�
Vision: The Why
Long-term & aspirationaL
Describes the kind of community
we will create by carrying out our
values & action plan.
Strategy: The What ..
Long-term 8 guiding.
Provides general direction for the
implementation of core services
and strategic action items.
Immediate 8 actionable.
Highlights pressing, high -impact
items which will receive
discretionary resources and require
partnerships and collaboration to
be execute by a specific timeline.
Vision
Strategy
Action Steps
5/4/2023
15
16
5/4/2023
17
18
0
5/4/2023
19
all
5/4/2023
21
22
11
Resources
FY23-FY28 Strategic Plan
Resources: The tools to get it done!
_ of
1. Facilities, Equipment,
and Technology
Invest in next -generation
facilities + safe, healthy
workspaces
Pursue high-performance
governance
Reward technology &
innovation
2. People
Establish the City as an
employer of choice!
Build a diverse talent
pipeline (staff &
Board/Commissions)
Enhance engagement,
welcoming, and inclusion
3. Financial
Grow the tax base,
diversify revenue sources
& leverage outside funding
Maintain healthy reserves
and prudent debt strategy
24
Alignment
Better Together 2030'AII-In' Vision
University of Iowa Strategic Plan
Envision East Central Iowa Plan
(ECICOG)
Department and Division Master Plans
What's Not in the Strategic Plan?
ALL IN
VISION
9906 of our Unexpected Timely Major Ongoing
everyday work! Challenges Opportunities Projects
5/4/2023
27
14
Items submitted as
correspondence for the
April 12, 2023 Parks and
Recreation Commission
Meeting.
Public Comments
Mitzi Read, Iowa City
March 8, 2023
Parks and Rec Commission Meeting
Dear Commissioners,
I am submitting comments for the canceled March 8, 2023 Parks & Rec Commission meeting and have
asked that they be included in your agenda packet.
I would like to respond to some statements that appear in the minutes of your February 8, 2023
meeting regarding the Robert A. Lee (RAL) pool and aquatics in Iowa City. After providing months of
detailed feedback to the Department of Parks & Rec, little has been done to change the flawed and
misleading information being provided to the Commission and the public.
On the topic of monthly swim count reporting, you were told at the February 81h meeting that
when community member swim counts don't match, the Department is "correcting the count, if
needed" and that "not every difference is found to be an error."
In fact, the only corrections In the monthly reports included in the agenda packet far the March 8,
2023 meeting are the 30 minutes of RAL pool pass scans added on weekdays, the addition of one
missing pool party, and a single time segment in January 2023 being increased by 7 users.
It also appears that some prior corrections were only temporary. For example, the November 2022
and January 2023 reports were previously revised, but the modifications are no longer present.
Specifically, 7 hours of missing open swim time counts for November 2511 and a missing pool party
on January 14'h
That leaves approximately 310 community -identified omissions that remain unaddressed so far.
Some instances are even verified via video obtained through public records requests. Despite this
clear evidence, these swim counts remain uncorrected, fine of the many examples occurs on
December 9" when 13 swimmers were verified on video from llain to 1pm, but the swim count
report still shows zero pool admissions during that time.
I agree, however, that not every omission highlighted by the community is an error; many are
intentional exclusions of documented pool use that the Department continues to withhold from the
monthly reports.
Another ongoing concern is the Department's continuing efforts to minimize their omissions, like
saying the 11:40am to 12:00pm count was "off by 1 or 2 people" to explain the addition of 30
minutes of preceding pass scans.
Actually, this single half-hour of omitted weekday pass scans resulted in 221 RAL pool users being
uncounted from August through December 2022. And when asked to include all RAL pool pass
scans in the monthly reports (as they do for Mercer), the Department refused.
When faced with the shortcomings of the monthly swim count reports, the Department often
responds by saying we should still see the same trends. This is puzzling since incomplete and
inaccurate data can only result in incomplete and inaccurate trends. These numbers are indeed
large enough to impact long-term use trends, especially for the RAL pool, which is approximately
one third the size of Mercer. How will the public's trust ever be restored if such pervasive
misrepresentations are allowed to continue?
Public Comments, Mitzi Read, Iowa City
March 8, 2023, Parks and Rec Commission Meeting 1
• When asked about outreach for swim lessons, you were told there is not much advertising
because they are "filling to capacity and have waiting list[sj;' and advertising is "typically used for
newer programs that are trying to grow."
The Department seems to be saying they don't have to advertise because they are already too busy.
If this is the case, why would we even consider closing a pool in this community? Prior public
feedback has strongly indicated the community wants aquatics to grow. Why wouldn't we increase
our swim lesson opportunities by adding classes and advertising in multiple ways to achieve the
desired expansion?
I ask the Commission to join me in encouraging agency accountability and transparency, so that we
can begin receiving comprehensive and accurate reporting of all pool use to guide informed decisions
about the future of Iowa City aquatics. Thank you for your time and for your contributions to our
community through your service.
Public Comments, Mitzi Read, Iowa City
March 8, 2023, Parks and Rec Commission Meeting
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Items submitted during
Public Comment at the
April 12, 2023 Parks and
Recreation Commission
Meeting.
City Park Pool - Back to the Future - A Vision
Introduction
A growing group of dedicated City Park Pool (CPP) enthusiasts is
organizing to ensure the future aquatic capabilities and communities
served by a repaired or renovated outdoor pool at City Park matches
what is fully accomplished by the current pool design. We are calling
ourselves CPP — Back to the Future, because over 70 years ago, the
City of Iowa City and community came together, designed, and built a
pool that continues to be relevant and inclusive of all Iowa City
community members.
CPP — Back to the Future Vision
When planning for the future of CPP, we consider the following pool
capabilities and communities served to be of proven historical and likely
future importance:
• 50-meter lap swimming opportunities at various depths for fitness,
competition, swim lessons, and lifeguarding lessons (the current
nine lanes are heavily and increasingly utilized today)
• availability of 25-yard lap swimming opportunities for fitness, swim
lessons, water aerobics/walking/jogging (there are strong
preferences for both 50-meter and 25-yard capabilities)
• shallow -water exploration for emerging swimmers, families, and
splashers
• medium depth area for water jogging, walking, aerobics, families,
and splashers
• deep -water area for new swimmers to become confident swimmers,
divers, water -polo, and families
• suitability to host athletic competitions
The current CPP design checks all those boxes. It's not surprising that
CPP has been so loved, admired, and utilized for over 70 years.
Note that the group's primary focus is the pool itself. We understand
and welcome that renovation to the CPP area will include
improvements to the deck and supporting buildings.
Join us: he11o(cDCPP-B2F.orp
April 12, 2023
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Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet
May 2023
Upcoming Events
• Farmers Market; May 6— October 28 (Saturdays only); 7.30 am —Noon Chauncey Swan Parking Ramp
• Repair Cafe; May 6, 9 am —1 pm; RALCRC (partnership event to promote sustainability)
• Pedal Power; May21; 1 pm-3 pm; TFRA
• Roller-skating; Saturdays January 14 through May20, RALCRC, Beginner-2-4 pm, All ages —5-7:30 pm
• City Park Pool opening; May 27
• Memorial Day Program at Oakland Cemetery; Monday May 29`^ 9:30 am —10:15 am
• Regular summer series events including Party in the Park, Rec & Roll, Discovery Garden Parties, Water
Wednesdays will begin in June.
Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff
Parks:
• We have received $15k in grant funding for tree planting this spring and there were a couple nice recent
news articles in the Gazette and Daily Iowan about our urban forestry efforts.
• We have 3 tree plantings with volunteer groups this spring (Rotary, West Branch H.S., and City High
Inclusion Club).
• We had our most extensive tree damage since the derecho with the late season heavy snow a couple
weeks ago. Staff responded on an early Saturday morning to take care of over 15 trees, many blocking
roads.
• Seasonal staff have started to begin their seasons as we move into the busy season.
• Staff have been working on trail improvements by adding fresh gravel to our aggregate trails that were
in need or fresh surfacing.
• Perennial beds have been prepped for the new growing season and new plants are set to arrive at the
beginning of May.
• We are in the process of getting water turned on and restrooms open for the season.
• Athletic fields have already been busy with practices and early season games.
• Prescribed burns have been taking place in our prairie areas and will continue through April as weather
permits.
• We are reseeding the Rita's Ranch Dog Park to fix damage done by heavy use this winter. There are also
improvements underway for sidewalks leading to the park and parking area improvements.
• Stats of Disc Golf usage at Peninsula Park are attached to this packet.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Recreation:
• Staff have assisted with the City Park Pool consultation RFQ review process and interviews.
• In addition to regular programming, staff plan to have about 50 events occurring at the parks, pools and
other outdoor locations this summer.
• Events of note: The first Native Plant Symposium was hosted at RALCRC on April 29. There were 125
registrants in attendance, nearly a dozen speakers, and plant sale and informational booths. The event was
well -received and furthered the education about native landscaping and gardening as recreational
opportunities within the community.
Facilities:
• Mercer Park Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym Exterior Accessibility and Lighting Improvements Project is
starting, All American Construction will be performing the work. The work will be broken in two phases, for
spring and fall, with a September 22, 2023 completion date.
• Staff are continuing to work on procurement, bid documents and contracting work for both formal and
informal projects for the 2023 construction season.
• Staff are continuing to prep for spring/summer spaces for upcoming seasonal activities. Aquatics staff have
started the process to get the splash pads set up for spring calibration with the splash pad tech and are
prepping the downtown fountain to bring this system online. City Park Pool has been re -caulked and areas
of the shell have had concrete replacement, staff are working on painting sections working around the
concrete replacement work, test coring and spring showers.
Cemetery:
• The Memorial Day program will return to Oakland Cemetery this year.
• All 4 seasonal workers have been hired and started working at the cemetery.
• After further investigation, it appears we do not have a water leak.
Top Staff Issues
Parks
• We are currently hiring an Athletics Maintenance Worker 1 and will be short staffed until the position is
filled. This comes at our busiest time for athletic fields.
Recreation
• Staff have been preparing for summer programming as well as the hiring and training of seasonal
program employees.
Facilities
• Maintenance staff have been working through structures for spring start up with coil cleanings, and PM
work for City Hall, Mercer/Scanlon, RALRC, Fire Stations, Senior Center and Public Works.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Cemetery:
• Staff is busy with trimming and mowing already.
• Staff will be working on several projects in the next few weeks. Planting flowers, mulching and
layer new sod on winter graves in preparation of Memorial Day.
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City
Oakland
Cemetery
FY 23 Revenue Report
** shaded areas represent previous Syr average
Revenue from Lot Sales
Lot Sale Syr
Average
# of
Interments
Interments
Syr avg.
Revenue
from
Interments
5-year Avg.
on
Interments
Total
Revenue
Syr Avg. on
total
revenue
July
$3,270.00
$4,456.00
5
6.4
$3,310.00
$3,342.00
$6,580.00
$7,798.00
August
$13,782.50
$5,962.50
10
6.6
$5,877.50
$3,890.00
$19,660.00
$9,852.50
Sept
$3,062.50
$10,001.75
7
8.0
$2,995.00
$4,867.25
$6,057.50
1 $14,869.00
Oct
$3,822.50
$14,012.50
4
6.6
$1,472.50
$3,925.00
$5,295.00
$17,937.50
Nov
$8,785.00
$4,620.50
7
6.6
$5,370.00
$3,760.50
$14,155.00
$8,381.00
Dec
$1,312.50
$3,046.00
11
4.6
$6,665.00
$2,744.00
$7,977.50
$5,790.00
Jan
$3,987.50
$4,108.00
7
4.0
$3,152.50
$2,894.50
$7,140.00
$7,002.50
Feb
$7,530.00
$2,408.00
3
4.2
$3,197.50
$3,009.00
$10,727.50
$5,417.00
March
$6,332.50
$4,601.50
8
4.0
$5,325.00
$3,041.50
1$11,657.50
$7,643.00
April
$2,625.00
$4,972.50
4
5.6
$2,375.00
$3,373.00
$5,000.00
$8,345.50
May
June
Totals
$54,510.00
$58,189.25
66
56.6
$39,740.00
$34,846.75
$94,250.00
$93,036.00
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet I City of Iowa City