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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-22-2024 PR MinutesPARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 22, 2024 I. Call to Order— Chairperson Drumheller called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. II. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all. III. Roll Call Present Ms. Drumheller (Chair) Mr. Danise Ms. White Mr. Mauro (alt) Mr. Allen (alt) Not Present: Mr. Renzi (unexcused) Ms. Webster (unexcused) Also Present Brian Benton, City Manager Richard Blankenship, Park & Recreation Director Antoine VanMeir, Parks Superintendent Jeanette Williams, Recording Secretary IV. Announcements and Agenda Modifications A. Introduction of Parks & Recreation Director, Richard Blankenship The City Manager introduced the new Parks and Recreation Director, Richard Blankenship, who has over 30 years of experience in state and local government. V. Approval of Minutes A. Meeting Minutes from December 18, 2023 MOTION by Mr. Mauro and SECOND by Mr. Allen to approve the December 18, 2023 minutes passed with an unanimous voice vote of 5-0. VI. Public Input - None VII. Unfinished Business A. Current Project(s) Update The Parks Superintendent stated that staff is still moving forward with building the Creative Playground however they don't have a date of delivery yet. He also reported that they have mulched the Filbert Street Park but need additional ADA parking and a path to entrance that will also tie into the pavilion. PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE PAGE 2 MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 22, 2024 The Parks Superintendent reported that trimming the mangroves along Indian River Drive would require a certified arborist and only 18 inches could be trimmed at a time and it would cost $1,100-1,400. The City Manager noted that if the Board was concerned about parking and not seeing the river, trimming the mangrove won't accomplish that task. He suggested that the mangroves could be cleaned up but people should walk Indian River Drive and sit on the observation deck to view the river. He advised that the mangroves are federally protected to prevent erosion. Chairperson Drumheller expressed concerns about committing funds that could be spent on equipment. Ms. White expressed concerns that there are many people that can't walk and rely on viewing the river from the parking spaces. The City Manager offered to have staff do an evaluation utilizing the arborist that works on the docks to see if any areas could be opened up a little bit. In response to Chairperson Drumheller, the City Manager advised that the property across from the old Harbor Lights Hotel site is planned to be a swing bench park area. There are no plans for the hotel property yet. The Parks Superintendent reported that the solar -powered radar speed signs at Easy Street Park cost $5,000 each and always need service. Speed bumps are not an option as it is a main thoroughfare for the City. He advised the only real enforcement option would be the police department. The City Manager said this doesn't fall within the purview of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and offered to continue the conversation outside of the meeting. B. Committee Member Park Updates In response to Mr. Allen, the Parks Superintendent reported that staff has received the sand for Bryant Park and they still need to replace the bench on the opposite side. Mr. Danise stated he hasn't seen anything unusual at the tennis courts. Ms. White reported there are more baby ducks at the Easy Street Park. Mr. Mauro said the boat ramps look fine. He advised that the pickleball court side walk needs to 1.ud LCd: - it x eA . Chairperson Drumheller said she was happy to see the equipment at Filbert Street Park. She noted under the pavilion there is a bench that needs some work. She also noted that Periwinkle and Easy Street Parks are fine. Mr. Mauro asked if anything could be done about keeping dogs on their leash at the Stormwater Park. The Park Superintendent advised that while he could put up more signage it is up to PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 22, 2024 PAGE 3 individuals to police themselves. He often reminds people when he works at the park during the day. C. Upcoming Events at Riverview Park The Parks Superintendent announced the following events: Concert in the Park on January 121n Craft Club Show January 131h Four Chaplains Event on February 2 from 2pm-2:30pm Concert in the Park on February 2 from 5:30pm-8:30pm Craft Club Show February 101n Concert in the Park on February 16th 5:30-8:00pm Sebastian Art Club Show on February 17tn Vill. New Business A. Parks Staff Taking Over US 1 Median Maintenance The Parks Superintendent said the City has decided to take over mediums. He and his foreman plan to give it a good cleaning for next few months and start mulching in October. IX. Items for the Next Agenda and Date: February 26, 2024 Mr. Mauro asked to keep additional pickleball courts on the forefront of the agenda. The City Manager advised that staff has received the request and if there was to be an update then it would be added to the agenda. Chairperson Drumheller asked to re -address The Volunteer of the Year Program to have someone recognized next December. X. Adiourn There being no further business, Ms. Drumheller adjourned the meeting at 6:45 p.m. By: Date: �- Ms. Drumheller, Chairperson .1. l� n , r Sktie EJ,S n e5S VI .F�xCA