Park and Recreation Commission
February 6, 2017
Meeting Minutes
Present: K. Jones, S. Palmer, K. Schwartz, and J. Dorenbosch (at 8:15)
Also Present: Rob Blick and 5 members of the public
CALL TO ORDER
Mr. Jones called the meeting to order at 7:34pm
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Mr. Blick reviewed his written report
LETTER OF CORRESPONDENCE
None
PUBLIC COMMENT
None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JAN 9, 2017
S. Palmer, Jones, Approved 2-0-2
Abstained K.Schwartz and C. Hunter
DISCUSSION OF PREVIOUS BUSINESS
None, as previous issues are listed separately on the agenda
INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMMISSION MEMBER KATE SCHWARTZ
DISCUSSION OF DOG PARK
The Redding Planning Commission did a site walk on 1/22/17. Please see their minutes for details. Quick summary: some neighbors showed up to complain about possible noise and smell concerns. After the site walk, the Redding Planning Commission suggested using the island in front of Park and Rec as the site for the Dog Park. C. Hunter voiced opposition and does not support this location for a dog park. The Planning Commission also voiced concerns of maintenance and future budget, but this is an issue to be resolved within Park and Rec. Dog Park proponents will look into the legality of raising the Redding Dog Licensing from $8 to $10 – to ensure $2 of every license goes to support the Dog Park. The Planning Commission also requested to see demonstrable need. A google Survey was sent out two days before the meeting, and had 181 favorable supporters in the 48 hours.
Park and Rec would like to understand the 10 year development plan issued by the Planning Commission and K. Jones will look into it before the next meeting.
DISCUSSION OF JANUARY PLAYGROUND FORUM
A meeting was held in late January at the town hall to discuss want, need, location, money, etc.
Desire is to have a playground suitable for 0-5 year olds.
Another meeting is scheduled for later in the week with the public playground proponents and the First Selectman, J. Pemberton.
DISCUSSION AND REVIEW OF BUDGET
The Finance Department would like to see a proposal with a 10% reduction. After much discussion, it was agreed by all that this reduction would impact services and programs offered to the town. 10% overall reduction also does not take into account income generated by some of the programs. Several members questioned of how desired a cut is, if it means less services. Appears to be an issue of cost versus value. No one on the Park and Rec supports reducing services to the town if it is to have a negative impact upon the community.
ADDITIONAL NEW BUSINESS OR INITIATIVES
C Hunter pointed out that the outside of the Park and Rec building has peeling paint. R. Blick said the maintenance of the building is a different department.
SUPPLEMENTAL PUBLIC COMMENT
None
ADJOURNMENT
Motion Palmer, Dorenbach, Approved 5-0-0, Adjourned at 9:34pm
Submitted by Caroline Hunter