| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: None
Mr. Rainwater nominated Mr. Frank Bradtke. Nomination was seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Nomination carries 3 ayes to 0 nays and 1 abstention by Mr. Bradtke.
Mr. Bradtke entertained nominations for the chair of Vice-President.
Mr. Rainwater nominated Ms. Melissa Stefanko. Nomination was seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Nomination carries 3 ayes to 0 nays and 1 abstention by Ms. Stefanko.
Motion to approve by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays and 1 abstention by Ms. Stefanko.
Mr. Sobek advised that it is the same as last year’s price.
Motion by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:03 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: Carl Miklusak.
Motion to approve the minutes by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve said contracts by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the Keilman Agreement by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Bradtke entertained a motion to approve the summer contract for porta potty maintenance by Service Sanitation.
Motion to approve the contract with Service Sanitation by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the payment of the February bills by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Bradtke entertained a motion to approve the March 2019 bill payment in the amount of $13,286.76.
Motion to approve the payment of the March bills by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Sobek requested that anyone who is able to help be there at 9:30 a.m. He noted that Ms. Stefanko is unable to make it.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:11 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: None.
Motion to approve the minutes by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays and 1 abstention by Mr. Miklusak as he was not at the March meeting.
Motion to approve said contracts by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the summer programs and fees by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to defer this to the next meeting by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he doesn't remember seeing a budget, so he isn’t sure that the board can pay these bills. Mr. Miklusak asked if the board has gotten copies of the budget and asked who does the budget. Mr. Kil responded that the Clerk-Treasurer and he work on the budget together. Mr. Miklusak asked if Mr. Kil would send him a copy. Mr. Kil agreed to do so.
Motion to approve the payment of the April bills by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he thinks a study session would be great and that he started thinking about this when the board was working on the Parks Master Plan as things were brought before the board and asked to be paid for at the last minute. Mr. Miklusak further stated that he doesn't like the idea of seeing something for the first time without being able to look at it and discuss it before taking action on it.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he has an issue with continually putting money into new parks while existing parks have maintenance that needs to be done. Lake Hills doesn't have a pavilion, and it would be great to have one installed, possibly just to the west of the playground. Mr. Miklusak believes that the board could do more for the town.
Mr. Forbes advised the board that they are able to discuss anything they wish to discuss at the board meetings. If there is something any of the members wants to have on the agenda to notify Mr. Bradtke as he has the final say as to what goes on the agenda.
Mr. Forbes stated that he had sent the members an email about the Parrish Park in hopes that it would be on this agenda for discussion to ascertain whether or not the board wanted to apply for grant money for that park. Mr. Miklusak stated that this is a good example of what he is talking about as there is discussion about a park, the costs, the grant and the grant process, and getting information about it.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the Town Council has study session. Mr. Kil responded in the negative. Mr. Kil advised that the only board that has a study session is the Plan Commission, and that is due the intensive detail for engineering and planning that goes into developments. Mr. Kil further advised that it is not uncommon for a developer to attend multiple study sessions.
Mr. Kil advised the board to put a dedicated section on the agenda for review, discussion, and planning, and list those items that you wish to discuss in that section. The board doesn't have to vote on those matters at the time; however, if the board comes to a consensus, it can take action.
Mr. Rainwater stated that when Prairie West Park was being completed, the board had several different sketches of the playground equipment, what it was going to be worth, the associated costs, and he feels the board knew what was being spent when they voted on that.
Mr. Bradtke stated that they don’t have any time together to discuss, for example, the “Name for new park” agenda item. If that can be done as part of the regular board meeting, he is okay with that. Mr. Kil responded that they absolutely can do that.
Mr. Bradtke stated that, years ago, they would have a study session where they would discuss topics and get prepared for their meeting, and then they would have the regular publicized meeting on another day. Mr. Kil stated it is up to them if they want to have a separate meeting night for a study session. He further stated that if it were him, he would just put a discussion section on the agenda and list those items that need to be discussed as line items under the section header.
Mr. Forbes advised that there is nothing preventing them from brainstorming names for the new park with one another. Mr. Kil added that it would probably good if they did, because the purpose of the meeting is to discuss such things.
Mr. Forbes stated that the only things the board can’t discuss at these meetings are litigation matters or personnel matters.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the discussion could be after the close of the regular meeting as he isn’t sure that it would be necessary to have minutes. Mr. Kil stated that if they are here, there will be minutes.
Mr. Miklusak asked if there would still have to be minutes if they discussed those things after the meeting. Mr. Forbes responded that anytime the Park Board is together as a group, there has to be meeting minutes.
Discussion ensued as to where to add general discussion to the agenda.
Mr. Bradtke stated that they will add “Discussion” to the agenda going forward. The general consensus of the board is to list it after Public Comment.
Mr. Rainwater stated that the interactive sundial at Prairie West Park that the Garden Club donated has turned to nothing. Ms. Stefanko stated that there is no garden there. Mr. Rainwater asked the board if it should be rebuilt.
Discussion ensued.
Mr. Miklusak stated that perhaps Mr. Sobek could look into what it might cost for the interactive sundial maintenance. Mr. Kil responded that if Mr. Sobek knows that’s going to be on the next agenda and the board is going to discuss it, it gives him the heads up to get a rough cost estimate.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:24 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: Michael Forbes, Town Council Liaison.
Motion to approve the minutes by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Arshami advised that the Park Master Plan was approved by the State; thus, St. John has become eligible to receive grants.
Mr. Arshami explained that today’s meeting has two purposes; to review a draft plan of the Parrish Avenue Park and to obtain the Park Board’s approval to submit a grant application to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Mr. Arshami introduced Mr. Jay Giannotti, Project Planner.
Mr. Arshami stated that they have refined the original plan that was in the Park Master Plan in order to qualify for the grant, which is a competitive grant. The design has sustainable elements added to it in order to score higher in the grant application.
Elements and Highlights of the Park.
1. The playground area will have the rubber type of surface, which is more sustainable.
2. The parking lot has 14 parking spaces with an ADA compliant parking spot.
3. The parking lot has a rain garden that is a collector for surface runoff from the parking lot.
4. There is an open field area for activities like throwing a Frisbee, playing football, or other activities.
5. There is a paver-type trail that connects the two neighborhoods that border the park.
6. The existing natural areas are being preserved and enhanced. Approximately 1/3 of the site is covered by green space with wetland on the far western part of the site.
Mr. Arshami advised that this meeting was properly noticed.
Mr. Miklusak asked what an understory tree is. Mr. Arshami responded that they are smaller trees that grow under taller trees.
Mr. Miklusak asked if this was all started due to a roundabout that would be too close to the residents. Mr. Kil responded in the negative and stated that the roundabout is located farther down the street.
Mr. Bradtke opened the floor for public participation.
Vincent Baldassare (9730 West 99th Court): Just moved there, September. I own the property that’s adjacent to the field there. I’m not sure how to read this; but I would assume it’s the third one in, if those lines mean property lines. Very concerned about playing baseball near my home. Um, lived close to baseball fields in the past, and windows break all the time. Who’s going to be responsible for that? Is there a baseball field going in there? Is that what – what does open field mean?
(Mr. Arshami responded that it is an open space.)
(Mr. Kil responded that the open space is not going to be a baseball field or a football field; that it is a grass field, and that there will be no organized sports.)
Okay. My other question would be the lighting, solar lighting, how high is this solar lighting going to be? The lighting, is that for the path?
(Mr. Arshami responded that it is security lighting which is typically 12-feet high.)
Okay. Thank you.
Donna Fathke (10729 Maple Lane): I’ve been a resident here for about the last year and a half. Um, several times, our – I live in a townhome association; and several times, we have wanted to gather, um, neighbors, you know, have like a block party or something. And there’s not been a good place for us to gather that has some amount of shelter, in case the weather changes or, if it’s hot sunny days, some shade. Would a group like ours be able to use the park for gatherings? I mean, would it be, um, reserve-able, I guess would be the word?
(Mr. Bradtke responded that some of the parks’ pavilions can be reserved.)
(Mr. Sobek stated that we would have the same arrangements that we do with the other parks if a pavilion is put in.)
Okay. Okay, thank you.
(Mr. Kil advised that this isn’t meant to be a primary park and that parking is very limited. Mr. Kil recommended using Civic Park.)
I know whoever was arranging it last time did find a park. I’m not sure if it was Civic Park or someplace in Lake of the Woods, maybe. But it got – it was booked up so far in advance that, you know, we didn’t allow enough time to – to take that into account. I don’t know how that is here with Civic Park.
(Mr. Kil responded that a lot of families take advantage of Prairie West and Homestead Acres and explained that this park will be a small neighborhood park.)
And it’s, that’s the thing, it was closer to our neighborhood than any of these others.
(Mr. Kil stated that if her group had maybe 8-12 people, that may be appropriate for this park. If the group is any larger than that, they would want a larger park.)
Go to one of the larger ones. Okay, thank you.
Vanessa Merkle (9221 Mallard Lane): I was just wondering what would the, um, path, uh, the trail path going through the park be made out of? It – in the picture, it has pavers; or is that just going to be all asphalt?
(Mr. Arshami responded that it would be pavers.)
Pavers. Is it possible to make it more ADA accessible and handicapped accessible and stroller accessible, um, if it was better to be asphalt, maybe, or concrete? Just a thought.
(Mr. Arshami responded that the pavers that are used are handicap accessible.)
Okay. Okay, I just thought it’d make it a little less bumpy. Okay, just a question. Thank you.
Greg Corwin (9622 99th Court): Just moved in about September; love St. John. Thanks for letting us, um, say our peace here; appreciate it. It think this is going to be like a NIMBY thing. Uh, my property, um, the way I see it on this map, I – my property comes right from – I got a corner. If you take the corner, the south line on this property, go right to Parrish, I got the first 150 feet. I have a fence there. So, and like I said, I think it’s going to be a NIMBY thing for – I think it’s going to be great for the people in the community; but if it’s in your backyard, you’re going to say, “I don’t know.”
Uh, the things we’ve talked about are – I might as well be very frank with you. Uh, things that we’ve seen at like Prairie – we’ve heard talked about are drugs – I’m going to be very frank with you – drugs, people hanging out at night. We got a beautiful, nice community there at, um, uh, Three Springs, very quiet.
Um, I’m not – I, being right next to it, I have concerns. I’m – I’m not here to veto it, obviously. The open field concerns me. If you’re going to play baseball there, that sounds like you’re going to have a backstop.
(Mr. Bradtke responded in the negative.)
No organized baseball; no organized sports at all?
(Mr. Bradtke confirmed there would be no organized sports.)
Cause that’s – I – I – I, obviously – when I moved in, there was a crummy, little, blue house there. I don’t know if you’d know it, but – and that was, kind of, an eyesore for me, and I said, “Gee, I can’t wait till they get rid of that blue house.” So I went to St. John cause I needed access to build my fence. I want to know who owned that property. I went to say, “All right, who’s the owner there so I could cut across the property?” They said, “We do; we own it. We’re going to build a park there.” I said, “Hey, great.”
But now, um, being right next door, I’m thinking all the bad things. Probably some of them unreasonable; I think some of them, probably, are reasonable. Um, the one thing we just noticed was the access from 99th Avenue near there that looks like the path there is accessible through that park – or is that – is that correct? So you could, conceivably – once again, I’m going from a negative aspect – and I could see whatever, who – whoever parking on 99th, have some nefarious ideas walking through the park in that crowded area, and we find – we’re finding needles the next day. That’s probably, I’m thinking, the worst case scenario.
That’s – that’s – I don’t speak for everyone here; but that’s been brought up, um, more than once with the neighborhoods who are – the neighbors who are adjacent to this property. So, um, the lighting, I, uh, I wasn't clear – I wasn't clear on the amount of lighting, because I think it’s – it’s kind of a twofold. You want lighting, for obvious security reasons, for people who are using the park; but then if you have lighting and it’s all night, you know, that’s – that’s necessarily a problem.
(Mr. Kil responded that we will focus on no light trespass while having enough light for security reasons.)
Yes, sir.
(Mr. Kil stated that it has to be lit, but it doesn't have to be overly lit where it becomes really noticeable.)
All – the people that we’re talking about don’t need a lot of light; you know what I mean?
(Mr. Kil responded that he understands; however, we have almost 30 parks in the community and have yet to have that problem.)
You do not?
(Mr. Kil responded that he has never had anything like that reported to him.)
Okay. Well, I’ll be this – I don’t want to – I don’t want to –
(Multiple speakers, indiscernible audio.)
– needles, but hanging out, and it’ll probably, uh – I’ll just wrap it up here. I think it’s, um, you know, everybody in that area – I – I know the neighbor where – I’m in a cul-de-sac there, so the neighbor that’s two – two houses away from me, she has three kids; and she has to go to a park on 93rd from that area. So that’s like a 3-4 mile drive. So it’s nice for community. You – you also don’t have sidewalk access in that area. I’m sure that’ll be corrected.
You might want to take a look. There’s some trees there that are right on my property that are, I would say, half dead, very high, and has potential of an – in a storm, doing some damage. But I’m sure you’ll look at that. So, um, we’re just concerned about, um, peep – basically people hanging out that shouldn’t be there. And we have to deal with it after the fact, as opposed to before that. And I don’t know how you prevent it; you probably can’t, being real honest with you. But those are our – my – that’s my concerns.
(Mr. Bradtke stated that we appreciate it.)
Okay. Thank you.
(Mr. Sobek stated that, perhaps, the lights could be put on sensors.)
Mr. Arshami stated that the lights can be down lights so they would not create excess lighting beyond the trail area. Mr. Arshami stated that they have been concerned about the neighborhoods when creating this plan, and they have vegetation barriers between the park and the residential lots bordering the park to address that potential issue.
Mr. Arshami noted that the trees that are dead will be removed. Mr. Arshami reiterated that the open field is an open grass area for kids to go and play and not for organized activities.
Mr. Arshami stated that the border area could be made denser if it is acceptable to the board. Mr. Kil responded that it wouldn’t be that difficult to accomplish and could be done.
Mr. Rainwater stated that this type of park is for the little kids.
Gerald Swets (9490 Joliet Street): I have a question for Taghi. That open field, uh, concept, if that was designated for something specific, could that improve our score? For example, I know Libby’s working on, uh, maybe, looking for some neighborhood garden type of thing, community garden. If you would do something like that, could that improve the score of that – of that plot?
(Mr. Arshami advised that a community garden is not one of the items that the State considers to bolster a score.)
Never mind. Okay. Thank you.
Erin Vander-Heyden (9837 Three Springs Drive): This is outside of the property line, but I’m just wondering if we’re working with the Town also on, like, crosswalks, um, because this does, you know, border nicely to another subdivision going in right now. I see a lot of potential for other children wanting to just go across Parrish, um, which has kind of a high speed limit right now. Um, which I, you know, appreciate the ability to move down Parrish, but we do need to protect the kids that are going to be coming from the other areas, potentially, not by car. So I just wanted to know if that was taken, you know, into consideration.
(Mr. Kil stated that we are looking at access for areas outside of the Three Springs subdivision and connecting a sidewalk system to create that connectivity.)
And signage, yeah. Great. Yeah, I know that the kids already walk up and down Joliet Street around the corner, you know; and it’s quite dangerous. I was just hoping that that wouldn’t happen to Parrish as well. So that’s – thank you.
Paul Panczuk (8410 Magnolia Street): And, um, I thought I’d follow her cause Steve knows I was going to bring the crosswalk up at some point tonight, I’m sure. Um, so not only should it be a crosswalk, but hopefully, um, maybe this would be a good candidate for the first of its kind in St. John, a signal-actuated crosswalk, something like, um, INDOT recommends now. I think Hammond and Griffith, uh, have some of those. Um, because Parrish is a – well, it’s almost like a highway at that point, a lot of wide open traffic, so, um, hopefully we can get something signal actuated. I believe there’s going to be a sidewalk from the roundabout all the way down to the, uh, new, uh, Gates at 100th Place. So we definitely need to connect that, um, if possible. So that’s my primary concern is a crosswalk, and a good one.
Um, secondly, uh, I don’t see a bike rack. It might be in there.
(Mr. Kil responded that he is sure Mr. Arshami has a bike rack in there.)
Just going down my checklist.
(Mr. Kil added that all the equipment will be handicap accessible, and we do get extra points for that.)
(Mr. Miklusak stated that a bike rack is included in the preliminary estimate.)
I figured it was probably on there, but I didn’t see it, so. Um, two more things. Uh, one is outside of the park, one is inside. So again, back to the sidewalk, uh, from the roundabout to 100th Place, perhaps, uh – and this might be more of a Town issue than a Park Board issue – perhaps, that section needs to be widened to a bike path, because Joliet already has a bike path heading east, back to Gates, and will be eventually heading west, hopefully, um, so maybe that sidewalk that’s planned to go in could be widened.
Um, the last item is within the park, and I – and I want to mirror image what someone said about the buffer being extended, because it – it appears that if a car enters the north entrance and sweeps around, if they have their headlights on, it’s going to hit these houses in the back; so maybe that native green buffer could be extended further west and mitigate those concerns for those residents. Thank you.
Russel Lawrence (9636 West 99th Court): I’m also one of the neighbors adjacent to the – to the park. Uh, my question – maybe this was already answered previously in another meeting – but, uh, when is the estimated start and end date of the park project?
(Mr. Arshami responded that the decision on any money awarded will be released by March of 2020, and the park could be completed in 2020.)
And then, uh, maybe just another, one more thing, or suggestion. I know, um, some people are concerned about safety; and maybe this is something that you all would take into consideration – and I’m not sure how feasible it is – but I know that in – in other parks around the area, um, in some campuses or schools, they have panic posts, um, that are stationed in, like, more, uh, solitary, uh, places. So just – just some – just a suggestion, maybe, um, it’s just something that is just a quick, you know, push of a button; and it alerts the – makes a siren/lights go off and alerts, uh, people and police.
Mr. Arshami took a moment to thank everyone for their comments and asked them to take the time to fill out a short survey.
Mr. Arshami stated that Indiana has been awarded more money this year than in previous years, so the chances of getting funds are greater. The funding comes from the Department of the Interior; and any funds awarded will take approximately 4-6 months to be released after being awarded. Mr. Arshami noted that the grant requires this parcel of land to remain a park in perpetuity.
Mr. Arshami stated that this is a draft plan and that the State reserves the right to see the final plan; the final plan requires another public meeting with public participation.
Mr. Kil advised that he has the completed documents, including the letter from him certifying that we have the matching funds available for the grant and a letter of the support of the Town. Mr. Kil further advised that he has provided Mr. Arshami with all the deeds to the property to submit with the grant proposal to better our score.
Mr. Kil stated that we may score low but not to be surprised because this grant includes scoring for land acquisition; however, we have been assured that many projects get funded that score very low on projects like this park.
Mr. Arshami stated that the maximum score is 78, and 24 of those points are for land acquisition. At this time, the Town’s score is 40; however, that is likely to go up based on feedback received at this meeting.
Mr. Kil advised that we will have to front the entire cost of $500,000 and then get draws from the State, based on the funds awarded, if we receive an award. If we receive the full funding, we would get $250,000 back from the State.
Mr. Miklusak asked where the funds come from. Mr. Kil responded that the funds come from the Park Impact Fee account.
Mr. Kil asked Mr. Arshami if there was anything else that he needed. Mr. Arshami responded that the only document he still needs is the property survey.
Mr. Bradtke asked for confirmation that the last thing Mr. Arshami needs from the Park Board is the approval to submit the application and any associated documentation. Mr. Arshami responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Miklusak asked when the park would be started. Mr. Kil stated that it would be after March of 2020.
Mr. Rainwater asked how many parks are in The Gates of St. John subdivision. Mr. Kil stated there is actually only one, which is a passive park located at the south end of The Gates of St. John.
Mr. Rainwater asked if we are overdoing parks in a specific area. Mr. Kil responded in the negative and stated that the Park Master Plan identified a serious deficiency in parkland on the east side of town.
Mr. Arshami commented that when they did the Park Master Plan, they divided the town into quadrants; and the southeast quadrant was the most deficient area. Mr. Arshami further commented that this project was rated as an essential, high-priority project.
Mr. Kil advised that even after this park is completed, that quadrant would still be deficient in its needs.
Mr. Bradtke entertained a motion to submit the LWCF Grant Application along with all the required supporting documentation.
Motion to submit the LWCF Grant Application along with all the required supporting documentation by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the payment of the bills by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Katy Slager (9417 Woodland Drive): (Before speaking, Ms. Slager provided photos to the board members to look at.) We just got a new park; and we were just wondering, like, if you guys are going to do anything about the basketball court or the baseball field. It’s a huge eyesore. The basketball court has been there since the 1970s, nothing has happened to it. Like, the kids cannot play basketball on that court. Like, my kids will go down there; and their basketballs are, like, bouncing sideways, cause – so we just think it needs to be, like, ripped out; or something needs to be put in.
Michelle Metzger (12615 West 93rd Avenue): Could we just have it repurposed? I mean, our entire block is, like, all boys. They’re all boys; and they’re going to be growing up; and we really, would really like the basketball courts to be refinished and to have nets hung up.
Ms. Slager: And if you look at, like, the baseball field, it’s, like, overgrown with bush and dead trees. Can you, like, get rid of those and, like, clean it up?
(Mr. Miklusak asked if anybody uses it. Ms. Slager and Ms. Metzger both responded in the affirmative.)
There’s a guy that runs his business out of the park.
Ms. Metzger: Yeah.
Ms. Slager: Which is, kind of, another concern of mine that I’ve called Code Enforcement because of it; but nobody has done anything. This guy is there, like, sun up to sun down.
(Mr. Miklusak asked if we license those people. Mr. Kil responded in the negative.)
Uh, no.
(Mr. Kil asked what park it is.)
Larimer Park. Larimer – oh, sorry.
(Indiscernible – multiple speakers.)
Yeah – no – there’s a – it’s three guys – it’s two guys and a girl. And they are there every single day; and they run their baseball out of the park. They have customers pull up, leave within an hour, every day. And I called for, like, three years; and nothing has happened. So I called Code Enforcement, and she, like, is on the side of the baseball guy cause she knows him, so.
(Multiple discussions ensued simultaneously.)
It’s pitching, yeah. It’s private lessons. They’re from the indoor soccer arena in Dyer. That’s where they’re from, but –
Ms. Metzger: And when they were redoing the park, they were parking – he was, like, throwing a tizzy fit and was parking on the basketball courts.
Ms. Slager: Yeah.
Ms. Metzger: Like, and blocking the way of actually entering.
Ms. Slager: Cause he was upset about the construction going on, and it was ruining his baseball business.
(Mr. Kil stated that the Park Board has tried to upgrade Larimer Park, but we just haven’t gotten to the field yet, which is a concern of theirs.)
Ms. Metzger: Uh-huh, yes.
Ms. Slager: You have to look at the pictures though, like, if –
(Indiscernible – multiple speakers.)
(Mr. Kil stated that we agree it is in bad shape.)
Ms. Slager: Okay. Okay. We were just wondering when something was going to be done or to get something done, cause we just don’t want to wait, like, what, ten years.
Ms. Metzger: Ten more years.
Ms. Slager: When our kids are teenagers, so.
(Mr. Bradtke stated that the Park Board is working on upgrading a lot of the parks and that the parks with the greatest needs are compared with the funding available to determine what parks can be upgraded when. Mr. Bradtke further stated that he cannot guaranty when Larimer Park would be done, but the Park Board will look at it.)
Okay.
(Mr. Miklusak stated that the board discussed going and looking at the parks to determine maintenance or upgrade needs. Mr. Miklusak thanked them for bringing this matter to the Park Board’s attention. Mr. Bradtke thanked them as well.)
Okay. Can anything happen to the baseball business guy? If he – if he can – can he get kicked out, or how—
Ms. Metzger: Yeah, cause it would be nice to play on the field too.
(Indiscernible – multiple speakers.)
(Mr. Kil stated that it is a public park and that he is unsure if there is a prohibition against a guy pitching baseballs to kids, whether he is paid or not, and will have to run that by our attorney. Mr. Kil further stated that he doesn't believe there is anything that we can do to prohibit that.)
(Mr. Miklusak stated that if he is there on a regular basis and advertising it, we should at least charge him for the use like we do everybody else. He further stated that we also do the baseball at White Oak and asked if we charge them.)
(Mr. Kil responded that the guy doesn't have a sign out there; he makes arrangements with families who drop off their kids to help them with their baseball skills.)
Ms. Slager: He was there on Easter – Easter, Mother’s Day. He doesn't take a break, so.
Ms. Metzger: No.
(Indiscernible – multiple speakers.)
Mr. Kil advised that he will check with the Town Attorney. Ms. Slager and Ms. Metzger thanked everyone.
Mr. Corwin asked from his seat in the audience if the Park Board would be constructing a fence on the north side of the Parrish Avenue Park or if they would require those adjacent to the fence to construct one from his seat in the audience. Mr. Arshami responded that there is natural vegetative fencing and that the construction of a fence itself is not in the plan.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he would like to discuss maintenance at parks as opposed to all the new parks. He further stated that Lake Hills’ bike/walking path has a couple of things that could be done there and that he would like to see a pavilion or cover for Lake Hills. He commented that there is an area near the playground that would be a great place for a pavilion. Mr. Miklusak further stated that some of the older areas need to be taken care of as well.
Discussion ensued with multiple conversations taking place at one time.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he likes the idea of a bike path and hooking into it at the new park; however, there are no sidewalks there. Mr. Kil responded that Parrish Avenue is still a rural road; and we are trying to take that rural road and turn it into an urban-type environment, which will take time.
Mr. Miklusak asked if this should have been something the Plan Commission considered. Mr. Kil responded that the Plan Commission had no way of knowing about this parcel becoming a park when The Gates of St. John went in.
Mr. Kil advised that there will be a sidewalk system from the roundabout on the east side of Parrish Avenue, the west side is being considered as well, and we are putting the trail to get into Three Springs. This is a work in progress.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the residents in the subdivision have sidewalks. Mr. Kil responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Rainwater stated that he has lived in his home for 54 years and has not been able to walk up and down Patterson Street since the day he moved in. Mr. Kil responded that there are still no sidewalks on Patterson Street.
Mr. Kil advised that it is hard to go back and put sidewalks in as most people will say that they don’t want anyone walking in front of their house; furthermore, we don’t have the right-of-way for all those lots, so that would have to be purchased.
Ms. Stefanko stated that Patterson is so busy that one would be risking their life to ride a bike on it.
Mr. Rainwater stated that there is at least 15 feet of right-of-way on each side of that street. Mr. Kil responded that there is an open ditch system that would have to be enclosed with storm sewers.
Discussion ensued regarding improving Patterson Street.
Mr. Bradtke recommended that they revisit the 5-year Park Master Plan again at the next meeting and pick projects off there that we would like to complete this year and start planning for next year, based on funding. He further recommended that they consider earmarking a space for a community center.
Mr. Kil advised that when they did the Comprehensive Plan, there were lofty goals and realistic goals. If the Park Board budgets about $500,000 a year, over 5 years, that would be $2.5 million dollars in improvements. Mr. Kil noted that a lot of the concerns that were raised are a function of maintenance. Mr. Kil stated that lofty goals require bond issues and millions of dollars of funding; however, the board can look at everything and decide what projects to do.
Mr. Miklusak stated that we can plan where, when, and how without having to do it all right away; plan it out.
Mr. Kil advised that the CDBG money this year will be used to pave the east parking lot of The Gates soccer fields and the walking path through the fields as there are many grandparents that were complaining that it was hard to get to the interior fields. Mr. Kil further advised that accessibility is one of the criteria of the CDBG.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the CDBG has been considered for use in other older areas in town. Mr. Kil responded that we have to use it for low to moderate income areas, but we are running out of those areas, which is why we are resorting to parks, bike trails, and parking areas.
(Ms. Stefanko left the meeting.)
Mr. Rainwater stated that bike trails and walking trails were listed as number one on the list. Mr. Kil stated that he doesn't remember what number it was, but it ranked high on the list.
Mr. Miklusak asked if there needs to be consideration for a larger park on the west side of town by the state line or if the focus should be consideration for several smaller neighborhood parks. Mr. Kil responded that when the Park Master Plan was done, the deficiency and needs were identified, which did identify that at the town could use a very large park.
Mr. Kil advised that the neighborhood tot parks are fine; there are 22 of them and that trail systems are being built in every new subdivision now. Mr. Kil further advised that by law the Town cannot require developers to set aside land for parks because it is an illegal taking of land.
Mr. Kil advised that the Park Impact Fee can be saved up to acquire property or a bond could be issued to purchase a large parcel of property to develop into a park. Mr. Kil stated that the board has many options and that those decisions are up to the board.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the Park Impact Fee can be used for the new trails. Mr. Kil responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he saw the development and was trying to figure out how to get the trail to White Oak. Mr. Kil responded that the letter he just signed certifying funds to the DNR as part of this grant application affirms that, at this time, the Park Board has $1,233,871.50 in the Park Impact Fee account. We are earmarking $250,000 of that with this grant, which leaves approximately $1 million.
Mr. Arshami stated that they can come to the next meeting, bring the final copies, and give a refresher on the Park Master Plan. Mr. Arshami further stated that the Park Master Plan does have a 5-year action plan in it that identifies which projects are recommended to be pursued in each year of the plan.
Mr. Bradtke stated that we could just pick the ones that we have the funding for in this calendar year.
Mr. Arshami stated that they put design guidelines in the Park Master Plan for new parkland that is acquired, which recommends not accepting the tiny lots and wetlands as parkland. He further stated that accepting parkland dedication needs to be more strategic and based on needs.
Mr. Bradtke stated that he would like the Discussion topic on the next meeting agenda to have the review of park needs and the Park Master Plan in there. Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Arshami to send an electronic copy of the Park Master Plan to Mr. Sobek so that he can email it to the board members before the meeting.
Mr. Kil advised the board that they could set a goal of coming up with $250,000 worth of needs to discuss and decide on projects at the next meeting. He further advised that between Mr. Arshami, Mr. Sobek, and himself, they could give them a good approximation of the budget cost on the projects being considered.
Mr. Miklusak asked if this would be using Park Impact Fee funds. Mr. Kil responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Rainwater stated that he is more in favor of the small parks over the large parks.
Mr. Arshami agreed to send an electronic version of the Park Master Plan.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 7:09 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: Mr. Stephen Kil, Town Manager.
Motion to approve the minutes by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the payment of the bills by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Bradtke stated that he had asked Mr. Arshami to send an electronic copy of the Park Master Plan to Mr. Sobek so that he could provide the same to the board members to use for the board’s discussion at the end of the meeting.
Mr. Arshami stated that it is their recollection of the last meeting that the board wanted them to come. Mr. Bradtke responded that he believes that was a miscommunication.
Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Arshami if he had brought copies of the Park Master Plan. Mr. Arshami responded in the affirmative and stated that they should have received an electronic copy of it from Mr. Kil.
Mr. Bradtke stated that they could use the hard copy for their discussion but that they don’t need a presentation.
Mr. Bradtke complimented Mr. Arshami on the hardbound copies he gave to the board members and thanked him for the same.
Mr. Bradtke stated that there had been discussion at previous meetings about a possible name for a park and that Mr. Miklusak has sent a possible name for a park.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he was thinking that Founder’s Park would be a good name for the Parrish Avenue park after the first settlers in St. John, John and Johanna Hack.
Mr. Sobek stated that the park name was for the new park in The Gates not the new park on Parrish Avenue, but it can still be used for the Parrish Avenue Park.
Mr. Bradtke advised that The Gates park has been put on hold and that this one is still pending. He stated that he thinks it is an interesting name and that he likes it. Mr. Rainwater concurred.
Mr. Miklusak referenced the bicycle trail information shown in the Town’s Annual Report, stated that he would like to see that bike master plan it mentions, and asked Mr. Forbes where it is. Mr. Forbes responded that it is in the Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he thinks it would be a good idea start looking at extending the bike trails and commented that there are a lot of new areas being built up around town.
Mr. Forbes provided an update on bike trails that are planned for St. John:
Mr. Miklusak stated that he was looking at extending the bike trail in Homestead Park under the power lines. Mr. Forbes responded that the bike trail there runs along White Oak Avenue from Homestead Park to the ball fields.
Mr. Bradtke asked if there is a projected start date for the bike trail to Schillton Hills Park. Mr. Forbes responded that it should be starting soon; there were weather delays.
Mr. Bradtke brought everyone’s attention to page 83 of the Park Master Plan. He stated that it recommends maintaining existing levels of programming and asked if there is anything that is jumping out as needing to be considered a priority for updates or repairs.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he thinks the Lake Hills Park needs to have a roofed pavilion, perhaps, near the playground. Mr. Miklusak further stated that he did go and look at Larimer Park, and that basketball court and the baseball field is in bad repair.
Mr. Forbes asked what is going on with Larimer Park. Mr. Sobek responded that they have only updated the playground area there.
Mr. Forbes stated that he was under the impression that the other stuff was going to be torn out as part of the project. Mr. Sobek responded that installing pickleball courts was discussed; however, the neighbors are against it. Mr. Sobek commented that it was only in the discussion stage and never made it to the planning stage.
Ms. Stefanko asked if there are any programs that use the basketball court. Mr. Sobek responded in the negative. Mr. Sobek noted that there is an individual using the park for private baseball lessons and that the basketball court needs to be redone.
Ms. Stefanko asked if there are any other places to play basketball. Mr. Sobek responded that Civic Park is the only other park with a basketball court.
Mr. Sobek advised that the tennis courts in Civic Park need to be redone.
Ms. Stefanko commented that there needs to be more than one place to play a particular sport and that she doesn't believe the basketball court should just be torn out and grassed over, that it needs to be replaced with something.
Mr. Rainwater stated that he doesn't think anyone uses that basketball court. Mr. Forbes responded that he sees people playing pick-up games there often. Mr. Sobek advised that there have been requests to redo the basketball court.
Ms. Stefanko stated that it can be difficult to have to collect one’s children to drive somewhere to play when there is a park relatively close by that can be used.
Mr. Forbes stated that the ballfield and basketball court can be repaired relatively quickly.
Mr. Sobek advised that the ballfield is sloped and it washes out and recommended having an all-grass infield.
Mr. Bradtke asked if starting with fixing the basketball court and repairing the softball field at Larimer Park sounds reasonable. The members responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Bradtke advised that Lake Hills Park is on page 33 of the Park Master Plan and asked Mr. Miklusak what area he was referring to for the pavilion’s location. Mr. Miklusak responded that it is the elevated area just to the left of the playground.
Mr. Forbes advised that the folks who live there may object. Mr. Sobek concurred.
Mr. Bradtke stated that the proposed location is quite a distance from the parking lot. Mr. Miklusak agreed that the distance to the parking lot could cause potential problems.
Mr. Bradtke stated that he thinks maintaining existing levels of programs first is an important priority.
Mr. Miklusak stated that if the pavilion is put north of the amphitheater, it may get rid of the standing water that is always in the cement area. Mr. Sobek responded that it is intended for those who are handicap to get to the amphitheater.
Mr. Miklusak mentioned the water fountain near the play area is always blocked up. Mr. Sobek stated that he would like to remove it because the water coming to it from the street doesn't work.
Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Sobek if there are any other parks that need repairs. Mr. Sobek stated that they all do and that there are little things here and there. Mr. Sobek noted that one that could take priority would be the tennis courts in Civic Park. Ms. Stefanko commented that those do get used quite often.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the tennis courts would be more money than just a little fix up. Mr. Sobek responded that it was repaired three years ago; however, it has gotten worse and is in an area where water runs through, seeps up through the bottom, and pushes dirt onto the surface making it slick.
Mr. Miklusak asked if it needs drainage under the courts. Mr. Sobek responded that it is in the lowest part of the park.
Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Sobek to prepare a list of the repairs needed at the parks that he is referring to, including cost-projections, for the board’s consideration.
Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Arshami and Mr. Gianotti if there was anything in the parks that they had noticed needed repaired when they did their analysis of the parks. Mr. Arshami responded in the affirmative and recommended that the members look at the Action Plan in the Park Master Plan and compare it against their budget.
Mr. Arshami stated that they have prepared a PowerPoint and recommended that he members study the plan and they could come to a future meeting and discuss what the board’s priorities are.
Mr. Bradtke advised the members to go through the priority chart starting on page 95 to create a priority list by park.
Mr. Arshami noted the difference between essential, needed, and desired and explained that some of the items listed in the essential column are ADA requirements. He advised the board to start with the essential category.
Mr. Rainwater asked whatever happened to the land that was sold to the ice arena for extra parking. Mr. Forbes stated that he has been asking the same thing himself and will get an answer for him.
Mr. Forbes stated that Chip Sobek has done a great job getting the volleyball program going and that it is very successful. Mr. Sobek was given accolades and attaboys from the board members.
Mr. Bradtke asked the members to take the Park Master Plan home, look through the recommendations, and come up with thoughts for discussion at the July meeting.
Mr. Bradtke then asked Mr. Sobek to come up with a cost for Larimer Park’s repairs and a price to fix the tennis courts. Mr. Bradtke noted the board can start with those things as priority and then move onto the list.
Mr. Forbes presented an idea for the much requested recreation center, which is a large ticket item that would require a bond: Suncrest Church is going to be building a new church and selling the current building; and it would cost approximately $5 million to $7 million to build a new building in order to have all the amenities inside the building and make it useful, not including the price of the land.
Mr. Forbes advised that the current Park Bond is about has expired and that the church area could easily be converted to a gymnasium; there are classrooms, large rooms, a theater, and a lot of options that is estimated to sell for approximately $7 million.
Mr. Bradtke stated that purchasing land and building a new center would be more costly.
Mr. Forbes advised that it is on a large parcel with a lot of traffic so there shouldn’t be an issue with the traffic it would generate; and he offered to set something up if anyone would like to look at it.
Mr. Bradtke, et al, stated that they would love to look at it. Mr. Forbes responded that he would make some phone calls.
Mr. Bradtke asked how a park bond works. Mr. Forbes responded that it is a loan and goes through a public hearing process.
Ms. Stefanko asked what a park foundation is. Mr. Arshami responded that a park foundation is a not-for-profit entity. Often times the foundation will buy the land and own it. When parkland is purchased, that value can be transferred into the Park Department adding to the foundation. The parties involved raise funds and businesses can contribute to the foundation.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 7:07 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: Melissa Stefanko, Mr. Stephen Kil, Town Manager, and Michael Forbes, Town Council Liaison.
Motion to approve the minutes by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Miklusak asked what happened with the park playground that was discussed at the end of the year, including obtaining bids. Mr. Sobek responded that the park will not be done at all so he was going to do Larimer Park instead; however, he was told to hold off and hasn’t heard anything since.
Mr. Bradtke asked if that was the park in The Gates that had no name. Mr. Sobek responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Miklusak asked for confirmation that the board had approved it. Mr. Sobek confirmed they had.
Mr. Miklusak asked who overrode it. Mr. Sobek responded that the contractor that was going to donate the land reneged on it.
Mr. Miklusak stated that we should have picked another one and done that and that he thought we approved Larimer Park and The Gates. Mr. Sobek responded that we finished Larimer and are looking at doing other stuff at Larimer.
Mr. Bradtke stated that the new items to be done at Larimer are to fix the softball field and basketball court.
Mr. Sobek stated that we can’t do anything until fall, because grass can’t be put in now.
Mr. Miklusak stated that we need to schedule things and get them done, especially parks with playground equipment.
Mr. Sobek stated that if we do those repairs, it is three projects.
Motion to approve the payment of the bills by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Miklusak presented pictures to the members.
(Mr. Miklusak’s pictures are attached hereto and made a part thereof as Park Board Exhibit Nos. 2019-07-23-PB-1A through 1D; 2019-07-23-PB-2A through 2B; and 2019-07-23-PB-3A.)
Mr. Miklusak spoke about the condition of the Lake Hills trail area from Settler’s Court to White Water Crossing (Exhibits 1A-1D). He stated that the owners of the houses on White Water Crossing have their irrigation systems coming down within 5 feet of the trail itself. They also have extended their underground spout outlets down past what is the easement line.
Mr. Miklusak stated that a woman who told him that she took a spill and hurt her knee walking on the trail. He further stated that there is one lot that is not developed that the plastic with the stakes has just been redone to try and stop it. Another house was just done, and the new residents were out there shoveling the mud in the springtime to clean it up.
Mr. Miklusak commented that there are wetlands on one side and houses on the other with a slope; perhaps some sort of drainage could be done under the path to connect drainage to the wetland.
Mr. Bradtke asked if the photos reflect the same place. Mr. Miklusak responded that it is the area from Settler’s Court to White Water Crossing, which is about 3/4 of a mile.
Mr. Sobek stated that it has been a problem for a while: There were two empty lots, now there’s only one, and all the dirt runs down in there and settles there.
Mr. Rainwater stated that they usually use the barriers to keep the dirt from washing away. Mr. Sobek responded that they do; but it still goes through the barriers. Mr. Miklusak concurred.
Mr. Bradtke asked if what is in the pictures is because of those lots or because of a low spot in the trail that’s going to be wet no matter what. He further asked if a culvert could be put underneath it or raise it an inch or two with another layer of black top. Mr. Miklusak stated that he is not sure.
Mr. Bradtke asked if the landowner would be responsible for this. Mr. Sobek responded that they have been fined and were required to take care of it several times.
Mr. Miklusak commented that there are trucks driving on the trail.
Mr. Sobek stated that he knows where it is and what the problem is; Public Works knows about, and they are working on it. Code Enforcement has spoken with those people about the fencing, which is probably why they are redoing it again. Mr. Sobek commented that part of the problem was because of the drainage leak that was there, which has been taken care of, and that we had so much rain in the spring, it didn’t matter what we did.
Mr. Miklusak noted that it is lower close to Whitewater Crossing and always has water in it.
Mr. Bradtke asked if it needs to get redone and raised. Mr. Sobek responded that it would need it eventually.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he was hoping to start a discussion to look at what needs to be done; what could be done; and what the cost is, as not doing anything isn’t the best.
Mr. Bradtke concurred that something needs to do done; however, there is also an issue if there are homeowners there with their sprinklers and downspouts beyond where they should be that may be contributing to this.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he has pictures from previous walks where the irrigation and the downspout outlets lead to the trail. It’s a high spot, and the water will run for 50 or 60 feet down the trail.
Mr. Bradtke asked if that is parkland. Mr. Miklusak stated that he was wondering that as well. Mr. Sobek stated that we take care of it and that as far as he knows, it is parkland.
Mr. Bradtke asked how we request for this to be investigated to determine what it is. Mr. Sobek responded that it is already been looked into. The natural flow of the water is a contributing factor, because it is the easiest path to follow, especially with it coming down from all the houses with hills next to it.
Mr. Miklusak stated that there has to be something that can mitigate it. Mr. Sobek responded that if you raise it, then it will puddle on both sides of it.
Mr. Bradtke asked if we could find the low spot and put a culvert underneath it. Mr. Miklusak stated that it is something he had thought of doing. He further stated that he has seen where they have open grates and it leads into a culvert or pipe.
Mr. Miklusak stated he would like to make a motion to ask Mr. Chip Sobek to get with Public Works and find out the results of their determination and if there are options that can be reviewed.
Mr. Sobek advised that a motion isn’t needed for that.
Mr. Bradtke requested to add on to the motion to have Steve Kil report on it next month. Mr. Miklusak stated that he likes that and will add it to his motion. Mr. Bradtke asked him to amend his motion.
Motion by Mr. Miklusak to ask Mr. Sobek to collaborate with Public Works to determine the results, if any, of their investigation of the issues of the trail between Settler’s Court and Whitewater Crossing and have Mr. Steve Kil involved and report back with any possible solutions that the Park Board could review, look at, and possibly act upon. Seconded by Mr. Bradtke. Motion carries 3 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Sobek to add Steve Kil reporting on this to the next meeting’s agenda.
Mr. Miklusak stated that the master association in Lake Hills put flowers in at the entrances and rocks along Golf Lake by the fishing pier to help stem the erosion (Exhibits. 2A and 2B. He further stated that when it was first done, there were no rocks between that grate and Golf Lake; he doesn't know if it’s a big problem or not; but there are a bunch of weeds growing there now.
Mr. Miklusak asked Mr. Sobek if he knew they were doing that ahead of time. Mr. Sobek responded in the negative.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he doesn't know who will take care of weeding all of this stuff because it will start to look very unkempt. Mr. Sobek responded that those weeds have been there for the last 15 years.
Mr. Bradtke asked if our lawn people could spray them. Mr. Sobek responded that he doesn't believe we can spray by the water like that.
Mr. Miklusak asked Mr. Sobek if he knows that T&J was doing work, driving their truck in the park, moving their tractors down the grass, and tearing it all up. Mr. Sobek responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Miklusak stated that the first house on Overlook Point sold recently, and the new owners are putting in what looks to be a patio and getting rid of an old mulch area. T&J drove their tractors down there and put the truck out on the parkland (Exhibit 3A). Mr. Miklusak further stated that he doesn't know what the policy is and who approves it.
Mr. Sobek stated that we don’t have a policy and that they could do it as long as they repaired any damages made as a result.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he is afraid they will just throw down some straw with seed in it. Mr. Sobek stated that the homeowner would be responsible for it.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he was going to ask Mr. Forbes about the church building he was talking about.
Mr. Bradtke stated that he was going to set us up an appointment to go look at it. He further stated that he will send Mr. Forbes an email and check into it.
Mr. Bradtke revisited the subject about the people who have their downspouts out beyond their easement and asked what the process is for the Town to send them letters. Mr. Rainwater responded that the Code Enforcement Officer would take care of it.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he knows there is an Indiana Code about directing water off of your property onto your neighbors because he has that problem.
Mr. Bradtke stated that if they are creating more of a water problem than what is caused by virtue of the rain, it should be addressed.
Mr. Miklusak stated that the last thing he wanted to discuss is the improvements to the existing parks that we want to be doing or that should be done over the next few years.
Mr. Bradtke asked if the board wanted to discuss the tennis courts.
Mr. Miklusak stated that first he would like to talk about the budget for next year, which should be coming up, and hopefully the board can get input into that.
Mr. Sobek stated that existing park improvements would come out of the Impact Fee, not the budget.
Mr. Bradtke stated that we could approve fixing them now.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he and Mr. Sobek visited the tennis courts together, and some of the cracks are almost an inch big.
Mr. Bradtke stated that it will all, probably, have to be torn out.
Mr. Sobek stated that we don’t have jurisdiction over the tennis courts as they are part of Civic Park, which wouldn’t be our decision anyway.
Mr. Bradtke stated that Civic Park is owned by the Town Council and that we can make a recommendation to the Town Council to repair the tennis courts. He asked what needs to be done to them, if they all need torn out.
Mr. Miklusak stated that the tennis courts are almost 2 feet lower than the basketball courts next to it; so water comes from the playground equipment to the northeast corner of the tennis courts. It is sloped where the water will run down and through the tennis courts; and there is the problem with seepage from coming up from underneath the tennis courts.
Mr. Bradtke stated that we should be fixing what we do have instead of just building new parks.
Mr. Miklusak referenced the Park Master Plan’s minimums for parks. Mr. Bradtke responded that he would talk with Mr. Kil to see what we can do to get these tennis courts worked on or how we can push that even though it isn’t technically under the purview of the Park Board but is in our Park Master Plan.
Mr. Bradtke stated that he would follow up with our Code Enforcement Officer about assessing those people who have their drains over the easements that are affecting the trail.
Mr. Miklusak stated that the last comment is a typo on page 24, section 11, item 11, where it shows “Sue and be sued collectively by its legal name, as the ‘Highland Park and Recreation Board’...” instead of showing St. John.
Mr. Rainwater asked if Park Board Members can be sued. Mr. Sobek responded in the negative.
Mr. Rainwater stated that he wants a bike path up Patterson Street. Mr. Miklusak stated there is a proposed trail shown there in the Park Master Plan.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:32 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: Mr. Stephen Kil, Town Manager, and Michael Forbes, Town Council Liaison.
Motion to approve the minutes by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Bradtke asked Mr. Sobek when the park projects would be completed. Mr. Sobek responded that they would be completed by the end of the year.
Mr. Bradtke commented that he has sent Mr. Kil an email to see if a culvert needs to be put in there or what can be done moving forward; however, he has not heard back yet, and Mr. Kil is out of town at this time.
Mr. Sobek stated that they fixed an issue where there was a leak in one of the drainage systems.
Mr. Miklusak asked if that would include correcting the drainage issue for the tennis courts. Mr. Sobek responded in the affirmative and stated that the tennis-court project may end up being more involved than the other projects. Mr. Sobek advised that anything done at Civic Park must be approved through the Town Council.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the tennis-court project could be done in phases. Mr. Sobek responded that it might be able to be done in phases. Mr. Sobek commented that some engineering may need to be done to address the drainage problem.
Motion to approve the payment of the bills by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Miklusak stated that there are a couple of things on the Lake Hill Trail from the fishing pier towards Lake Hills Drive: Nothing has been done in that area for fifteen years. Lindsey Park, where it goes around the playground, there are long breaks similar to what is happening in the tennis courts. It looks as if there has been heavy equipment and trucks on it. Mr. Sobek responded that the pavement was put in thin when it was originally done, that it’s worn out; and that trucks have been on it.
Discussion ensued regarding the condition of the existing walking trails/bike paths in town.
Mr. Bradtke recommended assessing and rating the condition of the trails from worst to best and asked Mr. Miklusak to go ahead and put together an assessment list so next year the necessary repairs at least could be started. Mr. Miklusak agreed to do the same.
Mr. Sobek commented that, since they are talking about asphalt, the parking lots need to be looked at too. Mr. Bradtke stated that there are a lot more new subdivisions going up and more impact fees being collected; so we might as well start figuring out what we want to spend it on.
Ms. Stefanko asked if there has been any follow up to the community center. Mr. Bradtke responded that Mr. Forbes has agreed to arrange a walkthrough but hasn’t gotten back to him yet. Mr. Bradtke stated that he would reach out to Mr. Forbes again.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:28 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: None.
Motion to approve the minutes by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the contract with Sherie A. Shields by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Sobek advised that they are in the process of redoing the baseball field at Larimer Park now.
Mr. Sobek advised that the equipment for the park has been ordered and should be in by the next meeting.
Mr. Bradtke asked if that could be taken care of in the spring. Mr. Sobek responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Miklusak asked what “erroneous tax” is, as it is listed on the docket with for Fern Buchmeier and Jeanne Degrauwe. Mr. Kil explained that those residents were part of a voluntary annexation request wherein the Town agreed to waive all corporate taxes for a period of ten years because they own farmland; so as long as they maintain that agricultural status, their corporate taxes are refunded during that ten-year period.
Motion to approve the payment of the bills by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Bradtke asked the board if they are okay with cancelling the November meeting and combining the business from November with December. The board agreed, so Mr. Bradtke entertained a motion for the same.
Motion to cancel the November meeting and conclude business on December 17 by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Rainwater. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Michelle Metzger (12615 West 93rd Avenue): Thank you for getting those basketball courts in and, uh, the baseball field. It’s going to look really nice. I was also wondering, could we get a water fountain? Is that possible?
(Mr. Kil asked her where.)
Over at Larimer and also at the one on 93rd, at the park on – what’s that one called?
(Ms. Stefanko responded that it is Prairie West.)
Yes, at Prairie West. I know during the –
(Discussion ensued between the board and Ms. Metzger about if and where there is a water fountain at Prairie West Park.)
I know I’ve been there with my kids in the summer; and it’s really hot; and there’s no water fountain. The only water fountain I have found is at the dog park, and I’ve only happen to walk past that on my way across.
(Mr. Kil stated that putting in a water fountain at Prairie West Park is simple as there is already plumbing there.)
(Mr. Sobek advised that we generally do not put water fountains in the small neighborhood parks.)
Okay. That would be – that would be really nice.
(Mr. Kil stated that we can look at Larimer Park and see if it is something that can be done.)
All right, cool, awesome. And I also have another thing. I’m a morning walker. I walk every morning, and, um, what’s the park right across from the dog park? (A member of the audience said, “Homestead”.)
Homestead Acres, one morning I, like, I used the porta-potty there; and then on my way back after the long trail, I had to go to the bathroom again; and there was a hole cut into the porta-potty. And I had called because it was just weird. It wasn't there earlier; and then I called, and then there was only, like, duct tape put over it. And yeah, it’s just really gross. Can we get a different porta-potty put in?
(Mr. Kil and Mr. Bradtke responded to her.)
(Inaudible), there’s like a duct tape over the square that was cut into the front door; and I don’t, so –
(Mr. Forbes explained that the Town doesn't own them and stated that the duct tape was a quick fix.)
Okay. Like three weeks fix?
(Mr. Forbes stated that we need to contact the company and have them come and switch it out.)
Awesome. That would be great. I don't know; I was just throwing that out there. But that’s it.
No one else came forward to speak for Public Comment.
Mr. Miklusak asked if anything has been done with the park that was approved last September for an area in The Gates of St. John. Mr. Kil responded in the negative. Mr. Kil stated that the developer backed out on his promise to donate the property and has reconsidered and is willing to give it to us. He further stated that he is in the process of having a deed drawn up.
Mr. Miklusak stated that he would like to retract the original motion; and when the deed comes through and we have the land, we can approve it at that time.
Motion to retract the Park Board’s approval for The Gates Park made September 25, 2018 and revised November 27, 2018 by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Miklusak mentioned that the Park Board meeting was not listed under “Upcoming Meetings and Events’ on the landing page of the Town’s website. Mr. Dravet, IT Director, explained that it wasn’t on the page due to the number of events that preceded the meeting when Mr. Miklusak looked at the page as there is only room for five listings and the Park Board was the sixth item on the calendar at the time Mr. Miklusak had looked at the site.
Ms. Abernathy noted that she had received a text from Mr. Dravet advising that there is a water fountain at Prairie West Park in the lift station.
Mr. Sobek stated that it is not functional.
Mr. Kil stated that the water fountain should be where the restrooms are located; and he has a note to have Public Works install one.
Mr. Miklusak asked if Public Works could check the water fountain by the playground in Lake Hills Park that isn’t working.
Mr. Forbes stated that the plumbing had been removed.
Discussion ensued.
Mr. Sobek stated that the water by the fishing pier had been shut off because it was creating problems and residents were complaining. There was sand being thrown inside the drains, both the one in the play area and the one in the ground, all the time causing them to clog.
Mr. Miklusak asked if they could retrofit the existing water source with a water fountain. Mr. Bradtke stated that they can consider that in the spring.
Mr. Bradtke commented that St. John has a strong chance of being awarded the grant for the park on Parrish Avenue that was applied for earlier in the year. There is a conference call on Thursday with the grant committee to finalize things. If it is awarded, the Park Board will need to pay for the park up front and be reimbursed 50% of the cost after the fact.
Mr. Rainwater asked if that is Founders Park. Mr. Bradtke responded in the affirmative.
A member of the audience requested to make a statement. Mr. Bradtke granted permission and gave her the floor.
Katy Slager (9417 Woodland Drive): You know what, that baseball guy is still running his business out of the park, so we were just curious – cause I know you said you were going to check into that a couple months ago.
(Mr. Kil stated that we have.)
He’s still there, so I don’t know. And you guys hung – the Town put red tape up; and I think he thought kids are putting this red tape up to stay out.
(Mr. Sobek stated that the red tape was put up because the area is being sprayed.)
Cause – oh, he brought that red tape?
(Mr. Sobek clarified that the people who are fixing the field put the tape up.)
Oh, he goes down there, and he rips it down every day. So – and I don’t know; I just don’t know. I don’t –
(Mr. Sobek stated that the tape is up there to keep folks out.)
Okay. I mean, I just don’t think somebody should be running their business out of a park like that. St. John Baseball showed up yesterday to use the baseball field; and they couldn’t because he – he’s there for like five hours a night.
(Mr. Kil stated that St. John Baseball has a lease agreement with the Town for Civic Park and for Heartland Park, not any other park.)
Okay. Yeah, I know; but it’s just crazy.
(Mr. Kil added that they have exclusivity only for the fields at those two parks.)
I know; but if somebody else wants to use the field, they can’t cause he’s, like, on it all day.
(Mr. Sobek stated that it is first come, first served.)
Yeah.
(Mr. Kil stated that it is a public park, so it’s hard to kick somebody out of it.)
Okay.
Wouldn’t maybe a – do you think he needs a business license or something?
(Mr. Kil stated that if it gets crowded there and he’s always fighting for room, he will leave and find someplace else.)
Okay. Do you guys know who this guy is?
(Mr. Kil responded in the negative.)
Okay, cause there’s three of them, so that’s why I’m just curious. I thought maybe you guys knew them or something.
(Mr. Kil stated that, if the kids from the neighborhood go there and play and just say, “I’m sorry, it’s a public park; I’m not moving,” they tend to leave.)
Okay. Yeah. Just have our kids go sit on the baseball field all the time, so.
(Mr. Kil stated that if they want to play, go play. If he yells at the kids, call the police; it’s a public park.)
Okay.
(Mr. Bradtke stated that it is inappropriate if he is taking down tape being put up by the people fixing the park. Mr. Kil concurred and stated if he is interfering with park improvements, that’s a whole other story.)
Okay.
(Mr. Kil stated that if Mr. Sobek catches him doing that out there, he can instruct him not to remove the tape and use the field.)
I – I asked him the other day if he took it down, and he said, “No.” And I watched him do it from my deck, so – and I’m like so. I’m not afraid to say something to somebody.
(Mr. Rainwater stated that we need to find out who this guy is.)
(Mr. Bradtke asked if there are certain days that he’s there.)
He wasn't there today, so I’m like he’s probably at the meeting. But I don’t think he lives in St. John. I think he lives in Illinois. So, but, um, he’s usually there all the time. He knows all of our kids’ names cause he’s there so much, so.
(Mr. Kil asked if he has a bunch of kids from St. John that he’s teaching.)
No, they come – they drive like two hours away to get these baseball lessons. So he’s out, um – I know in the winter, he’s at that Dyer Indoor Soccer Arena. He rents a space in there, so. So he’s probably just using the park cause it’s free. But I just figured maybe he needed a business license, cause what if something happened? I don’t know, but.
(Mr. Forbes stated that we would give this some thought.)
Okay. I was just curious. Yeah.
(Ms. Stefanko stated that we’d have to prove he’s running a business and that there is an exchange for money.)
(Mr. Kil stated that if the neighborhood kids are crowding a park, it’s usually enough to drive someone like that away.)
(Mr. Miklusak asked if a policy could be implemented for someone running a program who wants to use park facilities. Mr. Kil responded that we have a policy for reserving a whole park; however, they couldn’t reserve the park every day.)
Discussion ensued.
(Mr. Sobek recommend having an ordinance against running a business out of the parks. Mr. Kil stated that the problem is that we have to prove a business is being run out of our parks.)
(Mr. Bradtke stated that we have to give some thought to that issue.)
Okay. And I understand, like, St. John Baseball. My kids are in baseball, but I just – I don't know. Running a business, that guy – I mean, he drives me crazy and my husband. My husband’s like, “We’re never living next door to another park,” cause of this guy, so.
(Mr. Miklusak stated he probably thought it was a good idea at the time.)
Yeah, cause the kids; but then I’m like, “Oh, my gosh, this guy’s crazy.” So he’s always there so. All right. Thank you.
Mr. Kil advised that Public Works has made extensive improvements to the Lake Hills bike path/walking trail to clear up the mud issue; additionally we had the property owner put up another layer of silt fencing. There is an area, though, that we can’t figure out where the mud is coming from. Mr. Kil stated that Rick Eberly and Bob Davis were out there with him, and none of us could figure out where the mud was coming from; it seems to be coming up from the ground.
Mr. Miklusak thanked Mr. Kil for the update and efforts. Mr. Miklusak stated that he found it funny that a couple of the houses put in irrigation so that they are watering the park, and it goes right on the trail and runs down about 100 to 200 feet.
Mr. Kil stated that on Hedwig they had an issue where green slime kept appearing on the trail and people kept slipping and we fixed that. He further stated that we have been piecing away at the bike trail issues.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:49 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: None.
Motion to approve the minutes by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Sobek stated that he is a karate instructor.
Motion to approve the contract with Adam Theros by Ms. Stefanko. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion to approve the Winter Programs and Fees by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Sobek advised that all the equipment and surfacing is in, but the landscaping has not been completed yet due to the weather.
Mr. Sobek stated that the cost to repair/replace basketball court will be between $17,000 and $21,000 each. The tennis courts in Civic Park will be approximately $50,000 not including the fencing.
Mr. Rainwater asked how many basketball and tennis courts there are. Mr. Sobek responded that there is one tennis court at Civic Park and one basketball court a piece at Larimer Park, Civic Park, and Lancer Park. Mr. Sobek advised that the Town Council would have to approve anything done at Civic Park.
Mr. Kil stated that Mr. Sobek has provided him with copies of the quotes and that he will be reviewing those. The costs look a little high; however, it was very expensive the last time the tennis courts were done.
Mr. Bradtke asked if the Park Board could approve those at the December meeting. Mr. Sobek advised that the work can’t be done until spring.
Mr. Kil stated that he doesn't see a reason why the board can’t approve them in December.
Mr. Rainwater asked what the high end would be. Mr. Sobek stated that it would be approximately $120,000 for all of it; however, they don’t all have to be done at one time.
Mr. Kil stated that they should look at fencing contractors to do the fencing; otherwise, the asphalt contractor would hire a fencing contractor as a sub and add 10% onto the cost.
Mr. Sobek stated that the one contractor told him they would have to remove some trees and come in by the playground at Civic Park.
Motion to approve payment of the bills by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Darin Stansfield (9860 Parrish Avenue): Just barely moved in, in September. Talking with a neighbor and understand that there’s supposed to be a park built next door, so I’m calling to just – or I’m coming here to just find out, you know, what exactly the plans are with that and what it will look like and, you know, how it might potentially, or not, impact my property.
(Mr. Kil asked if he is to the north of the property.)
I believe it’s north, yeah. It’s just, uh, there’s like the two houses: The one that’s set further back, that’s where I just moved in.
(Mr. Kil asked if he acquired the one on the back.)
Yeah.
(Mr. Kil stated that there is nothing in the back where Mr. Stansfield property is. There will be playground equipment up front, and the whole back is just open space.)
So it’s mostly cleared out already. So what’s been cleared out is pretty much going to stay. And I guess my other thing is, like, I was reading the minutes or whatnot; and it talked about a trail. Will it – where’s the trail going to go?
(Mr. Kil responded that it will be on the south side of the park, all the way in the back, and connect to Three Springs.)
Okay. I mean that – that will –
(Mr. Sobek stated that it shouldn’t affect his property much, if at all.)
Okay. Is there a map or anything?
(Mr. Kil responded that there is a drawing of it.)
Yeah, if I could receive a drawing.
(Mr. Kil stated that he would email it to him.)
I didn’t know anything about it. I was talking to the neighbor next door, and he was like, “Hey.” I just want to know, so. All right, that’s it.
No one else came forward to speak for Public Comment.
Mr. Kil advised that the Town Council will be entertaining an ordinance to establish a community garden. The resident who wants to start the monarch butterfly initiative has been put in touch with the resident who is interested in the community garden, and the garden may be a good place to start that.
Mr. Sobek stated that he thought about starting with Founders Park, which might give us some points with the DNR.
Mr. Kil stated that there will be a rain garden going in along Parrish Avenue, which will be a natural area.
Mr. Sobek stated that they could use part of the sled hill on the back side where it is all wild vegetation and the area along Bull Run.
Mr. Miklusak asked if there is a creek back there. Mr. Sobek responded in the affirmative and stated that there is also a retention pond back there.
Discussion ensued.
Mr. Bradtke asked if the Park Bond just ended. Mr. Kil responded that the Park Bond expired last year.
Mr. Bradtke asked what that was. Mr. Kil responded that, as he understands it, the Park Bond was for Heartland Park back in the ‘90s.
Mr. Bradtke asked if it just a loan to put in something big. Mr. Kil explained that it is a general obligation bond, which is used for a general obligation debt that is supported and paid by property taxes.
Mr. Bradtke asked if the Board wanted to buy property or do something, does the whole plan have to be in place first. Mr. Kil responded that when a general obligation bond is issued, there must be projects or purchases in mind for that debt. That information has to go in a continuing disclosure to the bond holders when you go to sell the bonds. Bonds can be used to buy property or develop a park; however, you do have to have a solid plan with a legitimate cost estimate. Mr. Kil explained the bond process and the arbitrage agreement for the edification of the members.
Mr. Miklusak asked how taxes are impacted. Mr. Kil explained that a $3 million to $5 million general obligation bond would create a short-term tax increase. St. John is a growing community, and our assessed value raises by approximately $60 million to $80 million a year. As the assessed value increases, the tax rate drops; and as the population grows, the tax rate drops by virtue of more tax payers.
Mr. Miklusak asked if the tax rates can only be raised by a specific amount each year. Mr. Kil responded in the affirmative and explained that we are capped at $11 million for general obligation debt.
Mr. Kil advised that we don’t have much debt for a community of our size. He further advised that we don’t issue a lot of bonds and that we tend to pay debt off early due to our growth generating more tax revenue.
Mr. Bradtke mentioned a 40-acre parcel of land that was for sale that could possibly be a potential community center location. Mr. Kil advised the members that John Lotton is developing that land into a subdivision.
Mr. Kil advised that if they want to do a recreation center, or something of that nature, it would be financed through a holding corporation instead of a GO bond. He further advised that they will have to stay within the corporate boundaries of the town or have the property annexed into the community.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:33 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
| Frank Bradtke, President | John Rainwater, Member | Stephen Kil, Town Manager |
| Melissa Stefanko, Vice-President | Michael S. Forbes, Town Council Liaison | |
| Carl Miklusak, Member | Chip Sobek, Parks & Recreation Superintendent |
(The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.)
Absent: Mr. Stephen Kil, Town Manager.
Motion to approve by Mr. Miklusak. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Mr. Sobek advised that the rates will stay the same as their 2019 rates.
Motion by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Ms. Stefanko. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
Motion by Mr. Rainwater. Seconded by Mr. Miklusak. Motion carries 4 ayes to 0 nays.
(Mr. Bradtke adjourned the meeting at 6:08 p.m.)
Respectfully Submitted:
Margaret R. Abernathy, Recording Secretary
St. John Park Board
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