Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes 2022

CALL TO ORDER:

Michael O’Shea, Parks & Recreation Superintendent, called the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting to order on August 30, 2022 at 4:01 p.m. and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Advisory Members present: Michael Moffitt, David Beezhold, Barbara Toosley, Vanessa Merkle, and Lauren Sustek

Also present: Michael O’Shea, Park Superintendent, Michael Aurelio, Town Council Liaison, and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager

NEW BUSINESS:

a. Election of Officers
Mr. Beezhold nominated Mr. Moffitt for Chairman. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

Mr. Moffitt nominated Mr. Beezhold for Vice Chairman. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5ayes and 0 nays.

Mr. Moffitt nominated Ms. Sustek for Secretary. Mr. Beezhold seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Mr. O’Shea asked Mr. Moffitt if it would be acceptable for him to continue to chair this first meeting following the prepared agenda. Mr. Moffitt agreed.

b. Park Inventory Document
Mr. O’Shea referred to a document listing each park, of which there are 23, in St. John with their details and exact amenities. He incorporated the Park Master Plan and the Town’s 5-Year Plan to address necessary upgrades to each park. He added that he would like the document to support the Committee’s plan for future capital improvements. The improvements vary from very simple updates to higher level upgrades. The document includes a priority list of improvements and the construction year for the next 22 years. He asked the members to review the documents and offer suggestions or changes, in order to create a finalized action plan.

Mr. Moffitt requested clarification on this list presented and asked if it represented improvements to each park every year. Mr. O’Shea responded that it does, but some of the smaller items can be addressed through the operating budget every year. Mr. Beezhold stated that the inventory presented was very thorough, that the future needs are addressed and self-explanatory, and that he appreciates the effort.

c. Review Agreement for a Facility Needs Assessment
Mr. O’Shea stated that this facility needs assessment discussion has been ongoing since the spring. Mr. Wiszowaty added that it was brought before the Town Council as a recommendation from the previous superintendent. Mr. Wiszowaty deferred to Mr. Kennedy with Structurepoint to address the Committee. Mr. Kennedy explained that in their initial engagement with St. John, there was discussion whether an existing facility would work for the future goal of recreation and community center. There is a need to know what the Town’s needs are, e.g., what type of recreation and how many. They will team up with Legacy Group to review the existing park plan, what’s out there already and get to the baseline. They would then work with the stakeholders, senior groups, and youth sports groups. The needs assessment would determine how big or small the facility would need to be. This would be phase one in the process and phase two would be a projected building dimension and a cost estimate. He named a couple of their recently completed project locations as examples. Mr. Beezhold asked about the timetable. The stakeholder meeting, not a public meeting, would be about 4-5 weeks. They would then provide a draft summary report at about 9 weeks. Ms. Sustek asked if Structurepoint had worked with the Town before. Mr. Kennedy responded that they are currently working on the Cline Avenue Extension and added that he is an 18 year resident of St. John.

Mr. Wiszowaty stated that the Town has a $15 million bond issue anticipated in the 5 Year Plan for a Community Center. It was anticipated to use Park Impact Fee funds for the project. This is step one in that process. There is a 5 year study that needs to be done soon for the Park Impact Fee funds, so that any new development will continue to pay those impact fees for the Town’s Community Center. Solid planning and preparing is essential. The previous Park Board was trying to decide whether to buy an existing building and renovate it, but the needs still have to be assessed. Mr. Kennedy added that Structurepoint had gone into that facility and determined the facility would not work and continued to list some of the reasons. He added that they would be looking at a facility that would be multi-use and four-season, in order to get the most out of it. Mr. Wiszowaty asked about how the facility would be staffed. Mr. Kennedy responded that they would create a game plan for potential funding mechanisms. The Legacy Group would help determine staffing needs based on the activities established. Ms. Toosley asked if they were considering the growth of St. John over the next five (5) years. Mr. Kennedy responded that they would look at the current sport configurations and add a multiplier to it based on the expected population growth over the next ten (10) years. Mr. Moffitt asked about the timeline and whether it would be five (5) years before breaking ground. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that it was dependent upon the studies. Mr. Kennedy explained the multiple steps taken within the process. Mr. Aurelio asked about a public survey. Mr. Kennedy responded that they have not included one due to the cost of an arduous process.

Mr. O’Shea stated that the agreement with Structurepoint would not exceed $20,000. He added that if the committee wanted to review it that would be fine, otherwise they could make a motion and present it to the Town Council at their September meeting. Mr. Aurelio asked, if acceptable to the Committee, for the members to review it until their next meeting.

d. Possible Disc Golf Course-Heartland and Patnoe Park
Mr. O’Sheareported that he recently met with a local professional disc golf player and asked him to come up with a plan for the Town. He referred to a document with a rough map of a nine-hole course on Heartland Park and Patnoe Park. The cost for a nine-hole course would be $10-11K. There is not much by way of equipment outside of space, but the expenses would include concrete for the 4x7 pads, installation of the disc golf baskets, and signage directing the route. The maintenance would be nothing more than the grass. It would be considered a beginner to early-intermediate style course, which is good for families. Mr. Beezhold stated that he had played disc golf and informed Mr. O’Shea that the biggest challenge would be coordinating times, because if there are other activities going on at the park, it could be intrusive. Ms. Sustek stated that she likes the idea, but inviting younger kids to cross White Oak, when not using the path, would be a concern. Mr. O’Shea noted he would go back and fine-tune the mapping of the course for the next meeting. Mr. Aurelio asked if there was another large park that can be used. Mr. O’Shea responded that there was Prairie West, but not much parking. Lake Hills would provide a wooded area for more obstacles. Mr. O’Shea stated that he would look at the park inventory for options.

e. Review of Tree City USA
Mr. O’Shea stated that one of his goals was to have St. John become a Tree City as well as America in Bloom, which is a beautification program. St. John does have an ordinance that was passed in 2015 by the Tree Board, that being one of the requirements. The Town would need to establish a Tree Board, which can also be a department. He added that he was going to ask the Advisory Committee to also serve as the Tree Board. He stated that there are four (4) items on the application: 1. The Ordinance; 2. The Tree Board; 3. Annual Budget, for which the Park Operating Budget would be used for 2023; and 4. Arbor Day Proclamation, for which he would purchase seedlings or whips for planting. Mr. O’Shea already applied for a NIRPC Tree Grant for the fall, to plant trees along the walking path at Patnoe Park. The idea would be to plant the trees near walking paths and playgrounds to provide additional shade. He does plan on doing the NIRPC community tree programs and grants where they give away trees. He was also looking at the Urban Forestry Grant with IDNR.

f. Miscellaneous Items:
Park updates:

1. Founder’s Park is still under construction. They started asphalting the walking path. The parking lot is going back and forth. The playground is in and the pour-in-place material should be in soon.
2. In Gates Park, the playground is almost done and is ready for the pour-in-place. The Town added a connecting sidewalk up to the playground and cement bench pads for the park benches.
3. The Skate Park is pretty much done, minus the landscape work. At the last Council meeting, they approved the pouring of the concrete beside the existing pump track. There is a Grand Opening event on Saturday, September 10th, from 12pm to 4pm, and the flyer is in the packets. Spohn Ranch will be bringing in a Pro-Skater, some giveaways and providing a generator for the DJ. The Town would cover cost for the DJ, portable restrooms, and ribbon supplies. Mr. Moffitt asked about the concrete at the pump track. Mr. O’Shea explained that the pump track had grass in it, which would be washed away. The concrete being used will be a rough finish to deter skaters from skating on it. Mr. Moffitt requested permanent portable restrooms at the Skate Park. Mr. O’Shea noted that the conduit for the future lighting has been installed. The landscaping is scheduled to start on September 12th, following the concrete completion.
4. Mr. O’Shea brought up a $30,000 grant called the National Fitness Campaign, to be considered in the future, possibly in Prairie West Park. The project itself would cost about $140,000-$175,000. He asked the members to check out the website link he provided for more information. It is a 38’ x 38’ fitness court with fitness equipment cemented into the ground.
5. Larimer Park will be getting new back stops in the next few weeks.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

a. Town Manager: Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the Town Council approved the Parks Rules Ordinance at the last meeting. There will be Skate Park Rules that need to be considered by the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee. Mr. O’Shea stated that he created rules and will work with the attorney, then forward the document to the committee members for the September meeting. Mr. Wiszowaty asked about the signs for the Skate Park. Mr. O’Shea reported that the signs for all parks should be in next week, and that he will then order the Skate Park Rules signs once they are established. Mr. Wiszowaty asked about the quote for the lighting and security cameras. Mr. O’Shea responded that he spoke with Musco Lighting, who will be out in the middle of September to survey the site.

b. Town Council Liaison: Mr. Aurelio noted that he liked the idea of the grant application, but that the Town also has to spend money, therefore, he asked that everyone on the Committee understand the Park’s budgets. He would like to have the Clerk-Treasurer provide the 2022 budget to the Committee and when the 2023 budget is complete and approved, provide a copy of that as well. Mr. Aurelio stated that in 2022, the Town had several events in the parks and that he noted an interest in doing more in 2023 to maximize the enjoyment for the families and residents. He then brought up the Freedom Fest and asked the Committee to start considering the planning process for the 2023 event.

c. Advisory Committee Members: Mr. Beezhold asked about the length of term for each member on the Advisory Committee. Mr. Aurelio responded that it was a Town Council Motion at the meeting, they are staggered terms, whereby, some have one year terms and some have two year terms, and that the information will be provided. The one-year terms expire on December 31, 2022 and the two-year terms expire on December 31, 2023. Beginning January 1, 2023 they will all be staggered two-year terms. Mr. Beezhold stated that he had previously served on a board in a different town that had an ordinance mandating all new developments provide green space. They had to set aside 3-5% of park space in their plans for the new subdivision. Mr. Beezhold then asked Mr. O’Shea to share his parks wish list to the Council for the ARPA funds.

Mr. Wiszowaty asked the members of the Advisory Committee to take action on establishing the dates and times for the regular meetings as a matter of record.

Ms. Toosley made a motion to set the fourth (4th) Tuesday of every month at 5:00 p.m. Mr. Beezhold seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Tom Adamek, 9401 Chestnut Cove - He thanked the previous Park Board members for the Skate Park as it is one of the nicest skate parks in Indiana. He stated that Dyer spent almost $1 million putting in a skate park and it is not comparable. He added that he is a pickle ball player and would like to see pickle ball courts coming to St. John, as it is the number one game being played. He noted that St. John needs to start adding completion dates on the awarded contracts because Founders Park has been going on three years. He asked why the Town would hire an advisory committee for $20,000 to tell us what the Town needs when there is already a 5-year Park Plan. In addition, he noted there would be a conflict of interest as the individual is on the Zoning Board for the Town of St. John. He said that the Town should put that out to bid for companies to bid it.

ANY AND ALL:

Mr. Beezhold asked about the memorial bench and memorial tree program and whether that was ever started. Mr. O’Shea responded that it has and that the Town has received 3 requests. He asked if they could tie the memorial tree program to the Tree City. Mr. O’Shea responded that it should be possible. Mr. Moffitt stated that Park Board discussed the Town adding a memorial bench for the family that deeded the property at Founders Park.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Beezhold made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting for August 30, 2022 was adjourned at 5:14 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

Approved This 27th Day of September, 2022:

___________________________________
Michael Moffitt, Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Chairman

CALL TO ORDER:

Michael Moffitt, Chairman, called the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting to order on September 27, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Advisory Members present: Michael Moffitt, David Beezhold, Barbara Toosley, Vanessa Merkle, and Lauren Sustek

Also present: Michael Aurelio, Town Council Liaison, and Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager. Michael O’Shea, Park Superintendent was absent.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:

1. 08-30-2022 Special Meeting Minutes

Mr. Beezhold made a motion to approve the 08-30-2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

NEW / OLD BUSINESS:

a. Review Agreement for a Facility Needs Assessment

Mr. Wiszowaty explained that this was brought to the Parks Advisory Committee to review the scope of the project with respect to the Facility Needs Assessment. This project is going back to March, recommended by the previous Park Superintendent and makes sense to get this underway. He added that it would go before the Town Council for action. Ms. Sustek asked if the Town had gotten multiple bids to which the response was that there was not. She stated that she found this bid to be reasonable, however, for future projects, she would prefer three (3) bids be submitted. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that they could put an RFQ together and collect multiple bids. Mr. Beezhold stated that since Mr. Kennedy serves on the Plan Commission, he would question the ethics and a conflict of interest. A discussion of the RFQ process ensued. Mr. Beezhold made a motion to wait until additional bids are collected and a recommendation could be made to the Council. Ms. Sustek seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

b. Possible Disc Golf Course Review

Mr. Wiszowaty stated that Mr. O’Shea identified another site for the Disc Golf Course, originally mapped for Heartland Park. The new location is at Lake Hills Park. Ms. Sustek stated that Lake Hills appears to be friendlier to the course as there are no streets to cross and has a better flow. Mr. Moffitt added that although he favors Heartland Park, it is too busy and having to cross the street. Ms. Toosley made a motion to recommend moving forward on the project. Ms. Merkle seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

c. Park Budget Information – 2022

Mr. Wiszowaty referenced the information provided by Mr. O’Shea with regards to the 2022 Parks Budget. He noted that some of the big ticket items are already in progress and will drop off by the end of the year. Mr. Wiszowaty stated that the Council will be having a Public Hearing on the Budget scheduled for October 12th. The recommendations included in the budget were provided by the Park Superintendent.

d. Possible Backyard Outdoor Ice Skating Rink at Civic Park

Mr. Wiszowaty stated that this would be something the Park Committee could look through as it appears Mr. O’Shea is seeking some direction on this. Ms. Toosley addressed the liability insurance for this. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that the park itself is covered with the liability insurance, which would include this as well. Mr. Beezhold noted that he did not see this line item in the budget. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that this would be paid out of the 2022 budget and not in the 2023 fiscal year budget. A discussion on outdoor ice skating ensued. Mr. Beezhold brought up the topic of the basic rules for the rink. Ms. Toosley made a motion to move forward with the Backyard Outdoor Ice Skating Rink at Civic Park. Ms. Sustek seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

e. Miscellaneous Items

Founders Park – Mr. Wiszowaty reported that they are doing some final planting and the pour-in-place will be done tomorrow. He stated that he is confident they will be done within the next week. He added that it is a beautiful park and suggested the members take a ride out there.

Gates Park – Mr. Wiszowaty reported that it is ready for the pour-in-place. They did some landscaping in the playground area and added some trees. They discussed the different types of the equipment being installed in the park.

Mr. Wiszowaty reported that inspection had been done on the Skate Park, Founders Park and Gates Park. There have been several issues in the past with work that needed to be re-engineered at installation. Some of the concrete had to be torn back up because of the thickness, so they had to re-pour the concrete, which was done prior to the process of getting a permit. The best practice for the Town is to get the permits to comply with planning and zoning code. This construction should have gone to the Planning Commission to comply with the ordinances.

Recreation Event Plan for Selected Summer 2023 Events - Mr. Aurelio wanted to address the Skate Park and that it was built in record time and on budget. They ran it through Building and Planning so it went through the inspections. With Founders Park, it was picked up in the middle, and he wanted to thank Mr. Wiszowaty and Building and Planning as there were many challenges. Mr. Aurelio brought up recreation and how this past summer they experimented with a Friday night Concert with Malt Brothers, do for summer 2023 he wants to expand the program. The Town is going to do several of those nights to include a higher quality band and Malt Brothers for a wine and beer garden with food, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. He said that those should be self-sustaining functions. He said that they will be expanding on the Movies in the Park. He then brought up Freedom Fest and that the Committee should start that planning process early. He said that the tentative date is July 3rd and asked the members what they thought. A discussion about the dates and Freedom Fest ensued. Ms. Sustek asked about the involvement level of the Advisory Committee to which the response was it would be fully engaged. Ms. Toosley made a motion to hold the Freedom Fest on July 3, 2023 beginning at 3:00p.m. Ms. Sustek seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes and 1 nay by Mr. Beezhold.

Ms. Sustek asked about Malt Brothers and the Friday Concert Series regarding the concessions. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that Malt Brothers donates a percentage back to the Town. Mr. Aurelio asked about formalizing that process. Mr. Wiszowaty recommends obtaining an agreement with Malt Brothers for the series and getting Town Council to approve it. The legalities of the contract or process was discussed.

Larimer Park – The backstop has been installed. The ball field will be brought back to a recreational level. The wood pavilion will be painted. Lancer Park will be next. Some netting will be put up because of bird issues.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

a. Town Manager: Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the Budget Hearing will be held on October 12th at 7:00 p.m.

b. Town Council Liaison: Mr. Aurelio said that his report had already been covered.

c. Advisory Committee Members: None

PUBLIC COMMENT:

There was no public comment.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Beezhold made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting for September 27, 2022 was adjourned at 5:42 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

Approved This 25th Day of October, 2022:

___________________________________
Michael Moffitt, Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Chairman

CALL TO ORDER:

Michael Moffitt, Chairman, called the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting to order on October 25, 2022 at 5:04 p.m. and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Advisory Members present: Michael Moffitt, David Beezhold, Barbara Toosley, Vanessa Merkle, and Lauren Sustek

Also present: Michael Aurelio, Town Council Liaison, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager, and Michael O’Shea, Park Superintendent.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:

1. 09-27-2022 Special Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

Mr. Beezhold made a motion to approve the 09-27-2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

NEW / OLD BUSINESS:

a. Possible Disc Golf Course Review

Mr. O’Shea reported that he and the proposed vendor revisited both Park locations and redefined the courses. He referred to a document that was distributed to the members exhibiting the courses. He explained some of the changes addressed. He also noted that he provided some of the pricing for the full course. He asked the members to review the options and to come to a consensus on the selected park location. A discussion regarding the pros and cons for each location ensued. The topic of the startup time and funding was brought up. Mr. O’Shea responded that the goal was to open the season in the spring and to fund it through the Park Improvement from Park Impact Fees budget, if approved. Discussion continued on course spread and the cost.

Mr. Beezhold made a motion to recommend to move forward with the Disc Golf Course and select Heartland Park as the location, pending budget finalization. Ms. Sustek seconded the motion. The motion carried with 4 ayes, and 1 nay by Ms. Merkle.

b. Freedom Fest

Mr. O’Shea reported that since the Committee will be managing the Freedom Fest, it will be added to the agenda for every meeting. Mr. O’Shea referred to a document listing everything from the last Freedom Fest as a guide for planning the 2023 event. He ran down the list of items, making notes of the status for each item, generating continued discussion.

c. Miscellaneous Items

Mr. O’Shea reported on the status of parks and programs:

• Founders Park – It is winding down to completion with a few minor items remaining to be done.
• Larimer Park – The building was painted and bird netting will be installed on the pavilion.
• Gates Park Skate Park – A restroom enclosure was added.
• Heldt Park – There will be 13 dead bushes removed and replaced with 4 foot Arrowwood Viburnum.
• Ice Skating Rink for Civic Park – A request was submitted for purchase.
• Park Impact Fee Study and the Facility Needs Assessment Study – The plan is to send it out for bid on November 3rd and needs to be advertised.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

a. Town Manager: Mr. Wiszowaty reported that the RFQ’s will be going out for the Park Impact Fee Study and the Facility Needs Assessment. The plan is to have the respondents present their proposals to the Advisory Committee.

b. Town Council Liaison: Mr. Aurelio asked the Committee to be cautious about how the Impact Fees are spent. He also addressed the Concert Series and possibly moving some of the dates to a Friday night.

c. Advisory Committee Members:
Mr. Beezhold asked about the Ice Skating Rink and whether it will be open this winter. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that the RTP has been submitted for Town Council tomorrow. And Mr. O’Shea added that he submitted it based on the response from their last meeting. Mr. O’Shea added that he plans to have it up before Christmas and allow it sit until it freezes up. Mr. Beezhold brought up the topic of Rules & Regulations. A discussion about the uses of the rink ensued. Mr. O’Shea noted he would email the Rules & Regulations draft to the Committee Members for review. Mr. Beezhold made a motion to recommend the Ice Skating Rink at Civic Park, pending monetary approval and Rules & Regulations. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.
Ms. Sustek asked about the Concert Series and the Movie in the Park events and to ensure the other Parks are considered for use, especially for the Movie events.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

There was no public comment.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Toosley made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Sustek seconded the motion. The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting for October 25, 2022 was adjourned at 5:47 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

Approved This 22nd Day of November, 2022:

___________________________________
Michael Moffitt, Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Chairman

CALL TO ORDER:

Michael Moffitt, Chairman, called the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting to order on November 22, 2022 at 5:04 p.m. and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Advisory Members present: Michael Moffitt, David Beezhold, Barbara Toosley, Vanessa Merkle, and Lauren Sustek

Also present: Michael Aurelio, Town Council Liaison, Joseph Wiszowaty, Town Manager, and Michael O’Shea, Park Superintendent.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:

1. 10-25-2022 Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting Minutes

Ms. Toosley made a motion to approve the 10-25-2022 Special Meeting Minutes. Ms. Merkle seconded the motion. The motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

NEW / OLD BUSINESS:

A. Civic Park Outdoor Backyard 40 x 80 Ice Rink

Mr. O’Shea reported that he prepared some rules and regulations for the Ice Rink. The rules will be posted on the fencing. He also provided some updates to the status of installation. Mr. Beezhold asked about the cost to maintain the Ice Rink. Mr. O’Shea responded that the expenses are few. Ms. Toosley asked if the Insurance providers have been notified. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that the parks are covered and that they will verify specific coverage for the Ice Rink.

B. Park Inventory- Lantern View Park

Mr. O’Shea referred to his Park Inventory reporting covered in a previous meeting. Lantern View Park was the first on his inventory to address. He would like to replace the play equipment and the surface. He added a plan to include a walking path and is working with the Town Engineers to develop a plan. Mr. Beezhold asked about the budget for park improvements. Mr. O’Shea responded that there is a park improvement fund, but having a plan in place helps to stay within the budget. Mr. Beezhold made a motion to continue with the assessment, evaluation and bidding process for Lantern View Park and subsequent other parks for 2023. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

C. Miscellaneous Items

Mr. O’Shea provided updates on items previously discussed:
1. In Founder’s Park, IDNR completed their inspection and recommended installation of wing walls at the bridge entrance and at the entrance off Parrish Avenue. Once installed, Founders Park would be complete.
2. At Larimer Park, the playing surface has been renewed.
3. At Hyde Park, the 13 dead bushes were replaced.
4. Homestead Park and Civic Park T-Ball fields are having the fence enclosures installed around the portable restrooms.
5. The back stop and batting cage at Civic Park T-Ball need replacing and a couple of quotes have been received. Mr. O’Shea asked the members if they would prefer to just change out the nets as well and start over.
6. The Park Impact Fee and Needs Assessment Study were advertised on the 3rd and will be opened at the TC meeting tonight. Mr. Wiszowaty asked if he and Mr. O’Shea will be reviewing the responses first and asked about the time frame. Mr. O’Shea suggested the qualified respondents would present to the Committee at a meeting, who would then send a recommendation to the Council.
7. In Heartland Park, Mr. O’Shea is ordering the Disc Golf baskets.
8. Grass Cutting service was advertised on the 3rd as well and would not be presented to the Council until January.
9. Mr. O’Shea listed other potential work happening soon.

D. Freedom Fest

Mr. O’Shea reported that he received a few quotes for the tent and recommends using Marquee Rental based on price. Ms. Toosley made a motion to recommend to Town Council to approve Marquee for the tent rental for the Freedom Fest. Ms. Sustek seconded the motion. Motion carried with 5 ayes and 0 nays.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

a. Town Manager: Mr. Wiszowaty had nothing to report.

b. Town Council Liaison: Mr. Aurelio thanked the Committee members and Mr. O’Shea for their work.

c. Advisory Committee Members:
Michael Moffitt: Mr. Moffitt asked about getting help for Mr. O’Shea. Mr. O’Shea responded that the plan is to add a full-time Recreational Coordinator position, which is in the Salary Ordinance and adding a part-time position. Mr. Wiszowaty explained that the maintenance end of the Parks is and will continue to be managed by Public Works. Mr. Moffitt asked about the batting cages and possibly updating the equipment. Mr. O’Shea agreed to collect proposals for both replacements and new.

David Beezhold: Mr. Beezhold asked about the Park Impact Fee and how that will be assessed. Mr. Wiszowaty responded that the fee is assessed through the building permits. A discussion of probable decline in building and permit fee collection continued.

Discussions regarding Community centers and other park improvement expenses ensued.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

There was no public comment.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Beezhold made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Toosley seconded the motion. The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Special Meeting for November 22, 2022 was adjourned at 5:58 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Anastasia Lowery, Recording Secretary
St. John Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

Approved This 27th Day of December, 2022:

___________________________________
Michael Moffitt, Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Chairman