Memorandum 14-148 Placement of Loon Sculpture in Bishop's Beach Park

Memorandum 14-148

TO:                        MAYOR WYTHE AND CITY COUNCIL

FROM:                  PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION

THROUGH:         RENEE KRAUSE, CMC, DEPUTY CITY CLERK

DATE:                   SEPTEMBER 19, 2014

SUBJECT:           RECOMMENDATION FOR PLACEMENT OF A FANCIFUL LOON SCULPTURE IN BISHOP’S                                          BEACH PARK

BACKGROUND

At the June 23, 2014 City Council was presented with Resolution 14-075 to Approve and Accept the Donation from the Bunnell Street Arts Center of a Fanciful Loon Windsock Sculpture by Alaskan Artist Rachelle Dowdy to be placed in Bishop’s Beach Park.

This issue was remanded back to the Public Arts Committee to define the maintenance and address safety concerns expressed by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission.

City Manager Walt Wrede had requested this issue of placement to be revisited by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission after examination of soil condition by public works personnel.

Following is the excerpt from the September 18, 2014 regular meeting minutes regarding the ensuing recommendation from the commission.

NEW BUSINESS

A. Donation from Bunnell Street Art Center of a Loon Sculpture Created by Rachelle Dowdy for Bishop’s Beach Park

Chair Steffy brought the item to the floor and asked for comments or concerns from the commission.

Commissioner Archibald commented on the sculpture noting his previous concerns and seeing it completed has changed is opinion somewhat but that he favored support for the sculpture being placed in the park.

Commissioner MacCampbell concurred.

Chair Steffy requested a motion to approve the placement of the sculpture in Bishop’s Beach Park.

MACCAMPBELL/LOWNEY – SO MOVED.

Commissioner Archibald asked for a report from Carey Meyer, Public Works Director/City Engineer on his findings regarding soil conditions in the preferred locations within the park. Mr. Meyer stated that there were two test holes dug. He followed with the conditions found at each hole. The first one was unsuitable due to water. He expressed confidence that they will be able to construct a foundation that will disperse the load on the fill in the preferred area.

Commissioner Lillibridge showing an aerial view of the area requested Mr. Meyer to indicate where he is recommending the installation. Commissioner MacCampbell opined that the farther away from the parking lot the better commenting that vandals typically want access to a quick get-a-way. Commissioner Lowney reported that she has re-visited the Anchorage museum to view previous works of art from the artist and supported the location recommended by staff.

VOTE. YES. BRANN, ARCHIBALD, LILLIBRIDGE, STEFFY, MACCAMPBELL, LOWNEY

Motion carried.

Student Commissioner Ochoa voted in favor of the action.

                    Recommendation: Approve the placement within Bishop’s Beach Park at the location north east of the              pavilion on the edge of the maintained grassy area and natural vegetation recommended by Public Works                Director Carey Meyer.