M E M O R A N D U M 05-117

TO: MAYOR HORNADAY AND CITY COUNCILMEMBERS

FROM: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION

DATE: MAY 24, 2005

SUBJECT: LAND ALLOCATION PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS

The Parks and Recreation Commission made comments and recommendations at their May 19, 2005 regarding City-owned parcels. The following is an excerpt from the meeting minutes off the discussion on the Land Allocation Plan:

A. Land Allocation Plan – Public Hearing

Hazel Avenue Lots - Commissioner McCallum stated LAB Chair Mauger provided good information. From her comments the City Council dedicated the eights lots for the library and library funding and grants were predicated on all parcels.

GANN/STEWART – MOVED TO RECOMMEND TO THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY COUNCIL TO KEEP ALL THE LOTS ON HAZEL AVENUE TIED IN WITH THE LIBRARY PROJECT FOR OPEN SPACE AND COORDINATING WITH THE LIBRARY’S PLAN.

VOTE: YES. GANN, POORE, MCCALLUM, STEWART

Motion carried.

Oscar Munson Lot 79 – The Commission noted public comments were made at last month’s meeting in favor of keeping this lot as neighborhood green space, citing an advantage to the City and the neighborhood.

STEWART/GANN – MOVED TO RETAIN OSCAR MUNSON LOT 79 ON THE CITY’S ROLLS FOR THE PURPOSE OF GREEN SPACE.

VOTE: YES. POORE, MCCALLUM, GANN, STEWART

Motion carried.

Commissioner Stewart said he would like to promote the adopt-a-park idea and share it with neighbors in the Oscar Munson area. He would like the neighbors to take ownership and get the press involved to encourage others. Commissioner Gann said it would be a great pilot project. Vice Chair Poore said the neighbors had concerns about the parcel being turned into a park that would require parking and public beach access. She said if it were to be a pilot project for adopt-a-park it fits a different picture than a community park. Commissioner McCallum said the definition of a park includes a dedicated sacred green spot. The community can feel at ease that it won’t be developed. The group adopting the park can define the perimeters and have a say in how the space is developed.

Government Lot 13 – Vice Chair Poore told the Commission her understanding is that the City Council has acted on this by expanding the area for Spit parking and lease. Additionally the DOT (Department of Transportation) parcel will be leased for parking and the permitting process for Government Lot 13 is to be explored. The permits could take years as it is high value wetlands, in the flight pattern, and a critical habitat area.

Planning Technician Engebretsen noted there are two places on the Spit further down for trail parking. They are City parking spaces but are rarely used.

Harry Feyer Lot 1 – Commissioner Stewart pointed out there is beach access on the south side of the lot. Planning Technician Engebretsen noted there are numerous public easements to walk down to the beach.

STEWART/MCCALLUM – MOVED THAT THE CITY RETAIN HARRY FEYER LOT 1 AS USE FOR A FUTURE PARK ALONG KACHEMAK DRIVE.

Commissioner Stewart pointed out Lot 1 is a strategic piece of property on Kachemak Drive and will create a wonderful rest stop for walkers and bikers.

VOTE: YES. STEWART, GANN, POORE, MCCALLUM

Motion carried.

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