PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY
COMMISSION UNAPPROVED
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
APRIL 19, 2007
Session 07-03 a Regular Meeting of the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Commission was called to order at 6:33 pm on April 19, 2007
by Chair Stewart at the City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E.
Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska.
PRESENT: COMMISSIONERS
STEWART, TOLVA, MCGREENERY, POORE, TENHOFF,
BREMICKER
STAFF:
PLANNING
TECHNICIAN ENGEBRETSEN
DEPUTY CITY CLERK KRAUSE
AGENDA APPROVAL
The agenda was approved as
presented by consensus of the Commission.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. March
15, 2007 Regular Meeting Minutes
The
minutes were approved as presented by consensus of the Commission.
PUBLIC COMMENT UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA
Buck Laukitis commented that he supported the Parks and
Recreation Commission’s need to locate more funding for projects. The
Commission could locate ways and funds to assist local non-profit groups that
provide many of the volunteers on past projects. Mr. Laukitis recommended the
Commissioners meet with some of the other local groups. He commended the new
HART plan and the new Parks & Rec Commissioners. He stated that the
Commissioners could approach various businesses or individual residents
encouraging them to support City supported parks & recreation amenities. He
commented that the Park Day is a great idea and believed it would be a start to
get citizens aware of what the City has to offer its residents.
Questions from the Commissioners:
Mr. Laukitis responded that he
would meet with Planning Technician Engebretsen to exchange email information
so she can be a point of contact he can send upcoming events, funding
opportunities, projects, etc. He stated it was the Council’s responsibility to
determine the best vehicle to attach to for funding, but reiterated that
substantial funding was required and not a token amount.
STAFF REPORT
A. Memorandum from Planning Technician
Engebretsen Re: April Staff Report
There was discussion regarding the day to perform a walk-through to explore the various beach access corridors and whether it was feasible to identify. It was suggested May 19, 2007 would be a good day. A walk through of the parks would be done on the same day if time allowed, but it was unlikely. Planning Technician Engebretsen reminded the Commissioners about the Public Workshop being held on April 25, 2007 and encouraged all Commissioners to attend.
House Bill 25, regarding Land Owner Liabilities for Trails, passed the Senate Resources Committee and is scheduled for the Judiciary Committee. Comment was made as to how long the process could take depended on the number of Committees who had to review the bill. There was discussion regarding using or accessing Right of Ways for the potential Bike Trail. Planning Technician Engebretsen will consult Public Works Director Meyer. It is on the Capital Improvement Plan.
TOLVA/POORE – MOVED TO MAKE MAY 19, 2007 SPRING BEACH WALK,
9:00AM AT CAPTAIN COFFEE ON PIONEER AVENUE.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VISITORS
A. Councilman Heimbuch – Sales Tax Proposal
Councilman Heimbuch spoke to the Commissioners on his
proposed sales tax to pay for parks and recreation in the Homer area.
Councilmember Heimbuch stated that the City is “growing up” and the need for a
constant funding source for Parks and Recreation. The new annexed portions of
Homer want the same amenities as other residents. Residents want the same
amenities they see on television or hear about from family and friends in the
lower 48. Substantial and consistent funding is required for this to happen at
any level. The City needs to get over two hurdles, one is how to get City
Council to vote, and two the public is needed to agree, and the public is being
bombarded by everyone wanting money at the same time. The Parks and Recreation
Commission needs to focus on raising a substantial amount of money, well over
$250,000.00 in order to provide some of these amenities. His sales tax proposal
benefits the people, it goes straight back to the people. Some were of the
opinion that it would create a shortfall on the City budget. Mr. Heimbuch tried
to compose something that would appeal to everyone. It is a fundamental part of
his proposal that the funds be dedicated so that the funds cannot be re-allocated
by the City. Mr. Heimbuch praised the hard work that Mr. Buck Laukitis has done
concerning the funding issues, non-profits, etc.
Question from the Commission:
Mr. Heimbuch responded that it would be great if the Parks
and Recreation Commission would be distributing the funds. It may be that the
ties the Homer Foundation has make it a better choice for distributing these
funds. That decision could be made after the vote. He recommended Parks and
Recreation to support this as a commission since it benefits them. Some people
may be skeptical about this, interpreting it as another tax on the residents.
However, Parks and Recreation for the residents has the same importance as
other big issues coming up for ballot. Mr. Heimbuch said to support it and sell
it to everyone the Commissioners know; Mr. Heimbuch said that depending on who
you spoke to most residents replied their spending habits stayed the same in
regards to a variable sales tax. If this is chosen, then it may encourage the
merchants to be creative as well.
PENDING BUSINESS
A. Park Day –
Memorandum from Planning Technician Engebretsen
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – MOVED TO BRING TO THE FLOOR FOR
DISCUSSION.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
At the last meeting, the Commissioner’s discussed selecting
a day in June or early July for a proposed Park Day, Planning Technician
Engebretsen spoke to Parks Maintenance Coordinator Tammy Hagerty who said that
the fields are taken until late July. Planning Technician Engebretsen
recommended August, as most children, teens, and college students would be
home. Everyone agreed that it would be a great way to keep the kids occupied.
Comment was made that August 25, 2007 would be too late since the kids would be
in school. She reminded the Commissioners about the other option of planting
and sprucing up one of the Baycrest Planters. She did find out that the
planters are taken, but that maybe those involved would like more help. The
Commissioners preferred the idea of a community baseball game and picnic for
Park Day. The discussion continued about choosing the best location for the
event with a back-up choice. Chair Stewart is in favor of the Jack Gist Park,
however it was noted that there were no restroom facilities. It was noted that
“Jack Gist” is not the official park name and they could have a dedication
ceremony. It was suggested that they have a local band or some form of
entertainment. Planning Technician Engebretsen recommended that this be kept
simple; the funds were limited and reminded the Commissioners that there were
no facilities or electric at Jack Gist Park. A comment was made that if the
event was held at another park, maybe some donated entertainment could be
arranged. The possibility of having a small information kiosk at the Park Day
regarding the topic of sponsoring benches around town, maps, etc., was
discussed. Suggestions were made regarding alternative games so all ages, could
participate. It would have to be open ended, no skill required.
MCGREENERY/POORE – MOVED TO SET AUGUST 18, 2007 AS PARK DAY
AND RESERVING KAREN HORNADAY PARK FOR THE EVENT.
More discussion ensued regarding a time limit for making
decisions on Park Day; Clarification of what action items needed to be
addressed at this meeting; and what should be put on next meeting agenda.
VOTE: YES.
NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
BREMICKER/MCGREENERY - MOVED TO PUT PARK DAY ACTIVITIES ON
A WORKSESSION NEXT MONTH BEFORE THE REGULAR MEETING.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
B. HART –
Memorandum from Planning Technician Engebretsen
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – MOVED TO BRING HART MEMORANDUM TO THE FLOOR FOR DISCUSSION.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Planning Technician Engebretsen stated that the latest
revision of the HART plan incorporates previous discussions. One of the changes
has been to the Non-Motorized Transportation and Trails Plan. There was to be
set standards for trails in this document. It was determined that Trails
Standards should be a separate document similar to the Roads Standards. Further
discussions with Lindsay Winkler on maps for the document determined that maps
are a separate issue to work on and should be postponed so that the HART
document can be completed and submitted to City Council as soon as possible.
Commissioner Poore felt that subsidizing developers would
be an overall benefit to get trail connectivity supported by the residents. If
other residents can use the trails through subdivisions, whether to get to
school or biking, it would be a good use of public monies by creating that web
of transportation. Commissioner Bremicker suggested there be oversight to
oversee that funds are for a trail that connects. Commissioner Tolva praised
subsidies to developers as a great way to accomplish something. Previous
attempts only created roadblocks. Need to strive to make it as simple as
possible to the homeowner, a “carrot”, not another headache would be the best
strategy. Commissioner Tenhoff questioned the number of overall trail
connectors the funds would cover and asked about matching funds and other
funding options since she could envision some of the connecting trail projects could
be quite large and costly. Planning Technician Engebretsen stated the fund
would be $120,000.00 to $125,000.00 and that there would not be enough City
manpower to accomplish a large project in the first year so that money would
sit in an account accruing interest. As an example she used the Homer Spit
Trail, which could never be afforded by the City, would be bonded. A developer
building a subdivision would have to pay 75% and the City would pay up to 25%
just to encourage trail connectivity. It would be cheaper for the developer as
an example, building a subdivision to complete a sidewalk that is not connected
from the property line to the existing sidewalk, when pouring already, than for
the City/Borough to have to complete it later. It was brought up that
developers should have trail development done in the planning process and at
that time it would determine how much funding from the City would apply.
Commissioner Tolva commented that these funds could be used to get matched
funding, and grants. There was consensus on adding the developer subsidizing to
the HART plan.
Chair Stewart asked if a final draft of HART would be ready
at the next regular meeting, Planning Technician Engebretsen said if there are
no major changes from the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC), the
Committee meets the Tuesday before the Parks and Rec it may be possible but it
was doubtful. The Commissioners wanted to review the entire HART document with
all changes before submitting to the City Council.
COMMISSION BUSINESS
A.
Memorandum
from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Sales Tax for Parks and Recreation
MCGREENERY/TOLVA – MOVED TO DISCUSS SALES TAX FOR PARKS AND
RECREATION MEMORANDUM.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Discussion revolved around the concept and purpose for the
sales tax, but concern about administration of the funds, and that the issue
had not been addressed was expressed. That due to the complexity of the
management of these funds it may be beyond the Parks and Rec experience and/or
mandate. Recommendation was made regarding appointing a review committee or
that a Parks & Rec commissioner to be involved with the management and
guidelines created to manage the funds. Commissioner Tenhoff expressed her
desire to be on that committee. Chair Stewart stated that there was going to be
a Worksession and Council Meeting on April 23, 2007 and that a representative
from the Commission should attend, and whoever does, they should carry the
Parks and Rec Commissions affirmation for the idea and if possible voice any
concerns. Commissioner Poore wanted a more formal affirmation in the form of a
resolution showing the support that included recognition of the administration
hurdles.
BREMICKER/MCGREENERY- Moved
to express VIA RESOLUTION parks and recreation advisory COMMISSION SUPPORT for
the City Funding Recreational Activities through Non profit organizations.
More discussion followed regarding each Commissioner’s support of the idea for funding. Planning Technician Engebretsen was selected to draft a resolution in support of the proposed City funding for Parks and Recreation activities.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
B.
Memorandum
from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Bike Week
TOLVA/POORE- MOVED TO RECOMMEND MAYOR AND COUNCIL SUPPORT
THE BIKE TO WORK WEEK.
The consensus of the Commission is that this was a good
idea and should be supported. Inquiry was made as to the dates for the event.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
C.
Memorandum
from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Proposed Steep Slope Resolution
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – MOVED TO BRING THE PROPOSED STEEP SLOPE
RESOLUTION TO THE FLOOR FOR DISCUSSION.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
There was consensus by the Commission regarding this issue
and the importance of it being addressed. Planning Technician Engebretsen
stated that there was an ordinance slated to be written soon and by June, it
should be in front of the Planning Commission. This was going to be a new
regulation regarding development of bluff and/or steep lots. There was
opposition expected and the support of the Commission would be helpful.
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – MOVED TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF A
RESOLUTION FOR DEVELOPMENT OF STEEP SLOPE REGULATIONS.
There was no additional discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
D.
Memorandum
from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Appointment of Two Parks and Recreation
Commissioners To City Hall Town Center Review Committee
MCGREENERY/TOLVA – MOVED TO BRING MEMORANDUM REGARDING
APPOINTMENT OF TWO PARKS COMMISSIONERS TO THE FLOOR FOR DISCUSSION.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Commissioners McGreenery and Bremicker volunteered to be
appointed to the City Hall Town Plaza
Review Committee.
TOLVA/POORE – MOVED TO APPOINT COMMISSIONERS MCGREENERY AND
BREMICKER TO THE CITY HALL TOWN PLAZA REVIEW COMMITTEE.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
E.
Memorandum
from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Proposed Central Park in Town Center
Resolution Memorandum from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Memorandum 07-47
from City Manager to City Council On Proposed Land Trade
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – MOVED TO BRING MEMORANDUM REGARDING
CENTRAL PARK IN TOWN CENTER TO THE FLOOR FOR DISCUSSION.
Commissioner Tolva was concerned that putting a limit to
the size of the park on the resolution may be too restrictive in the future.
Planning Technician Engebretsen explained that at this time in talking about a
new City Hall the details will be worked out that with approval of this
resolution you are saying that you want a large chunk of land space as opposed
to small pockets. Commissioner Bremicker brought in a design map/display that
he felt would help give some definition to the proposed resolution. There are
some disproportions since the map was created approximately 18 months ago. This
map contained all aspects with a new City Hall, Residential, Student Housing,
Park area, and small commercial and large commercial comprising approximately
8.6 acres. It addressed the desire to keep the view open, security, and
accessibility. The Commissioners agreed on the attention to the issue of
keeping vehicle traffic and pedestrian traffic separate. Concern for planning,
site, building design regarding vegetation for the proposed City Hall site was
brought up. It was pointed out that there were existing areas of natural
vegetation and stands of trees that would make suitable areas without proposing
security risks.
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – CALLED FOR THE QUESTION.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried. [1]
TOLVA/MCGREENERY – MOVED TO APPROVE THE LARGE CENTRAL PARK
IN TOWN CENTER RESOLUTION AS WRITTEN.
There was no additional discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
F. Memorandum from Planning Technician Engebretsen Re: Memorandum 07-47 from City Manager Wrede to City Council on Proposed Land Trade.
TOLVA/POORE- MOVED TO BRING MEMORANDUM REGARDING PROPOSED
LAND TRADE TO FLOOR FOR DISCUSSION ONLY.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Commissioner Tolva stated there are too many questions
regarding this issue that are unanswered. Commissioner Bremicker pointed out
that a resolution was passed opposing this issue, so he was wondering why the
issue returned. Planning Technician Engebretsen reminded Commissioners that the
resolution was passed during a different City Council and now we have a new
City Council and changes have been made to the initial offering so it is back
before them again. The land in question is in a watershed area and a steep slope.
Mr. Gordon is the only one to benefit. It was recommended a Memorandum be sent
to the City Manager expressing opposition to this issue. Commissioner
McGreenery commented that the need for a Steep Slope Development regulation
before selling or trading any land by the City should be in place. Consensus by
the Commission and public opinion heard so far was in opposition of the entire
idea.
G. Beach
Committee Report
Commissioner Bremicker reported that the Committee discussed the present beach accesses. He was of the opinion that Miller Landing in particular should be focused on, and that there are quite a few easements along Kachemak Drive. There is really no “access points”, just easements. More research was going to be done regarding the easement on property located in the Oscar Munson subdivision where there is some city owned land that could be used for public parking. Some of the areas are not good for beach access points, but would be very suitable for overlooks. The Beach Committee requested comments from the Parks and Recreation Commissioners on the public beach access points listed on Appendix X in the Beach Policy.
The Committee discussed the issue of beach junk; specifically the partially sunken barge and what can be done about it. What could the City legally do with items such as this? Chair Stewart asked Planning Technician Engebretsen her recommendation regarding this issue. He asked if the Commission should send a Memorandum to the City Manager requesting the barge’s owner be located. Planning Technician Engebretsen will research when beach debris is considered “junk” in accordance with the Zoning Code; and if there is any critical habitat concerns and some possible solutions. She is not sure if anything can be done about the barge; and is unaware of the logistics since it is on private property and that is zoned Marine Industrial. The owner of the property would have to be contacted regarding if they want it or not. If not, the City of Homer certainly does not want it on their shoreline. The next issue to address is how to dispose of it. It is certainly not wanted at the landfill.
Chair Stewart brought up the issue about a cut up vessel used for an environment retention device that they discussed last month. He stated that a permit is required and there was no permit issued. He asked Planning Technician Engebretsen the status of that issue. Planning Technician Engebretsen will check with Dottie Harness in the Planning Department who is directly involved with the issue. She would get updates and report at next month’s meeting.
Commissioner Tolva said the majority of the committee’s discussion was focused on a resident who made a complaint regarding vehicles on the beach. The Committee felt that this issue needed to be addressed and policies enforced regarding vehicles and pedestrian usage on the beach. Commissioner Tolva would like to see the promotion of good behavior instead of issuing more restrictions; she would also like to see the pamphlet that is used by the Police department distributed by the City.
A. Parks
and Recreation History, By-Laws, and Legislative History
Ordinance 07-01(A) Amending Parks
and Recreation Commission Duties
B. Resolution
07-03 Regarding Emerald Park
C.
Resolution
07-04(A) Recognizing the Economic Development Commission
Recommendations for the Highest and
Best Use of Mariner Park
D.
Resolution
07-22(A) Regarding Parks and Recreation Commission Bylaws
E.
Resolution
07-53(A) Creating City Hall Town Plaza Review Committee
F.
Homer
Comprehensive Plan Public Workshop
G.
Memorandum
from City Planner McKibben Meeting Dates with
Comprehensive Plan Speakers –
Agnew::Beck
H.
Parks
and Recreation Annual Calendar
I.
Council
Meeting Dates
J.
March
20, 2007 Transportation Advisory Committee Minutes
K.
Acknowledgements
from the Mayor
City Resident, only identified as Beth, praised the Commissioners on the issues they address during the meeting. However, she wanted to address the 10 acres swap issue, she was vehemently opposed to this. She felt that the City could offer right of way access, if that was all the adjoining property owner needed. She was of the opinion that the City should not sell or trade any of its land. It has future value. She commented that the beach accesses should be marked. She knows of one access in particular where vehicles are now parked blocking access to the beach. That instead of giving funds only to non-profits (regarding sales tax proposal), that the City could get some of the funds and take care of the needed signs. She suggested that for beach accesses from bluffs that tumbling rocks down to make accessibility to the beach would work in her opinion. Her final comment was about the trail along Woodard Creek, where she believes the mound of dirt has been sloughing down into the creek bed. She suggested contouring the eastern portion immediately overlooking the creek. This can then be made into a trail to be used by many residents. She believes it can be accomplished.
None.
POORE/TOLVA- MOVED TO ADD THE WOODARD CREEK, BLUFF CONTOURING ISSUE TO NEXT MONTH’S AGENDA FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: YES. NON-OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.[2]
Commissioner Poore thanked everyone for saving her seat.
Commission Bremicker welcome Commissioner Tenhoff.
Commissioner Tenhoff had no comments.
Commissioner Tolva thanked everyone
for a great meeting.
COMMENTS OF THE COUNCILMEMBER (If
one is assigned)
None.
COMMENTS OF THE CHAIR
Chair Stewart wanted to remind everyone that at the May
meeting nominations and voting on a vice chair and any other required positions
would be performed. So to please think about that in the upcoming weeks. That
the Commissioners needed to start thinking about the Capital Improvements and
what to put on the list. Chair Stewart also extended a warm welcome to
Commissioner Tenhoff.
There being no further business
to come before the Commission, Chair Stewart adjourned the meeting at 9:12
pm. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for May 17, 2007 at the City
Hall Cowles Council Chamber located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer Alaska.
Renee
Krause, Deputy City Clerk I
Approved:
[1] Vote should occur immediately after motion is made. Then the floor is open for discussion from the maker of the motion.
[2] Motions should not be made after business has been completed. This can be requested by Committee Member or Commissioner to be added to the agenda as part of their comments.