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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-01-09 PRC MINUTESEnglewood Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of January 9, 1997 The regular monthly meeting of the Englewood Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order at 5 :32pm by Chairman Gomes at the Englewood ServiCenter Training Room. Members present: Also present: Austin, Neyer, Armstrong , Gerlick, Christie, Waggo ner, Markwood , Black, ex officio Dave Lee, Golf Course Superintendent Gary Hultberg, Recreation Service Manager Bob Leonard, Facility Supervisor, Englewood Recreation Center Joe Sack, Facility Supervisor, Malley Senior Recreation Center Steve Dazzio, Chief Accountant Dave Henderson, Engineering/Special Projects Coordinator Rick Kahm , Engin eeri ng/Manager Betty Goosman , Buyer III Ford Frick, BBC Research & Consulting John Norris , The Norris Dullea Company Dave Hammill, BBC Research & Consulting Jodi Smith, BBC Research & Consulting Diana Rael, The Norris Dullea Company Bill Stahl, Colorado Coed Soccer Rob Alcorn, Colorado Coed Soccer Chairman Gomes asked if there were any corrections or additions to the minutes of November 14 , 1996 and December 12 , 1996. There were none. A motion was made and seconded that the minutes be approved as presented. The motion passed unanimously. Black introduced Gary Hultberg, the new Recreation Service Manager. Black stated that Hultberg had been with North Jeffco for the last ten years, and the City of Wheat Ridge prior to that. Hultberg would · be starting January 13, 1997. Bill Stahl , representative from Colorado Coed Soccer, was introduced. Stahl explained that Colorado Coed Soccer was requesting additional time on the fields at the Hosanna Athletic Complex. Stahl also explained that Colorado Coed's schedule consisted of 140 games, and that they were limited to 100 games at the Hosanna fields. Stahl reported that there was a positive relationship between the City of Englewood and Colorado Coed Soccer, and that there were no better fields than those at the Hosanna Athletic Complex. Stahl informed Commissi o n that he had been in contact with Chris Korba regarding the possibility of additional games. Korba explained to him about the regro wth period from June to September in order to repair damages to the existing sod , and to allow new sod to take root. Commissioner Armstrong asked when the Fall season begins for Colorado Coed . Stahl answered the beginning of the season is in August, but does not begin play on the Hosanna fields until the first of October. The Commission was told that Colorado Coed pays $15.00/game at the Hosanna fields, and have paid $30 .00 to $35 for lower quality fields elsewhere . Commissioner Gerlick arrived at 5 :40pm. Commissioner Markwood asked what Colorado Coed would do in the case of inclement weather. Stahl replied the season would be extended . Stahl went on to explain that the schedule is usually cushioned for an additional two to three weeks due to those circumstances . Black explained that Korba had visited the fields prior to his leave and had indicated that the fields could not handle additional games. Stahl reported that Colorado Coed is interested in helping to improve the conditions of the fields , and there is a continued effort from the teams to keep the fields cleaned after each game . Commissioner Christie expressed concern that with Korba on leave until mid-February, the start of Colorado Coed's schedule precludes his return. Black responded that any decision would be based off of 1998's schedule. Gomes thanked Stahl for the information, and asked Black to discuss the request with Department staff. Black would bring a recommendation back to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Stahl and Alcorn left at 6:50pm. Black introduced Ford Frick from BBC. Black explained that due to a number of Commission members being absent at the last BBC presentation, BBC was asked to make a second presentation with additional information. The Parks and Recreation Commission members had received for review a copy of the "Englewood Recreation Facilities Strategic Options" prior to the meeting . Frick introduced the steering committee and explained that the group has worked hand-in-hand with BBC. John Norris , Dave Hammill, Jodi Smith and Diana Rael were also introduced. Frick explained that he hoped to illuminate on the information presented at the September Commission meeting and to receive some feedback from the Commission. Frick gave a brief overview on goals hoped to be achieved in the analysis including 1) characterize and quantify demand for recreation facilities within the City , 2) complete a multi-disciplined evaluation of current facilities and assess the feasibility of expanding, remodeling or developing new facilities, and 3) develop a practical facility renovation and development strategy that builds upon current successes, changing patterns of demand, and unique local opportunities. Frick then discussed where money and energy should be directed, and what influences Recreation demand including 1) local area population and employment growth, 2) local area demographic trends, 3) local and national recreation use trends, 4) unique opportunities or constraints presented by existing properties or development in the area, 5) availability of other public and private recreation and senior services, and 6) city policies regarding appropriate levels of service and community willingness to incur recreation costs. Conclusions from the analysis include 1) Slow population growth for the community, 2) two demographic trends , a) community's senior population will require more active recreation facilities and program, and b) the community's large senior population will eventually give way to the younger fa milies and first time home buyers, and 3) that peak period demand is very high and the Recreation facilities are crowded during those times . Commissioner Neyer asked why income demographics were not included in the study . Frick replied that for income to be a factor, it needs to be either extremely high or low. In addition to aforementioned, Frick added that 1) Englewood is underserved for outdoor swimming pools and the current facility is dated, 2) The Malley Senior Center should offer a more expansive recreation component, 3) Currently , there is very limited ability to provide outdoor athletic programs, specifically at peak periods for soccer and baseball, and 4) In-line skating, roller hockey and skateboarding are currently very popular but there is question regarding the longevity of the these sports . Frick then discussed the opp ortunities identified for each Recreation facility . The Englewood Recreation Center racquetball courts are underutilized . By reconfi g uring and reuse of some of those courts, room would be available for new or expanded facilities within the building's existing structure. In regards to opportunities for the Malley Center, Frick explained there was an opportunity for expansion to the north of the existing building. Frick stated that the current layout of the Malley building lends itself to expansion and allows opportunity for a number of options. Frick indicated that with the acquisition of additional land, opportunities would exist at Belleview Park for additional amenities or parking. In regards to the Nature Area at Belleview Park, Frick reported that there needs to be thought concerning whether it should be le ft as it currently exists or should be further developed . Recommendations for immediate and feasible needs are 1) Englewood Recreation Center expansion and remodeling, 2) Malley Center expansion and renovation, 3) Belleview Children's Farm, consisting of modest renovation to mak e it functional, and 4) acquiring the Home Lumber property as a site for an outdoor pool and space for additional parking . Recommendations for long term needs are : 1) land acquisition for fields, 2) developing a strategy for the Belleview Nature Area, 3) continuing improvements to Belleview and Centennial Parks, and 4) monitor demand for an In-Line Skating facility . Frick then turned discussion over to Dave Hammill. Hammill discussed the demands that were putting pressure on the Englewood Recreation Center including: 1) Weight Room -the need and demand has grown for weight room facilities. Recommendations include renovating two racquetball courts by removing a dividing wall and making an area for conditioning and cardiovascular equipment. The existing weight room would be moved to the fitness room, with the fitness roo m being relocated due to acoustic problems with the existing structure . 2) Family Amenities -The Englewood Recreation Center does not provide facilities to serve families as other Recreation Centers do . Recommendations include renovat ing a racquetball court into a family locker room. 3) Leisure/Recreation Pool Amenities -Additional leisure/entertainment features , including a slide in the pool. 4) Indoor Playground -Conversion of Administrative Offices to an indoor playground. This would pro vi de a safe place for youth to use while parents are working out or while older brothers and sisters take classes . 5) Modifications to the Youth Activities Room -The current Youth Activities Room is not functional. A children's bathroom would be added and the play area outside of that room would be modified . In regards to adding an additional full-sized gymnasium, Hammill informed Commission that by adding such a facility , parking would become a concern .. The aforementioned recommendations would have very little impact on the existing parking situation. Armstrong questioned the use on the youth area modifications . Black responded that the modifications would provide opportunities for expansion of the preschool program and for different age groups. Hammill then discussed recommendations for the Malley Senior Re creation Center. Hammill reported that several comments were made during the tour and interviews regarding a need for better climate control and acoustic barriers . Hammill recommended expanding the facility to the North , and adding a recreation facility including a mini-gymnasium for aerobic and fitness classes . It was explained that the additional gym would be the size of one half of the Englewood Recreation Center gymnasium , or the size of one volleyball court. The court would not be regulation size, but could possibly help alleviate some of the demand for gym space . An area would also be dedicated for fitness equipment and two new restrooms/changing areas . A lounge and social space would also be added . Ch anges in the existing building would include additional offices expanded from the existing office area, and a consignment shop for the arts and crafts made by the seniors. Hammill explained that by capitalizing the land to the north , there would be a need for additional parking . Parking exists across the street, but is a concern with the seniors . Hammill proposed a plaza/cul- de-sac between the Simon Center and the Malley Center ; thus , eliminating the Simon Center members having to cross the street. In regards to a cul-de-sac, Frick reported that it may have to be tested with the City. Kahm, City Engineer, resp o nded that it was once a consideration and thought it would be no problem. John Norris then discussed the recommendations for Belleview Park. Norris stated that the intent was not to enlarge the facility , but to make minor changes including bringing in water, adding a restroom facility and making a separate entrance and exit, alleviating the congestion at the front of the facility . Another recommendation was to expand the farmyard facility , possibly adding pony rides. As discussed previously, Norris stated that with the ac q ui sition of the Home Lumber property, opportunities exist for a leisure and lap pool facility . Commissi oner Waggoner asked if the parking for the pool facility would be adequate . Norris replied yes, with 169 spaces . In regards to the Belleview Park Nature Area and additi onal ballfields , Norris reported that a study was conducted to determine if a soccer field would fit in the nature area . The study showed it would fit but would not be their recommendation due to the field being a "forced fit", not regulation size , and also the issue with parking . Norris suggested that the area had an opportunity as a nature park , and rec ommended to reseed with natural vegetation . The City of Englewood does not have any natural open areas . Discussion then went to Centennial Park. Recommendations include paving the existing parking iots , landscaping , and developing the lake edge. Norris also suggested increasing the water quality in the lake. In regards to the additional land to the north, Norris reported that distance would make it difficult to access . Norris indicated it could be a potential site for a soccer fi eld . Christie asked if the area was considered for a roller hockey facility . Norris responded that all areas have been considered for a roller hockey facility . In regards to the Kiewit property, Black reported that the City has not entered into discussion. Black added that discussion has taken pl ace with the City Manager , and that talk is forthcoming. Christie asked if modifications could be made to Sinclair Pool and use the Home Lumber property used for an additional pool. Norris indicated that a study would need to be conducted to determine what kind of use at Sinclair Pool. Norris added that it would make sense to expand the soccer fields at Sinclair. In regards to Christie 's comment on Sinclair Pool , Frick reported that there is a concern with a leisure image at a school. Christie responded that the pool does not operate during school months , but that she c ould not speak for the school board . Black indicated that the next step is to collect data to determine the costs on both. Christie reported that at a School Board Conference, they were made aware of GOCO fun d s available through a partnership with the school and City. Black stated that he had a conversation with Larry Nisbet regarding an additional soccer field at Clayton School. GOCO funds might be a source of funding . Christie asked if GOCO funds could also be used for Sinclair. Markwood commented that Sinclair was not large enough for two large fields. Armstrong asked if it was appropriate to request for more emphasis on soccer fields. Black replied it was . Armstrong also asked if there were any other recommendations for ball fields . Frick indicated that no recommendations were made . Black informed Commission that it was not appropriate to look at any additional properties at this point. In regards to a skateboard facility , Waggoner asked why it was not proposed. Frick replied that they were open to ideas and/or suggestions. Waggoner asked if they saw skateboarding as being on it 's way out. Norris reported th at it would need to be determined . Black recalled hearing that South Suburban was putting in a skateboard/roller blade park. Waggoner indicated that possibly Belleview Park should to be considered. Hammill reported that it may be appropriate to look at the back area of Centennial Park for such a facility , where people could roller skate in and have it tied in with the trail. Hammill asked if the Commission felt it was appropriate. In regards to a mini-gymnasium compared to a full-sized gymnasium, Sack stated that the question remains that if in five to ten years, a full-sized gymnasium would not have been the better investment. Frick indicated that a larger gymnasium would be utilized, but the concern is parking and a "forced fit". Jodi Smith commented that by putting in a full-sized gymnasium, the aesthetic beauty outside might be lost. Gomes asked about the possibility of expansion at a later date. Hammill indicated the cost would be much higher. It was asked about the possibility of expanding north at the Englewood Recreation Center . Kahm indicated that a promise was made with Meadow Gold that the City of Englewood would not ask for any more property. Discussion ensued regarding gymnasium usage. Gomes asked if the old parking lot at Flood Middle School could be used for a roller blade facility. Frick reported that it would not be a big investment. Frick thanked the Commission for the comments and ideas received from the Commission . Neyer asked if money was available for the renovations. Black stated it would come from a land bank , as Frick had discussed previously . Black informed Commission that the next steps were to get the plan approved and to develop a strategy. Black reported that the City Manager had commented that he would like to have the Recreation Feasibility Study presented to City Council the same time the City Hall Space Utilization Study is presented to them. Armstrong added that City Council will give the final approval. The Parks and Recreation Commission will make the recommendation. Armstrong indicated that overall, she liked the plan and that the information was well presented . Armstrong asked if BBC would look into the gymnasium at Malley Center and as well as recommendations for opportunities for soccer fields, Sinclair, and the Belleview Nature Area. Black informed Commission that he would ask for recommendations from staff and bring those back to the Parks and Recreation Commission for their recommendation. Black indicated that they will also go back to. the Malley Advisory Board for feedback on the gymnasium. Frick reported that research would be done on the gymnasiums and Sinclair Pool and would be brought back to Commission in February. BBC and Norris Dullea left at 7:55pm. Commission had commented that they were impressed with the overall presentation. Black reiterated to Commission that the City of Englewood is in the process of securing the Home Lumber property. Christie asked if the City was buying or taking the property. Black stated that the City was buying the property. Waggoner and Gomes added that the City would be paying market value. The Commission was reminded that Chris Korba was on medical leave until the beginning of February and that Dave Lee, Golf Course Superintendent, has assumed Korba 's duties. Black reported that at the December Cultural Arts Commission meeting, a recommendation was made to raise the Belleview Airplane. The Department is moving forward with those plans. Armstrong commented on staff turnover for the Parks and Recreation Department, referring to the recent resignation of Pat Austin, Program Administrator. Black reported that staff is looking at the turnover as an opportunity for re-organization. Plans would be finalized next week. Existing staff would be given the opportunity to app ly for any new positions , if interested. All new positions should be filled within six to eigh t weeks . Christie reported that Swedish will be moving out of the Duncan Building, and that All Souls has approac hed Englewood School District about using the building as a Early Child Care Center. Waggoner asked about the condition of the restrooms. Black replied that the restrooms are attached from outside . The Department is currently working on upgrades and winterization. Black reminded the Commission that a neighbor had agreed to o pen and close the restrooms . Black also reported that he had visited the property with Larry Nisbet and that he was concerned with the restrooms ' accessibility. Black explained that if the daycare comes in to the Duncan Building, it would be required to put a fence around the playground . The restrooms might be fenced in , which would raise o pposition from the neighbors. Christie commented that she had been contacted by a teacher at Englewood High School regarding youths interested in applying for the Youth Commission Members positions on the Commission. Christie referred the information to the Administrative Office. Neyer commented on the closure of Windermere Street due to construction on the bridge and roadway .. Neyer also discussed the decrease in racquetball use at the Englewood Recreation Center a nd the proposal to bring in a golf analyzer and climbing wall. Black reported that the golf analyzer was put on hold due to the facility expansion . In regards to Stahl's comment on fees charged for field use, Neyer asked why fees have not been changed in the past twelve years . Black indicated he was not aware of the history before parks came over to Recreation . Markwood replied that Englewood Soccer Association fees have also not increased due to what is being offered, and wondered if that policy was c arried over. Black recalled from discussion with City Council that Englewood Soccer Association's fees were based on a number of participants being resident. Waggoner suggested that all park usage fees be looked at. Christie reported that Englewood Public Schools has three levels of usage. Black s tated that he will go back to staff, a nd research data on park a nd field usage fees. Markwood asked who owned the Hosanna complex. Waggoner answered that it was school property, but the City has maintenance responsibility. Markwood commented that soccer fields are at a premium, and may want to suggest to BBC to research the possibility of lighted fields. Markwood stated concern that Englewood may not have the space to acco mmodate Englewood Soccer Association in the future. Referring to the situation with the Golf Course driving range lights affecting the drive-in theater, Gomes asked what had been done . Black stated that the City has addressed the issue with Gobal. Black reported that the Golf Course was then asked to sign a letter stating the problem would be resolved before Gobal signed the lease . The City would not sign the letter. Black indicated the City has spent $1 0-15 ,000 trying to resolve the problem, and has even turned the lights down. Dave Lee has also researched putting the lights in the ground, but due to climate, did not recommend it. Black will be meeting with the City Manager and will report to City Council. Black added that the light was metered and found to be equivalent to moonlight. The meeting was adjourned at 8:32pm. Deborah A . Severa, Recording Secretary ' .