Lawrence Parks and Recreation

Advisory Board Meeting Minutes

January 10, 2012

MEMBERS PRESENT:	Joe Caldwell, Chair; Andy Clayton, Vice Chair; Kevin Loos, Jana Dawson and Kelly Barth
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:	Ernie Shaw, Mark Hecker and Roger Steinbrock
GUESTS:	John Thornberg and Chad Lawhorn

I. Meeting called to order by Chair Caldwell

II. Approval of the Dec. 13 minutes-- Motion to approve December 2011 minutes by Loos and seconded by Clayton.  Motion approved. 

III. Concerns of Board – Loos followed up and met with Alan Cowles, president of the West Lawrence Neighborhood Association about setting up a meeting with the neighborhood regarding the lack of playground equipment located at DeVictor Park.  Dawson inquired if a response would be sent out to those who have sent in correspondence regarding the Recycling Center and the possibility of transforming that location into a park.  Shaw indicated that a response would be sent out.  Dawson also reported that Loos will be receiving an award this month.  He has been named the Wally Galluzzi award winner for the Chamber for his volunteer services. A member of the public, John Thornberg presented information regarding the Burcham family.  He expressed concerns about the intended use of Burcham Park and notifying the public on any future projects.   

IV. Tennis court lights – Shaw reported he recently met with KU regarding a partnership that would allow the community usage of the KU tennis courts, located by Robinson Gym.  KU was very amenable to the idea.  There are some improvements that will likely need to be made and those costs would be part of the agreement.  If the partnership gets approval from KU officials, it will then have to be presented and approved by the City Commission.  Another alternative that is being pursued is receiving estimates on reconfiguring the lights at the tennis courts at Lawrence High.

V. User fee reviews – Shaw reported, he received notification from the City indicating the fees that the city offers for its services are being reviewed.   A meeting next week will determine how in depth we are required to report since the fees for P&R varies considerably for each activity.

VI. LAWC Updates - Shaw reported there were 9 Architect proposals and 3 Fundraising proposals that were received before the deadline.  Dawson and Barth have agreed to be part of a team of staff members reviewing the proposals and interviewing the firms.  Recommendations will be given to the City Commission by the end of February. 

VII. Sesquicentennial Park – Clenece Hills met with our staff to discuss moving forward with the development of Sesquicentennial Park.  At this time, there is no funding available for this project.

VIII. LPRD Administration offices at South Park – Progress report – Hecker reported walls are being painted; light fixtures will soon be installed.  Renovation is on scheduled.

IX. Staff reports

i. Recreation/Golf Revenue/Expense Report – Shaw reported recreation revenue is doing extremely well.  Enrollment is up 6%. Hecker reported golf revenue for December and beginning of January has been good.  Weather has been cooperating.  Projecting that revenue for this year will be -$60,000 versus

 -$120,000 that was anticipated.        

ii. Parks/Projects Report – Hecker indicated the new ball diamond lights are being installed at Hobbs Park.  New poles are being installed at YSC in fields 5-8 for lightening.

iii. Marketing Report – Steinbrock reported the Summer/Fall activity guides are now in the process of being updated.  A date will be determined for the Friends of the Park.

Meeting adjourned.  Next Advisory Board meeting scheduled for Noon, Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, Parks and Recreation Conference Room.