ITEM: 5.4 New Business- Jim Kappelhoff
Title
AURELIA PARK UPDATE AND DISCUSSION
Background
At the August Park Board meeting, Mr. Stephen Klein expressed his concern about the poor condition of the tennis and basketball courts at Aurelia Park. He also wanted to know if there was a plan for replacement of the facility, money to replace the courts, and a timeframe for action or a plan to talk to the neighbors.
Since that meeting staff has sent a letter to 241 residents around the park indicating that the tennis and basketball courts will be removed due to their deterioration and with plans to replace the basketball court. It also stated that all expenditures for park improvements must be recommended by the Park Board and approved by City Council. Recently the tennis and basketball courts and the east fencing were removed by Public Works.
Feedback from the neighborhood on the letter and removal has been mixed. Staff received calls and e-mails from residents stating they do not want either tennis or basketball courts replaced because it is a draw for undesirable behavior and vandalism. Others submitted letters in favor of replacing these facilities. Staff has attached the correspondence received.
In regards to vandalism, staff has researched police and park patrol reports for Aurelia Park from the past 3 years with the following results:
2010: 7-Property Damage, 3-Graffiti
2011: 1-Graffiti, 1-Medical, 1-Animal Complaint
2012: 1-Maintenance, 3- Graffiti, 1-Parking
Discussion Points:
· Should the tennis and basketball courts be replaced at an estimated cost of $45,000 from the Park Development Fund?
· Should only the basketball court be replaced at a cost of $10,000 from the Park Development Fund?
· Should the remaining fence be taken down and that section of the park becomes a passive area?
At this time staff is seeking direction from the Park Board in moving forward with plans for this area of Aurelia Park.
Recommendation
Direction to staff.