1999-08-09
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 CITY OF SOUTHLAKE
2 PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEETING
3
4 August 9, 1999
5
6 MINUTES
7
8 Board Members Present: Sherry Berman, Chair; Richard Anderson, Vice-Chair; Cara White,
9 Secretary; Mary Georgia; James Glover; Chris Miltenberger; Robin Jones; Lisa Stokdyk.
10
11 Board Members Absent: Bill Kemp.
12
13 Staff Members Present: Kevin Hugman, Director of Community Services; Steve Polasek,
14 Deputy Director of Community Services; Ben Henry, Park Planning and Construction
15 Superintendent; John Eaglen, Administrative Assistant.
16
17
18 Regular Session:
19
20 Agenda Item No. 1, Call to order. The meeting was called to order by Sherry Berman, Chair
21 at 7:01 p.m.
22
23 Reports:
24
25 Agenda Item No. 2.A., Administrative Comments. Mr. Hugman announced that the
26 Administrative Secretary position has been filled by Ms. Judy Russeau, and she will be
27 starting on August 23, 1999. Ms. Berman asked if any members had comments for staff.
28 Ms. Jones announced that she has received comments regarding the organization of the youth
29 sports, and suggests that maybe staff needs secretarial assistance. Mr. Hugman responded
30 that the problems to date have been due to staffing, and Ms. Jones responded by suggesting
31 that the recreation staff needs help. Mr. Hugman said that the staffing issues are being
32 addressed and with the addition of Ms. Russeau, are fully staffed now.
33
34 Ms. Stokdyk asked about the fee schedule for the Tennis Center and inquired as to who Mr.
35 Joe Snailum is. Mr. Hugman explained that resident annual family memberships were
36 adjusted to five hundred and fifty dollars ($550) and non-residential family members were
37 adjusted to five hundred and seventy-five dollars ($575). Mr. Hugman stated that Mr. Joe
38 Snailum is the Tennis Center Manager, and explained that Mr. William Bryan had withdrawn
39 his name from consideration. Mr. Hugman also stated that Mr. Snailum had met with himself
40 and the City Manager prior to an offer. Ms. Jones clarified that the fee increase is consistent
41 with other public tennis facilities in the area, and that the league fees are a flat rate regardless
42 of residency.
43
44
45
46
47
48
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 Motion was made to move Items 5-D and 5-E to the Consent agenda.
2
3 Motion: Stokdyk
4 Second: Miltenberger
5 For: Berman, Anderson, White, Stokdyk, Miltenberger, Georgia, Glover, Jones
6 Against: None
7 Approved: 8-0
8
9 Consent Agenda:
10
11 Agenda Item No. 5D. Shade structures for Bob Jones Park soccer fields. Request by the
12 Grapevine-Southlake Soccer Association (GSSA) to install shade structure at Bob Jones Park
13 for officials and referees.
14
15 Agenda Item No. 5E. Practice Areas for Southlake Baseball Association at Bicentennial Park
16 Approval of two backstops will increase the availability of practice areas, reduce usage of
17 the game fields as practice fields (thereby reducing maintenance), can be done at a minimal
18 cost, and will not impact any future park development plans.
19
20 Motion was made to approve the Consent agenda.
21
22 Motion: Miltenberger
23 Second: White
24 For: Berman, Anderson, White, Stokdyk, Miltenberger, Georgia, Glover, Jones
25 Against: None
26 Approved: 8-0
27
28 Regular Agenda:
29
30 Agenda Item No. 4, Public Forum. Ms. Berman asked if there were any requests to speak
31 during the Public Forum, and Mr. Hugman responded that there were no requests. Public
32 Forum was closed at 7:15 p.m.
33
34 Consider:
35
36 Agenda Item No. S.A., Park Dedication for Crown Ridge Addition. Ms. Berman introduced
37 Mr. Paul Spain of Terra Development. Mr. Paul Spain, 2807 Brookshire Drive, announced
38 that he came before the Board earlier in the year regarding this development, and explained
39 the size of sixty-four (64) acres and location of the development. Mr. Spain explained the
40 topography of the land. Mr. Spain stated that the development is a Planned Unit
41 Development (PUD) of eighty-five (85) lots and described their park dedication proposal.
42
43 Included in expense credit worksheet is 6.35 acres of open space - some of which is
44 intended to be public open space. This total reflects the required allocation of open space
45 as per the Planned Unit Development (PUD) regulations.
46
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 ➢ Park land dedication of natural and unmaintained open space totaling 1.68 acres.
2 This land is adjacent to the southeast corner of T.W. King and Bob Jones Road and
3 runs along the south end of Bob Jones.
4
5 ■ Equestrian trail totaling 1,300 feet inside the proposed park land dedication along the
6 southern edge of Bob Jones Road. The proposal calls for this to be dedicated as public
7 trail.
8
9 ■ Concrete trail totaling 1,150 feet, the proposal requests credit for this as a private trail.
10
11 Ms. Stokdyk asked if there have been changes in the street along T.W. King Road. Mr. Spain
12 confirmed that City staff requested straightening of T.W. King at the intersection with Bob
13 Jones road. Mr. Anderson asked about the drainage areas in the center of the development.
14 Mr. Spain explained that this is a natural area to maintain the amount of trees along the area
15 and promote natural drainage. Ms. Berman asked if the hike and bike trail will cross the
16 equestrian trail, and expressed concern about this crossage. Ms. Berman suggested that it
17 could be dangerous to cross equestrian and pedestrian uses. Mr. Spain clarified that Ms.
18 Berman asked that the crossage be stopped or properly signed. Mr. Glover stated that it may
19 be acceptable to properly sign the area, as the crossing gives bicyclists access to Bob Jones
20 Road.
21
22 Mr. Glover asked about the greenbelt areas in the middle of the development, as it looks as if
23 they have sidewalks. Mr. Glover asked if the greenbelt areas have trails also. Mr. Spain
24 explained that these areas are drainage and utility easements and not trails, and the drainage
25 runs under the sidewalks. Ms. Stokdyk asked for clarification on the trail areas and drainage
26 areas. Mr. Spain clarified these areas. Ms. Stokdyk asked if the top part of the development
27 is heavily wooded, and Mr. Spain confirmed this.
28
29 Ms. Berman asked Mr. Hugman if the City would be responsible for the equestrian trail if
30 accepted. Mr. Hugman stated that the public area along Bob Jones Road and T.W. King
31 would be the responsibility of the City to maintain. Ms. Berman asked if the Southlake
32 Equestrian Association would be able to assist in the maintenance of this area, as it may
33 become burdensome to staff. Mr. Hugman stated that the area should not be a problem to
34 maintain, but the "flag" area along T.W. King may be a problem. Ms. Berman asked if the
35 area could be maintained by the developer, and Mr. Spain suggested that this would not be a
36 problem, as the area is heavily wooded. Mr. Anderson asked if the area along the new T.W.
37 King could also be maintained by the developer. Mr. Spain agreed to include this area in the
38 maintenance responsibilities of the homeowners association.
39
40 Ms. Georgia asked about the Trail System Master Plan, and if the easements have been
41 acquired along North White Chapel. Mr. Hugman stated that the developer is required to
42 dedicate the required right of way. Ms. Stokdyk asked what Mr. Spain's plans are for this
43 area. Mr. Spain stated that the plans are to landscape the area to provide a buffer zone. Ms.
44 Berman asked Mr. Spain about the possibility of putting in a sidewalk along White Chapel
45 across from City property on North White Chapel (Bob Jones Park). Mr. Spain asked about
46 the type of trail. Mr. Hugman explained that the Trail System Master Plan calls for an eight
47 foot (8') sidewalk trail in the area, however, the TSMP shows the trail on the park side of
48 North White Chapel. Ms. White asked if the Right-Of-Way given by Maguire-Thomas
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1 connects to this property. Mr. Anderson stated that it does not and clarified Ms. Berman's
2 request. Mr. Glover stated that he did not understand Ms. Berman's request. Ms. White
3 asked if the developer could provide improvements on City owned property, and Mr.
4 Hugman stated that they could as a donation.
5
6 Ms. Georgia asked if Mr. Spain was asking for credit for the 1.6 acres of open space, 1,300'
7 of equestrian trail, and the private open space credits. Mr. Spain confirmed this, and stated
8 that this proposal exceeds the dedication requirements. Mr. Glover asked if the developer is
9 asking to receive the credit in excess of the dedication, and Mr. Spain explained that they are
10 trying to show that the developer is willing to exceed the dedication requirements.
11
12 Ms. White asked if the Trail System Master Plan requires the construction of a sidewalk
13 along T.W. King. Mr. Hugman replied that the developer is not required to do this by the
14 Trail System Master Plan, as it only requires an on-road trail. Ms. White asked about the
15 requirements inside the development, and Mr. Hugman stated that the Sidewalk Ordinance
16 does require sidewalks inside the development. Mr. Glover stated that the proposal exceeds
17 the requirement. Ms. White suggested that with the SABRE development the available land
18 is diminishing. Ms. Stokdyk inquired about the donation of private trail, and Mr. Hugman
19 clarified that the developer can receive half credit for this and that T.W. King is a through
20 road, as it connects to State Highway 114. Ms. Jones suggested that as a private trail, the
21 developer would be required to maintain the property.
22
23 Ms. Berman suggested that there are several Planning and Zoning issues, and that if the
24 planning process changes the proposal, that it should come back before the Board.
25
26 Motion was made to accept the proposal as meeting the park dedication requirements of
27 $127,500, but no additional credit.
28
29 Mr. Anderson stated that the motion needs to call for the City to take ownership of the
30 property, but that the developer would maintain the property. Mr. Hugman stated that the
31 land next to Cobblestone Drive would not be a problem to maintain, but the eastern property
32 would need to be maintained by the developer. Ms. Georgia stated that the only change in
33 the motion needs to be the land next to lots 9 and 10. Ms. Berman asked if the motion gives
34 the developer credit for $288,000. Mr. Glover clarified that the motion accepts all of the
35 proposed items as fulfilling his $127,500 park dedication requirements.
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 Motion was made to accept the proposal with the amendment that the property adjacent to
2 Block F, Lots 2, 9, and 10 on Cobblestone Drive be donated to the City and maintained by
3 the Homeowners Association, as meeting the $127,500 park dedication requirements.
4
5 Motion: Glover
6 Second: Georgia
7 For: Berman, Anderson, Stokdyk, Miltenberger, Georgia, Glover, Jones
8 Against: White
9 Approved: 7-1
10
11 Agenda Item No. S.B., Recommendation from Northeast Tarrant Tennis (NETT) for
12 matching grant funds. Mr. Hugman explained the proposal and that NETT requests a
13 recommendation to SPDC of matching grant funds. Mr. Hugman explained that there is
14 $35,000 left in Fiscal Year 1999 and that it would be up to SPDC whether this would be
15 rolled into next year's budget. Mr. Hugman stated that staff discussed items that could be
16 purchased with the matching funds.
17
18 Ms. Stokdyk asked if the $35,000 is in this year's budget until October 1, 1999. Mr. Hugman
19 stated that this is true. Ms. Georgia asked if the City accepts proposals even if the matching
20 funds have not been received. Mr. Hugman stated that in the past, the City has accepted
21 proposals and authorized funding, but checks have not been issued unless the requesting
22 organization also has funds available. Ms. Jones stated that the pavilions are an example of
23 this, and Mr. Hugman confirmed this. Ms. Stokdyk stated that in the past the organizations
24 have had to have the money prior to receiving consideration. Ms. Stokdyk stated that this
25 may be unfair since other organizations have been put on hold in the past, and said this
26 request blocks access to the remainder of the balance for other organizations. Ms. Jones
27 reminded the Board that the Tennis Center needs to have items purchased to finish out the
28 facility, and there are no funds for this without the SPDC matching grant program.
29
30 Mr. Glover asked if all that NETT was asking for is twenty-five hundred dollars ($2,500).
31 Ms. Georgia clarified that the request totals fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000). Mr.
32 Miltenberger stated that in the proposal there are plaques to be placed around the facility to
33 get the funds, and asked if NETT is doing the fundraising or is the City. Mr. Hugman stated
34 that NETT would do the fundraising, similar to what was done for the Adventure Alley
35 pavilions. Mr. Anderson replied that by the end of the fiscal year the organization has to
36 raise the money or the funds could disappear. Ms. Berman replied that the leftover funds
37 could be applied to the next fiscal year budget. Ms. Stokdyk asked if SPDC has dedicated
38 the same amount of money for next year. Mr. Hugman confirmed that SPDC has allocated
39 one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) annually over a five year period in the 5-Year Parks
40 CIP.
41
42 Ms. Georgia asked about the amount the Parks and Recreation Board could allocate. Ms.
43 Jones explained that the Board could allocate up to five thousand dollars ($5,000), and that
44 over that the Board could only recommend to SPDC to approve matching grant funding. Ms.
45 White inquired about who has discretion over the project priority list, and Mr. Hugman
46 replied that staff determines the priority. Ms. Jones stated that the projects listed in the
47 NETT proposal are recommendations from City staff.
48
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 Ms. Berman asked if there are other organizations that could have the same ability to sponsor
2 items at the Tennis Center. Mr. Hugman stated that the center court is the only item that will
3 be sponsored by NETT, and that in meeting with NETT President Lynn Jumper, staff
4 mentioned the possibility of sponsoring a membership for a specific period of time. Ms.
5 Jones stated that NETT is the only local tennis organization, and that all others in the area are
6 based in Dallas.
7
8 Ms. Lynn Jumper, 418 Southridge Lakes Parkway, explained that NETT would be soliciting
9 donations and other items from other sponsors, but that NETT would be the primary
10 organizer of the contributions. NETT's only contribution would be the sponsorship of the
11 center court.
12
13 Ms. Stokdyk asked if the previous organizations proposing projects have had a full amount of
14 cash in hand. Mr. Miltenberger stated that the Pavilion Committee had committed to raise
15 funds. Mr. Hugman explained that the projects do not move forward until the organization
16 has the matching requirements to begin the process. Ms. Stokdyk asked if the pavilion
17 committee had the money in hand to start when the project was approved by SPDC. Ms.
18 Stokdyk stated that if money is committed prior to funds being raised by the organization, it
19 could set a bad precedent. Mr. Glover stated that this is always the case. Ms. Jones stated
20 that when Keep Southlake Beautiful came forward, the organization wanted start up funds.
21 Ms. Stokdyk replied that they offered in-kind contributions. Ms. Berman stated that the
22 Board instructed Keep Southlake Beautiful to have cash on hand prior to starting the project,
23 and at that time Keep Southlake Beautiful went out and solicited funding.
24
25 Ms. White asked about the items on the proposal, and does the sponsorship pay the complete
26 cost of the facility or item. Mr. Hugman clarified that funding is not directly allocated to a
27 specific project at the Tennis Center.
28
29 Ms. Georgia stated that the proposal falls within the guidelines for acceptance, and that the
30 funds are available for one more month, and that NETT will work with staff on the placing of
31 the plaques.
32
33
34 Motion was made to recommend the approval of the request for matching funds in the
35 amount of $2,500 with a recommendation to SPDC to approve additional matching grant
36 funding in the amount of $12,500 with funds from Fiscal Year 1998-99 for a total matching
37 grant of $15, 000.
38
39 Motion: Georgia
40 Second: Jones
41 For: Berman, Anderson, White, Miltenberger, Georgia, Glover, Jones
42 Against: Stokdyk
43 Approved: 7-1
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 Agenda Item No. S.C., Recommendation of an agreement with Brinkley Sargent Architects
2 for the design and construction drawings for the proposed Teen Center. Mr. Steve Polasek,
3 explained the planning process leading up to acquiring the Request for Qualifications, and
4 how the firms who responded were evaluated. Mr. Polasek stated that through the evaluation
5 process with the planning committee, it was determined that Brinkley Sargent Architects
6 would be the best choice for this project
7
8 Mr. Polasek stated that the proposed fees for facility program development total five
9 thousand dollars ($5,000). Mr. Polasek noted that fees in this section are determinant upon
10 the number of meetings, which could be lower and thus lower the cost. Mr. Polasek provided
11 the other fees: eighty-nine thousand dollars ($89,000) for architectural services, and thirty-
12 two thousand and four hundred dollars ($32,400) for construction administration. The total
13 cost for this proposal is one hundred and twenty-six thousand, two hundred and fifty dollars
14 ($126,250). Mr. Polasek stated that he has met with representatives and the contract
15 dimensions are established, and the proposal is now being reviewed by the City Attorneys.
16
17 Mr. Miltenberger asked about the size of the percentage for construction administration. Mr.
18 Polasek replied that this percentage is slightly larger for this project due to the smaller scope,
19 but is typical for smaller scale projects. Mr. Glover asked about the planning process and the
20 focus groups that have put forth input into the facility. Ms. Jones stated that the
21 recommendations of the focus groups will be forwarded to the architect and these ideas are
22 the foundation of the concept. Mr. Polasek stated that in the process, the architect will
23 expand upon the discussions the focus groups have held.
24
25 Mr. Glover stated that this sounds like the architect will work around what has been provided
26 by the kids, and does not agree with that. Mr. Hugman stated that the architect will need to
27 hold discussions with the user groups in order to begin their design process. Ms. Jones stated
28 that she assumes that the information collected will be forwarded to the architect. Mr.
29 Polasek stated that the architect has the information. Mr. Glover stated that he does not want
30 to believe that the City would construct a desired Teen Center and then have no turnout
31 because it is not what the kids want after Board members have excessive input. Mr.
32 Miltenberger stated that he is in favor of including Board members in the process. Mr.
33 Polasek stated that the idea is to meet with participants again and have the architect speak
34 with them directly. Mr. Polasek stated that this information has been forwarded to the
35 architect, and the process will expand upon the information already provided by the youth
36 groups. Mr. Glover suggested that a starting and ending list be constructed, and have some
37 kind of comparison at the end of the process.
38
39 Ms. Bess Frost, 1928 Sheffield Drive (Grapevine), announced that the Teen Club has been
40 formed to have input on the Teen Center. Ms. Frost stated that the initial target group was to
41 be sixteen (16) years of age and younger, but that the focus should be expanded to address
42 the older teenagers also. Ms. Frost suggested that the Teen Center should have different
43 nights to provide functions tailored to diverse age groups. Ms. Frost stated that a good
44 example to use is a dance club in Irving that is heavily frequented by local teenagers. Ms.
45 Frost stated that the facility could serve multiple user groups, but the planning thus far has
46 been directed to younger kids, but that the older kids need to have an alternative place to
47 meet as well.
48
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1 Ms. Shelby Stengle, 318 Blanco Circle, stated that the facility should be somewhere where
2 older kids want to frequent, and this will increase the usage of the facility. Ms. Stengle
3 referenced a proposed petition that the Southlake Teen Club would like to distribute to gather
4 further input on the facility. Ms. Stengle stated that she and Ms. Frost are in the Southlake
5 Youth Action Commission, and during the input stages they did not get a correct picture as to
6 what the facility is going to look like.
7
8 Ms. Stokdyk asked if the Teen Center will be utilized by older kids in the evening. Ms.
9 Stengle stated that the facility would be used by older kids in the evening. Mr. Glover stated
10 that this is a good reason for having the planning process, and that the process should be
11 decided upon by the kids. Ms. White suggested that the feedback from the older kids was not
12 sufficient at the time of the planning. Ms. Jones stated that everything that has been proposed
13 is included in the final recommendations for the Teen Center. Ms. Stengle stated that the
14 kids do not want to dance in a gymnasium. Ms. Jones replied that they were not at the Teen
15 Center planning meetings. Ms. Stengle stated that the petition should be allowed to circulate
16 and gather public input. Ms. Jones replied that the petition is biased and will hurt the process
17 more than help. Ms. Jones said that the Teen Center idea came out of the Drug and Alcohol
18 Committee Study that suggested there needs to be recreational programming for kids from
19 the ages of eleven (11) to fifteen (15) years of age, but this does not prohibit the older kids
20 from using the facility.
21
22 Ms. Berman asked the teens why they have not been involved in the process to date. Ms.
23 Frost stated that the committee addressed SYAC in the winter, but that the ideas discussed at
24 the time were not acceptable to SYAC participants. Ms. Jones explained the process, and
25 that when the committee addressed SYAC, the discussion turned to programming when the
26 committee was at the facility stage. Ms. White stated that programming and design need to
27 be connected, and that the older kids feel like they have been excluded. Mr. Glover said that
28 Ms. Georgia's suggestion is valid, and added that there is a possible role for the Joint
29 Utilization Committee in gathering public input from kids. Ms. Jones encouraged the teens'
30 involvement on this issue.
31
32 Motion was made to accept Brinkley Sargent Architects as the architect firm for the Teen
33 Center at a cost of $126,250 and that sixty percent (60%) of the meetings involve children.
34
35 Mr. Hugman stated that staff has heard the direction of the Board, and intends to hold the
36 necessary meetings with the appropriate user groups. Mr. Hugman also requested that a
37 percentage figure not be attached to the motion, as it may be unnecessarily restrictive. Mr.
38 Miltenberger agreed with this request.
39
40 Motion was made to accept Brinkley Sargent Architects as the architect firm for the Teen
41 Center at a cost of $126,250 and the services outlined in the proposal.
42
43 Motion: Stokdyk
44 Second: Jones
45 For: Berman, Anderson, White, Stokdyk, Miltenberger, Georgia, Jones
46 Against: Glover
47 Approved: 7-1
48
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1 Agenda Item No. S. D., moved to the Consent agenda.
2
3 Agenda Item No. S.E., moved to the Consent agenda.
4
5 Ms. Berman called for a break at 8:15 p.m.
6
7 Meeting was reconvened at 8:35 p.m.
8
9 Discussion:
10
11 Agenda Item No. 6.A., Bob Jones Park Development.
12
13 Mr. Polasek provided a presentation to the Board at 8: 35 p. m.
14
15 Ms. White asked if there are still lots outstanding in the area discussed that impact planning.
16 Mr. Hugman replied that the land acquisition process is progressing and the lots will be
17 acquired shortly. Ms. Georgia asked about the timeline for the TPWD projects that are
18 required. Mr. Hugman stated that the grant was awarded in 1996, but began later. Mr.
19 Hugman said there have been problems with TPWD on entering into a contract, but that the
20 State has indicated that they will grant an extension for the project. Ms. Berman asked if the
21 City could get all projects completed and get the full amount of money from TPWD. Mr.
22 Hugman stated that the City anticipates completing the projects as scheduled and receiving
23 the full grant amount.
24
25 Mr. Polasek introduced Mr. Eddie Cheatham of Cheatham and Associates, Inc. Mr.
26 Cheatham stated that through discussions with staff numerous park construction items have
27 been identified and staff is interested in exploring an addendum to his existing design
28 contract. Mr. Cheatham stated that he would like to have some more information on certain
29 items that will allow for the design of the project. Mr. Cheatham introduced Mr. Gary
30 Kuliack, a landscape architect with extensive experience with amphitheaters. Mr. Cheatham
31 stated that the current budget will not get the project very far.
32
33 Mr. Kuliack of the Landscape Alliance addressed the Board, and stated that City staff has
34 asked him to come in and speak to the Board about the amphitheater project. Mr. Kuliack
35 stated that in terms of real world dollars, the sixty-four thousand dollars ($64,000) currently
36 in the budget will not construct an amphitheater.
37
38 Mr. Kuliack indicated that in planning an amphitheater there needs to be an extensive
39 planning process that gets the facility to an effective level. In communities where
40 amphitheaters are successful, there will be an organization or group that actively uses the
41 facility and directs the programming. In his project experience there have been numerous
42 projects that have provided effective benefits. Mr. Kuliack indicated that user groups tend to
43 be particular about the types of facility and utilities installed, and this can increase the cost.
44 Mr. Kuliack stated that the purpose of this discussion is to get information that directs staff
45 and the consultant on how to best proceed with the amphitheater planning process.
46
47 Mr. Glover asked the Board if there are any user groups who wish to utilize the facility. Ms.
48 Berman stated that several things have changed since the master plan for Bob Jones Park,
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APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MEMBERS
1 such as the addition of the Town Square pavilion. Ms. Berman stated that her idea of the
2 facility is that it is next to the Nature Center, and the use will be educational programming in
3 conjunction with the Nature Center.
4
5 Ms. White stated that the amphitheater was sold as a small, rustic facility that has no lighting
6 and electricity. Mr. Glover stated that he understood that the residents were promised by the
7 Parks Board that Bob Jones Park would be a passive park, and asked for clarification on this
8 definition. Ms. White stated that the initial concept of the park was that it would be an
9 athletic complex, and that the residents and the US Corps of Engineers held to approval of
10 passive uses. Mr. Miltenberger stated that with the athletic facilities included on the south
11 end of the park, it is essentially an athletic complex. Ms. Berman stated that the plan was a
12 compromise between the athletic associations and the Bob Jones Park residents. Ms. White
13 stated that the soccer fields on the north end were placed because the development was low
14 impact and that the City had not acquired the land to the south.
15
16 Mr. Hugman stated that the intent of the park was lower impact usage, passive activities. Mr.
17 Hugman stated that the purpose of the discussion is for Staff to gauge the Board's intent for
18 the amphitheater, but that the budget currently in place will not yield a very significant
19 facility. Mr. Hugman stated that the inference by the discussion is that the Board would like
20 to keep the amphitheater simple, but that there are other costs such as utilities. Mr. Hugman
21 stated that it may be necessary to build utilities, even if they are not initially used. Mr.
22 Miltenberger stated that he feels it is essential to build the facility with utilities. Mr. Hugman
23 stated that the City needs to build the amphitheater as committed to in the TPWD grant, or
24 face the possibility of putting the grant in jeopardy. Mr. Hugman said that this presentation
25 will be taken to SPDC later in the month, and if there are items presented tonight that are of a
26 concern to the Board, it will be relayed to SPDC.
27
28 Mr. Anderson stated that in regards to the drainage issues, it is necessary to finish out what
29 has already been constructed. Mr. Anderson also indicated that at the time of the initial Bob
30 Jones planning discussions a facility to have outdoor events like the Town Square pavilion
31 was not conceptualized. Mr. Anderson stated that as the amphitheater must now be
32 constructed, he would like to see the facility developed in conjunction with the Nature
33 Center, and have it be a low-impact facility. Ms. White added that as the budget amount is
34 already insufficient, the low-impact alternative makes the most sense. Mr. Hugman stated
35 that the planning for the facility in the future needs to be taken into account as well. Mr.
36 Miltenberger agreed, and said that the infrastructure needs to be included should the needs of
37 the facility change. Ms. White stated that in the future the need for an amplified facility next
38 to a Nature Center and around equestrian facilities will not be necessary. Ms. Stokdyk said
39 that some utilities (septic) will be necessary and can be in conjunction with the Nature
40 Center, however, she envisions the facility being low impact and developed with the Nature
41 Center. Ms. Stokdyk asked if there are some rock outcroppings that could help develop the
42 facility, and Mr. Henry replied that there are no such features to work with at Bob Jones Park.
43
44 Ms. Georgia stated that from what she has heard, the direction is to develop a low impact
45 facility with groundwork, but that she does not infer the need for concrete and large
46 structures. Mr. Anderson stated that the amphitheater established in the master plan calls for
47 a large facility, and that this is not necessary or feasible. Mr. Hugman stated that the staff
48 will keep the facility at a basic level. Mr. Kuliack mentioned a similar facility near the
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1 Houston area that utilized the natural surroundings, but with the popularity of the site the
2 need for further development of the facility occurred due to demand. Mr. Kuliack stated it is
3 beneficial to develop a low impact facility, as it allows for flexibility in the usage and design
4 as the park matures. Ms. White mentioned the low impact development of Stone Mountain
5 Park in Georgia. Mr. Kuliack stated his understanding is that the facility envisioned by the
6 Board is for the development of a low impact and educational facility.
7
8 Ms. Berman asked if the discussion provided what the staff needed in regards to the
9 amphitheater. Mr. Polasek replied that with this information, the staff will proceed in a
10 direction consistent with the discussion of the Board. Ms. White asked about the practice
11 fields, and Mr. Polasek stated that he envisions these fields to be designed as a group. Mr.
12 Miltenberger asked if these fields could be irrigated, and Mr. Polasek replied that it is
13 possible to look at irrigating the fields. Mr. Miltenberger said that as fields get heavy use in
14 Texas, it will be consistent with the discussion earlier to build the fields properly, and this
15 includes irrigation. Ms. Berman asked if the funding for the loop road can be redirected to
16 some of the projects. Mr. Hugman stated that the loop road needs to be at least designed at
17 this time, and it will be a necessary component to access the park facilities once they are
18 built. Mr. Hugman stated that this listing of projects will need to be taken to SPDC, and a
19 review of the priorities will be established with the development of the SPDC Fiscal Year
20 1999-2000 Budget.
21
22 Mr. Miltenberger asked if bleachers for the soccer fields are budgeted. Mr. Polasek answered
23 that at this point there is no money available, but the possibility exists for a matching funds
24 project. Mr. Miltenberger stated that right now Bob Jones Park does not look appealing
25 without bleachers.
26
27 Mr. Miltenberger asked if the parking lot landscaping will be completed at Bob Jones Park
28 prior to opening the soccer season. Mr. Hugman replied that the parking lot landscaping
29 should be completed by that time. Ms. Stokdyk asked if the areas where erosion is occurring
30 around the pond have been seeded. Mr. Polasek stated that the pond areas have been seeded,
31 but that the success is limited to date due to a lack of rain. Mr. Hugman added that some of
32 the grass is not resistant to the runoff, and this limits the success. Ms. Stokdyk asked about
33 pond replenishment, and Mr. Hugman answered that the City irrigates with water from the
34 pond, and replenishes when necessary from the well. Mr. Polasek added that the pond will
35 replenish in the spring with the rainy season.
36
37 Agenda Item No. 6.B., FY 1999-2000 Parks and Recreation Division Annual Budget. Mr.
38 Hugman stated that the budget has been filed with the City Manager's Budget, effective July
39 31, 1999. Mr. Hugman outlined the proposed General Fund balance and the proposed Parks
40 and Recreation Budget. Mr. Hugman said that there were several factors that led to revision,
41 and projects deleted that are eligible for funding through SPDC will be taken to them next
42 month. Mr. Hugman stated that all personnel requests have been deleted from the budget,
43 and this is on a Citywide basis. Mr. Hugman added that the budget work sessions will be on
44 Tuesday, August 10, 1999 beginning at 7:00 p.m., and invited Board members to the work
45 sessions.
46
47 Ms. Berman stated that she will try and be at the sessions tomorrow. Mr. Glover asked about
48 the difficulty in getting funding for bleachers for Bicentennial Park from SPDC. Mr.
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1 Hugman stated that he did not see this as problematic, and if so it may be able to come out of
2 Special Projects. Mr. Glover asked who owns the bleachers at the Intermediate School, and
3 Mr. Hugman stated he would investigate and look at the possibility of relocating them if
4 necessary.
5
6 Mr. Anderson asked about the personnel cuts, and Mr. Hugman replied that the five (5)
7 personnel requests were removed. Ms. Berman stated that this is problematic. Mr. Hugman
8 followed that there are two items driving the budget this fiscal year, one being funding for the
9 start up of a Library. The other major cost in the budget is the proposed pay plan revision for
10 current staff. Mr. Hugman stated that there are many positions in the City that are underpaid
11 in comparison to other cities, and in a tight labor market it has been a problem to hire new
12 people. Mr. Hugman stated that the City Council wanted to pay the current employees on a
13 market based pay rate. Mr. Glover stated that he believes that this is one reason the City lost
14 Ms. Kathy Schaeffer, and had initial problems filling Mr. Steve Moore's position. Mr.
15 Glover followed that he has had a conversation with Mr. Hugman about this issue in the past.
16 Mr. Anderson replied that this position is admirable, however the City has been acquiring
17 additional park land and there is no increase in staffing. Mr. Glover stated that it may be
18 beneficial to focus on infrastructure (utilities) and other things over the next year that do not
19 burden the maintenance staff.
20
21 Ms. Berman asked about the possibility of using grant funding for attaining staff. Mr.
22 Hugman stated that the option takes time to research and staff has been researching possible
23 grant funding as much as possible. Mr. Glover stated that personnel will be added in the
24 future due to the purchase of park land that will be developed, thus requiring more staff. Mr.
25 Polasek replied to this, stating that in the future when discussing projects, such as the Teen
26 Center, the operations and maintenance will be established so everyone has a clear picture of
27 what is required in terms of staffing. Mr. Miltenberger asked if anyone is satisfied with the
28 level of maintenance personnel. Mr. Hugman replied that no one is satisfied, and the focus is
29 to continue ways to best utilize the maintenance staff cost-effectively. Mr. Hugman said that
30 an example of this is the new requests of a tractor and batwing mower. Mr. Miltenberger
31 stated that it is obvious that Bicentennial Park is an overused facility. Mr. Hugman replied
32 that the new requests will improve maintenance and aesthetics of park facilities. Ms. Berman
33 asked about the possibility of utilizing citizen volunteers to help maintain facilities, such as
34 ballfield maintenance. Mr. Hugman replied that citizen volunteers do contribute to
35 maintenance in some areas. Mr. Polasek added that there has been a good cooperative effort
36 between the associations and the staff, and that he feels that everything has been done that
37 can be in this area. Mr. Hugman stated that the personnel issues are not only in Parks and
38 Recreation, and the priorities are sorted through by the City Council.
39
40 Ms. Stokdyk stated that she believed that the Town Square Banners and Arms were
41 eliminated by the Board. Mr. Hugman stated that this was left in the budget by staff and
42 discussed with City Council at their June retreat. He has spoken with Town Square officials
43 about furnishing a sound system that was removed from the budget. Mr. Hugman stated that
44 the banners will be used in conjunction with Parks and Recreation special events such as the
45 Fourth of July and the Christmas season. Mr. Hugman stated that staff is working on a policy
46 that allows for other organizations to purchase banners for special events.
47
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1 Ms. Georgia asked about the cost of bleachers similar to what is utilized at Town Square.
2 Mr. Polasek replied that the cost of bleachers depends upon length, size, and railing, but that
3 the cost of bleachers is more expensive than in the past. Ms. Georgia replied that while she
4 supports dressing up Town Square, she has a hard time supporting a budget that shortchanges
5 needed facilities to purchase banners at Town Square. Mr. Hugman replied that they will be
6 taking the bleacher purchases to SPDC, and that if necessary, money from the operating
7 accounts might be allocated to purchasing the bleachers.
8
9 Ms. Georgia stated that as a Board, the discussions always center around infrastructure, but in
10 terms of the budget, the Board only provides recommendations. Ms. Georgia followed that
11 she would like to have this understood in future discussions concerning infrastructure,
12 including discussions with developers, as the City has not historically dedicated funding for
13 infrastructure needs, it is unfair to push expectations onto developers and other parties. Ms.
14 Georgia stated that these decisions are left to SPDC, and that land acquisition has been the
15 focus. Mr. Miltenberger replied that this focus was agreed upon at the last Parks
16 Board/SPDC joint meeting in April. Ms. Georgia stated that this has not been communicated
17 to the public.
18
19 Ms. Berman replied that if people are not heavily involved in the process, it is hard to
20 communicate to them the logic behind decision making. Ms. White added that projects are
21 going on, but the demand has outrun the speed of development. Mr. Glover stated that the
22 root cause of this problem is communication about what is going on. Ms. White responded
23 that groups like SPIN relay information to public. Mr. Glover replied that the problem is that
24 there is a low connection between involvement and knowledge. Ms. Stokdyk asked what is
25 the solution. Mr. Glover answered that Ms. Georgia has a point that it needs to be better
26 communicated to the public that there are established priorities that guide action. Mr.
27 Hugman replied that communication can be improved and that due to staff turnover, the City
28 newsletter had been missed a couple of months. Hew would ensure an article in an upcoming
29 newsletter focused on SPDC projects.. Mr. Glover stated that governments have a hard time
30 explaining where money is allocated, and this needs to be improved. Mr. Miltenberger states
31 that he does not see this as a problem, and that the Board does a good job of communicating
32 the priorities to the public. Mr. Miltenberger said that the Board should press developers, as
33 the trails will never get built if they don't do this. Ms. Georgia agreed with this, but stated
34 that the Board needs to relay information to the public as to what is being done.
35
36 Agenda Item No. 6.C., Liaison Reports.
37
38 Youth Parks and Recreation Board - Ms. Berman asked about the membership. Mr. Hugman
39 replied that there needs to be an interview committee formed, and the interview panel must
40 consist of a Parks Board member and an SPDC member. Ms. Berman suggested advertising
41 through the schools, and Mr. Hugman replied that staff will investigate this option at their
42 opening.
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1 Recreation/Special Events - Jones - No report.
2
3 Teen Center Update - Jones - No report.
4
5 Youth Sports Associations - Miltenberger - Mr. Miltenberger stated the need to have the
6 three (3) fields lighted at Bicentennial Park, as the associations have increasing participants.
7 Ms. Berman asked what the cost of lighting would be. Mr. Polasek replied that a full cost
8 study needs to be done. Mr. Miltenberger stated that the SBA Board is dominated by parents
9 of older children, and the younger age group needs to be queried. Mr. Polasek mentioned
10 that they met with SBA President Ed Agnew, and this item was discussed. Mr. Miltenberger
11 asked that if the SBA offered to pay for the lights, would the City pick up the lighting costs.
12 Mr. Hugman said he felt this could be considered. Ms. Stokdyk asked at what point does
13 restriction of registration become an option. Mr. Hugman answered that the association
14 capacity is determined by the availability of fields, and if the City cannot build facilities fast
15 enough, restriction may become an option. Mr. Hugman stated that this is the case in
16 Basketball. Mr. Glover stated that this is also the case with hockey, that practice time is
17 limited to Sundays. Mr. Glover said that with the larger in-line hockey court, splitting up the
18 court for practice time is an option. Mr. Glover stated that another alternative is the sports
19 associations developing a regional partnership.
20
21 Community Groups - Stokdyk, White - Ms. Stokdyk reported that Keep Southlake
22 Beautiful is conducting an officer retreat this month; Greater Southlake Women's Club is
23 conducting Summer Santa; Equestrians need to have another meeting.
24
25 SPIN - White - Meeting on Wednesday, August 11, 1999. Ms. White reported that an
26 Executive Committee meeting will be coming up soon due to border issues.
27
28 SPDC - Berman, White - Ms. White reported that land acquisition was discussed, and
29 authorization has been granted to move forward on one property.
30
31 JUC - Glover - Mr. Glover reported that there was no meeting in July. Ms. Berman asked
32 about the status of the high school plans. Mr. Hugman replied that at the Joint Meeting, the
33 School District stated that they have not made a decision. Ms. Berman said that this decision
34 will impact recreational programming, as one high school will limit available varsity spots,
35 thus increasing pressures on the recreation system. Mr. Miltenberger stated that he is writing
36 a letter to the CISD School Board concerning conditions of the Durham Elementary School
37 fields. Mr. Glover stated that he will bring the issue up at the next Committee meeting.
38
39 City Council Monthly Report - Jones - No report.
40
41 Tennis Center - Jones - No report.
42
43 Equestrians - White, Anderson - No report
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1 Agenda Item No. 7, Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned by Chair Sherry Berman at
2 10:21 p.m.
3
4
5
6 Sherry Berman
7 Chair
8
9
10
11 Cara White
12 Secretary
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