Okay. Okay. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Commission is being called to order. Today is Thursday, November 6, 2025, and it's probably about 5:05 p.m. at Nisa City Hall.
Um before we motion to approve the agenda tonight, I would like to make an addition on the agenda. >> Okay. >> I'd like to add in a conversation about the um about the DNR grant and the possibility of matching the funds for that.
>> Can we put that under uh old business 6A Niswah City Park Planning? >> Okay. And then maybe a little conversation too with so Dan wasn't here when we we talked about um when we when we started the parks when we went
through and did the talked about the uh talked about the DNR grant and then we went and voted on the phase one for the parks for the parks commission the master plan. >> So if we can go through that a little bit maybe and get Dan up to speed and that was going to say to Bruce but Bruce
not here either so we'll just >> Yes. I will just elaborate on that under um the city park planning. >> Okay. >> Item. >> Yep. >> Can we get a motion to approve tonight's agenda? >> I so move. >> A second.
>> Those in favor? >> I. >> Those uh opposed, which brings us to open forum? Let me see. We have the mayor in the house.
>> You guys have did a great job. Good job. Okay. No, no conversations. Okay. So, that brings us to the department department report. >> Awesome. Thank you, Sherry. Um, so we've had about a two-month break, so I'm
going to recap uh several items here. Um, first up on maintenance and community center items. Uh, a couple of things that we've been working on here. Um, we did get a handrail added at the stairs at Nisah Lake Park. So, that's
been a very awesome addition. Um, should be great, uh, coming into the full season next year. So, we're thankful for the the individual contribution that helped to, um, get that going and complete. So, um, huge thank you to that individual.
We did have some graffiti down at Nisell Lake Park, so we discovered and removed that. Um, our maintenance staff participated in a chainsaw chaining course as well as attended uh their continuing education course on pesticide application.
Um, annually we order uh tables and chairs for the community center. So, we got that complete. Um, now that we're late into fall, the docks are out. Um, couple projects that we worked on. We stained the dugout benches. Um, we just
blew off the trails again yesterday. Um, and uh, now that we're into November, the Between the Lakes Park bathroom is closed for the season, so that reopens again May 1st. Um, we also ordered a few different supplies, one of which being pickle ball
nets. They were pretty rough shape by the end of the season, so we got some new ones to kick off next year. Um and then uh circling back on some items that we discussed last spring about the community center and looking at some of
those um updates coming down the pipeline. I have done a walk through with Noron and Hi-Tech this week. Uh looking at the facility there, getting their opinions and they'll be drafting up um some information here coming through the next month or so.
Um, in terms of recreation, we started and finished soccer, flag football, and dining etiquette class. Um, and now we are on to registrations for basketball and pond hockey. Um, time for play, which is our indoor play program for
youth um, up to age about six. That starts next week. That's in the community center. Uh, for ages 1 to six, that's $3 a participant. So, a really awesome indoor activity for uh young families in the winter time here. Um
that's Wednesdays and Friday mornings. And then uh we are also accepting applications for our seasonal positions. So, getting all that underway and ready to rock um coming here into December.
And then as we go on to some of the park items, I'm going to touch mostly on the Go Lake Trail. Uh the trail was paved on October 4th and then on October 20th we did a walkth through um with a contractor to create a final punch list
of tasks. Uh the trail is now open for use. Um and some tasks will be uh deferred till spring and so that list has been identified and worked through with the contractor. Um but it is open for winter use now. Um, and then along
with that, if you guys remember, we amended the grant to include a trail into the Nisle Lake Park as well as a bathroom. So, we continue to work on the plans for that. We're getting pretty close to the final layout budget
um and kind of getting all of those items in a row for a quick execution uh in the spring. Um, so continue to work through that. I don't remember if I mentioned, so I'm just going to say this again. Uh, per the manufacturer of the
bathroom, um, they did indicate that it would need to be winterized, which means we'd be closing it for the bathroom, closing it for the winter. Uh, so happy to answer any other questions. That's the bulk of my report.
>> No questions. >> Good. Cool. Um, so moving on to old business, uh, Nisa City Park. Um, I'm going to start with item one here,
giving an update on local sales tax. Um, and then we'll kind of dive into the um, rest of it, the phasing as well as the DNR grant because I think they kind of fall um, all in line together. So, uh, you have an update in your packet of
some of the stuff that's been worked on. Um, so at the September 18th city council workshop, um, staff were directed to begin drafting a resolution. So, the resolution has specific information that
needed to be included. um the proposed tax rate including documentation of regional significance um the specific project to be funded, the amount to be raised, an estimated length of time the tax will be needed. So all of that is the requirement of the resolution.
in your packet, you see the information from PFM um on bonding scenarios. And so we utilize that information along with some of the estimations from the U of M's sales tax report to come up with
what you see in your packet with the description, the proposed tax rate of uh half a percent, um estimated amount to be raised to be 10 million and estimated length of time was 15 years. So that um at the October 21st city council
meeting, staff were directed to continue with that resolution on October 3rd. I did send that resolution for legal review. So that is the information that went into um went into the resolution that I've not heard back from legal review on.
Um and so in talking with Maggie and looking at some of that bond information, looking at some of um just kind of we took a conservative approach and what we implemented in here. So happy to answer any questions on that specific information and if there's no
questions then I'll keep rolling on. So I missed the meeting on Wednesday morning. >> Yep. >> With there we're going to have some discussion with the business women and men in our in our community. Yep. >> What was what was if you could give me
some background as maybe like a little couple >> perfect segue. That's my next point after this. Um so I wanted you guys to make sure that you knew what was being put in that resolution. I have not received the feedback from legal. Um
this will be going to city council as uh as indicated um back in October um laying out that plan. So, and in between all of this, we also held a meeting yesterday morning, November
5th. Um, that was aformational meeting for the local business community. So, that's anyone that owns a business or operates their business within Niswah. Um, quick summary on that. Uh, we had about 28 businesses, business
representatives there. Um, we had a three questioned survey that went out with asking if they're a Nisawa resident. Um, do you support the city council pursuing a local option sales tax to fund improvements at City Park? And would you be willing to donate to
help fund improvements at City Park? And the majority answered no, they do not support pursuing local option sales tax. Um there was 12 out of the 17 respondents that we got. 12 indicated
that they do not support it. One indicated that they do support it and four said they needed more information. So there's 20 in attendance. We got received 17 survey results back um when asking if they'd be willing to donate to help fund the park. Eight said yes,
seven said no, and two were inconclusive may. So that was about a 50/50 split. I would say the of the people there, it was a resounding majority that they do not support pursuing local option sales tax.
Um the meeting kind of took some different twists and turns. Um a lot of different questions were brought up. um kind of talking about what's been done, how we want to go about going forward, which very much ties into Sher kind of like
some of the DNR grant and the phasing. So, some of those questions were brought up with the phasing. Um it was very informative. There's a lot of things that people either have forgotten that happened or never even knew what happened. Um most of the
phasing stuff that we did was publicized in what year is it now? In 2024 um 2024 is when we publicized most of the phasing. So that was I believe in June and 24 we determined that we were going
to look at grouping playground and pickle ball as phase one. And that information was then publicized through the summer to try and get matching dollars to apply for the DNR grant. When we didn't receive that funding, we kind
of went to a standstill. Um, in March of this year, I presented again to city council of just exactly that, that we didn't receive our funding and kind of trying to recalibrate how we're going to go forward. Um the parks commission here
in June of this year asked um had a motion to see how much the city may contribute to achieving any of these projects. At that time we discussed that the playground would be the top priority to receive any funding. So, if we're
going to break out phase one into a smaller bite-sized piece is what we discussed in June, um the playground was going to be the first piece. >> Is that how you remember it, Sher? >> Yeah. Yeah. But I remember the um the
the pickleball courts and the park were in phase one, was designated as phase one. >> Yes. And then the we as a board commission voted that that's what was going to be phase one. After hearing from the after hearing from the
businesses and people around here, what they wanted most of all was the parks and the pickle ball. So that was was the phase one, right? >> Yeah. And so that was back in June of last year. >> Yes. Yes. And then we ran that campaign
to try and get the matching funds to go with the DNR grant to execute the playground and pickle ball portion of the park. >> When that did not come to fruition, after a few just different meetings, different dialogues, when we looked at what might be the top priority and
trying to get something complete, we identified the playground at that time and then I was tasked with asking city council what they may be willing to put towards it. Um, fast forward till
September October September September's budget workshop. Um, a council member did suggest an amount of about 500,000 to be put towards the park project.
So, as we continue looking forward, um, city council has not determined an amount or agreed to transfer an amount of money. That is still something being discussed. Um, and tonight kind of looking for you guys um thoughts on
reaffirming that the playground is the maybe the first step um if they are to transfer those funds. Um and so in a little bit more cherry tying in with the DNR grant that has an annual cycle uh
due by the end of March historically. Um and that grant does require specific information that would have to be provided. Some of it is specs that we don't currently have um depending on what we would apply for. But we need the
money first to be able to apply. >> You need to have matching dollars. >> Yes. >> First, we need the Okay. So, my thought is this. It has been thrown out there the $500,000 for the council, but that
hasn't been approved by the council. I think if the board here tonight has a cost for what the playground is, that cost there, and then what the cost of two pickle ball courts are. And that gets brought to
council in November if it can. I don't know if it can because we're running out of time for the for the for the docket. Um, and that in a way would would I hate to say it, but compel the
council to commit funds to get the playground done at least. And hopefully we can get a couple of pickle ball courts done, too. You can't do all six right now, but but what's that? Cor. Yeah. And just getting getting the pickle ball started
in the just getting >> right and and it can always be and I mean this was a discussion with some of the business owners too and we've had this discussion too. If we get the playground done and say we get two courts in or even just the playground. >> It might it shows the public that
something is being done. >> Yes. >> And hopefully there will be enthusiasm for for funding. So along with this um a couple community members have reached out to Mayor Carneahan about potentially
being interested in helping raise funds. So that's another thing that people are starting to throw their hand up um being willing to get involved and um as that layers into all of this. One question I have because it kept coming up at the
meeting is who's the leader >> of the >> who's >> of the phases of making the park happen. >> That's my question here. Kind of trying to figure out how to go forward with this is council,
you know, do we set a financial amount and then we work within that? Do we create our phases and our plans and then we set the amount of money to that? So, is council directing the parks commission? Is the parks commission directing council? Is the timeline
dictating something or is the money dictating something? Like what's what are our triggers and who's leading who? That kept coming up repeatedly yesterday is who's the leader? So, what's our process? What's our
sequence? because I am not clear anymore. >> Well, the DNR grant is of the essence a timely it's a timely of the essence. It's it's needs to be submitted by March. Correct. >> Correct. >> So the funds that the it's a matching
fund of 350,000. >> Correct. Historically, I've not looked up the new grant cycle. It might be a different if we can if we can get the city council to release some of the some of the uh some
of the monies that they have. And if they could release some of that, then we can go ahead and start that grant. And in theory, we would have 700,000 of budget. Then we would have a budget to start the parks and we'd have a budget
to maybe put in one or two pickle ball courts and then and I remember remember when we went to we went and sat in with pales. We went and saw in Cross Lake. We sat in that conversation and they and they were that they're really good at fundraising and they they had spoken
about you just get it started and if you get it started the the the people will see that it's something's happening and get excited and then it's a lot easier to raise money that way once you see something happening you know rather than keep putting it out there. So, in one of
my questions, which kind of ties into this, when city council puts out maybe an amount of money, I would like to be very clear on what the intent of that money is. Is it intended to go towards a matching grant? Is it intended to be used for the playground? Playground and
two pickle balls, playground and hockey rink maintenance because that still exists as well. >> If we don't have a timeline for that, then do we want to utilize some of our reserves? So I just want to be very clear on the front end what the intent is.
>> The it was intended earlier that the playground and the pickle ball courts were we were the um were part we we voted that it was the master plan phase one of the master plan. >> Yep. That's what the parks commission
>> identified. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. The parks commission. So that we voted on that and then we're going to bring that to s the city council. >> Yep. Which we did. >> If we can make if we can propose that um I'm not sure how to phrase this, but a
resolution to city council if they can release some of the fund some of the funds then we can go ahead with that grant. So when you say release the funds, are you only looking at enough for matching dollars or are you looking at enough to complete pickle ball and playground or
like what >> looking for matching funds? Just matching the funds just matching the funds >> cuz that would give you a project amount of if should it go through and if you can maximize it, it's a budget of $700,000 which is what we had earmarked for the
playground alone. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, >> so then how would we want to modify that or is that the goal? >> Well, again, I'm going to say that we we put the pickle ball courts in along with the playground, the inclusive playground
that we I don't know how we would word it, but that would be part of the phase one. Like Mark said, that's it's it's six pickleball courts is not realistic. >> One pickle ball court. What I'm hearing
from Amber is the 700,000 is zero pickupball courts in our current project. Right. >> Our current proposal. >> In our current proposal, 700,000 is only a park or only a playground or nothing. So >> saying is
>> Yes, Mayor >> in our plan. They're about 15 or $450,000. So something we also have to remember on this is nothing has been brought to spec. So this is conceptual with highlevel
pricing based off of um professional. We have not determined if it's concrete, if it's patuminous, if there's fencing, seating amenities surrounding it. So we went high hopefully trying to account
for those things. But until we get to starting plans, we don't know the costs. >> We do have um the playground company did give a first round
and that was based on the $700,000 budget that includes removals, things like that. That includes like the dumpster, that includes the earthwork, that is not just >> the equipment, >> the equipment. It's to complete the project. Can I say something?
Um, disregard what I said earlier. Oh, no. Don't disregard it. I think right now. >> Okay. So, if we were to do the playground, we're looking at 700,000. Correct. >> That's just what we have in our budget. You can pick any number,
>> but but I mean on the top end, it's 700,000. I think that would help achieve our goal of an inclusive destination playground. >> So, the playground, if we look at it, doesn't need a lot of engineering and so forth with it and and extra cost. Um,
I'm just throwing this out there. I think if the committee tonight says, "Yep, we want to do the playground. 700,000 is what we want from this city to put forth. And then if the city okays it, the playground at least will be started and done hopefully and put a
timeline on it. You'd like to see it start next fall. And then I think if that gets okayed by the city council then after that work on what needs to be done to get some pickle ball courts in because I mean with that and and then work with the grant on that one because
I think with that don't you need a lot of like engineering work done and and >> do you need to show some? Yes, >> because those have to be shovel ready for the grants. And right now, we don't have enough time to do shovel ready for
I don't think there's enough time to be able to get all the information shovel ready. I might be wrong. You know, if I'm wrong, let me know. So I think let's go for something so that we can see there is some accomplishment um
and go from there because do you think we have enough time to do all the work that needs to be done for the grant that's due in March? >> Um I haven't researched it again so it's not at the top of my brain. I do know it needed some items and we did not complete most of them the last round. Um
I think as it layers into all the other city things going on. I would have to confer with engineers to see if they have the capacities to get it done. Um, yeah.
>> So, that's just my suggestion. >> We've been we've been discussing the DNR grant for, you know, every year that it comes up and and we've we've failed. Now, I just see an opportunity if if city council will vote to release some funds and we get a matching grant
that just it's it would be huge for the community to just get something started. And I think I think it would behoove us to get that get that in, you know, do whatever you can to get it in. Whether that goes to pickle ball and the
inclusive playground, but once we have once we have 700 or whatever how much money it's going to be, then we have a budget, right? So now we have a budget. Now we can now we know how much money we can spend and we can do a good job at it. So we have high level estimates on
what each comp element area of the park >> right. >> Um so are we looking for city council to set a budget and then we determine the plan? >> So what information does city council need to release $350,000?
>> One, I think the council is looking at a couple things. one, how much do you want? I would say we need $700,000 for the playground equipment. >> So, do you hear my dilemma? City council wants to know what we want and we need to know what city council is willing to give, right? To help work the plan,
>> right? So, what I would do is I'd come forth and say, "We want to do the playground first. We need $700,000 and we want to start." And I think some members of the council would like to know when would you want to start to do
this? I think that would give them more one. I'll say this, there hasn't been a lot of backing from the council in the past years because other things would come up and and this has been put on the back burner. We need to stop that. So, I think if if this committee came forth
and says to the council, we need we want $700,000 so that we can start this at least start breaking ground in August, September of next year. And if that I'm just saying that's what I think the council would be looking at.
>> So, when I hear that, so 700 and that is only to implement a playground. So, is there additional money then to engineer for pickle ball? >> Well, was there what did we have in the
fund? How much money have we raised it? Have we raised for the >> We You could do two things. You can say 700,000 so that we can get the playground done. But we'd also like to see if work on working on a grant for March so
that you can get that matching grant and that 700 would cover that. And if that doesn't come to fruition, at least you'll have the money for the playground. But if you can get the matching grant, at least you can start some with the with the pickle bar. Is that is that okay? Does that make sense?
Is that doable or Well, we're not talking about 700. We're talking about 350. >> 350. >> Council hasn't set an amount. And so that's what I'm wondering. Does council want us to create the plan so they know how much money to set or is council going to give us the amount of money and
we set the plan. Who's leading who? That's the question that keeps coming up. If it were me, I'd say the we want the council to come forth with $700,000, not matching, but you'd also work on to get
the extra monies on the grant. So that would increase from the 700,000 to whatever. >> Doesn't have to be an either or. I'm not trying to say you do this and only this. All these other things can still happen. >> We'd like to do this, >> but these are the questions that I keep getting. >> And as you can see tonight, why it's so
hard. >> Well, Yes, go ahead. >> Come on up so they can >> if you got Yeah. >> sleep >> name and address and firstborn.
>> My name is Ron Dwey and I live in this way here. Um I work with uh DNR grants often in our business. Um, and from what I'm seeing, just listening here, what I would recommend doing is figure out your phase one first. What
you want to spend. Do you want to do just parks or or just the uh playground equipment? Okay. Say that comes Do you have a dollar amount for that? >> Uh, the one that we have in the budget currently is 700,000. >> 700,000. Okay. So then then what you
want to do is revolve around the grant application. What does the grant application require? >> Okay. And then if you can get your matching portion from Niswah, like say if it's 350,000, okay? Then you you mesh
those two together. You get your your application filled out. Then you'd come to the council, you know, and ask say we need the 350 grand to do this, you know, but what I'm seeing is this tornado just keeps going around and around and around. you know, you guys aren't
getting a person that knows the grant process or you're not fixed on one beginning position, okay? If if you're saying 700 grand from council and council saying no, okay, then you need to make it smaller, you know, or if it's hard to get that, if they're just kind of waffling, you don't know what they're
going to do, then you need to go smaller. So, if you can start at the 350 because the matching grant, then you've got some foundation to work with. Um, I work with lake improvement districts and lake associations with uh the DNR grant process and that's what I always
recommend to them, you know, because I run into the same situation all the time with lake improvement districts. Um, they say, "Ron, how much, you know, what do you need uh for a dollar amount to do your work?" And I say, "Well, what can
you get?" Because it's irrelevant what I need if you can't get it. >> Mhm. So if you're asking for a million dollars but you can't possibly get it, you know, for the playground, you have to start with something you can get. So that's why it's going to revolve around the grant, the the DM.
>> Yeah. And the grant amount is uh 50% match maximum of 350,000. >> Okay. Right. >> So if you can match out 350,000, you have a total project budget of 700,000. >> Exactly. So start with one phase one chunk and get that accomplished. you
know, if you think you can get that part accomplished because it doesn't do any good to talk about a bunch more if you can't get it accomplished. >> Phase one has already been determined. >> Okay. So, >> well, initially it was playground and pickle ball. So, is that still phase one?
>> Yeah, that's the that's the >> or is it just playground? >> That's what's been determined. >> What he just said can't do. >> Yeah, I heard him. >> And phase one. >> Yep. So that's where we kind of recalibrated back in June if we had to if we had if
we're forced to pick one and scale back as Ron's mentioning at that time in June we indicated playground was first >> that would be a that would be a wonderful idea and let's get it let's let's get it going you know so phase one the parks
>> and so maybe the play is we we we're affirming tonight that playground is top priority that's our first one we want to get going on. What's currently in the budget is about 700,000. Council, what are you willing to give?
If it's only 350,000 and they direct us to go for the grant, then that's what we'll do. If it's we just want it done and here's 700,000, then we know what we're doing. And we will circle back on
all the other things. Like those aren't going away. Those plans have to come as well. >> I'm going to throw a wrench in I'm going to throw a wrench in there because you've dealt with this too. So you get a commitment from the city, you have
350,000, you go for the grant and then you don't get the grant. So now you only have 350,000. >> So then what would the city do? >> Yeah, you offer up 350,000, go for the grant, doesn't happen, then you transfer
the rest. Oh, Jennifer Carneahan, 6217 Nashway Road. Um, to answer your question, you had said like who who is leading, who's in charge. I guess from my viewpoint, it would be, and I know it's been confusing
lately, it would be this commission or committee is making a recommendation to the council, right? led by our parks and recreation director of her knowledge, her experience of where we could go with all the details behind it and then council would weigh that. Now, they may
not always agree, right? They could disagree, but I guess in the way that I've watched other committees work here, like public works or planning and zoning or even like I sit on the liquor committee, right, we bring recommendations to council. Council can choose to disagree. Um, with that being
said, to council member Freillley's point, listening to other council members talk in our workshop in September in a past council meeting, I I do believe there would be an appetite from council to
release funds from our reserves and transfer it to support an initiative at the city park. I hear what you guys are saying. Phase one is the playground and the pickle ball courts, but I'm not sure that council would be willing to release that
level of funding. And so how Amber has been saying and council member Freley, do you just pick like a 1A as a part of phase one, right? And that would be the playground as as it relates to the DNR grant. I think grants are a good thing, but
because there's no guarantee to get it, and this is what I thought. I heard council member Freillley saying if we I if the council so motioned or so moved to say release whatever the amount is 700,000 500,000 to just go build the playground without
the DNR grant concurrently or slightly thereafter could if this the parks committee so desires and Amber feels it's a good path to present to council could the grant go for 1B which
is the pickle bell cords. I think that's what you were trying to say. >> Oh, okay. >> Right. Not to mix not to marry you're you're right. Blurring everything together. Split them out, but it they can be concurrent paths. That could be a consideration. I don't know if council would go for
700,000 for the playground. Just looking at our reserves and having some fiscal responsibility of not wanting to draw it too far down, you know, but I think it is a good idea to use reserves. taxpayers have already paid it. What we talked about, we need to show forward progress for the community. As we heard
when we went to Cross Lake, you know, you get you get one good win or one thing out there where the city is already using money that's been collected from the taxpayers. Let's go build a beautiful all-inclusive playground concurrently. Maybe there's a grant path forward for these pickle ball
courts. So now you're showing one win, hopefully done by next fall. There's a beautiful new playground. Then this other path is going. this fundraising effort gets generated and it snowballs from there. Um I just don't know if count, you know, we won't know until we get in front of them if they'd go for
the 700,000, but when we had talked previously, I don't remember if it was like in the summer or late spring. And again, I realize costs change and everything, but that 700,000 too was for taking out like the wood chips and putting in that I don't know what you call it, that >> porum place.
>> Yeah. Porum place. But when we went over and looked at Cross Lake and talked to them, they actually kept the wood chips and and that I think the porn in place was like 200,000 or 250,000. So, you know, the wood chips still can have a beautiful playground. You can still have
this wonderful new all-inclusive equipment, but instead of having this 250,000 pour in place, you have these nice wood chips, which yeah, they require a little more upkeep, but would council maybe have more of an appetite for saying, "Hey, we are confident and we will all stand behind transferring
500 or 550,000 for this all-inclusive playground knowing that maybe that element is which is a very expensive piece changes." So, just something to think about, right? Because >> yes, >> what I would hate to see is like we keep kicking the can down the road. Like Ron
just said, it's this tornado. Let's let's get a vote from council. Let's get a vote. I don't know if Amber feels the timing is our November meeting or if she feels like she needs another month to get everything prepared for you guys to have more dialogue, whatever your recommendation is for December, but
let's get a vote. Let's see if we can't where council goes on transferring money and looking at parallel pathing so that things can actually move forward and it's not more time of just where do we go, who's in charge, right? Because I think that has caused consternation
and it's I think we all want the same thing, right? And and I know how hard Amber's been working and I can't imagine how frustrating it is for her. I'm sure I've frustrated her sometimes, not not intended, but we all want to have a win here, right? So, just something to think about. >> Yes. Well, to to recap a little bit for
everybody at home who may be listening too cuz it it did come up like it does people people forget what we've done. >> People forget how long this stuff takes. Maybe they didn't see it the first time, right? Um and so when we talk about the
phasing, and that's a good way of putting it, 1 A, 1B, right? So that's what we did in June when we didn't get our phase one of playground and pickle ball. be regrouped and we determined at that time that phase 1A was going to be
playground and this parks commission made a motion to seek guidance from city council on how much they would be willing to contribute. That question was brought to them through the budget process which was only September. So when we say things aren't happening
or we're not seeing things they are. They just take time and maybe you that one meeting you miss like it happens right so in June and this is kind of what I'm looking for here tonight are we reaffirming that one A is playground
1B one I'll say 1 A is playground supported by city funds >> subcategory to that the Lions International has indicated that they have an inclusive playground grant so we
can seek at as well as Bernex has a community grant for I believe 20,000. So there are other granting avenues that we can also use to help round it out. 1B then goes to pick a ball. We have the next year to maybe utilize this
potential committee to help seek funds. Maybe there's a sponsorship thing that's been discussed previously. Um and then that can be used for grants come. We've also as a parks commission I'm still going Dan. >> I know I
>> We've also as a parks commission discussed um the make nice for the ice fund which is approximately 120,000 bringing that deploying that to utilize son some maintenance for the hockey
rink. So for an update um one vendor gave me a price hockey rinks they quoted the hockey rink lights they quoted at about 130 to 150,000. So that is one vendor that is not competitive. Um but that's another thing to layer in here.
We do have some reserves funds. I would recommend lighting first because that is a tremendous safety concern. Um and so just putting that out there because you know 1A 1B and two phase two does not
have a very thorough plan. So we need to come up with an interim and I think the parks commission has identified using the make nice for the ice fund to take care of some of that permanent maintenance to get us through.
>> Okay, I'm done. Uh, I'm in favor of uh seeking funds from the council, city funds from the council at the whatever the number for the all-inclusive park is. Sands the poured
floor. Um, >> using wood chips. >> Using wood chips. Yeah. If that drops it down to four or $500,000. Yeah, I'm all for seeking that out. Sorry, I took back um you said one the 1A 1B and I
understand all that. I just want to was that um was that a voted on? Does is that like is this still a discussion or if we confirm that and we don't need to be talking? >> That's the discussion that we had back in June and the motion was to seek as
council for how much funding to implement the playground like as designed in the master plan. So when we say we had a discussion at that time about like maintaining that price point because that's moving the location of
it. So keeping making a new footprint which is going to increase the cost right. So making a new footprint so it follows the master plan because if we're not moving the warming house we need to move we need to design the playground
around the warming house. So that was the and I've read it a few times but not recently. That was a motion back in June was to seek funding and implement the playground as it lays out in the master plan not in the existing footprint. >> Yep. >> Which then keeps the cost up.
>> Mhm. >> More to probably that plus 500,000. >> Y when is the DNR grant application due? >> Historically March 31st. >> Okay. So, if you come up with a dollar amount for phase one, it's the
application is due March 31st. Andy Schaefer expressed a lot of interest and he says he has people interested in joining his committee to get um you know, funding, donations, turn them loose, you know, just say,
"Hey, Andy, okay, here's phase one. Um we've got until March 31st for the application. How much money can we raise up to March 31st?" you know, take it off the taxpayers's back. Um, taking money from the general fund or or the liquor
fund, wherever it was at, um, turn Andy loose. You know, he's ready to go. I think, you know, that was my impression at the meeting I attended with him, >> you know. So, um I'm 100%, you know, pro taxpayer, you know, um if those funds can be used for roads rather than a
park, you know, and if we can get donations for the park, you know, that we need for the grant, heck, let's go with that route, you know, because I don't think you're going to get um when people find out that money is being spent on a park, which is a want, rather
than roads, which is a need, you know, I don't think they're going to be very happy with it. I don't >> argue against that all day long. I know not everyone feels the same way about it, but >> yeah, I know I wouldn't be as a taxpayer. I would rather see the the dollars that are generated from uh spirits used for roads of something
that's needed >> and I will get donations for something that is wanted, you know, because we have Andy, you know, I mean, he he sounds like he can raise some funds >> and for people so that this came up a while back. um the this parkland needs
to remain parkland in perpetuity. So the city does not what is within the park can be debated. The fact that it's a park is not debatable. You there's a long lengthy process to remove any of this parkland and it must
be replaced with additional parkland. So when we say let's pave it into a parking lot like that's not that's some of this is a nonoption. The city back in 1975 committed to parkland here and it's our
responsibility to ensure that we keep amenities there that are current with the times as well as safe. >> And during the open houses that we have had, we've had a lot of community excitement about the playground and the pickle balls. Yes. It's just it's it's
just been a while since we brought the brought it out to the community that we are going to get started. >> Yeah. So, to Ron's point, I think that's something for council. >> Um if they want us to solely seek donations,
I think we are we kind of in agreement of 1 A, 1B, and then deploying some Yes. >> make nice for the ice to update some safety concerns at the rink. >> Yes. >> Okay. Okay, Megan, you got that? >> Okay.
>> And so then from council then we need to find out if they want to contribute funds. That's the that's the motion we had from this commission back in June that was brought to him at the budget meeting. An idea was brought forth from a council member in response to that. We
just need a council vote. And I think that can go hand in hand. you know, let's try our hardest to get as many donations by uh March 31st as we can possibly get, you know, and then try to get some commitment from uh city council um you know, and see what they
can, you know, the city council knows, you know, if they want to hit 700 grand, okay, if we can get 200 grand in donations, you know, can we get the regular city council? >> Yeah. Not to imply that there's either ors here because there's always grants and there's always fundraising, >> right? So, as long as it's spelled out that, you know, we're looking at we
we're looking at we need $700,000 for this to go forward. Uh we we're going to these are the avenues we're going to look at is the potential of uh Andy as you say because he's he's ready and willing to do to go forth and look at
the funding and you say um um the grant has to be in before that. But but I would just say and looking at the grant and so if if If the fundraising, if Andy can only bring in 200,000,
would the city be able to put forth the money to reach the goal of 700,000? That would be a way to do it so that they know that the committee is is is thinking about not using full taxpayer dollars. Um, I
agree and don't agree with the with the needs and the wants. I'm you and I are on pretty much the same page on that one. Um um but but and the other thing too is is to look out for I mean Essentia Health I think
they have some grants monies CRMC does also um I wish we lived in the Sanford area because they do a lot of donations for parks and wreck but I
>> it's a lot of work >> and while there's always grants available that doesn't mean they all meet the criteria or the timeline. So, it's it's a matter of piecing it all together in maybe the project timeline as well. >> The criteria and that this and maybe I'm
confused. I just want to be thoughtful about this. So, if we were to go to the the council and say we'd like 500 $550,000 for this for this park. So, okay, but just to get through my thought here, um, and we're saying 1a the park, that's what we would use the money for.
But now we're also talking about this upwards of $350,000 grant plus other grants. And those other grants wouldn't necessarily just be for the park. Can we can we take that $500,000 that we know we would spend on the park and leverage
that for grants for things other than the park? Because otherwise this grant in March, we don't have any it's we don't have any money to use to match it with. Right? If we take that 500 and we we dedicate it to the park, but we want
to use the grant money for the for the pickle ball courts. >> And I'm thinking that's 2027, so a year out. Is that what we're >> So it won't be this winter's grant cycle. It'd be the next one. So you have a whole year to potentially >> still the same conversation because they're not going to give us that money
again, >> right? >> It's only one time and we we're committed to >> it. It would be for the park. So >> playground. Yeah. >> Yeah. Sorry. I apologize. Um, so that's where I'm kind of confused is we we we keep talking about this really
important grant and then we talk we're talking about asking for money, but it's not for, you know, it's for the park, but the grant's not going to be for the park. Can we figure out a way to communicate it in a way where the money that we're asking for is for all of it, for all of phase one, so that we can use
it to leverage the grants. >> Am I feel like I'm not being real? I don't know. Yeah, in part the grants also have criteria. So another layer is that if if you're going to now lump in like pickle ball, right, 1B, that requires more
engineering than the playground. And so either way, if you're going to apply for the grant, you have to get the work done in the next 3 and 1/2 months to be able to apply for the grant. >> And so the playground's going to have maybe a different work scope than pickle
ball. And so that's where it it matters if you're going to apply for the grant or not. >> We ask for the money. I think it has to be clear that we are asking for one for phase one knowing that our priority as a
commission in phase one is the playground. But what we're asking for from the council is money for phase one. So that we can then go the council. We have this money from the city. It's for phase one. however we determine to use
it for phase one and then whatever we tend to whatever we have to apply for with the grant. Does that make sense? We just got I'm just saying we got to be thoughtful. >> You keep the terminology looser that it's going for >> keeping the terminology looser for >> Yes. Yes. >> implementation. >> Yep. So that Yeah.
>> I just have one thing I have to run. Um keep it simple and be clear and detailed on what your ask is. >> It'll have a better chance of passing. >> Yes. If it's too complex, if it's not right, like be very detailed. We are the parks commission is right. I'm just
making this up. The parks commission makes a recommendation to city council to transfer $500,000 by January 15th to complete uh >> 1a in phase one or you know a in phase
one which is a new playground to break ground or to commence no later than like I'm making this up September 15th. be very clear about the ask, the dollars, why what it goes for, right? Because I think if if it's opaque and it's too much and it's and it's like oh but this
grant or this fundraising you're I don't know you know council likes in my experience of serving with this council being more clear being concise being straightforward and having the rationale as to why would
>> I think have a better likelihood of passing than adding all these confusions and to hear to the point Ron does bring a good point. Yeah. turn Andy and Emma and Mark and Cindy and all the people that want to help loose and let them go raise money. But to Amber's point, what
she's talking about, pickle ball can still be a part of it. But maybe that the pickle ball specifically >> is related to that DNR grant gives people time to raise the 3 or whatever the amount is for the matching because these folks are >> energized. they're connected
>> and and they have other groups and affiliations and I think things could be done and then it's a a bigger team effort working over here while >> the commitment is here but sorry I do have to I don't know if that to you guys
I just it's just highlighted why this is really important um if we ask for 1A we c and our our what we're planning on using is the the grant would be for the pickle ball courts we can't do that. We asked the city for
money to use on 1A the the playground and then we're also talking about well let's also see if we can get matching funds to make the pickle ball courts. So, what I'm So, what I would recommend is if we're going to, and I'm not making a motion, but if we're going to ask for, and I don't know what the dollar amount
is that we're going to ask for, uh, we need to ask for that for phase one, not one A, but for all of phase one, and we need to communicate to the to the uh, council that our commitment is
we we are doing the playground first. We're asking for the funds for for one. And if it turns out that the playground only cost $400,000 and we got $500,000, we're doing the playground first. We spent $400,000 on it and we are going to
use the $100,000 for the for pickle ball and we are going to try to match that with this grant with this. >> And you're thinking that it's a grant for 2020? I don't I don't know what year you're looking at we're looking at applying it for, but I'm just I'm just
saying that the money has to be we have to we have to use it for what we say we're going to use it for. >> Correct. Um where my mind is going with this is we don't have a full commission here. >> Yeah. And so if we're okay waiting till
December to have a fuller commission, we can reaffirm this stuff and run it through December's council meeting. That if you're going for the grant though, that really tightens that up and doesn't leave us planning time. So that's that's
the pitfall of that. But if we're deviating from just the playground as we affirmed in June or thinking that we want to have everybody to to affirm that um my suggestion is let's wait till December's
meeting to have more people here to weigh in. It shouldn't be the weight of the world on >> sorry side question. What's a what's a quorum for the commission? >> Three. >> Okay. See, what what I would do is is is is I would say
>> you want the council to dedicate that $500,000 towards the parks >> phase >> master plan. >> Master plan >> phase one. Okay. >> Don't specify
1 A, 1B. Okay. you want X dollars to start it. It will cost us to go on the high end $700,000 for the playground equipment. So, how much is the city willing to put
toward phase one? Commit to phase one because if they say 500,000 and it comes in at 400,000, that $100,000 is still committed to the phase one. So, that can be used later. The other thing too is is is also reaching out to let the council
know it's a $700,000 price tag to get the playground done. How much are you willing to commit? Because we're also looking at Andy and Emma to see if to reach out to them, see if they can do some fundraising to get over. And if the city
says 500,000 is all we can see right now, fine. And if and if fundraising can come in with a couple hundred thousand, great. If the playground comes in at 400,000, great because you have that money then
committed to phase one. So then you can look at fundraising that monies and getting a grant for the pickle ball. Okay. The other thing too is what the committee has to look at too is is is how I'm used
to it working is you're having let's just call them friends of the parks and they go okay they have a 501c okay but they look at it and they say okay but this person is best into hockey this one's best into trails this one's there so they know where to go and
how to work it but I think that would be the best thing if it gets too complicated I understand what's going on because I've sitting the meetings but if it gets too complicated. It won't it it has to be simple for the for the council. >> Well, I think it needs to be simple for the community, too. Cuz when you say we
want it for this, >> it the plan's not clearly laid out for the community. They don't know when they're getting their pickle ball >> or ice rink or anything else >> or anything else. Right. So, like it.
So my question to you now today is we have we have we can vote on that whether we should make a resolution to the city council today. We have we can have that ability right to make a motion.
>> I I it wasn't a part of the agenda that there'd be something to motion it on but >> it it it might be hard to get it on the agenda but I would wait because it might look a little >> we don't have a full commission here. I sit on council and I would be a voter on this resolution. It would not look good
for I do not feel comfortable voting on the resolution tonight to put that forth to the council. I I would take Amber's um recommendation to wait until the the others on the So, it comes from the committee itself and not me with the
committee. Does that make sense? >> Yeah. If if a motion were made and seconded here in this meeting, I'm hearing that you would you would then make a motion to table it for the for the next meeting. Uh so that Yeah. So that we get the rest of the commission here. And I would second that. I would second that. I think waiting is >> Okay. Yeah.
>> So I'll make sure that I send a link to the video out to all the commission members so they can listen to us if they're not already. Um and we will I'll bring this back in December for just spelling it out. I'll probably I'll try and write something up because that
might hopefully be easier. >> But the wording yeah the wording will know >> short sweet 1 a 1b it'll be full outline. Um and so I'll try and summarize this for us in December to have the a fuller commission here to affirm a plan going forward. Um by then
hopefully updated DNR grant information will also have been released. So I think that's a key component of the whole dialogue is what's the new information and that would shed some light on the possibility of a 26 or 27 potential submission.
>> Okay. >> Okay. Cool. >> I have questions about your business conversation with the business owners. >> Sure. >> Um if that's if we've move can we move on or move back or whatever. >> Same topic. Yep. Uh so uh my questions were one uh was there discussion so most
of the business owners were against the local option sales tax. Uh what was did you pick up any um like themes on like why in those conversations just kind of what like how was the thought what was the thought process on why not? Um, so
that's one question. And the second question is, you said in the survey there was a question about helping fund raise. What >> or helping donate if they would donate? >> Helping donate. So what was the response in the survey towards that question?
>> Um, I'm going to answer that one first. Um, so the question was, would you be willing to donate to help fund improvements at City Park? Eight answered yes, seven answered no, and there were two basically maybe
inconclusives. Um, I also put in a dollar amount, an open space for them to write in. One wrote in 800. That was the only number that came in. There was a TBD, a maybe, and a question mark. Um, as well as comments. I think
we can find private funding and believe there are other options or writeins. Um, and so that's what came back with, um, would you be willing to donate? And then to your first question,
um, kind of as to the why not, I don't know if I really found a theme from people. Um, there were a few items shared and we went down a lot of rabbit holes.
Um, so it was maybe for me I'm still trying to process all of the dialogues um because it did take so many twists and turns from the specific goal of discussing local options sales tax. Um
there was a lot of great discussion about the park project marketing planning, you know, from construction plans to marketing plans to business plans to all sorts of things sequencing. Um but in
terms of specifically talking about lost we really didn't have a very robust conversation about it >> in my opinion >> it itself about yeah >> a lot of great topics were discussed and some information was shared on maybe
their viewpoints as to why or why not. I have not yet found a theme across the feedback I've received as to why not. I I would say talking to some of the business owners, you know, um
my takeaway was is they would like to see there's a lot of enthusiasm for can we go out and raise funds and I think that that was my take even though we didn't go in in depth on lost a lot of them understand lost and what it is but I think it was
kind of like the can do attitude. Let's see if we can do this first. Okay. A and I admire that. I mean, these business owners, you know, um
are are wonderful. Yeah. I think they'd like to see the community come together and fund raise for it first before we think about loss. That that was just my >> incredible >> take of it. Um, I had a few discussions on the complications of collecting the the sales tax and I said, well, I have
to deal with two different counties and four different municipalities. So, I understand it, but once you have that computed in, it's there is no difficulty there. But I think my takeaway was they'd like to see if they can do it if it can be done first through the
fundraising. >> Yeah, I'd agree with that. >> So, while we didn't talk a lot about loss, we talked a lot about other things, right? um that were very insightful >> and and I know someone brought up about a a a a fundraising committee that had
been started in the city, but also to that it's been defunct for two years and not really going there. So, if they could get that started again, too, that would be great also. But yes, um >> should had to sign them up. >> Well, couple well Andy and Emma and
there's a few others there. fundraising committee, not a not a 501, but a committee on behalf of >> there's a committee right now and there there is an or well yes they >> we have the Nisa Enrichment Fund which is under the Brainer Lakes Area
Community Foundation that's a 501c3. So that's what we've been utilizing to house the fund. So like this committee if they want to form a 501c3 like that would be something for the these this group of individuals to discuss. It cannot be an extension of
the city, >> right? Cuz that's the dilemma we're in that the city cannot do these things. So like it kind of >> and that's what >> we've had individuals throw their hand up but there's been nothing coming together >> and that's what cross like did was they
they've got a 501c3 with it that's got its own board. >> Yes. And if it's just a bunch of people that want to come up with ideas for how to raise the funds and put it in the Nissan Enrichment Fund. That can be a pathway potentially for us. >> It just takes a match to get it started.
Just a one little match. >> Yes. place in the meeting. I I I'm used to a organization a 501c north out of Bumiji and they raised millions of dollars for their >> Yep. So, >> all right. Any other questions on this
one? We will I'll come back with hopefully a summary um in December. Um but otherwise, we can move on to new business. >> Sure. >> Ryan, you should come and sit up here.
Um, I could answer some of your questions in regards to that. Um, uh, in regards to the survey, um, I voted it not or I stated for no lost because it's death by a thousand cuts. We are taxed to death.
>> Okay? Everything is taxed, you know. Um, I'm a business owner and there's tax after tax after tax. There's tax on the taxes. Okay? That's why I said no. Um, I'm fully willing to donate. I'm fully willing to help Andy, you know. Um, and
that's why I answered those questions the way I did. Um, and then one other thing is keep your first phase simple. In my opinion, don't do the if then. Okay? It's too complicated to tell people
about. >> Okay? Just have the one plan. This is what we want. We want to get this many dollars. >> Okay. Andy, the committee, let's go. Okay. Um, when you go to a potential donor and say, "Well, this is what we're
shooting for, and if we get this, then this, and if we do this, then this," is too complicated, >> you know? Um, give them a a specific goal amount. And you'd be amazed how many people or the potential for a person to step up and
say, "Here it is. I'll write you a check right now." You know that there is potential there for that. Okay. >> Um but but hang on. Um you know, it's always the kiss. Keep it simple, stupid. Keep it simple, stupid. You know, the more simple, the faster
you're going to get to your goal. Um but let them know that there's a phase two. Once we hit phase one, >> then you know, this is the beginning, folks. Um and then after we get this goal, >> we'll move on to the next one. And if you keep that in mind, your potential
donor at that time might say, "How much is phase two?" Mhm. >> You know, there's some people that I know they've donated millions, you know, 700 million, 750 million, and if they see that it's moving forward, they might say they might be all in, you know, they
might just give you tens of millions. >> And that that's the other thing, too, is is it's nice to know people are going want to know how much is phase one going to cost? 700,000. But we're also having a phase two. What's the cost of that? >> Right.
>> It's this. And they might say they'd elect to do that. So people want to know what the phases will cost. >> Be very definitive on each phase. >> So I want to circle back everybody to June of 2024. We did that. We put a flyer out there. We said 600,000 will be
used for matching funds for the DNR grant due by January of 2025. Phase 2 X amount. >> Mhm. >> Okay. So, I want everyone to go home, think of why that didn't work. >> There was a gap.
>> So, we can come back and crush it this time. >> Yeah. There there was a gap um y >> between what the phase was and and I'll just keep bringing up Andy's name. Um my understanding from the meeting is there was the gap between what was wanted and
what we wanted Andy or or the committee to do. It wasn't clear. And at that time we did not have >> it wasn't clear to them anyways. >> And at that time we didn't have hands up in the air willing to go after it. So maybe that is the difference this time around but I want to know what are we
going to do different this time to be successful. And so I want people to go it's already you know we're an hour into this. So um we'll keep it moving but in that keep it simple keep it clear. council needs to know. The public needs to know how are we going to put this
together to be clear to be successful because it didn't work last time. >> So, I'm hearing I'm hearing an opportunity that I'm excited about that, you know, we we tried this in June of 2024. Uh didn't go and it just wasn't maybe it
wasn't the right people in the room. Maybe the right people didn't know. Maybe >> it was vague. >> It was very vague. >> So, >> how was we want 600,000 by this time >> and here's exactly >> for this goal. >> So >> what was vague about that is what I'm
not and maybe it's the marketing maybe it was the marketing plan right we didn't have a committee we nobody took ownership to run with it but in terms of the plan was there something we missed in the plan there that wasn't clearly communicated >> and that's what yeah that's what I'm hearing from you is we need to think about that between now and
>> between now and next month so we can crush this >> Yep. Well, now we have the community involved. I mean, because you had the business meeting with the businesses yesterday on on Wednesday. Yeah. Was it yesterday already? >> Okay. So, you So, now people now the
businesses are more they're talking about loss. Now there's now there's discussion about how to raise the funds and people are in that room and getting me excited about it. So, now get more community involvement and get it going. What is what do you need from us when
>> when we would when we would go and solicit funds and raise funds? One thing one, what's the project? Okay. It's the playground cost 700,000. >> Yeah. >> Start date. When do you when when are you going to start this? We're going to start it on September 1st.
>> And that's always been a problem because it's when we have the money. >> Right. >> So, that might be one item that needs to be changed. And if we if there's funds from there's >> so again we are going to come back to this in December. >> So go home and think about it.
>> People in the audience watching at home think about it. Email Amber. >> Okay. >> So in >> I I said in the meeting yesterday, this is a group project. This is a group project of 4,000 people. >> Yeah. >> We got to come together on this.
Otherwise, it's not going anywhere. the and it's just it's just not that complicated to me. It's not that complic in December if you could join us again. We need to hear exactly what this committee would would have from us like
how can we empower this committee to go get this money, >> right? >> We need phase one clear. >> Yeah. >> We need a date by which the money is needed. >> Okay. Simple. >> No if thens, just completely simple. We
need to know who the donors write the check to if you know already. >> Um, if you don't know, then it's up to the committee to create the 501c3 or other. >> Mhm. >> You know, but >> cool. >> It is pretty simple. I think it really
is. And try to stop this the tornado, you know. It's just um >> I'm really from what I know of Andy and this committee, you know, they're business people. Um and I don't know if any of you are are business people or not, and I'm a business person. Um so, like I say, just get phase one very very
clear the dollar amount that that you need by a certain date. And um and then you know, heck, if you want me to once you get the phase one done um where I can clearly be presented to uh Andy, you know, and the committee, you know, I'd be happy to share it with them, you
know, or if you folks need to do that, whoever needs to do that. >> So, I will get this summed up in December. Um and to be clear for everybody, this commission has worked very hard at already doing this exact task. We've done it once last year. We regrouped in
June and they set a goal for council. So, I want to be clear that we are doing the work. It's just not fast. There's improvements. We can clean it up. We're going to work on that for next month. >> And and and have some um like a drawing
of what phase one is. >> Yeah. >> You know, so so it's very clear to the committee so they can make it clear to the public or anyone who who would donate. See the the one thing too what might be nice is is is the fly through. We used to use those
visual aids. So because you can say something but it but a lot of people they have to visualize it. So when you do have the visual aids to bring it forth but like Ron says you know what it is cost when you want to start it. also an idea of
what phase two is because if you start talking phase one some people want well what's phase two because they might want to donate to phase two >> even though you don't have a specific amount you know what phase two is you even know what phase I mean phase 1 A is
this 1 B is that phase two is this um >> yeah it'll work out >> yeah and and keep it on an 8 and 1 half by 11 if you can >> um you know you Um, some people might want to see a lot of pages, you know, but try to keep it on an 8 and 1 half by
11 or two, three, four, five of them, something like that where we can make it in color, you know, and and then we can show people right there, you know, pictures worth a thousand words. >> Is the master plan still on the website? >> Of course. >> Yeah. So, >> two different locations. >> So, it's it's already out there.
>> The master plan's on there. All the renderings and budget information is on the website as long as local option sales tax information, the flyth through video, and how to donate to the Niswah enrichment fund. So, it's all on the website under the park and wreck page. Um, you just got to keep clicking
through it. But what I'm hearing is there's a bit of a repackaging that we need to do >> because the work's been done. We're updating it. We're refreshing it. >> It It's a fundraising kit. And the thing in there is to have a picture of what the playground will look like.
>> Yeah. Don't don't depend on your website, guys. Um I've spent hours and hours on it. You know, if you want the fundraising, it has to be it should be personal. You know, I sit on that that that website and I'm clicking and I'm clicking and I'm clicking. It's like, how the hell do I donate? you know, um
the the donate button or the parks button in there, you know, on like you click on this uh city and this one on the top and then there's uh six square boxes that come up and they're green. Okay, the one for parks and red for donating, make it red because I'm looking for it and I'm looking for it
and I couldn't find it, you know, and and when you're asking somebody to donate, they don't want to spend a lot of time searching, you know, they want to know, you know, just who do I write the check to, what am I writing it for? you know, um, and show me some pictures,
you know, >> right? So, that's what I do. >> They they just they're not going to sit there because I was frustrated with it, too. And it's there, you know, don't don't get me wrong. It's there, but it's it's just too cumbersome to go through this long website to to try to >> And unfortunately, that's the resource we have at this time.
>> Exactly. Right. >> Doing the best we can, but no. Yeah. >> Yeah. Let's Nobody wants and make it personal. >> So, we're hearing you keep it simple. Very direct. >> Very simple. >> Simple and direct. >> Yep. >> Okay. >> Y >> awesome. >> Thank you.
>> Let's move on. Thank you very much. Um under seven, new business, item A is uh commission vacancy. So you guys have updated information here. Um over the last month, I contacted Sher and Paul as both of their terms are um expiring at
the end of um January. So Paul has decided to reup for a second term. Sherry, if you want to make your own comments, I'll let you, but your term will be ending January 31st of 2026. So
looking today to um outline the process for filling the vacancy. Well, I've just decided not to do the second term. I'm thinking fundraising and looking into that a
little bit more. So, I I believe my talents are going to be directed somewhere else. I'm willing to learn. >> So, um here. Yeah. So, thank you, Sher. Um because she's not going anywhere. She's just switching.
She's utilizing her talents >> committed >> in another in another avenue. Yes. >> Um, so you guys have here kind of everybody's updated term limits. Um, Alyssa would be moving to chair, Dan, you'd be moving to vice chair. Historically, we've just rotated through
um and then you got a tenative schedule there. So, I will um begin posting soliciting for applications um and bring those back to you guys in December. Do you do you have a job description for
vice chair? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Just >> I saw that and I was like, when did that happen and how did I not get a saying? >> Nobody ever wanted it, so we just rotate. >> This is my third month here, guys.
>> Sherry's never done it, and Sherry was she's she's here. She's doing it. So, >> we we help you out. Um, so yes, there's a maybe a oneliner on your roles and responsibilities.
>> Um, awesome. The other item in your packet is uh 7B safe streets and roads for all program. Um, just wanted to let you guys know that this is happening some information. I have very limited information on this. Cross Lake is the
lead. Um, and so the handouts that they um gave us in September were in your packet. Um, and there is a larger study being conducted. So I don't have any more information at this time. This is simply to make you aware that Cross Lake
has received this grant funding and in some way shape or form Niswah has said that we're we're here. let us know. So, it's there's multiple layers to this
program, but it's specifically for like vulnerable pedestrians. So, your bikers, your walkers. >> So, if you guys have questions on that, I likely can't answer them, but I letting you know it exists, and when I know
more, I will let you know more. Okay. Any final discussions, comments are I'll be providing another update at city council on November 18th and then our next commission meeting is December 4th at 5:00 p.m.
Any other comments, questions? Otherwise, motion to adjurnn. >> To adjourn. I motion to adjurnn. Sherry >> second, Dan. >> All right. Thank you very much.