PARKS, RECREATION, AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT

The Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement Committee met on July 13, 2004 at 12:00 p.m. with Chairman Pitts presiding. Members present were Councilmen Hogan and Ruane, and Mr. Anderson (arrived at 12:16 p.m.). Mr. Truitt was absent.

Agenda Additions/Deletions

Mr. Hogan moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. Ruane and unanimously carried.

Presentation - West Side Recreation Study

Mr. DePrima, City Manager, advised members that City Council authorized the expenditure of $20,000 for a recreational needs study for the City. The goal was to develop the most cost efficient facility which would meet the needs of the City.

Mr. Zachery Carter, Director of Parks and Recreation, advised members that a factory-engineered metal building, at a cost of $2.3M, was being proposed. He noted that the total project cost was $2.7M, which includes all necessary expenses, with the exception of operating costs. Mr. Carter stated that the proposal would provide adequate space with the option to construct an addition at a later date if the need exists.

Mr. Greg Moore and Mr. Peter Vyverberg, Becker Morgan Group, presented the Westside Recreational Center Study (as on File in the Office of the City Clerk).

Responding to Mr. Ruane, Mr. Carter stated that there may be several opportunities for the City to acquire additional land in the Schutte Park area to expand the number of soccer fields. Mayor Speed noted that the Central Delaware Soccer Association (CDSA) is actively pursuing additional fields and an indoor facility. He stated that there was the possibility of the City working with CDSA on this project. Mr. Ruane requested that those options, along with a list of groups who may be interested in renting the space, be included in the presentation to Council. He also suggested that an update be provided at each meeting in order to keep the project on track.

Mr. Frank Tenusak, 880 Schoolhouse Lane, suggested that the City take an inventory of the recreational space that is available in Dover, both city-owned and space owned by others, and what it is being used for. He felt that there was a lot of space that was underutilized. He also suggested that consideration be given to providing public transportation to the facility. Mr. Carter responded that DelDOT was very interested in providing a bus stop at Schutte Park. He also noted that sidewalks and bike paths would provide a means of access.

Responding to Mr. Ruane, Mr. DePrima stated that the next step would be to spend the next year promoting the facility, developing a financial plan, and seeking cost-sharing partners for the project, such as the State, Kent County, sports groups, community groups, and civic associations. It is his hope to have a specific financial plan for the next fiscal year. Mr. DePrima noted that a full presentation to Council would be forthcoming.

Mr. Hogan moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Anderson and unanimously carried.

Meeting Adjourned at 1:10 P.M.

                                                                                           Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                           John W. Pitts

                                                                                           Chairman

JWP/tm

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