2019 12-11-19 MPRC Special Meeting Minutes with AttachmentsE IDiAN
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PARKS
Ft RECREATION COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING a MINUTES
Park Maintenance Shop
1700 E. Lanark Street, Meridian, Idaho
Wednesday, December 11, 2019 • 5:30 p.m.
The Meridian Parks ft Recreation Commission is a volunteer citizens' group that is created and
empowered to advise the City on issues relating to park facilities and recreation programs of the City.
Their mission is to gather input from staff and other qualified personnel on issues relating to the
creation and design of public parks and open spaces; to listen to public input; and to provide advice
and recommendations on parks and recreation related matters to the Mayor and City Council.
1. Roll -Call Attendance
Commission President Jessica West called the meeting to order at approximately 5:33
p.m. MPR Administrative Assistant Il Rachel Myers took roll -call attendance as
follows:
X
Jessica West, President
X
Abbey Hutchins
X
Dom Gelsomino, Vice President
0
Michelle Jensen
X
Keith Bevan
X
John Nesmith
X
Jennifer Bobo
X
Creg Steele (arrived at approx. 5:37 p.m.)
X
Jo Greer
Others present were: MPR Department staff—Director Steve Siddoway, Parks
Superintendent Mike Barton, Recreation Manager Garrett White, Marketing
Coordinator Shelly Houston, Et Pathways Project Manager Kim Warren; Deputy City
Attorney Emily Kane; Meridian Police Activities League (MPAL) President Mark
Lightner; tr MPAL Board Member Darrell Eastburn.
2. Adoption of the Agenda
Commission President Jessica West entertained a motion to approve the agenda as
presented. Commission Vice President Dom Gelsomino moved to adopt the agenda.
Commissioner Jo Greer seconded. All were in favor of the motion.
3. Approval of the November 13, 2019 Regular Meeting Minutes
Commission President Jessica West entertained a motion to adopt the minutes as
presented. Commission Vice President Dom Gelsomino moved to approve the minutes.
Commissioner Jennifer Bobo seconded. All were in favor of the motion.
4. Announcements
Parks rt Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page i of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents and/or hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
a. Upcoming Events - Shelly Houston
MPR Marketing Coordinator Shelly Houston brought attention to the following:
• 2020 Winter/Spring Activity Guide - The guide was published on December 6,
2019. Copies were handed out to the Commissioners.
• Mayor De Weerd Farewell - Mayor Tammy's farewell event will be held on
Thursday, December 12, 2019.
Children's Winterland Festival - This event will be held on Saturday, December
14, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Boys Et Girls Club gym on Meridian Road.
There will be games, activities, crafts, cookie decorating, visits with Santa,
etc.
Coffee with the Mayor - This event was held on December 10, 2019 at the Pivot
Lifestyle Et Fitness by KA.
b. Christmas Presentation - Steve Siddoway Et Jessica West
MPR Director Steve Siddoway wished the Commission a Merry Christmas and
expressed his thanks for a full year's worth of hard work. He presented a small gift
of appreciation. Shelly Houston also handed out copies of the MPR Department's
Annual Report. Steve added it has been a remarkable year, and the Department
could not have done it without the Commissioners advising staff along the way.
Commission President Jessica West also provided each Commissioner with a gift.
5. Old Business
a. Renaissance Et Champion Park Art Update - Mike Barton
MPR Parks Superintendent Mike Barton provided a PowerPoint update about the
new Renaissance and Champion Park art and signage pieces that are being
fabricated. Copies of his slides are attached to these meeting minutes.
Commission Feedback:
• President Jessica West - She expressed the replacement Champion Park sign
looks smaller to her than the original park sign. And because the sign is dark, it
does not stand out as much. The new sign is slightly smaller. Will an additional
sign be added on the main road (Ustick)? Not at this time.
• Commissioner Cree Steele - Where is the branding for the City on the Champion
Park sign? There currently isn't a City logo on the sign. Although the proof
was vetted through the Meridian Arts Commission and the Mayor, Mike will
Parks rr Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 2 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents and/or hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's office at 8884433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
check with Trademark Sign Company and see if there is a way to add the
Meridian City logo at the bottom of the sign. Great comment! Steve Siddoway
interjected this isn't a private HOA park, but a part of the Champion Park
subdivision. Having a City logo on the sign makes all the more sense.
Commissioner Jennifer Bobo - For the Renaissance Park art, is there going to be
some sort of an activity planned in the summer solstice so people can come and
see the art in action? This is a great idea.
b. Discovery Park Signage Ft Phase 2 Concept Design Update - Mike Barton
MPR Parks Superintendent Mike Barton gave a PowerPoint update to follow up on
last month's discussion with the Commission on the Discovery Park signage and
Phase 2 schematic design. He stressed these schematic designs are not fiscally
constrained; things may change. Copies of his slides are attached to these meeting
minutes. Large-scale versions of the schematics mounted on foam board were also
on hand of all the changes that were discussed at the November 13, 2019
Commission meeting.
Commission Feedback:
• Vice President Dom Gelsomino - Once the entrance into Discovery Park comes
along, will there be additional signage similar to the one at the other park
entrance? Possibly. Because the current entrance to the park is likely to
become a right turn into the park and a right turn out only, there is a slim
chance that it would be closed altogether. MPR staff is doing a traffic impact
study for Phase 2 to determine the outcome of the current driveway.
• Commissioner Cree Steele - With the rectangular fields, what is the distance
lengthwise between a Lacrosse and Rugby field? Are they about the same? A
regulation Rugby field is 210' by 360'. MPR Recreation Manager Garrett White
replied, according to Google, a Lacrosse field is 110 yards long by 60 yards
wide.
• Commissioner John Nesmith - Is there a plan for a pathway around the park?
There is a long-term pian for one. Segments of pathway will be built as the
park phases are developed to eventually connect into a looped pathway around
the entire park.
• Director Steve Siddoway - He really likes an idea that may or may not come to
fruition for the looped pathway and found an interpretive pathway about the
solar system with signs and spaces based on a mile long that will get someone
from the sun to Neptune. There's an app that has been built with this to watch
videos as well. The spacing of the interpretive panels are to scale with each
planet in the solar system. It doesn't make sense to have this amenity until the
full pathway has been built out. It is on Steve's radar and thinks it would be a
great addition to the park. (Several Commissioners expressed their support and
interest. l
6. New Business
a. Meridian Police Activities League (MPAL) Update - Mark Lightner Et Darrell
Eastburn
Meridian Police Activities League President Mark Lightner introduced Board
Member Darrell Eastburn who gave a PowerPoint presentation about their
organization. Copies of his slides are attached to these meeting minutes.
Parks rt Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 3 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents and/or hearings.
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Commission Feedback:
• Director Steve Siddoway - When he came on board, the relationship between
the City and PAL was strained. PAL was trying to develop Heroes Park. There
was an agreement in place. He does not fault PAL for this, because building a
park is difficult, especially with volunteers, which was not going very well.
There were deadlines slipping and a lot of concern on the City side. The
agreement was then restructured to where the City finished the improvements,
and PAL agreed to reimburse the City for their portion twice a year after each
season by adding a $10/child fee. The agreement was PAL would have part of
that improvement paid off in 15 years, but instead was paid off faster than
anticipated. The relationship has become very good. The City likes its
partnership with PAL, which is a great partner. They provide great services and
programs for the youth in the community. PAL recently brought in their final
check. Steve thanked PAL for their commitment. The City has never had to
remind PAL about the payments. After every season, the check would come in.
PAL always remembered. Steve appreciates their attention to this and the way
the partnership has gone.
• Recreation Manager Garrett White - Just in the last ten years, he stated it has
been awesome to work with PAL when it comes to reserving fields and the
communication. He thanked them for their communication and for what PAL
does.
• President Jessica West - She was not aware of all of the history and details of
the program. She thought it is phenomenal PAL is able to offer these services
and impact so many children in the community. She is really appreciative of
them, their support, their willingness to work with the City, and their help to
add more activities to the Meridian community.
b. MPR Commission Annual Report - Jessica West
The FY2019 MPR Commission Annual Report highlighting the accomplishments of
the 12 All -Commission Goals was included in the meeting packet. There were no
changes to the document.
Commission President Jessica West entertained a motion to approve the FY2019
MPR Commission Annual Report as presented. Commission Vice President Dom
Gelsomino moved to adopt the report. Commissioner Creg Steele seconded. All
were in favor of the motion.
c. MPR Commissioner Elections for 2020 - Jessica West
Commission President Jessica West reported each year elections are held in
December; one for President and the other for Vice President. Essentially, the
current Vice President receives an automatic nomination for President.
The current Vice President—Dom Gelsomino—received an automatic nomination for
President. Everyone was in favor of electing Dom Gelsomino for 2020 President.
Commissioner Jo Greer nominated Creg Steele for President, which he declined
the nomination, due to 2020 being his last year of service on the MPR Commission.
President West nominated Keith Bevan for Vice president. Commissioner John
Nesmith nominated Jo Greer for Vice President. There were two votes for Keith
Parks Ft Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 4 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents and/or hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Bevan and five votes for Jo Greer. The vote was in favor of electing Jo Greer for
2020 Vice President.
Congratulations to Dom Gelsomino as the new President and Jo Greer as Vice
President. The new Commission leadership is effective January 1, 2020.
d. Brainstorm 2020 All -Commission Goals - Steve Siddoway
The Commission reviewed the current 2019 MPR All -Commission Goals. In an effort
to streamline the process and as a starting point for discussion, some draft goals
for 2020 were brought forward for consideration and reviewed. MPR Director Steve
Siddoway facilitated discussion. There were a few minor changes made to the
draft goals. Each Commissioner was asked to list the order of importance of these
11 goals. Rachel Myers tallied their priority levels. Please see the following
results:
MERIDIAN PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
FY2020 ALL -COMMISSION GOALS
Commission President Jessica West entertained a motion to adopt these 11 goals
in this particular order as the Commission's top priorities for 2020. Commissioner
Cres Steele moved to adopt the 11 goals. Commission Vice President Dom
Gelsomino seconded. All were in favor of the motion.
7. Workshop -NONE
S. Staff Reports
MPR Steve Siddoway reported on the following:
• Christmas in Meridian - He thanked everyone involved, including staff and
volunteers, with all of the Christmas festivities. It was "all hands on deck." The
crowd and parade floats were amazing.
There is an Angel Tree in the lobby of City Hall. Toy donations are being accepted
through the end of day on December 12, 2019; many have been collected already.
On December 13, 2019, Steve will deliver the toys to the Salvation Army for
families.
Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 5 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents andlor hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
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Commission President Jessica West entertained a motion to adopt these 11 goals
in this particular order as the Commission's top priorities for 2020. Commissioner
Cres Steele moved to adopt the 11 goals. Commission Vice President Dom
Gelsomino seconded. All were in favor of the motion.
7. Workshop -NONE
S. Staff Reports
MPR Steve Siddoway reported on the following:
• Christmas in Meridian - He thanked everyone involved, including staff and
volunteers, with all of the Christmas festivities. It was "all hands on deck." The
crowd and parade floats were amazing.
There is an Angel Tree in the lobby of City Hall. Toy donations are being accepted
through the end of day on December 12, 2019; many have been collected already.
On December 13, 2019, Steve will deliver the toys to the Salvation Army for
families.
Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 5 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents andlor hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Once again, Steve thanked the Commissioners for all of their work this year on all of
the Commission's goals, which were discussed earlier in the evening, and for their
advice and help in having such a great year in all of the accomplishments they will
read in the annual report.
MPR Parks Superintendent Mike Barton reported on the following:
• Discovery Park Lighting - The Department sold the HID lights and was able to get a
rebate to retrofit the lights to LED on the two softball fields at Discovery Park,
which is actually cheaper than what it would have cost to install the LED lights in
the first place. The high-intensity lights are coming out after the ground freezes to
withstand heavy equipment.
MPR Recreation Manager Garrett White reported on the following:
• Christmas Parade - He had a tot of fun with this event and helped out at the
Speedway. He got to see all of the floats firsthand. Renee White and Chelsea
Cantrell do a phenomenal job. The entire Recreation team is really good.
• Sports Update - Winter Volleyball and Basketball league registration just ended.
MPR staff members are reviewing contracts for officials next year.
• Homecourt Improvements - He encouraged everyone to check out the facility
improvements. There have been discussions about potentially inviting the
community in for an open house. (Commissioner Steele suggested adding a bronze
dedication plaque to memorialize the grand reopening a few years ago.)
• Activity Guide - The new 2020 Winter/Spring Activity Guide has been released.
Jenna Fletcher is out on maternity leave, so in the interim, Garrett and Jake Garro
will tag team her position.
• Front Counter Administration - For Vicki Wagner and Jeannette Sanchez, it's all
about Christmas and Santa letters with assistance from volunteers.
• Holiday Classic Gifts for Head Start Pro ram Children - There were over 300 gifts
purchased for roughly 60 children. Maggie Combs brought in over $800 from the
Holiday Classic Volleyball Tournament raffle and bake sale combined; she did a
really good job!
MPR Pathways Project Manager Kim Warren reported on the following:
• South Slough Pathway - She is working with representatives of the Chamberlain
Estates HOA to construct a new pathway connection along the South Stough canal.
This pathway would connect from a new pathway segment in Verado Subdivision to
Locust Grove Road. She will coordinate with the irrigation district for some
needed due diligence. The goal is to get to a point where we can estimate a cost
for the budget process next year.
• East James Court Sidewalk Widening - This project is out to bid. She walked the
site in preparation for the pre-bid meeting, which is scheduled for December 16,
2019. They have received all of the required easements.
• Ten Mile Trailhub - The ACHD bids came in; the prices were good. The City
estimated $25,000 to help pay for the pedestrian bridge crossing, based on what
ACHD had told MPR staff. However, the bid came in at approximately $15,000.
They ended up with some permeable pavers down the center of the parking lot,
which is the best drainage solution. The design is in a holding pattern, since ACHD
will not work on the Ten Mile Road widening until next year.
Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 6 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents and/or hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Active Transportation Workgroup - She attended a meeting held at COMPASS. Just
a few days ago, the Sierra Club presented an initiative to connect regionally
through canal pathways. She ended up speaking a lot at this meeting. She will
participate in this effort at least for a few more meetings.
Local Rail -With -Trail Pathway - Survey work is underway between 2nd and 3rd
Street. She received a bid and scope of work.
9. Adjourn
Commission President Jessica West entertained a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Commissioner Creg Steele moved to adjourn. Commission Vice President Dom
Gelsomino seconded. The vote was unanimous and in favor of the motion.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at approximately 7:58 p.m.
(AUDIO ON FILE OF THESE PROCEEDINGS)
/ rem
1 (:8 /202 O
DATE
Attachments:
1) PowerPoint Presentation: Renaissance Et Champion Park Art Update (3 pages)
2) PowerPoint Presentation: Discovery Park Signage Et Phase 2 Schematic Design Update
Et Discussion (9 pages)
3) PowerPoint Presentation: Meridian PAL (9 pages)
4) Meridian Parks Et Recreation Commission Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2019 (8 pages)
Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - December 11, 2019 Page 7 of 7
Persons desiring accommodation for disabilities related to documents and/or hearings:
Please contact the City Clerk's office at 888-4433 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.
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FA
MERIDIAN PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
ANNUAL REPORT
FISCAL YEAR 2019
(10/1/18 - 9/30/19)
All -Commission Goals & Accomplishments:
11 Support development of a connected pathway system across the City of
Meridian, with the Five Mile Creek Pathway and the Rail -With -Trail
Pathway as the top priorities.
The following are specific segment updates regarding the Five Mile
Creek Pathway:
• East James Court Sidewalk Widening - We have a completed set
of plans, ACHD approval, and have done utility relocations.
Although we are waiting for one easement, this project will be
put out to bid this winter with the goal of breaking ground in
the spring of 2020.
• Fairview Avenue Connection - Design engineering has begun
for this multi-year project to strengthen the Fairview Avenue
segment of the Five Mile Creek Pathway, which has been
identified as a priority pathway spine for focused development.
This stretch will connect the recently completed Segment H2
that currently dead -ends at Fairview Avenue with existing miles
of Five Mile Creek Pathway across Fairview to the north and
northwest. The goal is to finalize design and complete this
connection in fiscal year 2021.
• Trailhead at Ten Mile Road - This is a cost -share project with
ACHD to develop a trailhead amenity in conjunction with the
proposed widening of Ten Mile Road between Ustick and
McMillan, which focuses trail implementation efforts along the
Five Mile Creek Pathway corridor. Design concepts and right-of-
way procurement have been completed. Construction of the
parking lot will kick off in 2020 concurrent with the widening of
Ten Mile Road. Features include parking, landscaping, seating,
drinking water, bicycle racks, and bike repair stations that will
Page 1 of 8
be installed once the road widening has been completed. The
cost share will also provide for a 10' multi -use pathway
integrated with the expanded vehicular bridge across Five Mile
Creek.
Pine Avenue Pedestrian Rest Stop - A project is underway to
provide a resting place along the Five Mile Pathway at Pine
Avenue where the pathway crosses to the south with amenities,
such as water, shade trees, seating, site furnishings, a bike
repair station, signage/wayfinding, art, and xeric and manicured
landscape. MPR staff's goal is to be under construction in the
spring of 2020.
Regarding the Local Rail -With -Trail Pathway, the original project was
conceived as a pathway segment from 3rd to 8th Street (north of the
rail corridor) that included sidewalk improvements on 3rd Street and
Broadway Avenue. Staff has been pursuing a land trade with the
Friends of Children and Families organization to secure right-of-way
to complete this segment. While working on the land trade, the MPR
Department researched the possibility of extending the proposed
project west to Linder Road, and east to 2nd Street. The latter would
provide access to Meridian Road via the one-way alley south of the
employee parking lot. It was decided that funds originally slated for
sidewalk improvements would be better spent to expand the pathway
portion of this project, providing a more complete connection
between Meridian and Linder Roads. To this end, we are currently
pursuing easements with landowners along the full alignment (7 total,
5 of whom have been contacted to date) to secure access for an
expanded Rail With Trail project.
Regarding the Regional Rail -With -Trail Pathway, MPR staff members
have actively participated in the Rail -With -Trail Work Group, led by
COMPASS and supported by area agencies. The group reconvened
with renewed energy in 2019 to hire a consultant to create a simple,
realistic plan that would actively move this project forward. Meridian
staff participated in writing of the RFP, consultant selection, and the
planning process itself. The final plan was built upon former planning
efforts for this corridor and considered updated contextual
information to arrive at several standard cross sections that could be
applied along the length of the proposed corridor, from Nampa to
Boise. It also addressed estimated costs for right-of-way acquisition
and project development. The last monthly meeting involved
prioritization activities aimed at identifying next steps. For more
information, view the completed plan at:
https://www.compassidaho.org/g)rodserv/CIM2040 2.0/railswithtrails.html
Page 2 of 8
The MPR Pathways Project Manager gave the following presentations
where Commissioners provided their support and feedback:
• Five Mile Creek Pathway Trailhead Update - October 10, 2018 &
August 14, 2019.
• Pathways - November 14, 2018.
o Pathways Network Map
• Pathways Workshop - December 12, 2018.
o 2018 Pathway Priority Task List Update
L, Pathway Sites Update
■ Black Cat to Aldape Park
■ Kleiner Park to Settlers Park
• Settlers Park to Sawtooth Middle School
• Hillsdale Park to Discovery Park
■ Owyhee High School Area
■ Five Mile Creek Pathway Segment D from Ten Mile to
Black Cat
• Pine Avenue Pedestrian Rest Stop Update - August 14, 2019.
A Spring Pathways Tour by van and bicycles was held in April 2019 at
which time the Commissioners visited the following pathway
segments and points of interest:
• Linder Road improvements plus pedestrian crossing amenities.
• Completion of the White Drain Pathway segments.
• Bridgetower Example - Discussion of developer driven and
maintained pathways.
• Discuss Vicenza Link.
• Discuss future mid -mile pathway connection to Heroes Park.
• Black Cat corridor - Discuss future mid -mile pathways.
• The Oaks Subdivision new pathway stretch.
• Future Owyhee High School proposed pathway connections.
The Commission debriefed about their tour in May 2019.
2) Encourage coordination with the City of Eagle to connect to the Boise
River Greenbelt and with neighboring communities for additional
regional connections of our pathway systems.
The Commission received presentations from the following agencies
and had an opportunity to discuss future connectivity:
• Ada County Highway District (Roadways to Bikeways) - February
13, 2019.
• COMPASS Idaho - February 13, 2019.
• City of Eagle (Pathways Update) - July 10, 2019.
Page 3 of 8
• Idaho State Parks & Recreation (Eagle Island Master Plan Update)
- October 9, 2019.
3) Support construction and the grand opening of Discovery Park.
The Commission received the following presentations about the
development of Discovery Park, Phase 1 and provided feedback to
MPR staff and the consultants:
• Discovery Park Sign Update - November 14, 2018.
• Discovery Park Update - February 13, 2019.
The Commission had an opportunity to tour the park whilst under
construction for Phase 1 during their team -building activity held on
June 12, 2019.
The MPR Department opened the first phase of Meridian's newest
Regional Park consisting of 27 acres, which is full of unique amenities
that focus on the theme of "discovery." City leaders, including some
Commissioners, joined together for a ceremonial ribbon cutting on
Friday, July 26, 2019. The park officially opened to the public on
Saturday, July 27th with a grand opening celebration with MPR
Commissioners in attendance.
The Commission received the following presentation about the
development of Discovery Park, Phase 2 and provided feedback to
MPR staff:
• Discovery Park Programming & Conceptual Design -- November
13, 2019.
4) Support construction of a shade structure solution at the KIeiner Park
bandshell.
The Commissioners received the following presentation about a shade
opportunity in Kleiner Park at the bandshell and provided their
support and feedback:
• Kleiner Park Bandshell Shade Update - February 13, 2019.
In May 2019, a shade covering was added to the bandshell in Julius M.
Kleiner Memorial Park located at 1900 N. Records Avenue to provide
sun protection for the performers on stage. These two overlapping
pieces of fabric which are each approximately 45' x 30' are supported
by five steel posts.
Page 4 of 8
5) Engage other task forces, commissions, entities, and agencies through
workshops and other outreach for partnership.
The MPR Commission received several updates over the course of the
fiscal year from various representatives as follows:
• Meridian Arts Commission Partnership (Renaissance & Champion
Parks Theming & Art) -- October 10, 2018.
• Meridian Library District Partnership Discussion (Kleiner Park
Story Trail) - January 9, 2019.
• F.A.C.T.S. (General Update) - March 13, 2019.
• Mayor's Senior Advisory Board (Kleiner Park Fishing Dock) -
March 13, 2019.
• Meridian Co-op Gardeners Update (Kleiner Park Community
Garden) - May 8, 2019.
• Eagle Parks & Recreation (Programs & Projects) - July 10, 2019.
• YMCA (Aquatics Center Update) - August 14, 2019.
• Ada County Parks & Waterways (General Update) - November 13,
2019.
6) Pursue improved tools and opportunities to engage citizens and
stakeholders.
The Commission received a presentation from the Meridian
Community Development Director on October 9, 2019 about a new
City-wide Open Space Survey that will be conducted for Meridian
residents in the near term. They had an opportunity to view the draft
online survey content, provide feedback, and share ways for
improving the online survey and tools. The final version will be
presented to Council in fiscal year 2020 for further direction.
The Commission also had the opportunity to weigh in regarding a new
Meridian Master Mobility Map that is being developed which is an
interactive, multi -modal, multi -jurisdictional mapping tool within the
development of the Comprehensive Plan on how to get around the
Meridian community or identify where there are gaps in the system.
The Meridian Planning Division Manager introduced and demonstrated
this tool to the Commission at their November 13, 2019 meeting.
The Department gained more exposure within the community by
posting events and activities on Facebook.
In addition, the MPR Department continues to ramp up its advertising
efforts with local radio stations and via Facebook.
Page 5 of 8
7) Support the planned improvements for bay 5 of the Homecourt.
The MPR Commission provided support and feedback to MPR staff
during the following presentations:
• Homecourt Update - November 14, 2018.
• Homecourt Update - August 14, 2019.
The Commission had an opportunity to tour the facility whilst under
construction during the annual Facilities Tour held on September 11,
2019. Commissioners expressed their support and excitement during
their debriefing held on October 9, 2019.
The Meridian Homecourt located at 936 W. Taylor Avenue received
some welcome improvements which include a new front desk,
entryway, and office with hallway access from Bay 5 to the courts;
floor resurfacing; a restroom remodel; and condensation/humidity
upgrades. Bay 5 renovations include multipurpose flooring with a
moisture barrier, storage space, office space, and space for Volleyball,
Pickleball, and community education classes, such as adult line dance,
youth dance, martial arts, and Amazing Athletes.
8) Discuss progress on Goals and Objectives in the MPR Master Pian.
The MPR Director provided a written update to the Commission at the
May 8, 2019 meeting about progress on the Goals and Objectives in
the MPR Master Plan.
9) Continue to foster greater Commission involvement/presence in
community events.
Commissioner Jo Greer is the chairperson for the Christmas Planning
Committee and has been heavily involved in the planning and
execution of various tasks related to the Winter Lights Parade and
Children's Winterland Festival.
The Commissioners participated in the Christmas in Meridian
festivities in 2018. The Commissioners dressed up as elves again in
2018 and participated in the Santa's Workshop parade float. They plan
to do the same for this year's event.
Vice President Dom Gelsomino is the liaison for the Mayor's Youth
Advisory Council and assisted the teens with various events held
throughout the year.
Page 6 of 8
There was Commission presence at the following ribbon -cutting
events/dedications:
• Kleiner Park Fishing Dock Dedication - May 30, 2019.
• Discovery Park, Phase 1 Ribbon Cutting - July 26, 2019.
• Discovery Park, Phase 1 Dedication Celebration - July 27, 2019.
• Fuller Park Grand Re -Opening and Ball Field Dedication -
October 18, 2019.
In addition, Commissioners participated in the following special
events held throughout the year:
• Trunk or Treat - October 25, 2018.
• Arbor Day Celebration at Peregrine Elementary School - April 12,
2019.
• Community Block Party - September 7, 2019.
• Sparklight Movie Nights - Summer 2019.
• Independence Day Festival - July 4, 2019.
• Trunk or Treat - October 24, 2019.
10) Hold workshops during Commission meetings to address current issues.
A Pathways Workshop was held on December 12, 2018 to discuss
various potential connections at multiple sites, including: Black Cat to
Aldape Park, Kleiner Park to Settlers Park, Settlers Park to Sawtooth
Middle School, Hillsdale Park to Discovery Park, Owyhee High School
Area, and Five Mile Creek Pathway Segment D from Ten Mile to Black
Cat.
I I) Participate in the partnership with the Meridian Arts Commission to
add theming and identity reinforcing art at Champion Park and
Renaissance Park.
The Commission engaged the Arts & Culture Specialist and MPR staff
during a presentation held on October 10, 2018 about theming and art
reinforcement at Champion and Renaissance Parks where artwork will
be installed. These two projects are currently in progress and are on
schedule to be fully completed and installed in 2020.
1 2) Support the current efforts for ADA compliance repairs to ensure
accessibility of Meridian's park system.
The Commission has been very supportive of the current effort to
complete ADA compliance repairs within Meridian's parks. All the ADA
Page 7 of 8
repairs and upgrades were completed and certified prior to the
stipulated date of August 16, 2019.
APPROVED:
/2,, it /�
CA: -WEST. TRES IDENT DATE
DOM GELSOMINO, VICE PRESIDENT
Page 8 of 8