HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRBMinutes010709_Page_2Janine said that she would like to get feedback from the neighbors on Ruskin regarding this
change of plan.
Brian asked what the timeline is for a response from City Council regarding the purchase of
the two Westpoint properties. Michael indicated that Council will consider the matter next
week and that he is asking for a commitment that the lots will ultimately be part of the site
so that we can plan in that direction, even if they do not immediately proceed with the
purchases.
Janine asked if TriSports was willing to have one regulation field (200 feet) and one
practice field (180 feet). She also requested that the new layout options be put up on the
city website since they are radically different than what was presented prior to the bond
election.
Russ moved that we recommend the following to City Council:
1) The batting cages will be located in the southwest corner
2) The ball fields will be oriented with home plates at the northwest and southeast
corners on the west section of the property.
3) The pool will be as far away from Bellaire as possible.
4) The two Westpoint lots should be purchased and included in the site.
Dave suggested that we allow the affected residents a chance to provide feedback and
perhaps to meet with us and PGAL.
Mac McDonald expressed concern about adequate room for spectators at swim meets.
Michael Ross reported that Tellepsen has been selected as the development contractor.
They will proceed to a guaranteed price of $13.8 million. He also said that asbestos and
lead abatement in the existing Rec Center building should be completed by the end of this
month. Council has passed a reimbursement resolution so that staff can pay bills in
advance of the bond issue, which is anticipated for March.
III. Minutes: The minutes of the December 3 meeting were approved as written.
V. Friends Board Report: The Friends Board report was distributed with the materials for the
meeting.
VI. Recognition of Lewis Family donation
Russ reported that Linda and Phil Lewis would prefer to have their names on a plaque at
the new facility as opposed to naming any structure in their honor.
VII. Update on Recreational Facility Re-Development Project: (see item IV above)
VIII. Colonial Park Winter Operations
Tim reported that the new heater is holding the pool temperature at 82-83 degrees and
that he considers it a great success. There has been no negative feedback regarding the
St Johns swim team's use of the pool for practice. They have paid $5,400 for usage.
IX. Huffington Park Renovation Update
Helen reported that the interest group has met twice. They agreed that the west side of
the park is underutilized and that we should put swings on that side.
Janine indicated that some of the palm trees will be removed to open the park up a bit,
visually.