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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Minutes - Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission - Meeting Date: 12/14/2016CITY OF GLENDALE PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING FOOTHILLS RECREATION AND AQUATICS CENTER 5600 W.I.'NION HILLS DRIVE December 14,2016 6:00 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: Manuel Padia, Chair Kerry Dewberry, Vice Chair Alicia H. Rubio Barbara R. Cole Len Koh MEMBERS ABSENT: Henry Rosas Ethan McAffee Lonie Moreno John Faris OTHERS PRESENT:Erik Strurk, Director Public Facilities, Recreation & Special Events Tim Barnard, Assistant Director Stephanie Miller, Program Manager Mike Gregory, Deputy Director Bryan Wagner, Park Superintendent Paul King, Adminisnator Sports, Recreation & After-School Lisa Robson, Recreation Programmer Sean McGary, Senior Recreation Coordinator I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Padia called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. II. ROLL CALL Chair Padiatook roll call and noted absences. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - NOVEMBER 9. 2016 Commissioner Rubio motioned, second by Vice Chair Dewberry, to approve the November 91 2016 meeting minutes as written. Motion carried 5 - 0. IV. BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR None. V. FOOTHILLS RECREATION AND AOUATICS CENTER FACILITY TOUR Mr. McGary conducted a tour of the Foothills Recreation and Aquatics Center. A fact sheet regarding stafffing, hours, FYl5-16 and FYl6-17 revenues and expenses, revenue resouroes, and panicipation by area was provided. Highlights of the tour included the following: o Second floor meeting rooms o Brief overview of the types of classes offered, including special interest classes o General FRAC member benefits o The Turtle Club o The gym, fitness room, dance studio, racquetball courts, and exercise studio . The pool, water playground, water slide, caf€, and lazy river VI. NCAA FINAL FOUR COMMT.JNITY ACTIVITIES On npril t and April 3,2017, Glendale will host the NCAA Final Four Men's Basketball Tournament at the University of Phoenix Stadium. The Public Facilities, Recreation, and Special Events Departnent is planning events specifically for Glendale residents to encourage local excitement and increase community pride and participation. Mr. Gregory provided an update on the events that staffhas proposed to host in the weeks leading itp to ttr" tournarnent. lf approval is received to move forward with the concepts, staffwill begin working with partner agencies to solidiff the project concepts and begin implementation. Mr. Gregory announced the project proposals, which included the following highlights: e NCAA Battle of the Bands Concert o Proposed dates and location: March l8s or March 25h atthe Anowhead Mall Amphitheater. o The event would be for high school students. Bands would have to register in January 2017 and submit a song for review. Bands would also be required to submit an original NCAA Final Four themed song. o The first 14 bands to register meeting the basic requirements would be included. o Local sponsors, such as a local music radio station, would be tapped for participation. o )rfQfu{ Final Four 3 on 3 Youth Basketball Tournament o Proposed dates and location: Heroes Regional Park outdoor courts on March ll, 12, and 18, 2017. o The event would be an all-inclusive event with a focus on West Valley afterschool and recreation centers program participants aged from 8 to l5 years old. o A maximum of 16 teams per age bracket would be included. o The tournament would include music, cheerleaders, mascots, and dance tearns from local colleges and high schools. o Additionally prizes, giveaways, and contests for spectators and family members in attendance are proposed. o New Basketball Court o As part of the department's Capital Improvement Plan for Heroes Regional Park, a new outdoor recreational basketball court is being consfiucted. The department hopes to place the NCAA 2017 Final Four logo at center court to serve as a legacy that will commemorate being the host city for the Final Four Championship. o At the gand opening of the court in March 2017, a proposed ceremony would be held which would feature a basketball celebrity, elected officials, and special guests. A basketball tournament, separate from the proposed 3 on 3 tournament previously discussed, would be held featuring youth from Glendale community centers. o Glendale Movies by Moonlight Basketball Theme Night o In the spring of 2017, Glendale would like to host a family-friendly basketball theme night for one of its Movies by Moonlight presentations. The event would take place in the heart of Glendale at Murphy Park. In addition to the film, staff proposes to offer portable basketball games and sports inflatables. Local merchants and restaurants would be tapped for basketball themed promotions. o Reserved Seats at the Final Four Friday Event o Staff would like to reserve 100 seats for local elementary school students and chaperones to attend the Final Four event at the University of Phoenix Stadium. The departnent would like to work with local public school parhers such as the Glendale Elementary School Distict and the Peoria Unified School District to select students and chaperones to attend. Transportation to and from the event would be coordinated by the partner school. All students would be Glendale residents and the majority of students would be those who receive free or reduced lunch. Commissioner Cole inquired as to the basics of the Final Four Tournament which Mr. Gregory provided. Mr. Strunk announced that the NCAA is spending up to $5.0 million to refiofit the University of Phoenix Stadium with basketball-style stadium seating for the event. Commissioner Cole suggested conducting a mobile Commission at the University of Phoenix Stadium in the future. Chair Padia suggested hosting a video game basketball tournament at the Movies in the Park event to tie into the NCAA Tournament, which could be projected on a big screen at Murphy Park. Commissioner Cole inquired about volunteers for the Final Four Tournament. Mr. Gregory stated that City staffis not directly involved in the events nur by the NCAA; however, the NCAA may be using volunteers. Mr. SEunk explained that the City of Glendale does not own the stadium, but there is a quasi-govemmental agreement in place and the AZSTA runs the stadium. Commissioner Cole inquired as to the benefit of the stadium and the Final Forn Tournament to the City. Mr. Strunk commented that the tournament brings international exposure, increased revenue from hotel bookings, restaurant and tourist revenues, and additional economic development. Mr. Strunk noted that great networking, fundraising, and partrerships opportunities are created as well. Commissioner Koh inquired if this was the first time that Glendale has hosted the Final Four Tournament and Mr. Strunk replied in the positive. VII. PLACEMENT OF I.JNAUTHORIZED ITEMS IN CITY PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES Ivlr. Strunk stated that due to a few recent unauthorized items placed in the parks system, it is important to review the Glendale City Code regarding the issue and ensure proper handling of future instances. IvIr. Strurtk and Mr. Wagner provided a presentation with the following information: o Glendale City Code o According to Sec. 2744 of Glendale City Code, the unauthorized placement of items within city parks and/or recreation facilities is not permitted. o Sec. 27-44: Damaging or changing park property prohibited. Without the express written consent ofthe parks and recreation director, no person shall: a) Damage, tarnper with, disfigure, improperly use or remove any city park property, including any vegetation, landscaping, playground equipment, picnic tables, benches, grills, paving, fountains, resfiooms, signs, markers, monuments, stafues, fences, utilities, lights or any other natural resources or improvement of any kind. b) Plant any seed or vegetation in or perform any landscaping improvements to any city park. c) Constnrct any sign, gate, fence, fiail, stucture or other improvement in a city park. o Removal of Unauthorized ltems o Staffattempts to make contact with the owner for voluntary removal of unauthorized items. o In the event the item is not removed, staff respectfully removes it. o Examples: signs, furniture, shopping carts, left-behind equipment, flags, temporary holiday displays. o Mr. Wagrer stated that the biggest items in parks are shopping carts, debris and tash from camps, furniture, and tires. Mr. Wagner noted that occasionally, chemicals and oils are left behind. o Mr. Strurk stated that recently a Christnas free was put up at Oasis Park. IvIr. Sfiunk commented that stafftreats items respectfully and consistently according to code. o Pictures of Unauthorized ltems were displayed. o Thunderbird Conservation Park o Purpose: preserve park in as natural state as possible and prevent encroachment o Thunderbird Park Master Plan o Certain amenities are appropriate near the exterior of the park: paths, parking lots, restrooms, and ramadas. o Recent placement of unauthorized flags at Thunderbird Conservation Park has been done. o No other valley city allows the unauthorized placement of flags in conservation parks. o Permanent installation of lighted flag pole formally requested on December 6,2016. o IvIr. Strulk commented on the recent media stories and explained that there was an American flag placed at the peak of the park and other American flags have followed. Mr. Strunk stated that staff has the additional flags placed at the park, which were removed and stored properly. All flags will be retrrned to the original owner if the owner steps forward. Mr. Sfiunk sftessed that because the park is a conservation park, it must be kept in its original condition without encroachment. Mr. Strunk stated that a group at the Chamber of Commerce would like its flag and flag pole to remain permanent. tvlr. Strunk met with the group to discuss the issue. Mr. Strunk also consulted the City Anorney's Office. Vtr. Strunk stated that last week, the Mayor asked staffto review this as an Item of Council Interest. Staff will move forward with research and prepare a report for Council. Mr. Sfiunk noted that there are many aspects of the issue to review and further information will be provided to the Commission. r Valley Benchmark Cities' Policies o A chart was displayed with the stance of other valley cities regarding their policy on placement of unauthorized items. o Next Steps o No change to existing City Code or policies requested o Staff to follow up on City Council request regarding permanent flag pole installation at Thunderbird Conservation Park o Once direction is provided by Council, staffwill return to the Parks and Recreation Commission with a policy management plan for review and discussion. Mr. Strunk opened the floor for questions or comments from Commissioners. Commissioner Cole commented that an American flag could possibly be put at the entrance sign of the park. Commissioner Cole stated that when she hikes the park, she takes a picture of the flag as she enjoys seeing it. Commissioner Cole wondered who would maintain the flag if it were approved. Mr. Strunk stated that maintenance would be one of the issues to be researched. Mr. Strunk noted that he will be meeting with the Mayor and Council to receive direction to move forward regarding the study of the current policy. Commissioner Cole inquired if public input would be obtained and IvIr. Strunk replied in the positive. Mr. Barnard noted that there are federal and state guidelines which must be followed regarding American flags, such as care and maintenance and how and when flown. Mr. Strunk noted that such requirements would be included in the analysis. Commissioner Rubio proposed that there are environmental and ecological impacts to review as well. Mr. Strunk added that this discussion involves an American flag and future issues with other types offlags could occur. Commissioner Rubio asked if a study on the legality of the flag installation was going to be conducted. Mr. Strutk explained that he will be performing a scoping document with a highbrow look at the following aspects: legal, constuction, public participation, maintenance, and conservation park issues. Furthermore, an estimate of staff hours necessary for research will be prepared. Mr. Strunk stated that this information will be presented to Council with a request for permission to move forward. Commissioner Dewberry commented that some of the strong public feelings for this issue may have been stined up by the recent election cycle and may taper offover time. Chair Padia commented that the issue is worth exploring. Chair Padia added that history shows that President Roosevelt said that conservation is showing pride in the country and keeping Thunderbird Conservation Park in its natural state is therefore a way of showing national pride. Chair Padia stated that it is important to inform the public that preserving the integrity of the park is very pafiiotic in itself. Chair Padia added that staff also needs to review the existence of the water tank in the park and the amphitheater that is not being used. Mr. Bamard noted that an update to the Thunderbird Conservation Park Master Plan has been budgeted and the results of this analysis could be included in the Park's Master Plan. Chair Padia suggested a sign at the entrance of the park which speaks to the patriotism of conservation. Chair Padia stated that this type of educational tool could be very helpful and similar information could be included on the Park website. Chair Padia stated that there are other opportunities for patriotism in the City. Chair Padia stessed that public opinion is to be valued and education for the reason of the public policy needs to be shared. Commissioner Rubio visited the Park as part of a geology course at Glendale Community College. Commissioner Rubio praised the park for its environmental and educational value. Commissioner Rubio stated that there are endangered species in the park. Mr. Strunk noted that staffalso needs to consult with the Arizona Game and Fish Departnent as part of the analysis. Commissioner Koh inquired as to how long the issues with the flag have been happening at the park and Mr. Strutk replied that this issue came to staff attention approximately two and a half months ago. Mr. Strunk commented that flags have been put up periodically over the years; however, this recent incident has involved an increasing amount of flags. Commissioner Koh asked if the group installing the flags have attended a Council meeting. Mr. Strunk explained that the only discussions so far have taken place with the group from Chamber of Commerce. The individual(s) who installed the other flags have not stepped forward nor been identified. Commissioner Koh inquired about a deterrent mechanism. IvIr. Stnmk explained that enforcement would be the same as any other park infraction. Mr. Barnard noted that repeat offenders who are identified could be expelled from the park and the police would enforce the trespassing law. Mr. Strunk stated that the Commission will be kept apprised of the agenda item. VIII. CREATION OF A YOUTH MASTER PLAN Mr. Gregory stated that at the August 13,2016 Commission meeting, the Commissioners expressed interest in participating in the development of a Youth Master Plan. Mr. Gregory noted that the Commission approved this item as part of its FYIT-I8 Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Work Plan on November 9,2016. Staff is currently developing the framework for the Youth Master Plan and would like to engage the Commissioners and other stakeholders to provide feedback and input. Mr. Gregory introduced Ms. Robson and shared a high level overview of the initial steps of plan development. o The focus of the Youth Master Plan is to identiS goals which positively impact the youth in the community. o The Plan should set up Glendale youth for success and should eliminate any disparities in the current offerings. . STEM and STEAM programs are extremely important for youth. o The school districts, non-profits at the Glendale Community Centers, and staff are delivery services for youth progam. Others can be explored. r There should be offerings for all tlpes of youths at each Community Center. Mr. Gregory stated that staffis reviewing sample Youth Master Plans via the National League of Cities website at www.nlc.org. Ms. Robson encouraged the Commissioners to take a look at the website for examples of what could be included in the Glendale Youth Master Plan. Commissioner Cole inquired if the City has ever had a Youth Master Plan and Mr. Gregory replied in the negative. Ms. Robson noted that staff could use a sample or template from the National League of Cities website and build in the specific needs of Glendale. Ms. Robson stressed the need to include goals for the special needs and autistic communities as well. Commissioner Cole inquired if staff will reach out to the City's youth for input and Ms. Robson replied in the positive. Ms. Robson added that the Youth Master Plan is for the kids in the City and it is important to know what they would like to be included. Mr. Gregory added that staff will reach out to the school districts for participation. Commissioner Rubio asked if any of the facilities referenced would be new or current facilities. Commissioner Rubio commented that all goals must be attainable and achievable. Mr. Gregory replied that the Plan would include programming current facilities as efficiently as possible and until done, staff would not look to build new facilities. Mr. Gregory noted that staffwill look at partnering with other agencies to utilize their facilities as well. Chair Padia explained that part of the Youth Master Plan is to provide the non-profits nrnning the youth programs at the community centers with a consistent guideline for youth programming, determine current deficiencies and shortcomings, and identiff needs. Chair Padia stated that the Youth Master Plan might not necessarily create new prograrns immediately, but will create a stronger network and a better understanding as to what is expected of the non-profits working with the youth in Glendale. Mr. Barnard noted that the Deparfinent Master Plan is the overarching plan and the Youth Master Plan will be referenced in the Department Master Plan, in the same manner as the Revenue and Fee Study. Commissioner Rubio shessed that a plan should not simply be for the sake of making a plan. Commissioner Rubio stated that budgeting should come with a plan. Commissioner Rubio stated that planning should be done very carefully because if the plan is approved, it will have to be carried out and could have a domino effect on other areas. Commissioner Rubio commented that since this would be the first Youth Master Plan, it is very important that it is thought out carefully. Mr. Gregory commented that at this stage, the Youth Master Plan will initially establish a philosophy for the development of youth programming, partrerships, and relationships. Commissioner Cole stated that she enrolled her daughter in a daycare in the park when she was younger which was inexpensive. Commissioner Cole wondered if something similar for families who cannot afford FRAC or Head Start could be established at Heroes Regional Park or at the unused pool building at O'Neil Park. Commissioner Cole suggested staffalso researching the use of other unused park buildings. Commissioner Rubio knows certain non-profits which have had successes and would like to provide staffwith contact information to reach out to the agencies. Commissioner Rubio added that opportunities for partnerships with local universities should not be dismissed. Mr. Gregory stated that staffwill be extremely diligent with comments and information exchange to capture all input. Ivlr. Gregory noted that a flowchart will be developed for the Youth Master Plan process. Ms. Robson stated that the Youth Master Plan will only be successful if input is obtained from the correct people and it is relevant. Commissioner Cole stressed the importance of input from youth and students. Ivlr. Sfrunk stated that the Commission could consider a meeting with the Mayor's Youth Advisory Commission (MYAC) to open dialogue and garner input. Chair Padia suggested that Commissioner McAffee be a potential link to MYAC. Commissioner Cole shared that her students struggle with literacy. Mr. Strunk stated that the Commission could meet with the Library Advisory Board because the Youth Master Plan could be an important link to the Library Master Plan as well. It[r. Strunk stated that ajoint meeting Commission meeting could be held. Mr. Strunk inquired if the Commission would like the Youth Master Plan to be a standing, monthly agenda item or every other month. Commissioner Rubio suggested every other month and Chair Padia agreed. No opposition was expressed. Commissioner Koh stated that the first step is to determine the youth offerings throughout the year and suggested a calendar of events for 2017. Commissioner Koh inquired as to the staff definition of youth. lvlr. Gregory replied that staff defines youth as 5 to 18 years old. Commissioner Koh stated that he has seen youth also defined as 15-24. Mr. Gregory stated that the ages will be defined in the Youth Master Plan. Chair Padia thanked staff for the presentation. IX. DIRECTOR'S REPORT IvIr. Stunk reported on the following: o Special Events Division & Vendor Selection Process: Staffwill provide information on this process at a funue meeting and will ask for Commission feedback and approval of revisions to the process. o Upcoming City Council ltems: o Reduction in Fee Fares for Veterans and Disabled Persons: A Councilmember requested a means test for this reduction which will be included in the report. lnformation will be brought to the Commission in January. Mr. Gregory reported on the following: . 22nd fuurual NFL Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition: The event was held two weeks ago at the Arizona Cardinals game. Mr. Gregory will inform the Commission if any Glendale youth moved on in the competition. o The Annual Rose Garden pruning at the Satruaro Ranch Historic Area will be held on January 7,2017, from 7:00 a.m. to I l:00 a.m. Ms. Robson reported on the following: r Recreation staff is working to "festivize" all recreation centers with items such as candy canes, trees, and decorations. o The Clubs for Cars car show event at O'Neil Park was a great event which provided fuir and gifts for kids. Commissioner Rubio inquired about the LibCon event. Ms. Robson replied that the LibCon event was spectacular and the kids really enjoyed themselves. Ms. Robson commented on offferings at the event, such as a 3D printer, pokeballs, and games for the kids to play. Chair Padia stated that he attended the event and it was very good. Chair Padia's comments on the event included the following: o Representatives from Phoenix ComiCon were at the event and recorded a viral feed. r A Star Wars group conducted a Jedi light saber battle. o A panel discussion was held with a young adult author. r The event was fantastic and a lot of fun. Mr. Stnrnk praised all staffon their excellent work. IvIr. Strunk noted that Ms. Miller has reached her one-year anniversary with the Departnent and has done a fantastic job. Mr. Strunk wished happy holidays to all. X. COMMISSION COMMENTS Commissioner Koh appreciated the meeting and thanked Ms. Miller for pulling together quomm. Commissioner Rubio thanked stafffor the excellent job done. Commissioner Cole looked forward to more information on the flag issue at Thunderbird Conservation Park and the Youth Master Plan. Commissioner Cole offered her time for any volunteer projects and asked staffto contact her with any opportunities. Commissioner Dewberry praised the work of staff. Chair Padia stated that LibCon was a fantastic event and was excited to hear more about continuing City plans for the NCAA Final Four Tournament. Chair Padia continued to look forward to the Commission serving the community as best as it can and wished happy holidays to all. XI. ADJOI.JRNMENT Commissioner Koh motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:03 p.m. Commissioner Dewberry made the second. The motion carried 5 - 0. Respectfully submitted, Denise Kaznierczak