Bettendorf Park Board Minutes 11/09/04

MINUTES
BETTENDORF PARK BOARD
SPECIAL MEETING
NOVEMBER 9, 2004

The Bettendorf Park Board held a special meeting on November 9, 2004, at 4:00 pm in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Present: Kamp, Makoben, Beckman, Gackle, and Glenn
Absent: None

Brad Petersonís golf maintenance monthly report is annex #1 to these minutes. Commissioner Beckman asked what date the black-topping would take place. Steve Grimes will check with Brad. Commissioner Makoben asked about the reason for the forward tees on #10, #2 & #3. Steve Grimes explained it was follow-up to past discussions about making the course more user friendly for women, seniors and children. Steve Grimes shared the quotes from Lovewell Fence and S & D Fence and Deck Company for 40í mesh fencing along the 15th hole to prevent errant balls. The estimates were $20,000 and $35,000, making it cost prohibitive. Brad has suggested additional tree plantings in that area. Another option would be shorter fencing on the other side of the trees. The survey department measured 180 yards from the new white tees to the property ownerís fence. The quotes are annex #2 to these minutes.

Stu Smith reviewed the park maintenance monthly report, which is annex #3 to these minutes.

Rita VanWetzingaís recreation monthly report is annex #4 to these minutes. Commissioner Glenn expressed concern about the revenue numbers and suggested a committee to brainstorm ways to bring in revenues. Judy Gackle asked if the 6-month memberships were new people or former members switching to the 6-month membership. Steve Grimes felt they really would not know the impact of this until there has been a full cycle, but he will try to get numbers.

Jon Waddellís golf administration monthly report is annex #5 to these minutes. Commissioner Glenn suggested going to the Sun-Down rate at an earlier date. It was suggested changing at Labor Day, and then this time of year start it at noon or maybe even all day. Steve Grimes will get a recommendation from Jon.

Steve Grimesí administration monthly report is annex #6 to these minutes. He shared correspondence from our consultant, Missman Stanley, regarding the pool drain issue. The correspondence is annex #7 to these minutes. We are currently waiting for a response from Pool Tech. Steve Grimes reminded the board of the joint meeting with the Park Board Foundation on December 14, at 5:30 p.m. following the regular 4 oíclock meeting.

Steve Grimes informed the Board he had been meeting with property owners between the Isle of Capri and Duck Creek area regarding the recreation trail. The major stumbling block right now is the petroleum tank farms. He will provide the board a summary report on this issue.

Steve Grimes discussed the Field Sike Project REAP grant. There needs to be clarification with the REAP representative, but he has not been able to reach that representative. He suggested canceling the Field Sike Public Hearing for Wednesday.

On motion by Makoben, seconded by Beckman, to cancel the Field Sike Public Hearing scheduled for Wednesday, November 10, 2004.

Roll call on motion: Ayes: Kamp, Makoben, Beckman, Gackle, Glenn
Nays: None

Steve Grimes discussed the fees and charges for next year. The Fitness Center and Pool fees have recently been reviewed and no rate increases established. There has not been an assessment of any changes in fees at the golf course. Jon is gathering comparable rates and possible changes for other courses. Steve believes users make choices based on convenience of the course, the quality of the course and the customer service. Commissioner Glenn believes the senior group will make the choice based on the fee. Chairman Kamp asked for cost per round and revenue per round figures. Commissioner Beckman stated he is currently against any fee raise, unless the cost per round shows its necessity. Steve Grimes stated the year-end report should show audited numbers for the past fiscal year and cash balance, and we should have that information for our December meeting.

On motion by Beckman, the meeting was adjourned at 4:29 p.m.

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Kamp (Chairman)

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Makoben (Vice Chairman)