02-12-92 PRCity of Otsego
Parks and Recreation Commission
Minutes of 2/12/92
Members present:
Tom Constant Jacquie Rognli
Mark Wallace (Chair) Carl Swenson
Floyd Roden Andy Beecher
The first item on the agenda was the consideration of the minutes
for the meeting of 1/ 1*4/92. Carl moved to approve the minutes.
Seconded by Jacquie Rognli.
Mark welcomed Randy Cantrell (once again!). Survey results were
discussed. The results were based on 81 completed surveys --
representing about 5% of Otsego's population. Randy suggested we
look most seriously at the facilities requested by about 20% of those
surveyed. He also cross -tabulated some of the activities together; for
example, of the people who requested a biking facility, 95% also
wanted a walking facility.
Randy recommended we take a look at the information
provided by the survey and come up with 2 or 3 plans, then form 3 focus
groups made up of an accurate representation of Otsego residents (8-
10 people in each group). We would present our plans, including
design, cost, etc. and ask for their feedback. It was suggested that we
offer these people something for their participation and input.
Jacquie suggested listing activities from most participation to least
might be helpful (this sheet is attached to minutes).
Mark suggested forming a committee to work on a rough draft of
our Comprehensive Park Plan. Jacquie, Mark and Floyd agreed to
meet Friday, February 28 to work on an outline. Mark will contact Rick
and Darlene to see of they would be interested in being involved with
this.
Proposed changes to the Parks and Recreation Bylaws were
pointed out for the members to review. Discussion will take place and
approval will be voted on at the March meeting.
Floyd brought large city maps that the commission can use for our
own purposes. He also pointed out the recent land acquisition for the
new city hall. A brief discussion followed, including ideas for the land as
far as parks and rec activities/facilities (ball fields, picnic areas, trails, etc.).
Additional information Floyd presented:
• City hall building committee meeting February 13 with architect and
Stewart Turnquist of Vision committee
• School issue and its importance to Otsego and the commission
• Parks and Rec budget increasing with new building plats coming in
• Recreation coordinator hired and interested in doing a study about
interests of area.
'Brainstorming' continued. Additions to our previous list:
• long walk/run trail
• x -country trail following UPA distribution lines - snowmobile, winter;
bike/hike, summer
• preservation of wetlands , wooded areas and historical sites
• picnic area at improved river accesses
• play fields and natural parkland adjoining school
• naturalist -led classes and activities
• classes and activities that take advantage of and promote awareness
of Otsego's natural assets
• x -country ski trail in city possibly using county park hiking trails
• programs to promote appreciation of agricultural nature of area
(children's farm visit, farm tour geared to family)
• annual city bike tour
An earlier meeting time was briefly discussed -- possibly 7:00 or 7:30.
This will be discussed further at the March meeting.
Tom gave an update of snowmobile trail progress. Big Lake
offered support, labor and funds to help tie in with Otsego's trail.
Andy moved to adjourn. Tom seconded. Adjourned at 10 pm.
Andy Beecher, Secretary