02-02-2015 PRCEMMINUTES
Parks, Recreation & Community Education Advisory Board
February 2, 2015
Members present were Don DeMeyer, Tim Peterson, John Rodeberg, Chad Czmowski, Marsha
Anderson, Elizabeth Hanninen-Scharn and Jim Waldron. Also present were Dolf Moon, Sara
Witte, Mike Bahe and Karen McKay.
The meeting was called to order at 5:15 pm.
A motion was made by John Rodeberg and seconded by Elizabeth Hanninen-Scharn to approve the
minutes dated December 1, 2014. The board unanimously agreed.
The group was introduced to new board member Marsha Anderson.
OLD BUSINESS
Facilities Improvement Update: Dolf handed out a draft of proposed improvement projects for the
next four years. All items will be reviewed and prioritized.
Luce Line Trail Update: Bids have been received for the paving of the Luce Line Trail from
Hutchinson to Winsted. A recommendation will be forwarded to the city council for approval.
NEW BUSINESS
Forestry Report: Mike Bahe, Forestry and Natural Resources Specialist, was in attendance to report
on 2014 Forestry activities and 2015 goals and projects. In 2014, Phase 1 of the tree diversification
project was completed. This involves removing selected ash trees in anticipation of the Emerald
Ash Borer and replacing them with trees of other species. Phase 2 will occur in 2015. There is
$25,000 annually set aside for this project.
Parks Report: Sara Witte, Parks Supervisor, was in attendance to report on 2014 Parks activities
and 2015 goals and projects. In 2014, the Parks garage was remodeled, picnic tables were
refurbished, new restroom facilities were added at Masonic West River Park, the interior of the
concession/restroom facility at Roberts Park was sandblasted and repainted, and
kayak/canoe/paddleboard rentals were taken at Masonic West River Park. Several projects are
scheduled for 2015 in the parks. The depot site has been added to the parks maintenance schedule.
Heart of Hutch Project: A Life Trail will be installed in Rotary Park. This is a fitness trail with
stations of various exercise activities. Hutchinson Health and the Rotary Club have contributed
funds toward this project. The fitness trail has a lifespan of 15 — 20 years.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 pm on a motion by Chad Czmowksi and seconded by Tim
Peterson. The next meeting will be March 2, 2015 at 5:15pm.