HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-08-2023 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda PacketIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate in this program/event, please contact Gabe
Gotera, Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department at 319-356-5210 or ggotera@iowa-city.org.
Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
Public Comment for each item will be limited to 3 minutes for each person and a total for no more than 30
minutes per item. Written comments submitted to parksandrecreation@iowa-city.org, prior to 5 p.m. on
Monday, February 06, 2022 will be distributed to the Commission via email in advance of the meeting.
[REVISED] AGENDA
ITEM 1 CALL TO ORDER
ITEM 2 APPROVAL OF JANUARY 11, 2023 MINUTES
ITEM 3 PUBLIC COMMENT ON ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
ITEM 4 MERCER PARK AQUATIC CENTER/SCANLON GYM ADA ENTRYWAY & LED
LIGHTS – Facility Manager Kumi Morris
ITEM 5 ADAPTIVE AND INCLUSIVE PROGRAMMING AND OUTREACH –
Recreation Program Supervisor Malory Smysor
ITEM 6 REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
a) Parks & Recreation Director – Juli Seydell Johnson
b) Recreation Division Superintendent – Brad Barker
c) Parks Division Superintendent – Tyler Baird
ITEM 7 CHAIRS REPORT
ITEM 8 COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ITEM 9 ADJOURN
Iowa City
Parks and Recreation Commission
Wednesday, February 08, 2023
5:00 p.m.
Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center – Meeting Room B
220 S Gilbert St, Iowa City, IA 52240
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PRELIMINARY
MINUTES OF JANUARY 11, 2023
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER – MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Alex Hachtman, Christopher Odinet, Brian Morelli, Missie Forbes, Melissa
Serenda, Connie Moore, Rachel McPherson, Doloris Mixon
Members Absent: Boniface Penandjo Lemoupa
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Brad Barker, Tyler Baird, Gabe Gotera
Others Present: Judy Pfohl
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action):
Moved by Moore, seconded by Forbes to recommend moving forward with the proposed Kiwanis
Park Playground plan, if the playground roof is not red, as long as other color options are
available. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Moved by Morelli, seconded by Odinet to recommended moving forward with the proposed
Hunter’s Run Park Playground plan. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Moved by Forbes, seconded by Serenda to recommended moving forward with the proposed Happy
Hollow Park ballfield and accessible sidewalk plan. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Moved by Odinet, seconded by Moore to recommend moving forward with the proposed Hickory
Hill Park Conklin St. Entrance, Restroom, & Shelter plan. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa
absent).
Moved by Moore, seconded by Serenda to recommended approving the FY24 Fee and Charges
increase as proposed. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Odinet, seconded by Morelli, to nominate Alex Hachtman as Chairman of the Parks and
Recreation Commission. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Moved by Moore, seconded by Forbes to elect Christopher Odinet as Vice-Chairman of the Parks
and Recreation Commission. Motion Passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Moved by Odinet, seconded by Forbes, to approve the November 09, 2022 minutes as written.
Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
January 11, 2023
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PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None
2023 PARK PROJECT UPDATES – Don Marner; Snyder & Associates
Don Marner presents the PowerPoint presentation attached in the Commission meeting agenda packet.
Kiwanis Park
Don Marner explains how public input was gathered via survey from the nearby neighborhood which
resulted in the proposed playground plan with the additions of new slides, hammock swings, limestone
steps and a new central play structure. Director Seydell Johnson adds how the aesthetic and context of the
nature play area will stay consistent with the current playground, as heard in the public input.
Commissioner Mixon asks where Kiwanis Park is located. Director Seydell Johnson responds that
Kiwanis Park is located on the west end of Iowa City, near Willow Creek Park off Benton St.
Commissioner Moore comments approval towards the addition of the hammock swings as the type of
feature that could be enjoyed by a child in a wheelchair. Chairman Hachtman voices similar sentiment on
the incorporation of accessibility in our playgrounds.
Commissioner Morelli asks if there would be places in the park where people could come and set their
own hammock. Morelli refers to seeing university students on campus using hammocks in the shade of
the trees. Director Seydell Johnson replies that while there may not be locations available directly next to
the playground, there should be plenty of wooded areas between Kiwanis and Willow Creek Parks that
could hold sufficient options.
Commissioner Serenda compares the existing playground which is heavily incorporated into the natural
environment to the pictures of the proposed playground asking if there is any concern about how easily
the new play features could be integrated into the park environment. Director Seydell Johnson responds
that the context of the pictures themselves might not assist to that effect, but that in the proposed plan, the
rest of the Nature Play Area will stay similar with the new features nestled into it.
Chairman Hachtman opens the Item for public comment.
Judy Pfohl, president of the Ty’n Cae Neighborhood Association, voices excitement for the renovation of
the playground saying that an update is necessary. Pfohl is excited for the numerous rocks and tunnels
that kids can explore and climb through. Pfohl says that a reduction in the foliage would be appreciated,
mentioning that there are days where the neighborhood would come out and help thin out and remove
weeds. Pfohl says that the residents are supportive of the natural area but requests that the proposed slide
shack roof not be colored bright red as depicted in the survey photos. Director Seydell Johnson and Don
Marner respond that in the current stage of planning, the exact color of the slides and structures have not
been decided but would be aimed towards earth tones if possible.
Moved by Moore, seconded by Forbes to recommend moving forward with the proposed Kiwanis
Park Playground plan, if the playground roof is not red, as long as other color options are
available. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
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January 11, 2023
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Hunter’s Run Park
Don Marner shows the proposed playground plan which was derived from public input gathered via
survey. The playground would feature a more central playground in location that minimizes drainage
concerns. Marner explains that there would be plenty of green space still in the park surrounding the new
playground.
Commissioner Moore, after seeing that survey results showed that the proposed play structure had won by
a single vote, asks if there are pictures available of the 2nd highest voted play structure. Don Marner
shows the picture, while Director Seydell Johnson explains that when public input shows two options
getting voted very closely, the consultants look at how many play options are available on each option.
Seydell Johnson adds that another factor considered is how the runner up playground option was similar
in style to what was recently installed at the Whispering Meadows Park.
Commissioner Forbes asks for clarification on where Hunter’s Run Park is located. Director Seydell
Johnson explains that it is also on the west side of Iowa City at 1050 Duck Creek Dr and is not too far
from Kiwanis Park and Willow Creek Park.
Commissioner Moore asks if there is anything in the proposed plan that would be wheelchair accessible.
Don Marner responds that all the paths and trails will be ADA accessible with some components of the
playground being accessible, but not the entire play structure. Director Seydell Johnson adds that while all
parks will follow ADA standards, Willow Creek Park which is nearby is the most accessible and has
many components to meet the needs of a child in a wheelchair.
Commissioner Moore asks if the playground will be surfaced with wood chips. Don Marner explains that
the playground will be surfaced with engineered wood fiber.
Moved by Morelli, seconded by Odinet to recommended moving forward with the proposed
Hunter’s Run Park Playground plan. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Happy Hollow Park
Don Marner talks about how desired improvements were gathered from a public meeting with residents.
Improvements include a return to a skinned and granular ball field, as well as a new playground. Director
Seydell Johnson says that currently, there are no playground choices included in the proposed plan.
Seydell Johnson explains that is because after seeing 5 playground options, the representatives of the
neighborhood asked for a different variety of options. Seydell Johnson details how the project will now
include only the ADA pathways and the ballfield renovation. Seydell Johnson says that the playground
will be a separate project with playground choices being shown in the next few months, with installation
still happening late summer/early fall of 2024
Vice-Chairman Odinet asks if the dilapidated building to the north of the park belongs to the City and if it
could be absorbed for the park for expanded green space. Director Seydell Johnson explains that the park
boundary is very tight and doesn’t include the entire hillside on the northern part of the park. Odinet
voices understanding but is frustrated with the presentation of the building next to a space intended for the
recreation of families and residents. Odinet asks if staff would be able to learn more about the nature of
the building for a future meeting.
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Commissioner Serenda asks what the concerns of the residents regarding the proposed playground
equipment. Director Seydell Johnson explains that the designs were similar to other playground designs
shown for other 2023 Park Projects, and that the neighbors felt that the designs were not unique enough.
Vice-Chairman Odinet asks for further elaboration on how the designs were not unique enough. Director
Seydell Johnson explains that five proposals were shown and that the residents wanted to see other
options within the playground budget that would include a nature play area and be more in the nature of
the historic neighborhood. Odinet responds that he does not follow how the proposed infrastructure is
unacceptable when it is relatively on par with the rest of the parks in Iowa City. Seydell Johnson
concludes the point saying that the original five proposals plus any additional proposals will be shown at
a future Commission meeting.
Chairman Hachtman asks about what kind of bike storage for park patrons would be available in the
project. Director Seydell Johnson replies that generally, bike racks are not included in the budget for park
projects and are added later, especially when the public input requests for it.
Chairman Hachtman asks for clarification on what the recommendation is that could be made. Director
Seydell Johnson says that the recommendation would be on the accessible sidewalks and the ballfield
renovation.
Moved by Forbes, seconded by Serenda to recommended moving forward with the proposed Happy
Hollow Park ballfield and accessible sidewalk plan. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
Hickory Hill Park
Don Marner talks about the layout of the Conklin St entrance of the park in relation to the Park Shelter
and attached restrooms. Director Seydell Johnson explains how separating the park shelter and the
restrooms would take away situations, when park patrons use the bathrooms while the shelter is privately
reserved. Seydell Johnson adds that the new bathrooms would also include storage for Friends of Hickory
Hill maintenance.
Commissioner Moore asks how big the current shelter is in comparison to the proposed shelter. Don
Marner responds that the proposed shelter is 24’ x 24’ while the current shelter is roughly 27’ x 24’ but is
in an odd shape. Director Seydell Johnson adds that the capacity and number of picnic tables in the shelter
would be similar.
Commissioner Morelli asks if all new shelters have electricity. Don Marner responds that most of the
shelters have electricity, depending on factors such as project budget or distance, some shelters might not
have the justification to install electricity. Marner does confirm that the proposed shelter would have
electricity.
Director Seydell Johnson explains that there wasn’t a public meeting for this project, since the changes
were not very intrusive or choice dependent, and that there are not many residents within the quarter mile
radius of the park. Seydell Johnson does clarify that parks staff met with the Friends of Hickory Hill
leadership for input.
Commissioner Serenda asked if in the proposed plan, people coming from within the park would have to
go through the shelter to get to the restrooms. Don Marner explains that the shelter would be to the side of
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January 11, 2023
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the restrooms and the larger park. Supt Baird adds that there are other trails and paths in the park that
would lead to the restrooms and not through the shelter.
Commissioner Serenda refers to the proposed plan and asks what the extended space above the shelter is
on the design. Don Marner responds that the space is the extension to the preexisting sidewalk that will
connect to the new park shelter.
Commissioner Morelli asks about the ground plan of the original shelter. Director Seydell Johnson replies
that the shelter is octagonal in shape, while the new design would be a square.
Chairman Hachtman asks how the entrance to the park could be used for educational opportunities, or as a
medium for artistry. Director Seydell Johnson replies that there are other places in the park with spots to
educate park patrons on the larger park, and that there would be opportunities for an eagle scout project at
the new site.
Moved by Odinet, seconded by Moore to recommend moving forward with the proposed Hickory
Hill Park Conklin St. Entrance, Restroom, & Shelter plan. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa
absent).
Fees and Charges FY24 – Recreation Superintendent Brad Barker
Supt Barker asks the commission to review the proposed Fees and Charges going into FY 24. Barker
explains that the submission of fee increases happens every other year with the most recent, 2023 having
an increase. Typically, this would leave FY24 to have no increase, but due to the rise in inflation on cost
of supplies for programming, Barker proposes an increase of most fees by 2-5%. Barker adds that there
will be the occasional 10-20% increase, but this is only for lower fees that need a high percentage to reach
the next round dollar amount, to create an easier customer service experience for patrons. Barker says that
the Farmers’ Market will not receive a fee increase in the proposal, as FY23 saw a larger fee increase for
adding Liability Insurance for the vendors. Barker talks about increasing the range in fees for recreation
programming to allow more flexibility in how the programs can be offered. Barker suggests there be no
fee increase for admission-based offerings and group swim lessons, for the initiative that every child be
able to swim with affordable and accessible programming. To this point, Barker brings up the Swim
Scholarship program that can make swim lessons free, and the effort to have only group lessons instead of
private lessons, to raise the number of young people learning how to swim. Barker does note an increase
in water fitness fees, from $4 to $5 a class. Barker explains that $4 is the same price as admission to the
pool, but the extra $1 is to account for instructor programming. Barker finishes by saying that the
commission can decide to either keep fees and charges as is or to receive a small increase for FY24.
Commissioner Serenda appreciates the targeted fee increases to minimize the cost of swim lessons.
Serenda asks if staff anticipate a return to the normal fee increase schedule of every other year, for FY25.
Barker responds that staff are hopeful for the Consumer Price Index and the inflation rates to drop next
year allowing FY25 to have no fee and charges increase. Director Seydell Johnson iterates the balancing
act between keeping the programming as affordable as possible while being able to keep up with rising
expenses.
Commissioner McPherson points out that the Dog Parks did not receive a fee change in FY24. Supt
Barker confirms this, explaining that is because it is an admission-based program. Barker adds that the
dog parks are some of the division’s highest revenue areas but since only so many amenities can be added
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while maintaining the balance with the open green space, it was elected to not increase the fees due to the
expense disparity.
Brad
Chairman Hachtman asks how programs such as RecAssist make programming more accessible for the
public. Supt Barker describes how the RecAssist program, which was previously titled the “Low-Income
Discount” was rebranded to better communicate the purpose of the program while also being less
stigmatizing to those who would use it. Barker explains that RecAssist is an income-based program that
can be applied for once a year which if approved would give the entire family a 50% discount on nearly
all programming and passes.
Commissioner Forbes asks if the RecAssist qualifying guidelines would adjust alongside the fees and
charges increase to account for inflation or extenuating circumstances. Director Seydell Johnson responds
that efforts are already in place in case of extenuate circumstance, referring to how the Swim Scholarships
can include providing transportations, swimsuits, or any other necessary swim equipment. Supt Barker,
talks about the effort put towards brining public awareness to the program, highlighting it’s use in the
Recreation guides, listing what programs are discounted. Forbes asks if the discount would include room
rentals for birthday parties. Barker responds that the discount does not include daily admissions or rentals.
Juli & Brad
Commissioner McPherson asks how the pricing for park shelter rentals are worked out as fees shown are
between $19 and $118 for 5 hours. Supt Barker explains how the shelters prices can vary but are based
upon factors such as capacity, location, or the type of shelter. McPherson asks for confirmation if the
shelters are reserved in 5-hour blocks. Barker responds that shelters are reserved for a five-hour block,
with anything longer being double in price. McPherson asks about the possibility of the shelter rentals
being included in the RecAssist discount to allow expanded use from the public. Supt Baird explains that
if a park shelter is not reserved, it can be used by anyone on a first-come first-serve basis, with rentals
being more so if someone wants a specific shelter officially under their name.
Moved by Moore, seconded by Serenda to recommended approving the FY24 Fee and Charges
increase as proposed. Motion passed 8-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa absent).
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Parks & Recreation Director – Juli Seydell Johnson
CIP Update: Director Seydell Johnson reports that it looks like the Capital Improvement Program budgets
are going to look the same as presented back in November 2022. Seydell Johnson clarifies that this does
not mean the budgets won’t change in future years, but that projects seen tonight are solid in their
funding. Seydell Johnson is hopeful that with how the CIP budget looks, the 2016 Parks Master Plan will
be nearly complete by the end of the next five years. Seydell Johnson explains that this means that staff
have almost systematically renovated all City parks.
City Park Pool: Director Seydell Johnson says that the estimate for the City Park Pool renovations is
around 10 million dollars, including the consultation selection process later this Spring to find a
consultant/designer. Seydell Johnson continues that during late spring through fall, there will be a public
input process, a review of all engineering studies of CPP, and likely a statistically valid survey again to
properly nail down a final pool design. Seydell Johnson says that by the end of Summer 2024, the project
will be out to bid with the pool being closed for all of 2025, with the pool reopening in 2026.
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Vice-Chairman Odinet asks what is being done with the statistically valid survey and the other round of
strategic planning relative to City Park Pool. Director Seydell Johnson explains that this information
would be given to the new consultants once designing has begun. Odinet asks if money is being re-spent
for the same project and if this is driven by some level of opposition to the results of the first exercise in
regard to CPP. Seydell Johnson confirms that this is the case and that due to the level of public input
throughout the initial process, the City Council wants to go through another deliberate process that gives
adequate input time to all members of the community. Odinet asks to know for the next meeting, what the
cost for all the consultants was for Recreation, facilities, & Program Masterplan and how much is
anticipated for CPP project. Seydell Johnson replies that typically, of the 10 million in the CIP, 10-15%
would go towards the new design. Odinet asks if the 10 million dollars that is necessary for the pool
renovations, is within the City’s general bonding capacity or if it would entail a vote for an increase to
sales/property tax. Seydell Johnson explains that at the current moment, the 10 million dollars is within
bonding capacities and that if it went above that, it would require other funding options. Odinet asks if
Mercer was discussed at all and is part of the current CIP budget. Seydell Johnson responds that the
capital budget goes out five years, with CPP standing in the 2–3-year range. As decided prior, Robert A.
Lee pool and Mercer Park Aquatic Center will both be reevaluated after CPP renovation completion. As a
result, none of the funding would be included in the current five-year timeline.
Commissioner Morelli asks if the input process is redone, what will be done differently to get a different
outcome. Director Seydell Johnson replies that the full answer of what will be different isn’t known
currently, but that whoever the consultant ends up being, they’ll likely go through the feedback received
in the first initial process. Seydell Johnson explains that part of the selection process for a consultant is to
find a consultant that understands the depth of the public conversation happening with the project and is
used to managing this level of public input. Morelli asks if the previous consultants could do the work
again since they already know the background of the project. Seydell Johnson says that could be possible
but that a fresh look was promised to some folks who had strong opinions on CPP. Seydell Johnson
clarifies that this doesn’t mean the same consultants couldn't put in a proposal and be chosen. Vice-
Chairman Odinet makes the point that a different result is not necessarily the desired effect, or more
specifically, a particular result in mind shouldn’t be desired and that the final result is what it is. Morelli
says that this gives the feel that it is to make people feel more comfortable and that it seems like a lot of
money to make people feel comfortable.
Commissioner Serenda says that there is a lot of tension between the statistically balanced survey which
is a valid representation of what the community at large feels versus the vocal users of the facility.
Serenda asks if there is a plan to address why so much faith is put in the statistically balanced survey
versus the people who came out to give feedback. Director Seydell Johnson acknowledges that this is the
main challenge of the process, trying to make sure that all voices are heard equally and with
representation. Seydell Johnson says that staff will be looking for a consultant who is able to work with a
community that is diverse but passionate.
Recreation Centers: Director Seydell Johnson explains the CIP Budgets for Rec Center improvements at
the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center and the Mercer Park Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym. Seydell
Johnson details how replacement of the roof at both rec centers was deemed high priority in their
assessment in the Recreation & Facility Master Plan and as a result both facilities each have a project for
roof replacement. Seydell Johnson says that the $500,000 set aside for behind-the-scenes pool costs at
RAL Rec Center has been backed up past the five years in the CIP budget. This is because of prior
decisions, to wait until City Park Pool renovations are done before working on either RAL or MPAC.
Seydell Johnson reassures that there is a commitment to keeping the RAL pool operating as pool counts
are compiled.
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Pool Counts: Director Seydell Johnson says that staff have continued meeting with the Save Robert A.
Lee Pool group to discuss and compare the ongoing Pool use counts that are included in the Commission
meeting agenda packets. Seydell Johnson continues that the group has not agreed with the staff counts
each month, and that, more information will be available in the next agenda packet to explain why.
Seydell Johnson elaborates that the Save RAL Pool group counts bodies in the actual water every half
hour, while Recreation Staff are counting people coming through staff checkpoints every hour. This in
water counts done by the Save RAL Pool group can result in someone to be counted 2-3 times depending
on how long they are using the pool. Seydell Johnson clarifies that the two counts are tracking using two
different methods. Seydell Johnson says that as the two groups count using their own methods and
compare numbers down the line, both should indicate similar if not identical change in trend of use.
Seydell Johnson concludes the point, saying that the dialogue is in motion and meetings will continue to
discuss the counts.
Commission Meetings: Ahead of the coming year, Director Seydell Johnson reminds the Commissioners
to RSVP their attendance prior to a meeting to establish if quorum is met. Seydell Johnson also reminds
the Commission that items that are on the Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda should not be
discussed with more than one other member outside of the meetings due to open meeting laws.
Commissioner Moore asks how many more parks need to be renovated. Director Seydell Johnson replies
that there are about 12 total parks left to be renovated with 6-7 in the upcoming CIP. Commissioner
McPherson asks if the small park by the Longfellow Neighborhood, Roger’s Green Park is one of the
parks. Seydell Johnson replies that it is not expected to be, as while Parks staff have maintenance on the
nearby Longfellow Trail, meetings with nearby residents have shown that typically people want it to
remain the same green space. Commissioner Morelli asks where Roger's Green Park is located. Supt
Baird explains the Roger’s Green is adjacent to the Longfellow Trail.
Recreation Division Superintendent – Brad Barker
Recreation Masterplan: Supt. Barker announces that recreation program supervisors are developing their
goals derived from the Masterplan and what key performance indicators will drive these goals forward.
These goals will be looking split into short term, midterm, and longer-term goals and will look at
communications, partnerships & outreach, programming, staffing, and diversity & equity inclusion.
Barker says that these goals will be shared with the commission when they are established.
Upcoming Events: Supt. Barker announces that Saturday Roller Skating will be starting up for the year on
the upcoming Saturday, 01/14. Barker adds that there is a youth time before the larger roller-skating
event, that is intended for beginners to get familiar with roller skating in a more comfortable environment.
Barker talks about the Sunday, 01/29 Science and Technology Open House which will show off new
equipment such as drones and robotics to give the community an idea of how the equipment will be used
in future programming. Barker announces that the Recreation Division along with other partners will host
the Martin Luther King Day event scheduled for Monday, 1/16. The free event will have a variety of
different service projects, a march from UAY to Mercer Park, a walking taco lunch, entertainment, and an
award ceremony.
Commissioner McPherson asks where the Roller Skating is located and if it is hosted every Saturday.
Supt Barker responds that the Roller Skating is in the gymnasium of Robert A. Lee Recreation Center and
is hosted most Saturdays, apart from when the gym is reserved for a different program.
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Parks Division Superintendent – Tyler Baird
Snow: Supt Baird, talks about the recent winter storm and how it arrived at a difficult time for staffing, the
beginning of a long holiday weekend. Baird says that thankfully, a lot of Parks staff came in on their days
off to clear the trails. Baird credits Josh Worrell, Asst Parks Supt for planning the routes, maps, and
backup staff to cover all the necessary areas across the city. Baird says that as a result, complaints this
time of the year have been drastically reduced.
Projects: Supt Baird details the Park Projects that are to start with the new year. The Natural Areas
project will entail the REAP groundwork and invasive species removal work in Hickory Hill and other
woodland areas. Currently proposals are being received from contractors. Baird says that there have been
project delays due to contractors not hiring enough staff. Baird explains that this problem is a trend seen
across multiple different contractors.
Forestry: Supt Baird talks about the next tree planting project, which has been released for proposals from
contractors. Baird details how staff notified the surrounding neighborhood in the southeast side, putting
up door hangers on every single door in the area. Residents had until January 20, 2023 to opt out of
having a tree planted in the right of way adjacent to their property. So far, only 3 people have opted out.
Baird announces that nearly all Ash trees have been removed from City Park, which were becoming
hazards due to the Emerald Ash Borer. Baird says that the in the next round of grant proposals, there are
state grants for EAB and Derecho recovery, which would fund the planting of 60-some trees in Lower
City Park.
Commissioner McPherson refers about a group of ash trees next to Paglia’s Pizza and asks if they are
being treated at all. Supt Baird responds that he is unsure about those specific trees, but that any ash trees
being treated will be marked with a silver circular tag. McPherson confirms that the trees in question were
tagged.
Commissioner Serenda thanks staff for clearing snow off the trails before asking if it is possible to
minimize the number of broom bristles that are left behind after the trails are cleared. Supt. Baird
responds that that is an unfortunate side effect of the brooms on the equipment, which for most of the
equipment is the only option for clearing snow. Baird continues that Parks staff tries to replace the
brooms before they are worn down to that extent, but it becomes a balancing act between the use and the
replacement. Director Seydell Johnson adds that it is difficult for the operator to see the bristles as the
recent snow as so fine and powdery while being thrown about.
CHAIRS REPORT:
None
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Moore asks to see what parks are left to update and what are the plans for them. Moore
expressed interest in seeing more wheelchair accessibility in the parks.
Commissioner Serenda refers to seeing research being done alongside trails and asks if Parks has
visibility into what is being investigated and recorded. Parks Supt. Baird responds that the research being
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January 11, 2023
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done is usually by University of Iowa students of Dr. Sanders. Baird continues that projects conducted
include listening to nature at night, trapping and releasing of animals, and bird surveys.
Commissioner Morelli asks if Rita’s Ranch Dog Park could be improved to have similar quality and
amenities to the Thornberry Dog Park. Director Seydell Johnson speaks about the 2026 CIP Project for
improving the dog parks. Seydell Johnson continues that while it includes both dog parks, a focus would
be to lay in a path along the edge of Rita’s Ranch. Parks Supt. Baird adds that a project has already been
bid for updating and improving the parking area and ADA accessible paths leading to Rita’s Ranch.
Morelli refers to the green space to the west of the dog park and asks if that would be an option for a
wider space. Seydell Johnson replies that the space is a stormwater retention drain and fills with water
after a big rain.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chairman Hachtman adjourns the meeting at 6:30pm.
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
NAME
TERM
EXPIRE
S 01/12/22 02/09/22 03/09/22 04/13/22 05/23/22 07/13/22 08/10/22 09/14/22 10/12/22 11/09/22 12/14/22 01/11/23 Missie
Forbes
12/31/25 X NM X X O/E X X X X X NM X
Alex
Hachtman
12/31/24 X NM X X X X X X X X NM X
Rachel
McPherson
12/31/26 * * * * * * * * * * * X
Doloris
Mixon
12/31/26 * * * * * * * * * * * X
Connie
Moore
12/31/25 * * * * * * X X X X NM X
Brian Morelli 12/31/25 X NM O/E X X X O/E X X X NM X
Christopher
Odinet
12/31/24 X NM X O/E X O/E X O/E O/E O/E NM X
Boniface
Penandjo
Lemoupa
12/31/23 X NM X O O/E O O/E O/E O O NM O
Melissa
Serenda
12/31/23 X NM X X X X X X X X NM X
TO: Parks & Recreation Commission
FROM: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation
DATE: February 2, 2023
RE: Requested Items and Updates
There were a few Commission member requests for information during the January Commission
meeting. This memo provides the requested information.
a. Ownership of house directly north of Happy Hollow Park.
The duplex is privately owned. The City Housing Inspection Division was not aware of any
current complaints, but did mention that a previous owner did have some issues that were
addressed. Housing Inspection staff visited the site after my request by found no code
violations.
b. Consultant fees paid for Recreation Facilities and Program Master Plan
The contract with Berry Dunn was in the amount of $146,670.00
c. List of Parks Not Yet Renovated since 2017 Park Master Plan (Photos of each follow this memo.)
a. College Green Park Playground – Scheduled for 2025
b. Reno Street Park Playground and Accessible Paths – Scheduled for 2026
c. North Market Square Playground – Scheduled for 2026
d. Benton Hill Park Playground – Scheduled for 2026
e. Brookland Park Playground – Not yet scheduled.
f. Oak Grove Park Playground – Not yet scheduled.
g. Harlocke Hill Park Playground – Not yet scheduled.
h. Terry Trueblood Nature Play Area – Not yet scheduled.
i. Kickers Soccer Field – Playground #1 – Not yet scheduled.
j. Kickers Soccer Field – Playground #2 – Not yet scheduled.
d. Update on Swimmer Attendance Counts
Staff continues email exchanges and have meetings with residents who are a part of the “Save
Robert A. Lee Pool” group. Information is exchanged each month concerning counts of people
using the pool. The numbers reported by both staff and the residents are close, but do not
always match. With each discrepancy, staff has investigated to try to determine the difference.
Here are some notes from the process:
a. The staff count is of the people who check in to swim at the front counter. The resident count is
of people in the water each half hour. Because of the difference in what is being counted, the
numbers will likely not match completely. The front counter number counts everyone who
comes into the pool only once. The in-water count has the potential to count a person more
than once if they are in the water for longer than 30 minutes.
b. Even with the difference of what is being counted, staff has done investigations when the
number differs by more than a few people. It has been a good process. Here are some of the
items checked, learned, and changed by staff.
a. An additional staff member was placed in the hallway outside the locker rooms at
various lap swim times to “spot check” that all swimmers had checked in. There was a
concern that some swimmers were entering from the upper doors, coming down the
stairs and bypassing the counter for check-in. Staff did not find this to be the case.
b. The resident group pointed out 2 mid-day lap swim times in December when they
counted 12-15 more swimmers than the front counter. Staff looked at the two dates
and determined that it was one staff member at both these times that worked only
these two shifts with swim time at Robert A. Lee during the month of December
(Customer Service staff work at both Mercer and Robert A. Lee). In this case, the staff
member did not know how to properly log into the software, so it did not log the pass
scans. This has been corrected. In addition, all customer services staff were re-trained
on this process at a recent staff meeting.
c. The $2 swim times at Robert A Lee has counts that differed for several weeks. Meeting
with the residents and reviewing the video footage led to an understanding that
Customer Service staff was checking in each family as a unit, counting as “1 check in”
rather than checking in the number of people in each family. This has been corrected.
d. Several of the mid-day swim numbers varied by 1-3 swimmers. Staff determined that
this is likely because a few swimmers checked in at the counter before the “Open Swim”
time began. The swimmers checked in and were logged, but it wasn’t picked up in the
staff counts because it was outside of the range of time. This has been corrected and all
monthly counts will be corrected to include swimmers who checked in between 10:30 -
11 a.m.
e. Staff has occasionally reviewed to video footage of the pool when the staff and resident
numbers vary by more than 5 people. Staff has offered to review the video with the
resident group. This was done once. The residents have since made a Public Records
Request for additional video. The video has limitations due to the view of the pool, but
it can give an indication of a busy versus nearly empty space. Videos are also only
guaranteed to be available for 14 days. The video does show the lap lanes, hence, its
use specifically for lap swimmer counts last summer.
f. Staff counts are of only public use of the pool. They do not include in-service lifeguard
staff trainings. The residents have asked for a list of these trainings aside from the pool
counts. This has been provided and will be included in Commission packets, as well.
g. Aqua Fitness, Swimming Lessons, Swim Team and Special Events are also noted
separately on staff counts but included in the total count of swimmers. Aqua Fitness is a
count of people attending each class. Swimming lessons, swim teams and special events
are based on enrollments for these programs and events.
h. Staff does not have an on-going accurate method to verify the counts provided by the
residents. In some cases presented in previous months, through video footage, staff
was able to see that AF class participants were being counted or that the pool was
empty when the residents reported swimmers in the water. Differences of 1-3
swimmers are difficult to verify.
c. Staff and the resident group continue to be committed to achieving a transparent and accurate
count of swimmers using all three of Iowa City’s pools.
Day Date 6-7a 7-8a 8-9a 9-10a 10-11a 11-12p 12-1p 1-2p 2-3p 3-4p 4-5p 5-6 p 6-7p 7-8p Daily Rec Totals Water Fitness Swim Lessons Event # Count Event Name
Sunday 1-Jan 0
Monday 2-Jan 3 6 2 11 2 24
Tuesday 3-Jan 4 9 1 18 2 34
Wednesday 4-Jan 2 7 1 15 2 27
Thursday 5-Jan 2 6 1 14 2 25
Friday 6-Jan 8 7 0 12 3 30 7 2 $2 Swim
Saturday 7-Jan 2 4 1 3 4 3 9 1 2 29 6
Sunday 8-Jan 0 13 $2 Swim
Monday 9-Jan 8 5 0 16 3 32 9
Tuesday 10-Jan 6 5 3 20 1 35
Wednesday 11-Jan 3 7 0 20 1 31 14
Thursday 12-Jan 7 7 0 18 1 33
Friday 13-Jan 4 3 2 16 0 25 8 12 $2 Swim
Saturday 14-Jan 1 0 0 2 0 1 4 1 0 9 5
Sunday 15-Jan 0 11 $2 Swim
Monday 16-Jan 5 7 0 14 2 28 13
Tuesday 17-Jan 2 4 1 19 0 26
Wednesday 18-Jan 7 4 0 8 1 20 11
Thursday 19-Jan 1 5 1 17 1 25
Friday 20-Jan 7 7 2 16 3 35 11 2 $2 Swim
Saturday 21-Jan 4 3 7 3 14 6 4 10 3 54 4
Sunday 22-Jan 0 28 $2 Swim
Monday 23-Jan 5 8 1 13 6 33 12
Tuesday 24-Jan 5 5 1 9 2 22
Wednesday 25-Jan 6 3 0 15 3 27 8
Thursday 26-Jan 4 7 1 9 2 23
Friday 27-Jan 5 3 5 16 3 32 14 10 $2 Swim
Saturday 28-Jan 2 0 0 3 2 2 0 2 1 12 3
Sunday 29-Jan 0 15 $2 Swim
Monday 30-Jan 8 4 2 16 4 34
Tuesday 31-Jan 2 5 2 17 3 29 GRAND TOTAL
734 125 0 93 952
23.7 4.0 0.0 3.0 30.7
Totals:
Robert A Lee Recreation Center - Indoor Swimming Pool Totals - January 2023
Averages:Closed for Weather/Events
Day Date 6-7a 7-8a 8-9a 9-10a 10-11a 11-12p 12-1p 1-2p 2-3p 3-4p 4-5p 5-6 p 6-7p 7-8p Daily Rec Totals Water Fitness Swim Team Event # Count Event Name
Sunday 1-Jan 0
Monday 2-Jan 2 11 6 15 1 4 16 13 9 6 15 3 3 1 105 118
Tuesday 3-Jan 3 2 10 12 5 12 6 12 6 3 0 0 0 0 71 118 CHS Swim Meet
Wednesday 4-Jan 4 4 7 6 11 11 4 6 9 7 5 7 7 1 89 118
Thursday 5-Jan 5 4 11 2 5 3 7 9 11 7 3 12 8 4 91 118
Friday 6-Jan 6 8 7 9 14 10 10 13 11 3 5 3 8 0 107 1 118
Saturday 7-Jan 3 5 5 5 10 8 4 1 7 9 2 3 0 0 62 78 2 Paddleboard
Sunday 8-Jan 20 5 17 12 7 10 9 0 0 80
Monday 9-Jan 7 8 11 12 8 12 5 12 3 8 5 8 6 4 109 6 118
Tuesday 10-Jan 3 14 5 9 8 7 3 5 9 6 0 0 0 0 69 118 CHS Swim Meet
Wednesday 11-Jan 7 8 6 12 11 8 5 6 11 14 4 13 9 4 118 118
Thursday 12-Jan 4 8 7 8 8 7 3 4 15 7 10 5 3 0 89 8 118
Friday 13-Jan 6 11 7 13 11 11 10 7 7 1 4 7 2 0 97 118
Saturday 14-Jan 2 4 6 5 8 15 11 6 10 6 5 9 1 0 88 78
Sunday 15-Jan 15 19 11 17 11 15 4 1 1 94
Monday 16-Jan 5 14 5 4 21 11 13 4 6 5 9 16 7 2 122 9 118
Tuesday 17-Jan 4 6 16 6 12 12 6 8 6 4 4 2 6 3 95 118
Wednesday 18-Jan 6 4 11 6 8 4 3 7 11 11 2 3 0 0 76 118
Thursday 19-Jan 1 5 7 4 6 11 5 13 6 0 0 0 0 0 58 6 118 SEJH Swim Meet
Friday 20-Jan 5 11 11 13 17 9 7 15 11 7 0 0 0 0 106 4 118
Saturday 21-Jan 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 78 Staff Training
Sunday 22-Jan 24 22 12 6 19 7 6 3 2 101
Monday 23-Jan 6 7 8 8 16 12 7 23 5 8 3 10 8 4 125 4 118
Tuesday 24-Jan 2 11 12 8 9 5 5 8 7 14 7 7 6 2 103 118
Wednesday 25-Jan 3 8 4 8 8 9 4 9 9 7 5 3 5 3 85 118
Thursday 26-Jan 1 2 5 6 6 7 3 6 7 4 8 7 8 2 72 5 118
Friday 27-Jan 7 7 7 9 9 4 5 4 12 7 7 5 3 1 87 1 118
Saturday 28-Jan 2 3 6 6 3 9 5 9 8 7 1 11 2 2 74 78
Sunday 29-Jan 14 11 9 17 6 9 5 6 0 77
Monday 30-Jan 7 7 12 10 12 5 3 7 4 4 5 2 10 2 90 5 118
Tuesday 31-Jan 1 6 4 5 6 6 10 7 6 2 5 2 4 0 64 118 GRAND TOTAL
2604 49 2908 2 5563
84.0 1.6 93.8 0.1 179.5
926
29.9
Mercer Park Aquatic Center - Indoor Swimming Pool Totals - January 2023
SEJH = 40
CHS = 32
ICE = 46 (includes masters)
Totals:
Averages:
Total using Robert A. Lee Pool Open Hours
Average using Robert A. Lee Pool Open Hours
Closed for Weather/Events
Iowa City Parks and Recreation
Aquatics Staff Training Schedule
October 2022 - January 2023
Date & Time Type Attendance Location
10/1/22 3:00-6:00p Lifeguard Make Up
Training
4 RAL
10/15/22 8:30a-12:00p Lifeguard Training 18 RAL
10/16/22 8:00a-12:00p Leadership Recerts 12 MPAC
10/20/22 5:00-8:30p Lifeguard Training 7 MPAC
10/23/22 1:00-4:30p Lifeguard Training 25 RAL
10/25/22 5:00-8:00p Lessons Training 5 RAL
10/27/22 5:00-8:00p Lessons Training 3 RAL
10/30/22 9:00a-12:00p Lessons Training 8 RAL
11/5/22 8:30a-12:00p Lifeguard Training 22 RAL
11/10/22 5:00-8:30p Lifeguard Training 15 MPAC
11/13/22 1:00-4:30p Lifeguard Training 20 RAL
12/3/22 8:00a-12:00p Lifeguard Make Up
Training
19 MPAC
12/20/22 8:00a-12:00p Lifeguard Make Up
Training
6 MPAC
1/7/23 8:00a-12:00p Lifeguard Make Up
Training
2 MPAC
1/10/23 8:00a-12:00p Lifeguard Recert 2 MPAC
1/21/23 10:00a-12:00p Leadership Training 12 MPAC
1/21/23 1:00-6:00p Lifeguard Training 45 MPAC
1/22/23 2:00-5:00p Lessons Training 7 RAL
1/23/23 5:00-8:00p Lessons Training 3 RAL
1/24/23 5:00-8:00p Lessons Training 3 RAL
1/25/23 5:00-8:00p Lessons Training 3 RAL
1/26/23 5:00-8:00p Lessons Training 6 RAL
1/27/23 5:00-8:30p Water Safety Instructor 4 MPAC
1/28/23 9:00a-1:30p Water Safety Instructor 4 MPAC
1/31/23 5:00p-7:00p Lessons Training 3 RAL
1 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet
February 2023
Upcoming Events
• Freeze Fest; February 5, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, 1 – 3 pm
• Dog Sweater Party; March 4, Thornberry Dog Park
• Spring Break STEAM Camps; March 13-17, RALCRC
• Roller-skating; Saturdays January 14 through May 20, RALCRC, Beginner – 2-4 pm, All ages – 5-7:30 pm
Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff
Parks:
• Forestry is working on placing orders and selecting contractors for tree planting in 2023.
• We have applied for the Community Forestry Grant through the DNR with plans to plant 65 trees in
Lower City Park with help of High School Volunteers in April.
• Two new pieces of Forestry equipment arrived. We have a new grapple truck to replace the oldest truck
in our fleet. We also have a new 1-ton truck that took around 2 years to receive because of supply chain
issues.
• Staff continues to work on the single-track bike trail at Terrell Mill Park with hopes of it opening for
cycling sometime in 2023.
• Seasonal hourly hiring has begun. Approximately 1/3 of our positions have been filled for the coming
season.
• 2023 park projects are progressing in the design/planning process, and projects will be bid for spring
construction start dates.
Recreation:
• Iowa City Farmers Market registration for the season has started.
• Program Supervisor staff has begun planning for Summer programs and events. The hiring of seasonal
summer staff has also begun.
Facilities:
• Spencer Mecham will be joining the Facilities team. Starting in early February, Spencer will be in the
weekend part-time staff position.
• Eric Alvarez and Brian Buhr attended training on Heating Systems in Cedar Rapids, presented by Iowa State
University college of Engineering staff.
2 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
Cemetery:
• Equipment repair and maintenance projects between snow events.
• Working on interviews for seasonal hires.
• Working on a longevity report for availability of lots (Monument/Flush/Niche) in Oakland Cemetery.
Top Staff Issues
Parks
• We are currently hiring a Forestry Maintenance Worker 1 and will be short staffed until the position is
filled.
Recreation
• Illnesses have been detrimental to attendance for both hourly and full-time staff positions.
• Winter/Spring programming has begun and staff has started planning for summer.
• Recruitment of new staff to various programming areas continues to pose unique challenges
Facilities
• Staff are working through winter projects and repairs, including repairing wading pool pumps and
motors for City Park Pool (prepping for Spring!), replacing hardware on doors in Scanlon and Robert A.
Lee Recreation Center, and replacing fixtures with touchless faucets in restrooms in City Hall and Mercer
and Scanlon Facilities.
• The cold temperatures in the last week of January, has kept staff on their toes with heating systems and
working to adjust to keep staff and patrons comfortable.
• Covid and other illness continue to impact custodial and maintenance staff availability.
Cemetery:
• Snow and Ice removal as needed.
• Staff will work on pruning trees once the ground freezes up again.
3 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
4 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
Oakland
Cemetery
FY 23 Revenue Report
** shaded areas represent previous 5yr average
Revenue from Lot Sales Lot Sale 5yr
Average
# of
Interments
Interments
5yr avg.
Revenue
from
Interments
5-year Avg.
on
Interments
Total
Revenue
5yr Avg. on
total
revenue
July $3,270.00 $4,456.00 5 6.4 $3,310.00 $3,342.00 $6,580.00 $7,798.00
August $13,782.50 $5,962.50 10 6.6 $5,877.50 $3,890.00 $19,660.00 $9,852.50
Sept $3,062.50 $10,001.75 7 8.0 $2,995.00 $4,867.25 $6,057.50 $14,869.00
Oct $3,822.50 $14,012.50 4 6.6 $1,472.50 $3,925.00 $5,295.00 $17,937.50
Nov $8,785.00 $4,620.50 7 6.6 $5,370.00 $3,760.50 $14,155.00 $8,381.00
Dec $1,312.50 $3,046.00 11 4.6 $6,665.00 $2,744.00 $7,977.50 $5,790.00
Jan $3,987.50 $4,108.00 7 4.0 $3,152.50 $2,894.50 $7,140.00 $7,002.50
Feb
March
April
May
June
Totals $38,022.50 $46,207.25 51 42.8 $28,842.50 $25,423.25 $66,865.00 $71,630.50