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Commission Meeting May 10, 1999 Page 2 Fran Benya, basketball coach is involved in basketball programs. Mrs. Benya stated the need for gym space is in great demand. There is at least 300 children involved in the basketball program. Fran would like courts in the summer, but during the summer months schools are closed and we do not have access to the facilities. There are only two regulation courts in the City of North Olmsted. In checking with other concerned residents there is an interest in at least building a gymnasium with a fitness center. Fran is interested in starting a petition for a new gymnasium and would like the Rec Commission members to consider funding. Paul Miller, Council Member, expressed an interest to connect the North Olmsted Bike Path with the Metro Parks Rocky River Reservation bike path. The interconnect would involve creating a bike path through Butternut Ridge Road. Councilman Miller stated Butternut Ridge Road is up for considerable improvements and renovations. With some foresight, a bike path link-up could be included in the planning stages before construction begins. Mr. Miller also suggested expanding the Metro Park Bradley Woods Reservation Bike Path. He cited a past Recreational survey that found bike paths in North Olmsted were top priority. Bike paths provide many benefits to the community. It would create a safer route for bicycle and pedestrian traffic traveling to the popular Metro Parks Reservations. Studies have also shown that the increased adult and family traffic discourages crime. Criminals acts are less likely to occur with people around. Federal money is available for bike paths through issue two applications for Butternut Ridge Road. Mr. Miller would like the input from Rec. Commission members. We will need a survey to see if this is an appropriate area for a bike path. At the next monthly meeting Rec. Commission Members will discuss the bike path and consider making a resolution to get state funding for a bike path. Mayor Musial would like the Rec. Commission members to consider purchasing the vacant property on Root Road. This is an excellent potential for a Recreation Site. Todd Morgan showed an illustration of how the property could be utilized. Mr. Morgan stated we could have an additional four diamonds, a concession, and restrooms, increased parking and picnic sites. We could also have a Maintenance equipment shed. There is minimal housing in the area. Mayor Musial stated the land is still for sale and if the city is not interested the owners will actively try to sell. The approximate cost for the land is $300,000-$350, 000. Mayor Musial will check to see if there is a time limit in purchasing the property. Mayor Musial is requesting the Rec Commission members to make a decision at next Commission Meeting. Lisa Limpert stated concerns about violent video games at the Recreation Complex. The Three games are Mortal Combat, Sal Caliber, and Token 3. She would like to see these games removed. Mr. Morgan stated they are very popular games and the kids enjoy playing the games. Also the Recreation Center makes a profit from the games. There was some discussion regarding the games. Mr. Gardener stated this was the first time this has been brought to the attention of the Commission. Mr. Gardener made a recommendation to remove the violent games from the Recreation Center, Seconded by Claire Hayes. The Motion was passed unanimously. There being no further business, a motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:15 p.m. ________________________ _________________________ Claire Hayes, Chairman Patricia Scott, Secretary