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Recreation Commission October 16, 2000 Page Two All of the program supervisors were encouraged for input in the development of the Recreation Center, prioritizing their goals. The idea is to put together a wish list and then concentrate on funding. Tom Jenkins opened discussion for future development of the Recreation Center and passed around an article from the Metro Section of the Sunday Plain Dealer that reported on surrounding area Recreation Centers. Mr. Jenkins aspires to generating dollars towards a fitness center in North Olmsted. The expense of private facilities versus City Recreation Centers funded by tax dollars was discussed. The Recreation Center could have the money received from more expensive, private clubs. The need for improvements on outside facilities, e.g., ball diamonds, basketball courts, tennis courts while working with Council to get the Recreation Center its needs was emphasized. Again, the Recreation Center, inside and out, would plan what it needs and then find the funding. Mr. Jenkins stated that the City of North Olmsted 1992 Master Plan Executive Summary would be required reading and a recreation survey put into place. The Planning Commission is waiting for the results of the 2000 Census before compilation of the survey and will look at Westlake's survey to parallel. Mr. Morgan contacted Cleveland State University to do the survey of 400 average people in the community. The data is analyzed by someone with a doctorate who would need to know what type of facility we want, how much we are willing to pay for it, and how it will be funded. The Westlake survey was so effective that the issue passed the first time it was on the ballot. The cost for the survey will be $10,000, but this is how the process starts and would tell us what is or is not wanted by the community. Ms. Hayes noted the positive feature of raising dollars through income tax and offering use of the facilities to people who work but do not reside in the City. In conjunction with the survey, Mr. Jenkins called for soliciting realtors to determine the residents’ desires for recreation. Doug Nist, Pool Supervisor, was introduced to the Commission members. Doug comes to the Recreation Center from West Virginia University, where he was Captain of the Swim Team, but he is originally from football country in Massillon, Ohio and worked with Marty at the Golf Course until working with us. We are very glad to lure him away, and we hope he is happy in the pool setting. Mr. Morgan stated he has been very impressed with the way Doug has handled situations with the public. He is well suited for his position. There was general discussion that Recreation Centers have become safe places for children after school and, with both parents working, there is more disposable income for family entertainment. After Mr. Nist left the meeting, the Commission members discussed national and state standards as guidelines for the recreational facilities offered by the City. Each activity must be examined to determine its financial and recreational results. A copy of the Charter of the Commission was examined. It was emphasized that capital improvements and development of projects must be accomplished through the Commission’s powers vested by the Charter and that the Commission take the next step and recommend to Council what they should fund for the Recreation Department. Mr. Jenkins then made brief mention that the Budget begin in November for early accomplishment of project review. Mr. Limpert asked for clarification of current and projected roof problems or, alternatively, if the roof problem situation is presently under control. Mr. Morgan explained that Council borrowed INFORMAL MEETING Recreation Commission October 16, 2000