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Park & Recreation Minutes September 13, 2000 Page 3 . COMMISSIONER DANA ANDERSON MOVED TO ACCEPT $1,400 In PARK DEDICATION AND A 50 FOOT PUBLIC TRAIL EASEMENT ALONG THE SOUTH PROPERTY LINE FOR THE MARLENE HENTGES ADMINISTRATIVE SUBDIVISION REQUEST, CASE NO. AS 00-6. COMMISSIONER WESTRUM SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 7-0. 9. Park Deoartment Discussion - John Gurban Mr. John Gurban, Executive Director of MPRA (Minnesota Parks and Recreation Association). was present to discuss the possible development of a parks and/or parks and recreation department. He noted that MPRA is a state-wide nonprofit organization with 1,500 members representing most all cities in Minnesota. Mr. Gurban explained that their goal is training of recreation professionals. A video was presented at this time, featuring Don Shelby, which demonstrated the importance of parks and recreation. Mr. Gurban stated that park and recreation departments are formed to provide amenities and services for the cities' residents. He felt that a population of 10,000 is often the trigger point for cities forming a separate department. Mr. Gurban stated that the most important component of establishing a department is finding a good park director who will create a vision for growth. He stated that the strategy is to build from the top down. A park director would be able to provide the leadership and expertise to plan for future park needs. . Mr. Gurban discussed the importance of preserving property now for the future, even though it may not be developed for a long time. He also discussed the trend in the increasing demand for athletic fields. He felt it was smart to design parks and athletic fields as something a city can "grow into", and not "grow out of". Commissioner Sladek arrived at this time (7:55 p.m.) Woodbury was described by Mr. Gurban as a community where property was protected for park use and developed sequentially. He felt Lakeville was a good example of a well-planned trail system. He stated that Hastings has recently developed a park and recreation department. Mr. Gurban stated that by having a centralized park and recreation department, the city can provide the best customer service. He noted that the park department will still rely on the planning department for their planning skills. . Mr. Gurban explained that funding for park and recreation departments comes from taxes, but that he has not seen the level of funding change significantly when a park and recreation department is formed. He stressed that cities will need to look for revenue generators such as a municipal golf course, swimming pool/ water park or arena. Mr. Gurban explained that there are a number of cities which provide facilities, events and activities to generate profits which are reinvested in the community. He noted that trails are the "number one" favorite recreational opportunity in communities, but they generate no revenue. Cities need to find some type of opportunity to provide services and at the same time, generate funds. Also, grants are a type of funding which is becoming limited, but he felt there are still opportunities out there.