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Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes Page 2 March 13, 2024 the length of time the trails have been closed this spring at Woodland Trails. He has some suggestions about how to keep the trails open year-round for all to use. He suggested mulch in hilly areas to help keep dirt from moving around. He said the Superior Hiking Trail uses short footbridges that help to get around muddy areas. He is interested in volunteering in the parks. At the skate park, he would like to see the lights set on an automatic timer from sundown to 10:00 pm. He considers the current system to be dangerous due to the lights just shutting off causing a safety hazard since many riders are still in the air. Mr. Galinski also pointed out that the hackberry loop at Woodland Trails Regional Park was open while he was hiking the previous day, and the golf course was open as well. He said it was scary to not have a warning sign. Chair Anderson said the Commission will discuss the concerns and invite Mr. Galinski back for an update. Vern Iverson, 14415 145th Court Elk River, MN. He thanked the commission for their time. He is on the City of Elk River Energy City Commission. Mr. Iverson shared that when he joined the Energy City Commission four years ago, he became aware of a solar picnic table project initially started by St. Thomas engineers. The original picnic table for that project was in the basement of City Hall but did not fit the needs of the project any longer. An Eagle Scout picked up the project and chose to use a manufactured table like the one in the City of Buffalo. The cost of the project was $16,950. The Energy City Commission is now interested in placing another solar picnic table in one of the parks. They see it as an educational station that provides a clean energy solution. The tables are wi-fi capable and handicap accessible. He explained that Suzanne Fischer, City of Elk River Environmental Services and Special Projects Director is applying for a DNR Grant that would help with half of the cost of the new table and that the Energy City Commission would look for donations for the second half. Cory Grupa, Elk River City Council Member spoke in support of Mr. Iverson. He explained that if the City of Elk River has “Powered by Nature” on its water towers and part of its slogan, the City should be doing things to support that goal. Mr. Grupa is also on the Energy City Commission and would like the Parks and Recreation Commission's input before bringing the subject to the City Council. Chair Anderson confirmed with Mr. Iverson and Mr. Grupa that what they wanted from the Commission was confirmation of interest, location, and the funding source if there was a shortfall. Mr. Stremcha pointed out that the grant is due at the end of March so if the group could discuss again and produce a decision during the Managers report at the end of the meeting that would be appreciated. 7.1 Thompson 3rd Addition Park Dedication