02-07-1989 PR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 . Recreation Board Minutes February 7. 1989 Mr. Fischer indicated that a major emphasis of the association is to obtain the abandoned railroad beds throughout the area as these provide an excellent opportunity for linking up the trails for a continuous system. It was indicated that the Minnesota Grants Program finances a large part of the snowmobilers maintainance expenses. The Grants program pays for such activities as the labor for cleaning up the trails. the gas for the trailgroomer. signs identifying the trails and similar items related to snowmobileing acitivity. Additionally. the club as an individual group raises finances through a pull tab charitable gambling operation. Mr. Fischer indicated that the association would be willing to work with the City in any way possible to provide snowmobile activity and access through Elk River. He indicated that the group has finances available to help in the purchase of the abandoned railroad bed as long as it can be used for snowmobileing activities. Additionally. they would work with other governmental agencies outside the city limits to obtain the railroad bed north of Elk River all the way to Zimmerman. This stretch of trail would provide an excellent link and connection for the overall county system. . The Recreation Board thanked Mr. indicated that we would be willing common goal providing snowmobilers activities within the city limits. Fischer for his information and to work with them toward acheiving a with an opportunity to enjoy their New Recreation Board member. Barb Northway arrived at this time. 5. Staff Updates Phil Hals. Street/Park Superintendent. updated the Recreation Board on the Lion's Park skating activity. the cross country ski trails in Woodland Trails Park and the finalization of the LAW CON Grant for the Lion's Park. Phil also indicated that he will be continuing to pursue the latest offer made for the abandoned rairoad bed with Burlington Northern representatives. The last word received on the City offer was that it "looks good" and should be acceptable to the railroad. . Charlie Blesener provided the Recreation Board with an update on future needs at Handke Pit for skating activities. These needs include shelter. lighting and an ice cleaning machine. Charlie indicated that overall the 1988-89 skating season has gone very well at Handke. It is far and above the most popular skating area in the City and receives much more use than the Lion's Park skating rink. Charlie also provided additional update on the status of the winter recreational programs administered by the Community Education Department. It was noted that the City employee working at the Senior Citizen Center had requested elevation to full time status. This request is supported by Charlie and the Director of the Guadian Angels Foundation. The City Administrator indicated that he would process this request to the City Council.