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Page 3 of 4 <br />Mr. Benoit shared that these are private, for-profit groups; most participants in these <br />programs would likely reside outside of Elk River. In some cases these organizations <br />may offer activities that duplicate programs already offered through the Parks and <br />Recreation Department and our current field use application form and fee structure <br />was set up with the intent of accommodating non-profit youth organizations. <br />Renting to these types of groups would have the benefit of additional rental revenue <br />as well as the economic value of bringing participants into the Elk River community <br />for an event. <br />Commissioner Jaker shared that renting out the fields could have an economic <br />benefit to the community however, wondered if there is a resident versus non- <br />resident fee structure. <br />Commissioner Nystrom asked if there would be openings to accommodate renting <br />to such groups. <br />Mr. Benoit stated that the priority users have been accommodated for this year and <br />that a timeline would need to be created for future scheduling purposed to be able to <br />accommodate our programs and then priority users and so on. <br />Commissioner Peterson brought up the liability issues with renting to outside user <br />groups and that the group should not be in direct competition to what we offer. <br />Commissioner Anderson shared an explanation as to the low cost of renting to the <br />local associations. These groups were instrumental with building and developing the <br />facilities. <br />Mr. Benoit stated that implementation would take place for 2010 and more research <br />will take place. <br />8.1.B. Community Gardens <br />Director of Parks and Recreation, Bill Maertz shared that Kathy Held, U of M <br />Extension has a grant and is interested in coordinating a community garden in Elk <br />River and looking fora 1 acre area to host it. <br />Commissioner Niziolek asked if it would be fenced. <br />Mr. Maertz stated that the community garden will be handled by the U of M <br />Extension Service and the City would only provide land and possibly a water tank. <br />Commissioner Anderson stated that it would be nice to see it centrally located within <br />the city. <br />Commissioner Larson shared that Orono Park may be good location <br />9. Information/Update Items <br />