06-23-99 vJ , .
A regular meeting of the Recreation Advisory Board was held Wednesday, June 23, 1999 in the
0 Adele Grage Center. Chairperson DeJean Melancon called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.
Present were: Ray Coleman, Peter Coalson, Steven Jenkins, Tim Johnson, DeJean Melancon,
Susan Gorman, and visitors: Joe Crozier Vice President with YMCA, Christine Lester, YMCA
Program Director, and Kim Mason, YMCA staff member.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
DeJean motioned to approve the minutes from the last meeting held on May 26, 1999. Steve
Jenkins seconded and the motion carried.
REPRESENTATION FROM THE YMCA
DeJean introduced Joe Crozier, Chris Lester, and Kim Mason. Joe Crozier is the Vice-President
for the Florida First Coast Chapter of the YMCA. Joe works out of the Winston branch Ponte
Vedra. Affirming his interest in the Atlantic Beach YMCA program, Joe expressed concern for
locating a new YMCA site in order to continue and expand current programs available at the
present trailer site in Russell Park. Joe shared his special insight regarding the plans and outlook
of his organization. Expansion of programs could have a positive impact on teens and children in
the area. Addressing the goals and the impact of the YMCA, Joe explained that the YMCA exists
to meet the needs of the community.
Chris Lester shared her enthusiasm for current YMCA programs available to mothers with young
children. The Mommy &Me program provides quality care and instruction for young infants up
to age three. The drop off program is tailored to instruct and care for three to five year old
children. The instructors are all very qualified and the focus is on literature as well as
development of motor skills.
Lack of space and functional concerns over the trailer site at Russell Park will determine the need
for a newer permanent structure to house the YMCA in Atlantic Beach. The present location is a
plus for Atlantic Beach residents that wish to take advantage of the programs currently offered.
Programs will continue in the trailer through September. Joe Crozier explained that funds for
building projects for YMCA sites are available through many sources.
Steven Jenkins asked Joe Crozier about the expectations of the YMCA regarding support from
the community. Joe Crozier explained that a paid staff is provided for each YMCA location, but
volunteers are always welcome and quite necessary. Steven inquired as to how the Board could
lend support for YMCA programs. DeJean explained that the Board provides input from the
community to the City Commission. A field trip to the Ponte Vedra YMCA site should be
considered, suggested DeJean.
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Ray Coleman motioned for the Board to support continuance of current
Programs Mommy&me as well as the pre-school at Russell Park or at
an alternate site. Peter seconded and the motion carried.
DeJean asked the Board for a motion to consider expansion of YMCA
Programs in Atlantic Beach given the renewed interest by the YMCA.
Ray motioned to support the expansion of youth and family programs inacollaboratedeffortwiththeYMCA, given the renewed interest in our
community. Steven seconded and the motion carried.
BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS
DeJean distributed a list of items selected for the proposed budget. The list
was approved on May 26, 1999 and submitted to Mayor Shaughnessy and
the City Commission. DeJean explained that the only addition to the list
provides the cost for the design of Fraser Park. Design plans will cost
3,000.00.
A discussion over the cost and site of a proposed soccer l pa BBoara ard
members to share their concerns. Steven Jenkins suggested that
plans for a soccer field should not be site specific at this time,but the need and
allocation of funds should be determined.
Recreation Director Tim Johnson proposed a figure of$175,000.00 for
Development of a practice field. Steven advised caution before committing
to a dollar amount before the study for development is available. DeJean
advised the Board that the current site under consideration may be inappropriate,
but a study could determine the cost and justify a plan.
Ray motioned for the Board to decide that a practice field is needed and then
justify the cost for development of up to 175,000.00 for the site that is under
consideration. The vote was tied with two members,Peter and Ray voting
their support,and DeJean and Steven voting against the motion.
DeJean suggested more research and diseilc.cion while Steven questioned the
175,000.00 figure due to lack of research. DeJean suggested that the Board
motion to support a need for a practice field,then fix the dollar amount after
the research is more complete.
Ray Coleman motioned to approve budget recommendations for the$175,000.00
as a whole for the purpose of developing a practice field at an approved site.
Peter seconded and the motion carried.
PROPOSAL TO PROTECT PARK PROPERTY
Steven motioned to delay discussion of this issue until the next meeting. DeJean agreed
that more homework is necessary on this subject before action is taken. Tim Johnson
advised the Board that the internet provides information on ordinances.
UPDATE ON PRORAMS AND EVENTS
Recreation Director Tim Johnson distributed a list of programs and events to all present
at the meeting. Steven Jenkins noted the range of activities offered, considering the
staff size of the Department.
NEW BUSINESS
Ray Coleman shared his concern that in the interest of appropriate communication, future
business correspondence by the Teen Council should be reviewed before going out.
REPORTS
Bull Park received eight applications and six of the applicants pre-qualified. Bid
Opening is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on July 7, 1999 in the Council Chamber.
The Racquetball court is currently under renovation at Russell Park.
Recreation Director Tim Johnson informed the Board that the City Commission would
meet on Wednesday, June 30, 1999 at 7:15 p.m. in the Commission Chamber to address
the design of Dutton Island.
Ray motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Steven seconded and the motion
carried.