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RECREATION,
PARKS & CULTURAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL COMMITTEE MINUTES |
SEPTEMBER 20, 2006
ATTENDANCE: Fred Bondi, Chairman; Rick McQuaid; Joanne Romano; Herb Grant; Phyllis
Bolden (8:05).
STAFF: Michael Mocciae, Director.
ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 8 p.m. by the Chairman.
MINUTES OF AUGUST 16, 2006
** MR. MCQUAID MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED WITH ONE ABSTENTION (MR. GRANT).
OLD BUSINESS
There was no old business.
NEW BUSINESS
REVIEW PROPOSED CHANGES ON EASEMENT AREAS AT FITCH PARK AND ADJACENT PROPERTY
** MR. GRANT MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS RELATING TO RESTRUCTURING OF EASEMENT AREA/RIGHTS FOR FITCH PARK AND ADJACENT PROPERTY, REFER PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR AN 8024 REVIEW AND REFER TO COMMON COUNCIL FOR FINAL REVIEW.
Mr. Mocciae said there is a narrow passageway into the park where the parking is located. This plan will tidy up a lot of easements. The City will have two-way access into the park.
Attorney Waters reviewed map #1932.
At 8:05 p.m., Ms. Bolden arrived at the meeting.
A brief discussion ensued. Attorney Waters said they have been discussing additional improvements with Mr. Mocciae.
The Chairman asked Attorney Waters if they had purchased the adjoining properties. Attorney Waters responded that one has been acquired and one is under contract.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO EXECUTE A SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE LEASE AGREEMENT WITH STEW LEONARD’S FOR THE CALF PASTURE BEACH CONCESSION, TO PERMIT FIVE ADDITIONAL ONE-YEAR EXTENSION OPTIONS WITH AN ANNUAL INCREASE OF 3% IN THE RENTAL FEE AND SUCH OTHER AMENDMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THE ATTACHED LETTER
** MR. MCQUAID MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVE THE USE OF THOMAS O’CONNOR PARK (HERITAGE WALL, WEST AVENUE) BY THE ST. ANN’S CLUB FOR THE CELEBRATION OF THEIR ITALIAN HERITAGE TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2006 AT 12:30 P.M. ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 100
** MS. ROMANO MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVE THE USE OF RYAN PARK BY THE NORWALK WEED AND SEED FOR AN EVENT (CELEBRATING SUCCESS) TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2006 FROM 12 P.M. TO 4 P.M. (ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 200+) AND APPROVE THE USE OF THE SHOW MOBILE BY THE NORWALK WEED AND SEED FOR CELEBRATING SUCCESS TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2006 IN RYAN PARK
** MS. BOLDEN MOVED APPROVAL.
Darlene Young, Assistant City Clerk, said this event is to celebrate the end of the 10-year Weed and Seed program, which was funded through the Department of Justice. They have conducted a variety of programs and want to thank the residents, volunteers and businesses who have participated. They expect the State U.S. Attorney to attend.
Mr. McQuaid said that Mr. Young should be applauded for what she has done for this program over the past 10 years.
Ms. Bolden said she agreed with what Mr. McQuaid has said. She is so proud of what Ms. Young has done and she wished her all the best.
Mr. Grant, realizing there is major concern about youth violence, asked if there had been any thought to replacing this program with other programs. Ms. Young said she spoke with Mayor Moccia and he is committed that, with a little creativity and funding, this type of program will stay around.
The Chairman said that PAL is picking up some of the programs, and he thanked Ms. Young as well.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVE THE USE OF THE SHOW MOBILE BY THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION FOR THEIR ANNUAL MEMORY WALK TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2006 FROM 7:30 A.M. TO 12 P.M. IN CALF PASTURE BEACH
** MS. BOLDEN MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVE THE USE OF WOLFPIT SCHOOL GROUNDS AND PARKING AREA BY THE WOLFPIT PTA FOR THEIR ANNUAL PUMPKIN FESTIVAL TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2006 FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 100-150
** MS. ROMANO MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVE THE USE OF CRANBURY PARK GALLAHER MANSION AND IMMEDIATE SURROUNDING GROUNDS BY LINDSAY WADE FOR A WEDDING TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2007 FROM 2 P.M. TO 7 P.M. ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 100
** MR. GRANT MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH KAYAK FOR A CAUSE FOR THEIR ANNUAL KAYAK FOR A CAUSE VII TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, JULY 28, 2007 IN CALF PASTURE BEACH FROM 7:20 A.M. FOLLOWED BY THE BEACH PARTY TO BE HELD IN (VETERANS PARK) CALF PASTURE BEACH BEGINNING AT 5 P.M. AND ENDING AT 10 P.M. ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 1,500 TO 3,000
** MR. MCQUAID MOVED APPROVAL.
Mr. Mocciae explained that he and the applicants would be meeting with Mayor Moccia next week regarding whether to hold the event at Veterans Park or at the beach. It will probably take place at Veterans Park.
In response to a question from the Chairman, Steve Showalter said that the causes last year were Make A Wish, Save the Sound, Courage to Speak, The Hole in Wall Gang and others. The Chairman said it would be nice if some of the money remained in Norwalk.
Mr. Grant encouraged Mr. Showalter to speak with Ms. Young regarding keeping youth from violent activities. He said that Weed and Seed would be a natural.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
TECHNICAL CORRECTION ITEM 11, RECREATION AND PARKS JULY 19, 2006 MEETING
** MS. ROMANO MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO EXECUTE AN
AGREEMENT WITH “SOUTHPORT ENGINEERING ASSOCIATES, P.C.” FOR DESIGN SERVICE FOR
BRIEN MCMAHON HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL FIELD LIGHTING/POWER DISTRIBUTION FOR A SUM
NOT TO EXCEED $5,300 (INCLUDING A $500 ALLOWANCE FOR REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES).
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SEAFAIR “THE FINE ART YACHT” TO USE THE VISITOR’S DOCKS IN VETERANS PARK FOR A FIVE DAY PERIOD FOR JUNE 20,24, 2007 TO HOST THEIR FLOATING ART GALLERY. ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 2,000
** MR. MCQUAID MOVED APPROVAL.
Mr. Mocciae introduced Jeff Lawson, who showed a movie of past events. Attendance will be by invitation only. Opening night will be a fundraiser for up to 600 invitees, followed by attendance of 200 to 300 per day.
Mr. Grant pointed out that there will potentially be an event in Veterans Park on June 23-24. Mr. Lawson said everything would happen on board the ship, but they would need parking. Mr. Grant said that Mr. Mocciae would have to review parking arrangements. The Chairman inquired about valet parking; Mr. Lawson said they would prefer to have valet parking. He also pointed out that this type of event is a brand new concept.
Mr. Mocciae asked about information on the fund raiser; Mr. Lawson said they do not have this information in writing as of yet. Discussion took place on various charities that could benefit.
Mr. Grant encouraged Mr. Lawson to stay in close contact with Mr. Mocciae.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
** MS. ROMANO MOVED TO SUSPEND THE RULES TO ADD THE ADDENDUM TO THE AGENDA.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, RICHARD A. MOCCIA, TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE SOUND CYCLISTS BICYCLE CLUB FOR USE OF SHADY BEACH FOR THEIR ANNUAL BLOOMIN METRIC EVENT TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY, MAY 20, 2007 FROM 6 A.M. TO 6 P.M. SETUP WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2007 AT NOON AND CLEAN-UP BY SUNDAY, MAY 20, 2007 BY 6 P.M. ESTIMATED ATTENDANCE 2,500+
** MR. GRANT MOVED APPROVAL.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVE THE USE OF “HERITAGEBINS” BY CREATIVE OUTDOOR ADVERTISING OF AMERICA INC. IN CITY PARKS CONSISTENT WITH BINS APPROVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL FOR CITY RIGHT OF WAYS. LOCATIONS: CRANBURY PARK (2), HERITAGE/MATHEWS PARK (5), VETERANS PARK (3) AND CALF PASTURE (NO ADVERTISING EXCEPT DEPARTMENT FUNCTIONS) (3)
** MS. BOLDEN MOVED APPROVAL.
Mr. McQuaid asked who would control the advertising on the containers. Ms. Romano said that is their biggest concern. Mr. Mocciae said that this firm stays away from advertising any of the “vices”. Mr. McQuaid said that the contract written to do business with this company said that the City would decide advertising and location. He has been told that “the City” means Hal Alvord, which he has a problem with.
** MR. MCQUAID PUT FORTH A FRIENDLY AMENDMENT THAT ADVERTISING WILL BE APPROVED BY THE RECREATION, PARKS & CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE.
** MR. GRANT PUT FORTH A SECOND FRIENDLY AMENDMENT THAT THE ADVERTISING WILL BE RECOMMENDED BY THE DIRECTOR OF RECREATION & PARKS TO THE RECREATION, PARKS & CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE.
** MS. BOLDEN ACCEPTED BOTH FRIENDLY AMENDMENTS.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO TABLE THE AGREEMENT WITH CREATIVE DIFFERENCES, A CAR
SHOW, ON JULY 21, 2007 IN TAYLOR FARM AND THE REQUEST FOR USE OF THE SHOW MOBILE
FOR THIS EVENT.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
DISCUSSION
VETERANS PARK IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. Mocciae reviewed a preliminary map. He said they have diverted some events to this park and are starting others. They are looking at developing this park with a plan. The little leagues have realized it would be better to combine into one league, which would cut down on the need for fields. They are looking at a permanent amphitheatre; they will build a new playground in the spring near the tennis courts. There would be three softball fields at the beach and they would be able to build new soccer fields in the park. He is looking to add a splash park. He is looking into a 36-hold miniature golf course to bring in revenue. This would not be direct competition with the course at the beach. The ultimate goal is for the park to be self-sustaining.
The Chairman said that the splash park is very expensive but would be very nice. Mr. McQuaid said this would be an added neighborhood attraction. Ms. Romano said it also could be used for the summer programs for children.
Mr. Grant inquired as to the total capacity of the park. Mr. Bondi said the capacity is probably 30,000. The capacity for half of it would be 10,000 to 15,000, according to Mr. Mocciae. The new amenities would not take away from any of the existing fields. Mr. Mocciae asked the committee to look into an RFP for miniature golf.
Mr. McQuaid applauded Mr. Mocciae on his visions for the parks. The Chairman said that the proximity to the parking garage makes this a big asset. Mr. Grant said his concern is making sure that they balance sports vs. cultural, but he thinks Mr. Mocciae is going in a good direction. Mr. McQuaid said that the amphitheatre would cover the cultural issue.
Ms. Bolden told Mr. Mocciae that he was doing a phenomenal job; he was inspired to do this job.
The Chairman noted that these plans would not affect the Oyster Festival. Mr. Mocciae spoke of the impact on the park from the Oyster Festival, which was very bad this year. Extensive discussion took place on the festival. The field is now in deplorable condition. Mr. McQuaid said that the Seaport Association is going into its 30th year and they should be willing to work with the City this year. They should be asked to attend the November meeting to discuss this issue. Mr. Mocciae suggested that a special meeting be held for this discussion. Mr. Grant noted that the Seaport Association did not have an Executive Director for five years but now they have one, so this is the time to meet with her. Mr. Mocciae will arrange a meeting.
BEACH BATHROOMS
Mr. Mocciae said he was given $170,000 but the low bid came in at $297,000. They have to be done by the spring, and he wants to start on Calf Pasture in the spring. All Phase Construction is the low bidder; they are negotiating and removing certain items to lower the price. He will be talking to Mr. Hamilton about the $316,000 left in the concession account, which he suggested they use to go out to bid for the renovation of Calf Pasture bathrooms. This winter, he will put in an extra request for the interiors. At the next committee meeting, Mr. Mocciae said he hopes to bring this and then he will go to the Council. They are also looking into the possibility of having attendants in the bathrooms on the weekends.
Mr. Mocciae spoke of the need to look into redoing the lights at Harborview.
HERITAGE PARK
The Chairman said that they had approved the money for the architecture. Mr. Mocciae said that the Council had approved this, but the State told the Redevelopment Agency that they want the architectural services to go out to bid. The bids will come back to this committee.
The Chairman spoke about the memorial for Norwalk residents who lost their lives in various wars/conflicts. This will be on the agenda of the next meeting. Mr. McQuaid said that Milford had named a park for a fallen soldier within 10 days of his death – they definitely need to get this done. If the Chairman is unable to attend the October meeting due to medical reasons, this item will be discussed at the November meeting.
Mr. McQuaid asked if someone could paint the goalpost at Norwalk High. Mr. Mocciae said that was being taken care of. Mr. McQuaid asked that this be on the agenda of the next meting. It was noted that there are projects in town that are taking place without coming through the Department or this Committee. Mr. Grant said it is time for the Council to call on the people who are abusing their authority (Board of Education). Mr. Moccaie will look into whether the parking lot at Andrews Field went through P&Z.
** MS. BOLDEN MOVED TO ADJOURN.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Cheryl Telesco
Telesco Secretarial Services
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