Parks, Recreation, and Trees Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

1. Approval of Minutes

Member Jones made a motion to approve the minutes of the January 9, 2019 Parks, Recreation and Tree Advisory Committee meeting.  Member Turlo seconded the motion.  All were in favor (3-0).

2. Consideration to Send a Recommendation to the Commission to Invest $5,000 from the Tree Bank to Hold the Annual Tree Raffle for Lady Lake Residents (Mike Burske)

Parks and Recreation Director Mike Burske presented a summary of the agenda item (on file in the Clerk’s office).

Chairperson Cantelmo asked if there were any questions or comments.

Chairperson and Member Cantelmo asked what other projects utilize the funds from the tree bank.

Mr. Burske stated the funds are also used for landscape projects throughout the town.

Chairperson Cantelmo asked if there were any further questions or comments. Hearing none, she asked for a motion.

Member Turlo made a motion to forward the recommendation to invest $5,000 from the Tree Bank to hold the annual tree raffle for Lady Lake residents to the Town Commission with the recommendation of approval. Member Jones seconded the motion. The motion passed (4-0).

3. Review of the Completed Surveys for the Proposed Lady Lake Community Building (Mike Burske)

Chairperson and Member Cantelmo stated the majority of the responses are in favor of a new community building. She stated that she, too, believes it is a worthwhile project as it would serve as a multi-purpose building.

Member Turlo noted that some of the comments where questioning how the project will be funded, and if this project will increase their taxes initially and in the long term.

Mr. Burske stated that the town would maintain the property. He stated there is a new building being constructed at our public works facility; once that is paid off the town would assume the community building construction debt. He stated he will be applying for grants through Florida Community Trust and Florida Department of Environmental Protection. He stated that impact fees will also help fund this project.

Member Jones stated there are numerous grants available for this project.

Mr. Burske agreed and stated that he will also be exploring foundations and trusts to help fund the project. He asked the board for their input as to how they would like to see the building utilized.

Member Turlo stated the survey responses indicate the building should have a large room for rent and senior activities.

Chairperson and Member Cantelmo stated the building would be a valued asset for children and teenagers.

Member Lowery stated the Town’s current community center is rented regularly and the new building should have rooms for rent for private events. She stated that she would like to have a water park in the town, tennis courts and a pool.

Mr. Burske stated this project is currently in the discussion stage and he was pleased with the amount of responses.

Member Turlo stated she is concerned with the safety of a pool and suggested a water/splash park.

Member Lowery stated the children in the area have nothing to do in the summer and a pool or a water park would be a good outlet for families. She stated even though there are many retirees in the area, there are also young families that need a facility and programs for their enjoyment.

Chairperson and Member Cantelmo agreed.

Member Jones asked Mr. Burske if he is presenting the survey results to the Commissioners.

Mr. Burske replied affirmatively and stated that he will present this boards’ suggestions to the Commissioners at an upcoming meeting.