MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
held Thursday, May 14, 1998
for the purpose of reviewing the Recreation Department Budget.

The meeting began at 7:35 p.m. It was held in the Council Room of the Municipal Building

PRESENT WERE: Council members Edward V.J. Putens, Rodney M. Roberts, Alan Turnbull Thomas X. White and Mayor Judith F. Davis.

STAFF PRESENT WERE: Michael P. McLaughlin, City Manager; David E. Moran, City Clerk; Hank Irving, Director of Recreation; Harry James, Assistant Director of Recreation; George Rogala, Joe McNeal and Karen Haseley, Supervisors

ALSO PRESENT WERE: Joe Wilkerson, PRAB and Betsy Likowski, News Review

Greenbelt Dog Park Association (GDPA)

Kris White appeared representing this group. She summarized the Association"s activities. Ms. White presented their request for lighting and agility equipment. Mr. Irving and Mr. Wilkinson indicated that PRAB had been confused about the group's request and had not taken a position on the funding. There was some discussion regarding GDPA's status.

Mr. Putens noted that Council still needed to make a decision on the future of the dog park. Mr. Turnbull and Mr. White favored the city purchasing this equipment rather than contributing funds to GDPA. Ms. Davis asked if the equipment was child safe. Ms. White responded that children are not allowed to play in the dog park.

There was some discussion regarding non-resident use of the park. Ms. White believed the city could charge $10-15 a month for non-resident use.

Recreation Budget

Mr. Irving presented a brief overview of the budget. He highlighted the accomplishments and successes. Mr. Irving stressed the Department's top need was an additional Coordinator for the Community Center.

Administration

Ms. Haseley stated some of the computer problems that the Department had been experiencing. There was discussion regarding possible solutions. Staff noted that while a particular solution was not being proposed, they wanted Council to be aware of the situation.

Youth Center

Mr. McLaughlin commended the staff for their computer lab idea.

Springhill Lake Recreation Center

Mr. Irving commented on the Multi-Cultural Day event. He indicated that the Department wanted to continue its efforts to include residents of Springhill Lake. There was discussion regarding Springhill Lake community involvement. Staff noted that the Fountain Lodge is not currently being used.

Schrom Hills Park

Mr. Irving noted that the park was very successful and the picnic area was being heavily used. He noted that users prefer this park because of the restroom facilities. Mr. Putens raised the issue of use of vans instead of buses to transport children.

Aquatic and Fitness Center

Mr. Rogala noted that revenues are at 92% of expenses. He also noted that 53% of the users are non-residents. Mr. Rogala explained the proposal to close the entire facility for one week to perform some renovations. He notified Council about the problems recruiting lifeguards. Mr. Rogala explained the unmet needs.

Mr. Putens expressed his desire to hold the resident pass rates at the same level. Mr. Turnbull stated a concern about non-resident use of the facility. There was considerable discussion regarding the fee structure at the pool.

Community Center

Mr. McNeal presented his "state of the Community Center" report. He noted the unmet needs of the Center. Mayor Davis referenced a letter from Ms. Snyder about the chairs in the Dining Room. Mr. McNeal responded that he believed the chairs could be cleaned and treated with fabric protection. Mr. McNeal indicated his top priority was a Recreation Coordinator.

Self-Supporting

There were no comments.

Other Recreation

Mr. James noted the special programs that are funded under this budget.

Therapeutic Recreation Programs

Ms. Haseley noted that Camp Sunshine and Horizons (programs for kids with special needs) were not being run, largely because only non-residents were participating. She indicated that kids with special needs were being included in the regular camp program and special inclusion counselors were hired.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:17 p.m.

 Respectfully Submitted,

 David E. Moran, City Clerk

City of Greenbelt, Maryland
City Offices, 25 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: 301-474-8000 FAX: 301-441-8248