2020.01.12 City Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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orders. She discussed the Parks and Gnomes hunt that occurred at Hansen Park recently and thanked staff for their creativity. She stated staff was working to come up with additional creative family based ideas for the coming months. She encouraged the Commission to pass any ideas they may have onto staff. Discussion included: • The Commission encouraged staff to continue to come up with outdoor activities for families. • The Commission suggested the City sponsor a nature photography event in New Brighton. • The Commission commented a pop-up story book walk may be another idea for park staff to pursue this winter. • The Commission encouraged staff to collaborate with neighboring communities for snow shoeing and cross country skiing events. • The Commission recommended a snow sculpture contest be considered by staff. • It was noted an outdoor drive up farmers market was being planned for this winter. • Virtual programming was being considered through the Community Center. • The Commission suggested staff consider placing some geocaches throughout the City's parks. • The Commission commended the Parks and Recreation Department for their tremendous and innovative efforts to interact with the public in a safe manner. VI. Announcements A. City Council Report — Council Member Emily Dunsworth Councilmember Dunsworth provided the Commission with an update from the City Council. She explained the Council would be holding a Truth in Taxation Hearing on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. She noted the proposed tax levy was below 2% for 2021. B. PREC Chair Uodates — Pam Axber Chair Axberg stated this was her last official meeting with the Parks and Recreation Commission. She noted she would be transitioning to the City Council in 2021. She wished everyone a healthy and safe holiday season. C. Department Happenings and Upcoming Events — City Staff Director Fink discussed the staffing changes that had occurred within the Parks and Recreation Department. She stated Kelly Distad came to the City of New Brighton last week. She reported the City of Mounds View was in the process of creating its own Parks Department. She anticipated she would be working with Mounds View on additional aquatics programming in 2021. She explained staff was in good spirits and was working to encourage each other despite the ongoing pandemic. She indicated the Parks Department made $300 in the recent fundraiser for future scholarships and noted she also received $3,000 from the Lions for scholarships.