2020.12.02 PREC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES Parks, Recreation and Environmental Commission October 7, 2020 City Hall Council Chambers 6:30 p.m. I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Chair Axberg. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic this meeting was held virtually. II. Roll Call: Members Present: Commissioners Pam Axberg (Chair), Pauline Alfors, Gary Banks, Amelia Kuiper, Matt Johnson, Abe McEathron, Julia O’Rourke, Mike Santi (arrived at the meeting at 6:44 p.m.) and Charles Warner. Members Absent: None. Also Present: Director Jennifer Fink; Assistant Director Jason Hicks; and Council Member Emily Dunsworth. III. Approval of Agenda Motion by McEathron, seconded by Alfors to approve the agenda as presented. A roll call vote was taken. Motion carried 8-0. IV. Approval of Minutes Motion by Alfors, seconded by O’Rourke to approve the August 5, 2020 minutes as presented. A roll call vote was taken. Motion carried 8-0. V. Business Items A. Presentation on Current Scholarship Program and Discussion on offerings from other communities – Jennifer Fink, Director of Parks and Recreation Director Fink stated the New Brighton Parks and Recreation Scholarship Program is currently operated in house. The program offers those New Brighton residents who have a financial hardship, to request a 50% reduction in fees. Staff commented on the current policy noting it had been in existence for at least 15 years. She shared with the Commission the history of the program, as well as information on what other Cities in the state are doing for their programs. She reviewed the number of families that were helped in 2019 and 2020. Staff requested the Commission discuss what the Scholarship program should look in the future based on the City’s goals regarding diversity and inclusion.