1995-05-23 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

I I I Council Proceedings May 23, 1995 Council Business. continued Fulton presented the establishment of the 1995 Park Ranger program. Based on recent Council discussion, staff explored a pilot program whereby a Park Ranger would be present in City parks this summer. This recommendation was based on the perception of underlying safety concerns, however, according to Police records safety incidences do not correspond to this perception. However, Council wished to increase the law enforcement element within the parks through the use of the 4-wheel A TV. Kelley and Maurie Anderson, Park and Recreation Director, and Fulton recommend the following program: starting in June and for 15 weeks, a Community Service Officer or Police Reserve would be equipped and uniformed to tour the City's parks and Long Lake Park for 20 hours a week during high park usage. There may be incidents when this person will be pulled to address animal nuisance calls, but the principal responsibility is to patrol parks. This person would contact the appropriate law enforcement personnel to response to any incident. These costs are not associated in the 1995 budget, but since the CSO is an existing position the fiscal impact is marginal. We would attempt to cover the unbudgeted program costs through other savings that occur or, if necessary, through an appropriation from the general fund balance. Kelley attained two cellular telephones from U.S. West on a temporary basis and plan to have these phones programmed to call the Ramsey County Dispatcher in case of emergency. This will raise the level of safety perception at a minimal City cost. Fulton feels this is a worthwhile program, and if successful, the position could be formally addressed in the 5- Year Plan. Gunderman is very pleased and feels this would be an outstanding program. Samuelson asked where the unbudgeted dollars would come from. Fulton said the expenses would be charged to the Police Department and recouped from other areas. Fulton confirmed that it is New Brighton's responsibility to patrol Long Lake Park. Benke said most residents living near parks call the Police when there is trouble, and feels the Adopt the Park program could be reinforced with this Park Ranger position. Kelley noted that Corporal Werneke is researching the implementation of a Park Watch program. Williams feels the Park Ranger duties go beyond Ramsey County's expectations, and questioned if the County could provide funding for this extra safety measure. Fulton contacted the County and their response was that the patrol issue is a New Brighton responsibility. Fulton feels there is a need to recognize that New Brighton is providing a regional benefit and the costs associated should be shared regionally. Williams feels there is strong Council interest for the County to consider funding. Gunderman noted that when the Park was created, New Brighton requested the police management of the park. Williams feels this position is of value to all those using the park, and it goes above and beyond the City's responsibility. Page 6 Council Business Park Ranger Program Report 95-088