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I I I Council Meeting Minutes February 23, 1988 Announcements and Updates Brandt stated the Park Board is concerned that there is not enough space or opportunity for the Park and Recreation Department to ex- pand their programs to meet their needs, even if council is to as- sume the city could continue the arrangements it has at the Edge- wood Community Center. The Board is interested in having the city consider renting recreational space where it is available either as a long-term solution or the city may need to provide its own facility as an interim solution. The Board is looking at space available at St. Anthony High/Midd1e School; and is seeking input from the council as to whether or not there would be council sup- port for leasing the space. Benke stated a joint program with St. Anthony (city or school) might be a viable option; but would prefer to keep programs in New Brighton. Williams stated in order to have council evaluate the idea they should see a presentation; and noted, in addition to the philo- sophical side of it, there is also the physical plant side of the issue. With regard to a community/activity center, Benke believes we should consider a lease/program basis only after we make a deci- sion on a community center because the direction of the Mounds View School Board is a very real one. Benke believes the topic needs to be seriously discussed, and should be on the agenda for the March 3, 1988, meeting with the School Board (perhaps a joint community center that would serve part of Mounds View, Arden Hills, portion of St. Anthony) because the solution is a community one. Sinda had an occasion to talk to Burt Nygren, Superintendent of District 621; there is a possibility that Edgewood will be reac- tivated to provide classrooms for studies; Nygren suggested the school system may be looking at the possibility of renting space (new or old) in different areas throughout the District to provide similar kinds of activities; and, when Sinda discussed the possi- bilityof a community center, Nygren suggested we talk to Paul Donley regarding anything we want .to develop. Brandt stated the Park Board feels it does not know which way to go because there is no commitment from council at this time. Benke stated council believes the need will be increasing, not de- creasing; we have to go through a rational discussion process to find a place to house the programs or we won't be able to provide them. Benke suggested that Maurie Anderson, New Brighton's Park and Recreation Director, provide council with a summary of current and future programs that would be impacted. Brandt asked if Anderson should include his thoughts on leasing space. Page 6 Annoucements and Updates Community Center