The Stafford County Parks & Recreation Commission held its regular monthly meeting Thursday, October 19, 2006, at the Rowser Building. The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Larry Checca.

SILENT ROLL CALL

Members Present Absent Staff: Guests:
Jack Cavalier A Chris Hoppe K. J. Mushung
Larry Checca P Judy Sokolowski
John Druiett P
John LeDoux P
Eric Lindner P
Ken Mitchell P
Tom Paton P
Robert Ray P
Brian Robinson A
Randy Walther P

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes were unanimously approved.

PRESENTATIONS BY PUBLIC
None.

OLD BUSINESS
None.

NEW BUSINESS
None.

PRESENTATIONS BY COMMISSIONERS
· Tom Paton said that another successful season of soccer had been completed. He also said that SASA had run into a legal issue because SASA is not recognized as a corporate organization without having a corporate license from Richmond. (Therefore, the Commission concluded that the contract that SASA with the County is null and void.)

· John LeDoux said he was contacted by an elected official regarding taking fields and track in front of the Bandy Building. John told the official that replacement fields and track would be needed if the fields in front of the Bandy Building were taken.

· Rob Ray expressed his concern about the marketing plan for the bond projects. He suggested a flyer that said the Parks and Recreation bond would cost “xx” cents per day, instead of $76.8 million as a lump sum.

· Ken Mitchell said he is in favor of the bond referenda and does not stand with former supervisors who are not in favor.

· Larry Checca asked if Brian’s Robinson’s Commission seat was vacant and asked staff to check into the matter.

STAFF REPORTS
No questions were asked.

DIRECTOR'S REPORT
· Willowmere Park
The parking lot and landscaping contractor has completed almost all of the work associated with paving and striping the new parking lot and the landscaping enhancements. The few remaining punch list items should be completed by the end of October.

· Patawomeck Park
The second submission of the site plan is scheduled for late fall. Issues such as the septic field, water and sewer extension, playground, shelter, and re-location of power lines are still being addressed and should soon be resolved. At a meeting on 9/19/06, the BOS voted to approve a pump and haul agreement with the Virginia Department of Health for pump and haul septic services related to Phase I construction.

· Woodlands Pool Enclosure
The new dome was installed on 9/25/06 using a new pool cover tarp that allowed for easier erection. The pool received a temporary occupancy permit on 10/11 and opened for use that afternoon. Staff continue to work on issues related to a new lighting system that would illuminate the interior of the pool. We are working with engineers in designing and installing an anti-deflation pole and wire support system for the fabric dome.

· Master Plan
The Department Staff met with representatives of Clough, Harbour in July to discuss the status of the Master Plan. A draft submission will be ready in October to allow for public meetings and Commission discussion in November. Endorsement by the BOS is anticipated for December 2006.

· Aquia Landing
Department staff have scheduled a discussion regarding the future use/operations of Aquia Landing on October 18 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Rowser Building. Issues to be discussed include hours and dates of operation, swimming fees, and other amenities. Commissioners are encouraged to attend.

· 2006 Bond Referendum
The Public Information Office created literature with project information and frequently asked questions for distribution to the public. Information is available on-line at the Stafford County Website, via telephone with automated messages, and in printed form. Information was mailed to each household in the County. Department staff will be attending meetings of various civic and community groups as requested.

· On-Line Registration
With the assistance of the Information Technology (I.T.) Department, the Parks and Recreation Department is proceeding with plans to implement on-line registration for recreation programs and shelter rentals in May 2007. Judy Sokolowski is coordinating the necessary work with CLASS/Active Software, I.T., Treasurer’s Office and Department staff. This feature will allow for 24/7 customer service and free up additional time for administrative support staff.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8 PM.

RGS:jls