PARAB Minutes 07/15/202030.A.5
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY BOARD N
CD
Collier County Government Complex N
Naples, Florida NL
d
July 15, 2020 0
LET IT BE REMEMBERED, the Collier County Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board in and for the County of Collier, having conducted business herein, met on
this date at 2:00 P.M. in REGULAR SESSION via hybrid in -person and video
conference attendance at Administrative Building "F", Third Floor, Collier County
Government Complex Naples, Florida with the following members participating:
CHAIRMAN: Mr. Edward "Ski" Olesky
VICE-CHAIRMAN Mr. Phil Brougham a
Ms. Mary Bills, Advisory Board Member o
Mr. Joshua Fruth, Advisory Board Member r
Ms. Rebecca Gibson-Laemel, Advisory Board Member N
Mr. David Saletko, Advisory Board Member N
ALSO PRESENT:
Mr. Barry Williams, Director, Parks and Recreation Division
Ms. Jeanine McPherson, Assistant Director, Parks and Recreation Division
Ms. Annie Alvarez, Regional Manager, Parks and Recreation Division
Mr. Michael Cherbini, Project Manager, Parks and Recreation Division
Mr. Mike Randall, VP, The Fallen Officers
Mr. Miguel Rojas, Jr., Administrative Assistant, Parks and Recreation Division
Page 1
Packet Pg. 553
30.A.5
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence observed.
III. Approval of the Agenda
Ms. Bills entered a motion to approve the July IS, 2020 meeting agenda. Mr. Josh
Fruth seconded the motion. All members were in favor. The motion was carried, 5-0.
IV. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Ms. Bills entered a motion to approve the June 17, 2020 meeting minutes. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Saletko. Ms. Gibson-Laemel abstained from the vote due to her
absence at the June 1 S, 2020 meeting. Remaining members were in favor. The motion
was carried, 4-0, with I abstention.
V. Public/Board Comments
+There were no comments from members of the public.
+Mr. Olesky noted condition issues with the basketball courts at both Immokalee
Community Park and Immokalee South Park. Ms. Alvarez clarified that basketball and
tennis court resurfacing are included as projects in the 5-year plan. Mr. Williams stated
that the concern would be investigated, and an update would be provided at the next
PARAB meeting.
+It was further noted by Ms. Alvarez that installation of the new playground in
Immokalee is soon to commence. The gymnasium/basketball court at the Immokalee
Sports Complex has been completed, with the Teen Center soon to be completed.
+Ms. Gibson-Laemel inquired as to the status of resurfacing of the tennis courts and the
possible addition of more pickleball courts at Veteran's Community Park. Mr. Williams
clarified that the four existing tennis courts will be resurfaced; two of the courts are
temporarily marked for pickleball play, and two of the courts are planned to be
permanently striped to accommodate pickleball play.
VI. Capital Projects Update
+Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park (BCIRP): Phase I of the project continues to be
on schedule. Vertical construction is soon to begin, with the competitive pool site having
been dug at the aquatic facility. Design work has begun on Phase II; the area south of the
canal, with 100% drawings anticipated to be completed in Fall 2020. Following bid
solicitation, construction is planned to begin in September/October 2021. Phase II will
include a roadway, four softball fields, fitness center and gymnasium complex.
Page 2
0
N
O
N
L
2,
Packet Pg. 554
30.A.5
Construction of Phase II is expected to take three years for completion, primarily due to
work involved with reclamation of land from the lake area to accommodate the softball
o
fields. Completion of entire park buildout is expected in 2024.
N
+Debt Service: An item is planned to be brought before the Board of County
N
Commissioners (BCC) regarding pursuit of debt service to address aquatic restoration
c
projects. Sun-n-Fun Lagoon will remain closed as restorative work continues, with
0O
replacement of the Lazy River Bridge identified as the most disruptive project. A
'
meeting was recently held with an engineering firm to discuss a total refresh of the
facility, notably with the addition of a FlowRider surfing feature. The estimated cost for
m°
this feature is approximately $1.5M, which is anticipated to be included in the bond
c
proposal. The cost of maintenance of the new feature will be considered in discussions
>
with the County Manager, with whom Parks Staff is working to establish a maintenance
Q
plan for the entire Parks system. Mr. Brougham inquired as to whether the cost of the
o
F1owRider feature would impact funding for other projects, either maintenance or new
construction. It was noted by Mr. Williams that the Sun-n-Fun facility is one of the few
within the Parks system, which "pays for itself' when in operation. There is also an
opportunity to monetize the amenity, with food and beverage sales to spectators.
Existing deck space is available to accommodate the F1owRider, with Engineering to
L
identify capacity within State regulations, including ADA considerations. Mr. Bryan
a
Vehovec, Project Manager with Facilities Management was recognized by Mr. Williams
for his efforts in soliciting engineering firms for work on aquatics facilities, with three
LO
firms now readily available for projects.
+Clam Pass: The existing restrooms have been reconfigured, fully ADA compliant, and
are now open for use. A new water fountain has also been installed. Work continues on
new restroom construction, which is anticipated for completion in mid -August. The
boardwalk is scheduled to be closed at that time for deck replacement work to begin, with
boardwalk closure expected for approximately 60 days. The project will also include
improvements to the shower deck, as well as ADA improvements. Coordination has been
done between Parks Staff and Naples Grande Management regarding timing the project
to coincide with the least busy two months of the year. Naples Grande Staff is exploring
alternative options for providing beach access for their guests. The Park will be closed to
the public while work on the boardwalk is done, however access to Clam Pass Beach will
be available through Sea Gate access. Further, Parks Staff will work with Naples Grande
Management to accommodate hotel guests who wish to access the beach.
+Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park: Mr. Brougham inquired as to the status
of the Park expansion study.
Page 3
Packet Pg. 555
30.A.5
Mr. Williams stated that Parks Staff is in the process of securing Mr. Tim Hancock,
Senior Planner with Stantec, as the vendor who will assist in conducting a community o
charrette in the fall. N
N
+Manatee Community Park: Mr. Brougham inquired as to the nature of a project at a)
Manatee Community Park which is included on the Capital Projects list. It was noted by o
Mr. Williams that this entry was included in error. In the past, the decision was made to 0
not pursue a possible hybrid park/affordable housing development at Manatee '
Community Park, with the current focus in East Naples on expansion of the Donna Fiala c
Eagle Lakes Community Park and the East Naples Community Park Master Plan. m
+BigShots/Golden Gate Golf Course: Ms. Gibson-Laemel inquired as to the status of
the BigShots amenity which is planned at the existing Golden Gate Country Club site.
Mr. Fruth stated that lease negotiation is currently underway with the County. Public
meetings are then planned to discuss the intent to convert the existing site to a 12-hole
golf course, with the addition of the two-story, 60 bay BigShots facility.
+Hurricane Irma Reparations: Ms. Gibson-Laemel requested clarification on c
remaining projects for issues which resulted from Hurricane Irma. Mr. Williams stated
that there are currently no active projects related to post -Irma damage. A loan had been a.
retained toward 306 funds to address necessary repairs following the hurricane, however,
W
as reimbursements from FEMA have been received, reconciliation with the fund has been
possible. A portion of funds which remained from the account have been redirected to
v
cover COVID-19 expenses, notably for extra cleaning, particularly at beach restrooms.
c
Contracted cleaners have been brought on board to periodically clean these facilities.
N
r
VII. New Business
a. Legends Concert Series — Mr. Mike Randall
Mr. Mike Randall, VP, representing The Fallen Officers organization, addressed PARAB
to seek approval of a monthly concert series proposed to be held at Sugden Park in
support of fallen officers and law enforcement. The Legends Concert Series will feature
top tribute bands from across the country, with a concert proposed to be held the first
Friday or Saturday of each month, beginning November 2020 through July 2021. 100%
of the proceeds from the event will go to the Fallen Officers organization, minus costs for
the event, including the entertainment, stage, security, insurance, etc. Each concert will
honor local first responders, military, police, and healthcare workers. Food trucks will be
on site; however, no alcohol will be served.
Ms. Bills was in support of the concept, however expressed concern at the ability to
accommodate appropriate social distancing at a large event.
Page 4
Packet Pg. 556
30.A.5
Mr. Randall noted the availability of volunteers to assist with ensuring chairs and
blankets are appropriately spaced apart. Further, CDC guidelines will continue to provide
direction as the pandemic goes on over time.
Mr. Brougham also expressed support of the concept, however pointed out the
uncertainty as to what restrictions may be necessary in the future, such as the recent
modifications in beach access. As such, Mr. Brougham was uncomfortable with
supporting a 9-month blanket approval which was requested for the concert series and
instead, recommended approval for the initial concert in November, followed by
consideration of continued concerts at that time. Mr. Randall concurred, however also
noted the difficulty in booking the entertainment on short notice, with the potential for
loss of deposits in the event of cancellation.
Mr. Randall stated that a plan for social distancing had been submitted for an event
planned to be held in Cambier Park in October 2020. A limit was subsequently placed on
the number of free tickets which could be distributed, to ensure appropriate social
distancing of attendees at the event. Temperature checks will be done as well. Mr.
Brougham suggested that a social distancing plan also be submitted to PARAB at the
next scheduled meeting for review and further discussion, prior to a vote on the request
for approval of the event. Ms. Bills concurred and further recommended that masks be
strongly recommended, not required, if appropriate in November. Mr. Williams noted
that COVID-19 plans are being requested of vendors and groups prior to the scheduling
of events held at North Collier Regional Park. Parks Staff will work with Mr. Randall to
discuss the availability of space at Sugden Park, to assist with formulation of a plan. Mr.
Williams further noted the need to verify the availability of Sugden Park on the days
requested by Mr. Randall for the event.
Mr. Brougham entered a motion that the Fallen Officers organization prepare and
submit a C011ID-19 action plan, in coordination with Parks Staff, for presentation and
discussion at the next scheduled PARAB meeting. Ms. Gibson-Laemel seconded the
motion. All members were in favor. The motion was carried
b. Sun-n-Fun Lagoon FlowRider
See previous discussion under Capital Projects Update — Debt Service.
VIII. Old Business
a. Immokalee Ball Fields
Ms. Annie Alvarez provided an update on actions taken in response to concerns
expressed by members of the community and the Phoenix travel team related to use of
the fields, as well as the condition and maintenance of the baseball and softball fields at
Immokalee High School.
Page 5
0
N
0
N
r
N
L
d
0
0
.,
0
N
O
N
L
Packet Pg. 557
30.A.5
Several meetings have been held in this regard, which have included members of Parks
Staff, PARAB, School Board, and the Immokalee High School Athletic Director. It was
c
clarified that field maintenance is the responsibility of the School Board, in accordance
N
with an interlocal agreement with the Parks Division. As such, issues or concerns related
to field maintenance should be directed to the School Board. Prior to the interlocal
N
agreement, the Parks Division was responsible for field maintenance, maintaining field
o
conditions at a recreational level. However, as Immokalee High School does not have
0
ballfields, the interlocal agreement with the School Board was entered into, so ballfields
may be maintained at a higher level of service.
It was noted that flooding issues on the fields have been addressed and that the current
condition of the fields is good. The fields are not currently in use by the school system;
however, are open and available for rental, as well as public use. Members of the public
wishing to use the fields may make this request at the Community Center and a staff
member will unlock the gate for field access. It was noted that Immokalee High School
softball and baseball teams have first right to use during the season. Mr. Jeff Davenport,
President, Immokalee Little League, has advocated for shared field use, as there are no
other fields available in Immokalee for Little League play. Immokalee High School
sports camps, which are sanctioned by the School Board and free to the public, also make
use of the fields. Parks and Recreation events and leagues are scheduled off-season to
avoid interference with High School use of the fields during season.
A meeting was also held to discuss field use by the Phoenix travel team. It was clarified
by Mr. Marc Rouleau, Executive Director, Facilities Management, Collier County Public c
Schools that the Phoenix travel team is not a school or District sanctioned team, N
L
necessitating field rental payment, as well as coordination with the sports camps.
21
IX. Director's Highlights
+ It was noted that summer recreation is now in week 6. The Collier School Board has
delayed the return of students for the 2020-2021 school year, offering several alternatives
for study in the setting of the coronavirus pandemic. Parks Staff has been in
communication with Workforce Development and the School Board to potentially utilize
Park Community Centers as an alternative location for children who do not wish to return
to campus for study. The current plan is for Community Centers to reopen for public use
following the completion of the summer recreation program in August.
+Youth sports organizations are planning for fall programming, having submitted
COVID-19 safety plans to the Parks Division.
+The North Collier Regional Park gymnasium has reopened for adult basketball play,
following receipt of a COVID-19 plan.
Page 6
Packet Pg. 558
30.A.5
Consideration will be given for reopening basketball play at the Golden Gate Community
Center and in Immokalee, dependent upon the experience at NCRP.
+Normal hours of access have resumed at County beaches. It was noted that East Coast
beaches have reopened, however with restrictions for beachgoers which includes the use
of a mask when not in the water, as well as disallowing sports activities. Overflow issues
at some Park locations had occurred when East Coast beaches were closed, which were
managed by Parks staff.
+A playground cleaning protocol has been implemented, with staff cleaning the 28 Park
playgrounds sequentially. Community Center playgrounds, which are currently only
utilized by children participating in summer recreation are cleaned daily, Monday
through Friday.
+The long-time concessionaire at Tigertail Beach has chosen to not renew their contract.
Mr. Williams remarked upon the excellent job done through the years and wished them
well in their future endeavors. Solicitation of a new concessionaire will soon commence.
/.'�_i fi 1
+A request was received for the lights to be turned on in the evening at Park locations; in
particular, pickleball courts. Normal park hours are planned to resume following the
completion of summer recreation in the fall, September 1, 2020.
XI. Adjournment
There being no further business for the good of the County, the meeting was adjourned.
I
These minutes approved by the Board/Committee on
Page 7
, Chairman
as presented, or as amended.
0
N
O
N
N
as
0
r
0
N
0
N
L
r
21
7
7
Packet Pg. 559