Parks Committee

Robert McLeod

Mike Crawford, Chairman

Joseph Allen

Minutes

February 2, 2006

9:00 a.m.

Members present:

Bob McLeod, Joe Allen and Mike Crawford

Members absent:

None

Staff present:

Joe Meyers and Eileen Wallick (entered at 9:35)

Others present:

Russ Blasdell, Janet Person, Stan Moore, Jack White and Mike Meriwether

1.         Meeting called to order at 9:00 a.m.

2.         Public/Member Comment

None.

3.         Grass River Natural Area  (GRNA) Update

Joe Meyers gave the GRNA update (attached) in Mark Randolph’s absence. 

Mr. Meyers informed the Committee about the potential acquisition of the “Hunt Club” in Forest Home Township (attached).

Motion by Bob McLeod, supported by Joe Allen, to have Mr. Randolph speak with Forest Home Township and get their opinion on the acquisition before discussions continue about the “Hunt Club” property.  Motion carried – unanimous. 

4.         Parks Update

Mr. Meyers gave the parks update (attached) in the absence of Eileen Wallick.

Mr. Meyers informed the Committee about unleashed pets in the park. Mr. Meyers informed the Committee that Ms. Wallick asked them to put a sign at the entrance stating that all pets must be on a leash at all times.

The Committee took no action at this time.    

5.         Wetzel Lake Update

Mr. Meyers informed the Committee that the Wetzel Lake Planning Sub-Committee met last month and they will be having a follow-up meeting next week.

Ms. Person inquired about the Wetzel Lake Fund.  Mr. Meyers informed Ms. Person that the Wetzel Lake fund has been closed but noted that she could speak with Laura Sexton, County Clerk, for further clarification.

6.         Barnes Park Grant Update

Mike Meriwether, County Forester, explained the trail system that is proposed for Barnes Park, and further explained that a lot of the trail is on the park and not the forestland.  Mr. Meriwether indicated that he would need permission from the Parks Committee for the placement of the trails. 

Discussion ensued about the surface of the trails.

Mr. Meriwether inquired about the Committee’s position on thinning out the forest.  The Committee indicated that they would not have a problem with the thinning so long as it is not during the time that the campground is operational.  The Committee further indicated that the funds from a park timber cut should go towards the Parks and not the County Lands.   Mr. Meriwether further noted that he would like to put a boardwalk in the back wetland part of the forestland surrounding the park. 

Motion by Joe Allen, supported by Bob McLeod, that the County Forester proceed with the plans for an afton stone trail and paved trail in Barnes Park.  They also authorize the County Forester to do some forest management throughout Barnes Park.  Motion carried – unanimous.  

7.         Parks and Recreation Update

Stan Moore gave an update on activities regarding the Parks and Recreation Commission.   

Mr. Moore informed the Committee that currently we have public and private sites in the Parks and Recreation database.  Mr. Moore further indicated that currently the private sites are hidden so we could focus on the public sites.  Mr. Moore noted that the Parks and Recreation Commission is asking permission to allow the private recreation sites on the web.  The Committee thought this was a good idea but felt that the entire board should decide. 

Motion by Bob McLeod, supported by Joe Allen, to recommend the Board of Commissioners allow private recreation sites in the Parks and Recreation database. Motion carried – unanimous.

8.         Communications

Mr. Meyers informed the Committee that the County did not receive the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grants for Wetzel Lake or Antrim Creek Natural Area.  Mr. Meyers further noted that we did not receive the Costal Management Program grant for Antrim Creek Natural Area or the Tribal Grant for Wetzel Lake. 

9.         Public/Member Comment

 None.