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03/04/2024 - Meeting Minutes MINUTES FROM THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS BOARD MEETING(CDCIP) Monday, March 4, 2024 5:00pm 1. Board Members Board Members Not Present Jenny Bonk, Chair Devon Schechinger Brad Christensen, Vice-Chair Jake Skog Heidi Steed Teresa Gregori Andrea Schaefer Joseph Murphy Staff Present Bret Montgomery, Rachel Molinari, Mike Atkinson, Jordan Smith, Aaron Price, and Mary Beth Thompson—Department of Finance Ben Luedtke, Salt Lake City Council Staff Marti Woolford, Elizabeth Buehler—Information Management Services (IMS) Department Tom Millar, Kira Johnson, Kat Andra, Nancy Monteith, Makaylah Maponga, Troy Anderson—Public Lands Department Constituents Present Dean Phillips, Rachel Taylor, Russ Richards, Cherish Clark, Sarah Woolsey, Richard Layman, Bill Davis, Georgina Griffith-Yates, David Osokow 2. Staff Updates There were no staff updates. 3. Business A. Welcome & Introductions Ms. Molinari welcomed the CDCIP Board members and City staff then opened the meeting on March 4, 2024, at 5:07 p.m. The staff offered individual introductions. Ms. Bonk then started the introduction of the CDCIP Board, and each member introduced themselves. B. Meeting Structure Outline Ms. Molinari explained the meeting structure to set expectations for the constituents attending the meeting. She explained that each applicant would have two minutes to discuss their application, followed by a Q&A from the Board members. She said there would also be City staff available to help answer some of the questions. Ms. Molinari informed the participants attending online to please keep their microphones muted until called upon. She also stated that each person must state their name for the public record before answering any questions. C. Questions & Discussion on Proposed CIP Projects Constituent Public Lands Applications: Victory Park Tennis Courts Constituent- Dean Phillips Mr. Phillips detailed the condition of the two tennis courts located in Victory Park, noting significant peeling and deterioration of the playing surface on both. He requested the resurfacing of these courts, emphasizing the need to incorporate additional lines to accommodate the growing demand for pickleball where players were using tape to create lines for their games. Mr. Murphy inquired about the grapevines on the south side of the fence and whether they provide shade during the summer months. Mr. Phillips replied that the grapevines did not hinder the courts but did occasionally drop a few grapes on the ground that needed to be cleared away and it provided a noise barrier for neighbors on the other side of the fence. He was not aware of who planted the grape vines or if their removal would be needed to repair the fence. Mr. Christensen inquired about the additional cost to add pickleball lines to the court. Mr. Millar replied that the cost would be negligible. Mr. Murphy asked whether the City possessed any statistics regarding the usage of the courts located behind the community center. Mr. Millar explained that there was no available method to gather user statistics. However, he noted that the courts are primarily utilized by residents in the nearby vicinity, emphasizing that there was a lack of prominent signage directing others to the park's location-which was common regarding parks of that size. Fairmont Park Basketball Court No constituents were present. Ms. Johnson stated that the application was to change the court from a half basketball court to a full-sized court with additional hoops on the sides with some lights and seating to be installed. Ms. Bonk inquired about what seemed to be a disproportionately high funding request for this project. Ms. Johnson stated that the landscape architects provided the number based on costs of similar reconstruction that occurred in Poplar Grove and Liberty Park. Ms. Steed asked if other parks had a similar set up to what was requested in this application. Ms. Johnson confirmed that Sugar House Park had a similar set up with six hoops and lighting. She was not aware if seating was available at that location. Ms. Steed followed up regarding the recent voter approved General Obligation Bond(GO Bond) funding that was available for Fairmont Park. Ms. Johnson replied that funding that was available for the park was designated for safety improvements and reconstruction of the North entrance and there had not been any community engagement on whether those bond funds could be used for the basketball count. Fairmont Park East Enhancement Constituent- Rachel Taylor Ms. Taylor commented that she worked in the area and walked in Fairmont Park daily. She said there had been many improvements to the park including revitalizing the pond and the introduction of many native flowers,but people were afraid to enter from the park's East end, which she described as unsafe and unusable. Mr. Murphy asked a question regarding the allocation of the GO Bond funding designated for the North end of Fairmont Park and its distinctions from the East end. Ms. Johnson clarified that the funds were earmarked for the enhancement of the North entrance,particularly focusing on areas around the Boys and Girls Club and the old tennis courts. She mentioned that further details regarding these improvements would emerge through the community engagement process. Mr. Millar stated that the Public Lands Department had remaining Bond funding for the park that would focus on safety improvements, and it potentially could fund some of the items in the application. He said the improvements would depend on the feedback received from the community. International Peace Gardens Constituent- Russ Richards Mr. Richards recounted the establishment of the International Peace Gardens dating back to approximately 1952, highlighting incidents of theft concerning some of the park's artwork and the subsequent removal of damaged pieces. He explained that the primary request made was for the installation of a security fence around the park,potentially featuring gates to regulate access. While the fence constituted the main aspect of the application, he stated they were also seeking funds to enhance the park's educational offerings about the represented countries. Mr. Richards noted the support of several other clubs interested in participating in this project, including the Rotary Club. Ms. Bonk inquired about the status of prior CIP applications for the Peace Gardens. Mr. Millar replied that one application was not funded, and the other was currently being worked on. Ms. Andra stated that there were restoration projects underway for vandalized or stolen items, while recognizing that there were security issues that still exist. Ms. Steed raised a question regarding the potential construction of a fence enclosing the park. Ms. Andra conveyed that various departments were collaborating to tackle security issues and explore viable solutions. Mr. Millar added that while the Eastern and Northern sections of the Peace Gardens were being addressed, the remaining portions of the gardens seamlessly integrated with the Jordan River Trail, fostering a cohesive feel throughout the area. Mr. Murphy inquired about potential measures for individuals undeterred by a fence. Mr. Millar acknowledged that determined individuals would find ways to circumvent a barrier. However, he emphasized that the primary objective was to prevent crimes of opportunity,particularly instances where statues or art were vandalized by individuals present in the area. Riverside Park Pathway Loop Constituent- Cherish Clark Ms. Clark outlined the state of Riverside Park, noting the absence of a recreational pathway traversing the park or linking to the Jordan River Trail. She said the primary objective of the application was to establish a pathway like those found in Liberty Park or Sugarhouse Park. She went on to say that the application also aimed to improve access to the Jordan River Trail, particularly in areas where safe pathways for bicyclists and pedestrians were lacking. She highlighted the increased crime in the vicinity, underscoring the community's need for assistance in addressing these issues. Ms. Steed revealed that she had utilized the park many times and had not noticed the need for additional trailways until she reviewed this application. She inquired if there had been any community outreach for neighbors to weigh their thoughts on the project. Ms. Clark explained that the Rose Park Community Council was in favor of the project and had sent a letter of support. Mr. Murphy inquired about the sections of the park that were heavily exposed to direct sunlight in the summer and the associated costs of tree planting. Ms. Andra clarified that tree planting necessitates irrigation and that the installation of new irrigation systems would constitute the primary expense. Mr. Murphy pointed out that the application proposed connecting the park to the Jordan River Trail but noted that a fence currently obstructs access between the park and the trail. Ms. Clark emphasized her concern regarding the establishment of the trailway connection rather than the removal of the fence. Ms. Bonk noted that there was heavy use of the park for different sports ranging from football, soccer, to ultimate frisbee practices and games. She asked if the installation of more trailway or widening current trailways would impede the use of these areas. Ms. Andra clarified that the project was still in the planning phase. She explained that during the detailed design phase, the looping path would be laid out to enhance under-utilized parts of the park without encroaching on the playing fields. Citywide Park Restroom Planning Study/Fairmont Restroom Conceptual Design Constituent- Sarah Woolsey, Richard Layman Ms. Woolsey described the application as a thoughtful design and planning for restrooms in the City parks that were safe and inviting. She said that the Public Lands Department performed a proposal and design for park restrooms in 2013 that were now be updated and Fairmont Park would act as the test site for new designs. She explained that Fairmont Park was included in numerous proposals this year, and the proposed restroom redesigns would complement those efforts. Ms. Wooley stated that the goal was to enhance safety, cleanliness, and maintenance across the City's restrooms. Mr. Murphy praised the constituent for the dedication evident in the proposal's development. He disclosed his involvement in City discussions regarding homelessness and the challenges faced by individuals in finding clean and accessible restroom facilities. Mr. Layman highlighted that restrooms were among the most utilized structures in parks and expressed hope that the study and implementation of new facilities would position the City as a leader in best practices. Mr. Christensen asked the applicant about what restroom designs they would prefer if the project were to be funded. Mr. Layman stated that the design phase should be objective,but he would like to see more attended restrooms. Ms. Woolsey added that she would like a study to be conducted on the usage volume of these restrooms and to explore solutions implemented by other cities to address similar challenges. Ms. Andra explained that during a 2019 public needs assessment, the desire for open, safe, and clean amenities was of high priority to the public. Ms. Bonk inquired if there were not a constituent application for this project, where it would rank in the City's priorities given that it was of high priority to the public. Ms. Andra stated that there had not been a city-wide study done to identify necessary upgrades to restrooms. She explained that any upgrades to restrooms would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific needs and conditions of each park. Mr. Christensen asked for an estimate of what it would cost to staff and operate a restroom. Mr. Millar did not have an estimate available to quote a cost per year but stated that it would require two or three full-time employees to staff each park. Ms. Bonk mentioned discussions regarding restrooms that took place during the State Legislative Sessions and the continued passion to find a solution and provide safe, accessible facilities for all. Mr. Millar reminded the Board that a design had not been chosen, including whether it would be staffed or the required cost. Liberty Wells Community Garden Constituent- Bill Davis Mr. Davis said that the project's cost exceeded that of some previous community garden endeavors, attributing this increase to the City's decision to engage consultants for the design phase. He noted that unlike other parks and gardens in the vicinity, the designated area lacked trees for shade, further contributing to the overall expense. Ms. Steed sought clarification regarding the arrangement wherein the State owns the land while the City undertakes its maintenance. Ms. Montieth elaborated that the land on the West side of the street belonged to UDOT (Utah Department of Transportation), and any potential development of a community garden would require reaching an agreement with them. She said that if a community garden were established, the maintenance costs would primarily involve irrigation, grass cutting, and the pruning of any planted trees. Ms. Steed asked for further clarification regarding UDOT's ownership of the land and whether there was a possibility of them reallocating it for another purpose in the future. Mr. Millar explained that UDOT had currently permitted the City to maintain the land according to its discretion. He stated that there remained a possibility that UDOT could reclaim the land for alternative use in the future and that such a decision would impact two other community gardens situated along the same stretch of road. Mr. Davis commented that he had been involved in numerous talks with UDOT where they stated they would never sell the property and that any expansion of the roadway would require conversations regarding property that was privately owned along 700 East. Mr. Murphy raised a question about a statement in the application regarding the maintenance of the garden by Wasatch Community Gardens (WCG) after its construction by the City. Mr. Davis revealed that WCG had recently indicated their inability to maintain another garden presently due to workload capacity limitations. Despite this,he expressed his intention to continue with the application in the hope that WCG would be able to assume maintenance responsibilities in the future. Ms. Griffith-Yates communicated that WCG was redesigning two other gardens along 700 East, and they would be using resources for those gardens and not for any new ones along the same roadway. Jordan River Trail Food Forest + Partner Garden Constituent- Georgina Griffith-Yates Ms. Griffith-Yates described a collaborative effort between neighborhoods and university students centered around a food garden situated along the Jordan River Trail. She said their aim was to include this garden in the existing contract with the City and transform the site into a food forest, complete with an orchard and various other food-producing plants. She noted that this project would mark the first of its kind, involving a partnership between the City and a private organization to establish a food forest. Mr. Murphy asked for a summary of the agreement between the City and WCG. Ms. Griffith- Yates elaborated on the Green City Growers Program, which involves the City allocating funds to initiate programs while WCG provides expertise and tools, thereby reducing labor costs through their resources. Ms. Maponga added that although the garden was currently managed by a group of neighbors, it did not currently meet City standards due to a contaminated well. She explained that the funding would be utilized to bring the garden up to City standards and formally integrate it into the City's garden program. Ms. Steed asked what would be done if this project were only partially funded and had to be split into phases. Ms. Griffith-Yates emphasized that the primary focus was on finding a way for the City to sanction the garden, indicating its importance regardless of funding limitations. Ms. Maponga explained that the application effectively broke down the project and the basic infrastructure requirements that would be needed to move forward with both parts of the project. Mr. Murphy discussed WCG reaching out for community input around the garden, specifically a cul-de-sac that would likely see increased traffic if the food forest were created. Ms. Griffith- Yates confirmed that most neighbors supported the project while a few did not, which was common for a project of this nature. She said the project would be adapted into the Jordan River Trail which would cut down on some of the parking issues. Jordan River Trail Safer Crossing Improvements Constituent- David Osokow Mr. Osokow characterized the application as both a safety and beautification endeavor. He explained that the underpass beneath I-80 had long been shrouded in darkness,presenting a dingy atmosphere that deterred pedestrians due to safety concerns. He stated that the proposed upgrade would make the area safer and provide a connection to the Fisher Mansion that was situated just off the Jordan River Trail. Mr. Osokow said the project's location was in a part of the city that was experiencing revitalization along with growth but had been overlooked for years. Mr. Christensen, a frequent user of the crossing, inquired about potential enhancements to the underpass. Ms. Maponga detailed that the initial proposal aimed to improve the corners and potentially widen certain sections. However, she noted that the underpass fell within the jurisdiction of UDOT, limiting the extent of the City's improvements to enhanced lighting or the installation of mirrors. Mr. Osokow expressed concerns about working with UDOT to make improvements to the tunnel but was optimistic with the proposal acting as an important first step to take. Mr. Murphy shared that he visited the location of the proposal and expressed concern over a single installed mirror that had been vandalized and was concerned that any additional installation of mirrors would also be damaged. Ms. Maponga explained that any installation of mirrors would be performed by the Property Management Division who might have better options to reduce vandalism and improve visibility around tight corners. Mr. Murphy inquired about the need for a raised crosswalk. Ms. Maponga replied that the Transportation Division would not have good data that exhibited how often that light was used but added that the Bond that was secured for the improvement of the Jordan River Trail would allow for significant improvements in the area. Mr. Osokow interjected that there were hundreds of housing units under construction in the area and that the Jordan River Trail was not as safe for pedestrians or bicyclists as it should be. Mr. Millar said that the lights used for the crosswalk were installed several years ago and were of the same style and consistent with other crossings in the area. He continued to explain that extending the curbs and installing a raised crosswalk would improve yielding compliance. Mr. Christensen asked whether installing a different type of crossing light would enhance compliance with yielding cars. Mr. Millar clarified that decisions regarding alterations or new installations of lights at the crossing would be determined and executed by the Transportation Division. Equal Grounds Project (Calisthenics-Fitness Area No constituents were present. The applicant submitted a video to the Board in his absence. Mr. Anderson outlined to the Board the proposal encompassing the installation of calisthenics and fitness areas spanning from 900 to 1500 square feet across four of the City's parks. He explained that the equipment would include items such as pull-up bars,parallel bars, sit-up stations, and other apparatuses that utilize one's body weight for exercise. He said the proposed project aimed to afford residents living in proximity to these parks an avenue for fitness without the cost of a gym membership. Ms. Steed asked if other parks had similar equipment or assets currently in use. Mr. Millar said he was not aware of anything like this in other parks, but it would not be dissimilar to much of the playground equipment. Ms. Steed had a follow-up question about whether there was an approach to identify which parks needed equipment the most and what the potential for usage would be. Mr. Millar said there were limitations on two of the parks on the application. He explained that Liberty Park was a historic landmark and would require approval from the Historic Landmark Commission and Sugar House Park, wherein Salt Lake City owned the land and Salt Lake County operated the park through the Sugar House Park Authority. Ms. Steed shared that a nearby school in her neighborhood had collaborated with a healthcare organization to install similar equipment near the school's playground. She inquired whether the City would consider partnering with another organization for such initiatives. Mr. Millar indicated that while the project was relatively low-cost, the City would be open to partnerships to help pay expenses and ensure responsible allocation of tax dollars. Ms. Bonk stated that basketball courts and other equipment at some of the schools could not be used after hours. She asked if the same was also true of this type of equipment. Ms. Steed said that one at Rose Park Elementary School could be used when school was not in session. D. Overview and Expectations of next Meeting Ms. Molinari said that the next meeting would take place on Monday, March 11, 2024, covering the Internal Public Lands and Art related projects. She stated that the applications would be found within the Dropbox folder as opposed to ZoomGrants. Ms. Molinari continued stating that the Board would be provided with a memo from the City's Internal Capital Asset Planning (CAP) Committee. She said the memo would contain a lot of information and time would be taken during the next meeting to review the highlights. She reminded the Board about the scoring matrix and stated that her team would answer any questions during the next meeting. E. Approval of the Minutes Ms. Steed made a motion to approve the minutes from February 12, 2024. Mr. Christensen seconded the motion. Upon roll call the minutes were approved. F. Adiournment There being no further business. Ms. Steed made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Gregori seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 6:44 pm. x CDCIP Board Chair This document along with the digital recording constitute the official minutes of the CDCIP Board meeting held March 4, 2024.