PRC MIN 1975-08-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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- 102 AGENDA ITEM ~ '~iscussion of Results of Joi~t Co~ission~Counciln Meeting Commissioner Weintraub opened the discussion by indicating that she felt the Council was somewhat indefinite with some of their answers to the Commission's questions. She felt it was important to request feedback from the City Manager with regard to capital improvement monies. It was pointed out that this would be accomplished through the finalization of the Capital Improvement Program. Commissioner Schlesinger felt the Commission might have to reduce their expecta~ tions in several areas because of the lack of funds. .. Commissioner Weintraub stated she was encouraged that the majority of the Council were flexible and were encouraging the Commission to find new and creative ways to obtain what the Commission felt were the needs of the City. She said she also learned that if one wanted something badly enough, one could find a way to get it. It may take a little longer or a new approach might have to be found, but it could be accomplished. Chairman Knecht felt the Parks & Recreation Commission should continue to determine the community needs and make recommendations to the Council. Piecemealing was discussed. With funding being limited, piecemeal development might become a reality. The priorities will be reevaluated. The Commission might simply have to take the funds available and distribute them throughout their priorities as best they can. It was pointed out that this is not too different from current practice. Commissioner Pound sta ted she fel t frustra ted when cons ider ing the acquisi.tions of land. She indicated that after reviewing the General Plan, it was a fact that Redwood Ci ty was deficient in many areas. If the Commission knows there are no funds available to acquire property, and if people then petition the Council to acquire property (Fleishman Park area), she felt inadequate to properly evaluate the request. Mr. Weeks clarified the discussion by stating that it was still the Commission's responsibility to make recommendations to the Council. This assures the Council that adequate evaluation is being made for their decisions. Also, after reviewing areas considered for purchase, the Commission may find there are no funds available to purchase the property. However, the Commission will have completed their respon- sibilities to the Council and the community by reviewing the areas in question and making their recommendations to the Council. Commissioner Weintraub suggested the next Commission meeting on September 10,1975 be denoted to a review of current facilities and deficiencies of the community. Commissioner Pound agreed that the entire meeting should be spent in this manner. With regard to obtaining funding for purchase and development of land, Commissioner Schlesinger mentioned that the City of Belmont had a bedroom tax. Mr. Weeks explained that there were several taxing methods which could be used for the purchase and development of part properties. Mr. Weeks further mentioned that the proposed bill AB997 (Z'berg), California Local Government Recreation Program, seems to have a good chance of passing. The bill would provide $25 million per year to cities, counties, and recreation and park districts for acquisition and development of recreational lands and facilities. If the bill passes, it will greatly assist local communities with Capital Improvement Programs. Commissioner Rollins wanted to state simply that the Commission should also feel ~Qud of ~t œs ooen acc~plished thus ~r. ---_.