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Park and Rec�eation Commission Page 2 <br /> Minutes of Septembe�26, 2007 <br /> Director Centeno gave the history of the decision process to leave the <br /> skatepark unfenced and unsupervised when the skatepark opened over four <br /> years ago. Staff felt that a fence was next step in enforcing the rules of the <br /> skatepark and trying to take back control. She reported that no publicly <br /> owned skatepark in California allows use by both skateboards and BMX bikes, <br /> and that other cities with skateparks are having the same issues as Redwood <br /> City. <br /> Superintendent Beth reported he contacted the County of San Mateo <br /> regarding using an overflow parking lot at Chestnut Street and Veterans <br /> Boulevard as a possible BMX bike park site. A letter requesting the use of <br /> the site was sent to County Manager ]ohn Maltbie. Superintendent Beth <br /> stated the State Health Code Regulations have been updated to list "bike <br /> racing and jumping" as a hazardous sport. He also noted that, in the opinion <br /> of the League of California Cities, having skateboarders and bikers use the <br /> same site places cities at too much risk and advises having separate parks <br /> for these sports. Superintendent Beth reported on the estimated cost of an <br /> iron ornamental fence installed around the skatepark. The fence would have <br /> a turnstile entrance to prevent bikes being brought into park. <br /> Commissioner Sargent agreed that a fence is needed to establish a control <br /> zone and he agreed that the BMX bikers needed a separate park. <br /> Chairperson Slusser endorsed the installation of the fence and suggested <br /> having two exits in the fence rather than one. Vice Chairperson White said <br /> he was originally against the fence, but after hearing that the skateboarders <br /> were in favor, he would support it. He was concerned about the aesthetics of <br /> a fence in the center of Red Morton Park. Commissioner Wright asked if a 6' <br /> fence was high enough and wanted to make sure the fence was placed out <br /> far enough from the skatepark to insure room for viewing by the public. <br /> M/S White/Wright: To accept the staff recommendation as <br /> presented, to continue working with the Police Department on <br /> enforcement, and to look for an alternative site for a BMX bike park. <br /> Motion passed unanimously. <br /> ITEM 2 — SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS <br /> -Park Needs Assessment <br /> Director Centeno reported that the on-line survey was closed and that 250 <br /> responses were received. The consultant did an on-site survey at the Friday <br /> Night concert and 90 surveys were completed. She noted the consultant will <br /> also be doing an outreach to the Friendly Acres Community Association and <br /> to sport groups. <br /> -Park Ru/es Enforcement <br /> Vice Chairperson White reported that he, Commissioners Joseph-Hover and <br /> White, and Director Centeno met with Police Chief Lou Cobarruviaz to discuss <br /> the enforcement of park rules. Chief Cobarruviaz said he like the concept <br />