HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/09/1997 - Regular Agenda - Parks Board1. Approval of Minutes: August 12, August 19, and August 27, 1997
2. Dear Visitors
�r 3. Discussion of Girls Softball Program
4. Lincoln Center and Conference Center Advisory Committee
Appointments
5. Discussion of Parkland Dedication Ordinance
6. Discussion of Parks Master Plan Project
7. Discussion of Fitness Events
8. Board Goals Report
9. Capital Improvement Program Report
10. Board Concerns/Other Business
11. Adjourn
This building is wheelchair accessible. Handicapped parking spaces are available. Any
request for sign interpretive services must be made 48 hours before the meeting. To
make arrangements call 409-764-3547 or (TDD) 1-800-735-2989.
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 9, 1997 -- 7:00 P.M.
CENTRAL PARK CONFERENCE ROOM
1000 KRENEK TAP ROAD
MEMBERS: Elizabeth Cunha, Chair; Bob DeOtte; John Crompton; Chris Barzilla; Gary
Halter and Mike Manson
ABSENT: Debra Anderson, Vice Chair
STAFF: Steve Beachy, Director; Eric Ploeger, Asst. Director; Jane Kee, City Planner;
Curtis Bingham, Operations Superintendent, Tony Scazzero, Athletics
Supervisor; and Bridgette George, Staff Assistant
VISITORS: Cindy Wilson, Sharon Henson, Brian Barrett, Powell Robinson, Glenn
Schroeder, Julian McMurray
The meeting was called to order at 7:04 p.m.
1. Approval of Parks and Recreation Board Minutes --August 12, August 19, August
27, 1997: Minutes were approved as submitted.
2. Hear Visitors: Mr. Powell Robinson was speaking on Dennis Jantzen's behalf,
who was absent due to a prior commitment. Mr. Robinson displayed several T-
shirts and hats showing his participation and support for various organizations that
offer youth girls softball. He stated that some prior documents presented by City
staff miscommunicated information regarding girls softball and clarified that the
City's league is not the same as the ASA tournament teams that travel throughout
the state. Mr. Robinson stated that he pays $100 per month for his daughter to
play on the tournament team. He stated that there are 12 players on the team,
with 9 from Bryan, but it is billed as College Station team.
Elizabeth asked for clarification regarding the city league and ASA. Tony Scazzero
stated that the city staff,.after looking carefully at various girl softball regulations
both locally and nationally, chose to be sanctioned by ASA due to the fact that
ASA regulations are also used throughout high schools, universities, and even the
Olympics. He stated that ASA has different regulations than Little League. Tony
stated that in order for tournament teams to advance and play in state-wide
tournaments, they must play at least four games in the city league. As ASA
Commissioner, Tony must verify whether or not the tournament team is from this
district. Mr. Powell stated that the traveling team has to have insurance to play in
ASA tournaments, and that teams are formed by parents not by the city. Those
parents are responsible for any fees associated with the tournament team. Mr.
Powell stated that he likes ASA tournament ball, but would like the girls to be
treated like the boys in Little League. He would like the advanced girls to be able
to advance to tournaments. He would like the city to support the girls just as the
City is providing for the field maintenance, etc., for the boys. Chris Barzilla stated
it's not the City's fault that only twelve girls signed up for tournament play. Mr.
Powell stated that there are only eight games and then the season's over. He
stated that it's an added incentive to have an all-star team. He mentioned that
Little League does not want to lose the control of the Southwood Athletic fields.
Mr. Powell would like the City to support Little League girl's softball at the same
time Little League baseball is going on. Mr. Powerll stated that the four ASA
softball teams played each other in a double elimination tournament. With Little
League they would have played more teams in tournament play. He stated that he
would like a list of city participants and Little League participants to do a survey.
Sharon Henson, stated her daughter played Little League baseball with boys and
then went to City softball. She stated that the coach quit after three games and
that she had to fill in as the coach. Ms. Henson stated that the level of play is not
as structured in the city league as in Bryan's Little League softball. She mentioned
that a rule was changed three weeks into the season and the bases were moved up
right before a, game.
Julian McMurray stated that everybody in Central Texas has girls little league
softball except in College Station. He reiterated that girls do not have the same
opportunities as the boys. He doesn't believe that College Station provides a good
enough place to play for girls. Mr. McMurray stated that currently the city runs a
fall, spring, and summer program and suggested that the city offer a fall and
summer program, and let Little League offer softball in the spring.
Brian Barrett had a son go through Little League and a daughter that followed. His
daughter currently plays softball in Bryan. He stated that Little League gets more
press than the city league. He also stated that if softball was offered by Little
League, it would not be a success instantly, but would build after a while because
of the publicity.
Bob stated that kids are dropping out of athletics around the age of 14 years old.
He also mentioned that the city can tell Little League whether they can use the city
fields or not, but not how to run the program. The city cannot force them to offer
softball for girls.
Elizabeth would like to do what the majority of citizens would like. She stated that
she would like to see a survey performed every spring. The only thing the Board
has to go on is the survey that was done in Fall of 1996, where the majority
supported the city league, as opposed to Little League.
Mike asked why visitors were here instead of talking to Little League. They said
that Little League said the City would take their fields away if they offered girls
softball. Mike suggested a meeting with city staff, the board, Little League and
r
girls softball supporters.
Parks & Recreation Board 10/10/97 Page 2
Tony stated that ASA has two levels of championship play that the girls in the city
league are eligible to play in. He also said that the prime season for girls softball
is in the spring. Tony mentioned that the city was asked to take over the girls
softball program when it was in real trouble. They have worked hard to build the
program over the past few years. He stated that the program was built where the
majority of the benefits would serve the most girls.
Chris motioned to have a Parks Board, Little League, and citizen representative
meet and discuss the issue further. The motion was seconded by John and passed.
Cindy Wilson asked why the city can't just try Little League next spring. Bob
stated that he doesn't see a reason to change yet. He said that he doesn't want to
see a successful program moved when there's not a real reason to. He would hate
the city to have to rebuild the program back up again.
4. Lincoln Center Advisory Committee Appointments: Gary motioned to appoint
James Steen for a 2-year term. The motion was seconded by John and passed.
Bob motioned to appoint Malvonee Merchant. The motion was seconded by
Chris and passed. The board decided to defer consideration of other
appointments until further applications are received. The board agreed that Larry
Johnson should continue as Chair. Bob motioned to defer the appointment of
Vice Chair until the next meeting. The motion passed. Gary motioned that the
committee increase from six members to seven members, with three appointments
in odd years and four appointments in even years. The motion passed.
Conference Center Advisory Committee: Gary motioned to reappoint Jennifer
�CP.�he motion was seconded by Mike and carried. The Board expressed their
R desire to meet with the Conference Center Advisory Committee. Steve stated that
he would setup a meeting.
5. Discussion of Parkland Dedication Ordinance: Steve stated that this is in the
City's Comprehensive Plan. John believes that the ordinance was appropriate at
the time it was passed and should be reviewed. He stated that new development
should provide the same quality parks as the rest of the city standards. He also
stated that he believes when new development occurs, the developer should pay
for the cost of park development, not the citizens on bond issues. Steve suggested
forming a subcommittee to include the Parks Board, someone in the development
community, the Planning & Zoning Commission, with expert advice from
attorneys. Jane stated that with continued work, this could go to Council for
approval within about six months. Bob motioned to appoint John and Gary to the
committee. Jane stated that she has already informed the chair of the Planning &
Zoning Commission that the Board was visiting this issue. Jane will discuss this at
their next meeting. She also mentioned that one suggestion would be to change
the length of time from 2 to 5 years, which is recommended in the Comprehensive
Plan.
*U)
6. Discussion of Parks Master Plan Project: John stated that the Resource Committee
will meet the following day for discussion on Lick Creek Park. Jo s class is
developing a market research survey for ct of tournaments. He
P Aft-, M cctv� OAI-\-
Parks & Recreation Board 10/10/97 Page 3
mentioned that Scott S ha er's class will create a parks master plan as complete
as they can. A public hearing has been scheduled for the spring of 1998 for
master plan input. Steve is hoping to take information from the comprehensive
plan and TAMU's plan for a more specific plan for the city.
7. Discussion of Fitness Events: John stated that they were very successful in the past
and would like to see the events brought back. He would like staff to work with
past participants to organize the events again. He suggested that staff check with
the past participants to see if they would like to form a group to provide resources
for the events.
8. Board Goals Report: Steve stated that the Wheeler's would not deal with the Trust
for Public Land because of the insult in the price offering for the land. Steve stated
that he is waiting for the reengineering study.
Another meeting has been scheduled with the architectur class for work on the
�� teen center. Construction should start the following day.
1\
Bob stated that September 30, should be the first meeting of the Recreational
Sports Association. G
Elizabeth spoke w' ��"1
p with residents to the ,Spr-r�ng-l- area and they were concerned
about students inundating Madeley Park. They ere glad to hear that the Spring
Loop Park would be developed.
9. Capital Improvement Program Report. Ric stated that the Wayne Smith Baseball
Complex preconstruction meeting is scheduled for the following Thursday.
10. Other Business/Board Concerns: Elizabeth reminded the members about the
Council Appreciation dinner. Some discussion took place regarding having a joint
meeting with Bryan Parks Board on October 14. The Board discussed the meeting
and decided to have a regular meeting at the regular time because of pressing
issues, and decided to do the joint meeting later as a social.
Bob stated that he would like to discuss smoking at the Wolf Pen Creek
Amphitheater at the next meeting. He also asked about the sound issue. Steve
stated that nothing else has been done.
John is concerned about the city not working with the school board on projects
that include the purchase of land and development of facilities. He is looking for
a formalized. procedure. Gary suggested that Elizabeth contact the Mayor
regarding this issue.
Chris would like the city to look into developing a tennis center in the city, like
Arlington, that could potentially bring in tournaments.
U . Adjourn: The meeting adjourned at 10:16 p.m.
Parks & Recreation Board 10/10/97 Page 4
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
Post Office Box 9960 1101 Texas Avenue
cleedio College Station, Texas 77842-9960
(409) 764-3500
September 5, 1997
TO: Parks & Recreation Board
iA-AJ2
FROM: Steve Beachy, Director of Parks & Recreation
SUBJECT: ITEMS OF INTEREST
1. TEEN PROGRAMS - The Teen Advisory Board has scheduled several activities for this fall.
These include rock climbing instruction @ the TAMU Student Rec Center, first aid/CPR training,
teen night dance @ J. D. Wells and a skating party @ Wolf Pen Family Recreation Center. Other
activities being considered include camping, canoeing, bowling, intramural sports leagues and a
spring break ski trip. The TAB is also working on plans for seminars related to college and career
selection and the placement of a teen job board @ the high school.
2. TEEN CENTER CLASS PROJECT - A second year design class in the TAMU School of
Architecture has agreed develop conceptual plans for a College Station Teen Center as class
project this fall. The 14 member class will work with a committee of the Teen Advisory Board to
solicit input concerning the utilization of this type of facility. City staff will provide technical
support with base maps, utility locations and other related materials. The project should be
complete in November.
3. ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDY - The Department has committed to participate in a program
being sponsored by the National Recreation & Parks Society under contract with the TAMU
Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism Sciences that will determine the economic impact of
athletic tournaments on local communities. This study will involve approximately 12 communities
throughout the nation and is being directed by our own Dr. John Crompton. We conducted a "test"
survey during the recent national men's fast pitch softball tournament last month and were able to
determine an estimated economic impact of approximately $164,000 for the 37 team event. The
methodology utilized in this process is significantly different from that which is commonly used by
the tourism industry. This approach produces a more realistic result. The scope of the project is to
measure at least 8 events in 1998 to determine the economic impact on our community
4. X-TRA EDUCATION FALL ENROLLMENT - 214 separate classes are being offered by
the X-TRA Education program this fall. Registration will be on -going until classes begin or
Home of Texas A&M University
individual sessions are filled. Classes are available for adults, teens and special classes are
available for youth. The subject matter is very diverse and approximately 575 individuals have
signed up through the first week of registration. This compares with a total registration of 475 for
the 1996 fall program and 872 for spring session and 419 for the summer session that just ended.
5. TEXAS FOREST SERVICE GRANT - The City has received a matching grant from the
Texas Forest Service to assist with the printing of our " Tree Growing Guide for College
Station". The $3,000 grant, along with an equal local contribution, will be used to print
approximately 12,000 of these informative guides for distribution to area residents. The original
edition was printed several years ago and less than 100 copies remain in stock.
6. WOLF PEN CREEK EVENTS - Five public events and one private party are currently
scheduled for the amphitheater this fall. Local favorite, Robert Earl Keen, is scheduled for
September 19th and nationally known recording star, Waylon Jennings, is scheduled for October
10th. A current schedule is included in the packet.
7. WAYNE SMITH BASEBALL PROJECT - The City Council, at their August 28th meeting,
approved the bid for the construction of the new youth baseball facility adjacent to Lincoln Center.
Construction Resource Group of College Station will be the contractor and work is expected to
start soon. A change order was also approved with the bid to reduce the overall cost to meet budget
requirements. The change order does not alter the scope of the project. It includes the substitution
of asphalt paving in lieu of concrete for the parking and drive areas, alternate lighting system for
the parking area and some material changes for the concession building. The completion date is
unknown, however, we have advised the College Station Little League officials that it probably will
not be ready for the opening of spring play. We hope to have the fields ready for play prior to the
end of the 1998 season. A ground breaking ceremony is being planned for later this month and a
formal dedication will be held next year to commemorate the return of youth baseball to this
neighborhood.
8. EMPLOYEE TURNOVER - We have had 13 employees resign from the Department since
May. They have accepted other jobs that offer a chance to improve their professional development.
Leslie Boykin and Bruce Brannon have accepted positions as Directors of Parks & Recreation in
Livingston and Angleton respectively. Kimmie Davis has resigned from Lincoln Center to devote
herself to teaching full time at the Junior High School. Bob Hole and David Wolf have left the
Forestry Division to work with a private firms. Jerry Branham has gone to work for the Irving
Parks & Recreation DepartmentCPe wish all of these individuals and the others who have left the
Department the best of luck in their new endeavors. They will be missed.
9. CITY ADVISORY BOARD APPRECIATION BANQUET - You will be invited to the
annual appreciation banquet to be held on Tuesday, Sept 23d @ the Pebble Creek Country Club.
This is the City's way of thanking you for many hours of hard work and dedication on behalf of
our citizens. It also provides an opportunity to meet residents that serve on other Council appointed
boards and committees and Iearn a little about what they have accomplished during the past year.
The food is good and it is a nice way to spend some time together without having to deal with the
pressures of our normal business meetings.
10. DEPARTMENTAL ASSESSMENTS - Thank you for taking the time to fill out the
assessment sheets passed out at the last meeting. I have enclosed a summary of the Board
comments along with those provided by our key staff. We will utilize this information at our annual
staff retreat later this month to seek ways to improve our operations in the future. Also, it was
suggested by one Board member that a Board retreat might be useful to discuss the various issues
and projects facing the City in the next few years.
11. GIRLS SOFTBALL PROGRAM - College Station Little League has scheduled two public
hearings to receive comments concerning girls softball programs. This is in response to individuals
who are requesting that CSLL offer a girls softball program. These hearings will be @ 7pm in the
College Station Conference Center on Sept 18th and 23d. We will have representatives at the
meeting to answer questions about the program offered by the City and respond to comments or
concerns. The Recreation staff has been working with several of the individuals that have spoken to
the Board in the past and have addressed some of their concerns. The Mayor has asked that this
issue be placed on our next agenda for discussion in response to concerns by Mr. Dennis Jansen. A
copy of his letter is attached along with background information provided by the Staff.
12. LANDFILL SITE - Ric Ploeger and I met with representatives of a planning firm that is
working on design concepts for the current landfill site after it is closed. They will develop
concepts that provide for a variety of recreational uses while maintaining the required conditions
associated with the state and federal regulations. The proposed concepts will be presented to the
Board at a future date for your input. This may require an additional meeting to accommodate
schedules.
13. JOINT MEETING WITH BRYAN - The Bryan Parks & Recreation Board has requested a
joint meeting in October to discuss greenways, alcohol in the parks, teen programs and other areas
of mutual interest. They have offered to host the meeting on our regular scheduled night.
copies: Skip Noe, City Manager
Tom Brymer, Assistant City Manager
Jeff Kersten, Sr. Management Analyst
Ginger Bedner, Human Resources
August 27, 1997
College Station City Council:
The City of College Station Comprehensive Plan calls,for 70 add itional, acre'
of park land in Zone 2. In the July 24, Council meeting youu-accepted
5.16 acres generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. George Edward. Made1.ey.:for,,i',-,.,,
park land. One condition of this specified that the land be developed intoa,�:
park within five 'years or property ownership transfers to.A&M Methodist
Church. lt.is Mr. Madeley's desire that this piece of property become a
park. This beautifully wooded land ideally suits the recreation needs of this,.
,.,,.
densely populated neighborhood in'a part'o"f-the city With no other parks
and few tracts available for park development.
The major obstacle to park development is that the property is land locked
with no public access. There are two tracts of land adjacent which.togetherl:
provide adequate frontage on Chimney, Hill Drive (see map), The Jaffair:
property lends itself well to parking, basketball, etc., as, it is open and
reasonably level. The Ford property is smaller but aesthetically pleasing
while providing additional public access.
A preliminary plat on the Jaffar property was submitted but later withdrawn.
We are concerned that the property will be developed before the next bond
program and for this reason believe there is a need to act urgently to acquire�
it.
We would like the City to purchase both properties. The resulting 5+ acres....:-,
would match the Madeley's contribution and provide the citizens of College
Station with an 11 -acre park serving the Chimney Hill area *and the
neighborhood around Cooner Street. This park would be typical of our.
neighborhood 'parks. In this case, a portion of the park would remain
wooded and natural while the remaining would be dedicated to
recreational use with the addition of a playground and other amenities to be
determined after public hearings.
Home of Texas A&M University
•eve'l dp" dd land
f the few- u n d
This is a unique •oppo rtu n Ry to preserve :one o
-areas in north0 .3'Cbll.e'ge,�:Sta'0 n.'' 'We request �that, the City Counci 'authorize
:property.
U e additional expenditures f; *to $105,00o to purchase Ih+ additional �:.prope'
necessary to tomplete this.:park. We thank youfor-your consideration.
Si ncerely,
Parks and Recreation Board
Elizabeth Cunha, Chair,
C3ebra Inderson, V ce' 'Chair
Robert E. e0tte"J'".
D
Gary -Hal r
hn Crompton
are "i ChrisI la
Mike Manson
September 5, 1997
M
Action Plan
7. Complete acquisition of the athletic park site and develop a master plan
A. Complete property acquisition (Dec, 97)
B. Conduct site visits to selected athletic parks in Texas (Spring, 98)
C. Conduct needs assessment with the Sports and Recreation Association and Parks and
Recreation Board (Spring, 98)
D. Concept preparation by Parks Planning (Summer, 98)
E. Develop budget estimate by Parks Planning Staff or consulting firm if funds allow
(Summer, 98)
2. Hel
NEWFIEW
Ian for Wolf Pen Creek
D. Complete engineering study (Oct, 97)
(� J? E. Present findings to the Tax Increment Finance Board and seek direction (Oct, 97)
F. Incorporate findings and TIF Board recommendations into the revised WPC Master
Plan (Nov, 1997)
G. Develop implementation plan for proposed improvements (Nov, 97)
H. Present recommendation to appropriate advisory boards for review (Dec, 97)
I. Submit revised Wolf Pen Creek Master Plan and recommendations to City Council for
consideration, (Jan, 98)
G. Collaborate with other agencies concerning permanent facility design and joint youth
programs (Fall, 97)
H. Teen Advisory Board provides input to TAMU Architecture class; staff develops cost
estimates based upon concepts (Fall, 97)
1. Develop a needs analysis for future city-wide, indoor recreation facilities in College
Station to avoid duplication of services (Fall, 97)
J. City Council consideration of TAMU class reports and project scope, including
financial estimates (Nov, 97)
K. Solicit request for proposals for design services (Dec, 97)
L. City Council approval of contract for design service (Jan, 98)
M. Complete design process and prepare bid documents (May, 98)
Smith Park Master Plan
D. Construction process (Sep, 97 - Jun, 98)
E. Begin first season (TBA)
5. Implementation of the Sports and Recreation Association
B. Issue letter to facility users to announce an organizational meeting (Sep, 97)
C. Host organizational meeting (Oct, 1997)
D. Initiate a User's Agreement with all users (Oct, 97)
E. Finalize facility use schedule for 1998 (Nov, 97)
F. Complete all users agreements for 1998 (Dec, 97)
6. Conduct public hearings and oversee design process for Woodway Park
A. Acceptance of additional parkland from Holleman Arms Apartment project (TBA, 97)
B. Process on hold until Melrose Apartments project proceeds with parkland dedication.
C. Alternate would be to negotiate the purchase of the remaining property and proceed
without Melrose.
D. Once acquisition of site is complete, conduct public hearings, develop conceptual
designs and secure Parks & Recreation Board and City Council approval
7. Develop a Master Plan for Lick Creek Park
C. Develop concepts and present during a public hearing (Oct, 97)
D. Parks Board approval (Nov, 97)
E. Council approval (Dec, 97)
8. Investiiate opportunities for a park in Zone 10
C. Analyze sites to determine best location (Sep, 97)
D. Determine methods for acquisition (Sep, 97)
E. Acquire site (FY 98 pending approval of funding)
9. Design small park that serves the Spring Loop residents
Page 2 of 3
I
B. Obtain population density estimates and demographic information (Oct, 97)
C. Develop potential alternatives and recommendations and present findings to the
Board (Nov, 97)
10. Reconsider disc golf.
C. Develop recommendations for implementation (Aug, 97)
Page 3 of 3
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
CONFERENCE CENTER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
97
,, -
MOLLIE GUIN 1605 N. Bluebonnet Circle (h) 693-8351
Chairman College Station, TX (w) 764-5574
(9/98) [3] 77840
ALMA MOLINA 1525 B. Pine Ridge (h) 696-9336
Vice -Chairman College Station, TX (w) 862-1979
(9/98) [2] 77840
EDWIN HOLDREDGE 1118 Ashburn (h) 696-7368
(9/97) [2] College Station, TX
77840
EILEEN SATHER 1817 Laura Lane (h) 693-6353
(9/98) [3] College Station, TX
77840
JENNIFER PRATT 3180 Cain Rd. #167 (h) 694-2380
(9/97) [1 ] College Station, TX (w) 845-8509
77845
FRANCENE LAMB P. O. Box 10063 (h) 764-4551
(9/97) [1 ] College Station, TX (w) 845-6774
77842
BEN MOLINA 1525 B. Pine Ridge (h) 696-9336
College Station, TX (w)
(9/97) [1 ] 77840
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
LINCOLN CENTER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
1996/97
LARRY JOHNSON 803 Val Verde (h) 693-4241
Chairman College Station, TX (w) 764-3611
(9/98) [1 ] 77840
MALVONEE MERCHANT 1104 Phoenix St (h) 693-7924
(6/97) [1 ] College Station TX
77840
ELEASE CARTER 134 Luther Apt. 239 (h) 764-6918
(6/97) [2] College Station, TX
77840
R. A. TERRELL 1209 Arizona (h) 693-6227
(6/97) [2] College Station, TX
77840
LINDA PRESTON-SHEPARD 803 Luther W (h) 693-3515
(6/97) [1 ] College Station, TX
77840
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM
PROJECT STATUS REPORT
SEPTEMBER, 1997
1. WAYNE SMITH BASEBALL COMPLEX
Project Number.• PK9505
Budget: $1,230,000 - 1995 Bond
ContractAmount.• Design $87,990
Project Manager.• Eric Ploeger
Project Design: HSI Consulting Architects
Comments/Status: After review of 16 proposals by Architectural firms, the staff
recommended HSI Architects of Bryan to the City Council. The City Council approved
this selection. The contract was signed in early February 1996 and the initial meeting
with staff took place on February 27. Designs were completed and have been bid twice
with the last being July 24, 1997. On both occasions bids have come in higher than the
budgeted amount. Staff, the architect, and the low -bid contractor have worked to bring
the project within budget. Changes in the parking lot paving, concession/rest room
building specifications, and the parking lot area lighting have resulted in sufficient
reductions to allow the project to be within budget. The item was approved by Council
on August 28, 1997.
Task. Project Design: November 1996 -July 1997
Advertisement & Award. July - August 1997
Complete: June 1998
2. EDELWEISS PARK
Project Number. PK9707
Budget: $25,000
Contract Amount., N/A
Project Manager: Eric Ploeger
Project Design: Parks Planning
Comments/Status: Funding was received through a development agreement with the
develop for landscaping. A tree planting plan is being prepared that will include a drip
irrigation system. The Forestry Division will install approximately forty trees this fall. The
irrigation system was installed in August.
Task. Project Design:
Advertisement & Award:
Complete:
June 1997
June 1997
August 1997 (Irrigation)
April 1998 (Trees)
CIP Report 9/5/97 Page 1 of 3
3. LEMONTREE REST ROOMS
Project Number. PK9314
Budget. $25,000
Contract Amount. N/A
Project Manager. Peter Vanecek
Project Design: Parks Planning
Comments/Status: This project will include a single rest room facility and all utility hook ups.
C&L Concrete of Bryan, TX was the low bid. The project was approved by Council and
construction will begin in July 1997. The project was completed in August 1997.
Task. Project Design: April 1997
Advertisement & Award. May - June 1997
Complete: September 1997
4. Central Park Light Replacement
Project Number: PK9714
Budget: $60,000
Contract Amount: N/A
Project Manager: Curtis Bingham
Project Design:
Comments/Status: Replacement of light fixtures and ballasts. The materials have been
ordered.
Task: Project Design:
Advertisement & Award. November 1997
Complete: January 1998
CIP Report 9/5197 Page 2 of 3
PARKS PLANNING
COP SUPPORT PROJECTS
1. COLLEGE STATION LIBRARY
LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION DESIGN
Budget $40,000
Comments/Status: Parks Planning is providing the design for the exterior landscaping
and irrigation design. Construction on this project began in March, 1997.
2. COLLEGE STATION BUSINESS CENTER ($1,500,000)
PHASE II LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION DEVELOPMENT
Budget: $300,000-400,000
Comments/Status: Preliminary energy/drainage studies are being performed at the present
time. After the engineer completes his plans, then the landscape design will begin.
3. UTILITY BUILDING
LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION DESIGN
Budget. • $30,000
Comments/Status: Landscape and irrigation design plans will begin in August, and should
be completed by October 1997.
C!P Report
9/5/97
Page 3 of 3
An-
August 17, 1997
Dear, Steve Deachy
I am saying a big Thank -You to you, and your staff at the College Station parks and recreation
Department. I am employed with Federal Express and my legs are crucial to my work. I injured
My knee, and have chosen a conservative approach to recovery involving physical therapy.
As you recall, I called you in July asking for your assistance in finding a pool in College Station
With easy access to facilitate my therapy. Steve, you helped me find a pool with easy access and
Checked on me several times. I am so grateful to you and the city of College Station Parks and
Recreation department.
I want to personally let you know that the staff at the Southwood Valley pool is a group
Of young adults that our city can be so proud of! The staff is polite, professional, caring
And always welcome guests with a warm smile! As a citizen of College Station, I believe
The example these folks set can make us all feel good about our Parks and Recreation department.
My recovery will be lengthy, yet, I am returning to work Monday, August 18th 1997. I am
absolutely convinced that swimming is a crucial part of my therapy, and there is no better
place in the world to do that than right here in College Station. Once again Steve, Thank -
You!
Yours truly,
s
Charles Smith
...,,...,:._.:..,_,acc.•............. •.. ......• ..,.,...........:,.,. ....:..,:.....:.. ...:.:....: ...... ::.r n: ,,. .. , . ........ , ..r..._. ....e....a+ ...........,b:e.....:.�2)�:):5:,:)L...h.aa:!2S:)2.._. , a. v2. .<..37::...:aU..:aiEi7
August 22, 1997
Mr. Dennis W. Jansen
1704 Emerald Parkway
College Station, TX 77845
Dear Mr. Jansen:
I have received a copy of your letter to the editor of the Eagle dated August 4, 1997 regarding
girls softball in College Station. I have since noticed that the Eagle did run your letter.
I appreciate your interest in youth sports which is an interest I share with you. With your
permission, and if you have not already done so, I would like to refer your letter to the Council's
Parks & Recreation Board for their consideration. This board consists of Council appointed .
College Station citizens like yourself and are charged with making advisory recommendations to
Council about issues like the ones you raise in your letter. Additonally, it may be that this board
could facilitate any discussions that need to occur with other groups that are or might be involved
in the future with girls' softball.
I will ask the City Manager to have the Director of Parks & Recreation facilitate this. information
before the Parks & Recreation Board. or any other group(s) they feel is appropriate to be
involved with this issue. At this point in the process, I believe this is the appropriate forum where
your concerns will be given a thorough discussion and consideration.
Again, thanks for sharing your letter with me and I look forward to hearing how your discussions
with the Parks Board and others progress.
Sincerely yours,
Lynn Melhaney
Mayor
cc: City Council
George K. Noe, City Manager
Steve Beachy, Dir. of Parks & Recreation
omdmin:djansen.doc
P. O. Box 9960 1101 Texas Avenue College Station, TX 77842 Tel: 409 764-3510
OPEN LETTER TO THE COLLEGE STATION LITTLE LEAGUE, COLLE E 90MC
CITY GOVERNMENT, AND CITIZENS OF COLLEGE STATION n� E
Submitted for publication in the Bryan -College Station Eagle.
As a spectator, a parent, and an amateur coach in a variety of sports, I certainly enjoyed
the ongoing achievements of our local Little League baseball and softball teams. The Eagle and
the local TV station gave widespread coverage to the local Little League playoffs, in which all-
star teams met in double -elimination tournaments to see who would represent our area in
sectional tournaments. The College Station and Bryan boys baseball teams, and the Bryan girls
fastpitch softball teams, received wide coverage, and several teams had and are having successful
runs at sectional and state championships, and beyond. This is quite exciting for the young men
and women involved in these affairs.
Yet something is missing. Where are the College Station girls? Why is it that they too
were not represented in these activities? The answer, it seems, is complicated. The simplest
answer is that the College Station Little League Board of Directors has refused to charter a girls
fastpitch softball league. Why? Opinions vary and are no doubt subject to rumor, misquotation,
and a variety of "spin."
Some argue that there is a College Station Parks & Rec girls softball program, "City
League," and hence no need and no demand for a Little League program. Yet anyone familiar
with the College Station City League knows full well that: (a) the quality of play is inferior to
Little League; (b) the number of teams falls off dramatically with the age of the girls, and
discouragement with the poor quality of play is part of the problem, and (c) the overall experience.
in terms of playing time, publicity, number of other teams, and post -season possibilities is inferior
to Little League. Regarding the last point, the College Station girls play a shorter schedule, with
a shorter scheduled time for each individual game as well as fewer games, against a shorter list of
opposing teams, than do the Little League boys in College Station or the Little League girls in
Bryan. Finally, there is no post -season play in College Station, except this year a purely internal.
tournament to cap off the season. There is no chance to go on to sectionals, or state, or national
tournaments.
Others add to the above the argument that there is a shortage of fields in College Station,
so adding a successful Little League softball program would take away fields from other
demanders. This argument seems wrongheaded on several counts, not least of which is
discrimination by gender in providing city facilities to our children.
Finally, there have been rumors of active College Station Parks and Rec opposition to girls
Little League. There have been claims that College Station employees have threatened the loss of
fields or the loss of services in maintaining fields for Little League baseball in the event that Little
League sponsors softball teams. As a citizen and taxpayer, as well as a concerned parent, I trust
... .. ... .. .... . .. ............... ... . . .. ..Z Z... ..........1, ....,........,........,.. .. . , ,....,..,...,...li2s7
these rumors are false. No city employee, paid by tax dollars, should be threatening a non-profit
organization to prevent them from offering equal opportunities to all genders mentioned in their
constitution (and the College Station Little League constitution expressly allows chartering of
both baseball and softball teams).
I would add the following about demand for College Station Little League. Currently
quite a few girls "vote with their feet" and play in the Bryan Little League instead of playing in the
College Station City League. We are lucky to have the cooperation of the Bryan Little League to
serve these girls, whom are denied such opportunities in their home town. Other girls have opted
out of local league play altogether, including some whom are very interested in softball and play
on local ASA traveling teams. These girls are discouraged by the lack of teams and lack of
quality in the College Station operation. Many of these discouraged players, as well as many
College Station girls currently playing on Bryan teams, have indicated an interest in playing on
College Station Little League softball teams. This is understandable;, they prefer to play on teams
with their friends and with a more convenient location for practice and home games. This is to
take nothing away from Bryan Little League. We should be grateful to them for giving College
Station girls the opportunity to play on their teams.
I don't know how we have gotten to this point. There seems to be various diverse
interests at stake, including certain ownership interests on the part of College Station employees
in maintaining city control over girls softball. Yet we should be asking what is best for the girls.
Little League offers tremendous advantages that the city of College Station cannot offer on its
own. The most important advantage is the chance to play against a large number of teams from
the highly successful Bryan Little League program. Bryan Little League has extensive inter -
league play, and College Station could ask to join these arrangements. This means that College
Station teams can find numerous teams with which to schedule games, even if there are only a
handful of College Station teams. (This is a real plus for the older girls, as the College Station
City League had only 2 or 3 teams in some age groups). The second advantage is that Little
League provides for both recreational and competitive purposes in one package. In Little League
there are two seasons, the regular season and all-stars. The first season is developmental and
recreational, with quite a number of games and explicit rules requiring that everyone gets to play,
and rules requiring use of a number of pitchers, helping encourage girls to develop that important
skill. The second season, the "all-star" playoff season, involves selecting girls to play on an all-
star team for the playoffs. This playoff season is the one that has received so much media
attention for both girls and boys in recent weeks. The third advantage is the ability of College
Station Little League to draw on its experience in running a highly successful boys program, and
to draw on the Bryan experience with girl's Little League, to get the program off and running. I
have no doubt that the College Station girl's softball Little League program would be as
successful as the Bryan Little League program if the girls in College Station are just given the
chance. Participation would grow rapidly as College Station joined our Bryan neighbors in the
enjoyment of a wonderful sports tradition.
I have also heard directly from a city official that College Station and Bryan are different,
that College Station kids are not as focused on athletics. Balderdash! College Station boys
compete successfully with Bryan in Little League -- it is the College Station team advancing to
state.and beyond this year. Why are the College Station girls not given the same opportunities?
I see this as an issue of gender equality. I also see it as an issue of wise and equitable
expenditure of city resources and of College Station Little League time and resources. Let's give
College Station girls the same opportunities as College Station boys, the same opportunities as
Bryan girls. It's the right thing to do.
Sincerely,
i
Dennis W. Jansen
College Station
NOTE: If you edit this letter I request a chance to review and approve any changes.
Contact Information:
Dennis W. Jansen
1704 Emerald Pkwy
College Station TX 77845
Work: 845-7358; Fax: 847-8757
Home: 764-8976 or 696-8662
email: d-jansen@tamu.edu
CITY OFCOL.I .EGE STA nON
Post Office Box 9960 1101 Texas Avenue
CRM_00f� College Station, Texas 77842-9960 `
(409) 764-3500
September 5, 1997
Mr. Dennis W. Jansen
1704 Emerald Parkway
College Station, Texas 77845
Dear Mr. Jansen:
Discussion of girls softball has been placed on the agenda for the September 9th meeting of the .Parks and l,,w,
Recreation Board. The meeting will be held in the conference room of the Parks & Recreation office in',Central.'
Park starting at 7pm. This item will be near the beginning of the agenda for your convenience.
The Board has discussed this issue many times over the past few years and we>have addressed
concerns raised in past meetings. The City does not oppose College Station Little League offeringa girls. -soft ball.
program if that is what the majority of the participants want. However, we are concerned with: two programs
being offered to the same market with limited resources to support them. Surveys conducted in 1996 to seek:input -,
about future operation of College Station girls softball indicated that the majority ofahe participants wanted to
remain with the existing program. We also received some comments about changes in the .league structure related
to game schedules and post season play. Adjustments were made in the 1997 program in response to these
suggestions. The regular season was expanded from 8 games to 10 games and a double elimination tournament>
was added.
I asked our Recreation Supt to respond to your stated• concerns and I have enclosed the information,that. she:
prepared. One interesting item was that we did have one 12 & under team, the Brazos Valley. Heat,'s,win the'
Amateur Softball Association double elimination State tournament. They competed in :the national tournahlent:in
Midland on August 5 - 10th where they finished in the middle of the standings out of 72 teams from throughout � ;:: `.
the nation.
We want to provide the best program possible for girls softball players in the community. We are .willing to
improvements and changes in the program that reflect the wishes of the majority of the participants: 'Two
hearings have been scheduled by the College Station Little League organization concerning girls softball.
will be held at the College Station Conference Center at 7pm on September 18th and 23d. Input from that -it
will be used to make decisions concerning future programs.
Thank you for your comments and concerns.
Sinc y,
Steve Beachy
Director of Parks and 4Recreatio
copies: Mayor Lynn Mellhaney
Skip Noe, City Manager
Parks & Recreation Board
Ron Carter, President CSLL
Home of Texas A&M University
Memorandum
To: Steve Beachy, Director of Parks and Recreation
From: Linda Waltman, Recreation Superintendent
Subject: Response to Mr. Jansen's letter regarding Girls Softball in College Station
I have reviewed Mr. Jansen's letter concerning girls softball in College Station. It seems that the best
response is to simply provide information on the girls softball programs we do offer here in College
Station.
Brief History:
The College Station Parks and Recreation Department began offering a girls softball program in 1993.
Prior to this slowpitch and fastpitch leagues were offer by two different organizations run by volunteer
parent groups. Although the volunteer parent organizations had made a good attempt at organizing and
running the league, the leagues were declining due to low participation numbers. The boards approached
the City to ask that they take over the running of the girls leagues. The City was glad to do so, and
through patience, hard work, and a "no quit". attitude the participation numbers are up and the league is
successfully operating.
League Information:
Currently we offer three seasons of girls softball
Fastpitch February - May Fee: $30/$20/$10
Slowpitch May - July Fee: $30/$20/$10
Fastpitch September - November Fee: $30/$20/$10
Changes made to the 1997 College Station program due to consumer input:
Increased the number of games played per season. We now offer 10 (vs. 8) regular season
games, with a double elimination tournament at the end of the season, thus 12 games granted
per season.
Added the post season tournament for additional tournament play, as requested.
Register teams so that they have the option of attending ASA and TAAF State and National
Tournaments (One of our 12 & Under ASA teams won the ASA State Tournament, which was
held in our community, and advanced to the ASA National Tournament in Midland, Texas where
they competed against 72 other teams from around the United States.).
Offered coaches clinics.
Offered additional player instruction clinics.
Brought in US Olympic Coaches and Players.
We provide good things in life!
Older age groups teams have played other area teams (similar to inter league play in Bryan LL)
Held registration with CS Little League for customer convenience
We have continued to host ASA State and Invitational tournament in our community to benefit
our local teams as well as for the economic benefit to our community.
City Staff:
In Mr. Jansen's letter he comments that the third advantage to a CSLL run program would the ability of
the CSLL to "draw on its own experience in running a highly successful boys program, to get the girls
program off and running". The College Station Parks and Recreation Athletic staff have years of
experience at league organization and operation. In addition, the staff has successfully hosted numerous
regional, state and national tournaments. There is little, if any comparison one can make to this
professional staff that we are so lucky to have here in College Station. As you know they are constantly
evaluating and making changes -to leagues and programs to seek "a better way" and to "meet customer
needs". From the previous list it is clear that we do listen to the customer and make every attempt to
provide services requested.
Other Notations:
In Mr. Jansen's letter (paragraph number three) he states that the City League is inferior to Little League
because, "the number of teams falls off dramatically with the age of the girls and that poor quality of play
is part of the problem", he goes on to say (paragraph number 7) that a real plus for CSLL run program
would be so that the older girls could play in an "inter -league" play with Bryan LL. As stated previously
we have had our "older girls" play against, "inter -league" if you will with area ASA. teams. This is no
different than what he suggests. As far as the "quality of play", I find it hard to believe that the "quality of
play would be so different in the two organizations,, however, I, Rio know that there must be some level of
"quality of play" or we would not have had our 12 and Under4eam win the ASA State Championship and
advance on to Nationals.
We have never threatened to take away fields from the Little League organization in the event that they
sponsor softball teams. Everyone that had attended anyLittle League board meeting or several Parks
Board meetings would know that we have simply stated that we would continue to offer our program
because all were in agreement that it was meeting the girls needs.
We agree with him that kids are kids, and that there is no difference in the desires of the kids in either
town, therefore whatever "City Official" he speaks of in paragraph 8 of his letter was not a Recreation
Employee. Our girls softball teams like the Bryan girls softball teams have competed successfully locally
and state wide.
In Summary:
What is important for all to remember is that there are differences in both programs, Little League and
ASA/City League. Our program keeps in mind,the recreational player but also provides opportunities for
the competitive player. I am sure, in their own way.so does the Little League program. It is the American
way to offer people choices and let them make up their own minds. Through our participant survey as
well as parent surveys it appears that we are meeting the needs and that the customer is satisfied with our
program. In addition, our participation numbers continue to increase another indication that "we must be
doing something right" .
•::�: ;i;i,...,i;i;i;i;i;i;i;i,ni.ii;.......;i;i;i3iti:i ; .
College Staiion'i'arks:arid:Recreation
Girls Softball'Fasf- itch Participation History
1993
8 teams
104 participants
1994
11 teams
132 participants
1995
20 teams
206 participants
1996
27 teams
274 participants
Spring 97 (fastpitch)
8 & U
10 teams
84 participants
10 & U
6 teams
78 participants
12 & U
4 teams
"' '' . 45 participants
14 & U
3 team'§
32 participants
23 teams
239 participants
Summer 97 (slowpitch)
.8 & U 6 teams
62 participants
10 & U 4 teams
48. participants
12 & U 5 teams
59 participants
15 teams
169 participants
Fall 97 (fastpitch)
To Be Registered
q
COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
GIRLS FAST PITCH SOFTBALL PARENT SURVEY
1. How did you find out about the league: Flier from school - 48
TV _ - .- 0
Newspaper - 13
Friend - 18
Other - 10
Can you think of any other ways to advertise our program at little or no cost?
You could use the school marquee.
* PSA's.
* CNN Headline News local edition.
* Through the College Station Interest page.
* Poster at retailers.
* How about Bryan schools?
* School Athletic Dept.; T.V. spots.
* Neighborhood signs or fliers.
Local business (i.e. Play It Again Sports, Golf Shops, etc.).
* Contact school P.E. teachers.
* Put fliers on bulletin boards at churches, grocery stores, etc.
2. Are .,you satisfied with the way registration is being handled?
A. Very Satisfied - 35
B. Satisfied - 46
C. Dissatisfied - 1
D. Very Dissatisfied - 0
If dissatisfied, what suggestion(s) do you have to make it more convenient for you:
* Coaches are the worst.
* Get info about teams to coaches sooner.
* Somewhere besides Central Park. Maybe coordinate with Little League.
* Need more late night registration times.
* Could repeat players register by mail.
3. Circle the way you would like to see our teams formed:
A. current system (in order of priority - age, pitchers/catchers, school, zone)
request are granted if they fit the system - 45
B. random selection (in order of priority - age, pitchers/catchers, fielders) - 10
C. let each player select 1 friend to play with and the 2 players must identify
each other on their entry form, then use the random selection to complete
the formation of the team - 9
D. try -outs (coaches watch each players skills and select team members on a
draft basis) - 19
E. other - 4
* Current system -fun to play with friends; need to balance age groups.
* Tryouts -maybe for older, but not 10&under.
* Keep teams together within age bracket.
* Too many coaches have too many of their tournament players on their
teams; making some teams have too many unskilled players. Ex. Mustangs.
* What about school teams?
* By neighborhood or schools.
* Play for fun and experience=equal teams, equal chance.
* Current system for grades up to 6th, then tryouts for older ages.
4. Please circle the format you would like to have the most:
A. compact 8 game season (currently in use) - 35
B. 10 game season (subject to fee change) - 10
C. 12 game season (subject to fee change) - 9
D. 14 game season (subject to fee change) - 3
E. compact 8 game season with an end of the season double elimination
tournament
guaranteed 10 games (subject to fee change) - 30
F. other - 2
* I think there should be more than one game per week and/or more frequent
practices. There have been several weeks where we have only met as a
team once! Girls cannot learn the game like this!
* Only if teams are more even in skills!
* Compact 8 game season with consistent nights and time lapses between
games.
* 8 game for coach-pitch/t-ball; 12 game for older groups.
* 2 games/week without empty weeks; more practices throughout season.
* "All star" type end of season tournament.
5. Are you in favor of the rule that requires all players who attend the games to bat
and play a minimum of 2 innings per game? A. yes - 84 B. no - 2
* They pay their money just like everyone else.
* Would like to see girls rotated in positions to gain experience in the
younger leagues.
* Like to have about even innings at end of year.
* I think they should have to attend practice as well.
* Only if they attend the majority of practices.
* But I believe they should also attend a majority of practices.
6. Which do you prefer?
(A) volunteer coaches to teach all participants the game of softball - 71
(B) volunteer coaches to be more interested in competition (winning) - 12
* Fun and learning the game are the only things that matter at this age and in
this league!
* Younger leagues for fun and older leagues for competition.
* Combination of both; coaches should help girls more with techniques.
* A balance of both.
7. Which do you prefer?
(A) teams to have as many practices as they want - 3 8
(B) all teams get an equal amount of practice sessions - 3 8
8. Did you attend a clinic held by Bob Brock (Texas A&M Softball Coach)?
A. yes - 50 B. no - 33
If yes, were you satisfied with the clinic? A. Very Satisfied - 23
B. Satisfied - 24
C. Dissatisfied - 7
D. Very Dissatisfied- 0
* Thank you very much!
* It was not advertised as being all day; poor communication.
* Did not learn much; maybe if different levels of technique for the more
experienced.
* Daughter was disenchanted. It was long, too many girls and only covered
basics. Maybe different clinics for each age group with different intensity
and technique instruction.
* It should be for older kids (5th & above) or separated by age.
* The girls enjoyed what they were taught. It was not organized because of
lack of communication.
* It was good for the older girls; a little too advanced for the younger ones.
* Needs to be better organized.
* Poor communication about the nature and time commitment of the clinic;
the girls had fun though, and learned allot; a shorter clinic would be better
for younger girls.
9. Are you in favor of allowing pitchers to pitch as much as they like, or should they
be limited to a certain amount of innings per week?
A. Unlimited innings - 31
B. Limited innings - 49
* ASA Rules!
* Limited innings; you don't want a child to hurt their arm'.
* More than one girl should pitch in a game; this would give others a chance
to learn to pitch and seems more fair to one -relying on only one pitcher sets
up resentment and if they're absent, the team is in trouble!
* Uncertain; one good pitcher currently dominates the league, but nobody
seems upset about that.
* Limited innings need to be enforced.
* Unlimited innings at the coach's discretion.
* All girls should be given opportunity to pitch and play different positions.
* Please be sure to have either a T or coaches pitch after 4 balls from child
pitcher; last year the walks were terrible to watch and no fielding for girls!
* They should let all girls try in the practice sessions because there might be
hidden talent.
* For health reasons; limited innings because pitching is hard on the muscles
at this age.
10. Are you satisfied with the way we are handling pictures?
A. Very Satisfied - 20
B. Satisfied - 55
C. Dissatisfied - 4
D. Very Dissatisfied- 1
If dissatisfied, what suggestion do you have to make pictures better:
* It's worked the best ever.
* Try to schedule picture taking on a day when they are not practicing or
playing a game.
* If early in day, have practice following.
* When weather conditions are not favorable, reschedule. Too strict on when
pictures are taken.
* Needed set times for each team picture so players would be present.
* Pictures are a waste.
* Pictures aren't really necessary, I feel.
* Need more notification for date in which pictures are taken.
* The only time I am dissatisfied is when the pictures are not ready until after
the season; this happens only rarely, but is very inconvenient.
* Need a shade or shady area; all girls were squinting!
* Should schedule picture day on a game day to help picture attendance.
* Opening ceremony where pictures could be taken and meet all Saturday.
11. Which do you prefer?
(A) every participant to receive a trophy with their name on it - 50
(B) record the standings and give out awards to 1st and 2nd place teams - 32
* Depends on age -older girls need to have something to strive for.
* Everyone. can get a trophy but you can award 1st & 2nd places.
* Trophy for younger level up to 6th grade; standings and Ist & 2nd place for
older group.
12. Overall, how would you rate your satisfaction with this program?
A. Very Satisfied - 28
B. Satisfied - 53
C. Dissatisfied - 3
D. Very Dissatisfied - 0
* Teams are too uneven in terms of skill levels.
*. If possible, screen coaches for positive attitude/ability to work well with
children/teach fundamentals of game in a fun atmosphere.
13. How do you prefer that future leagues are organized and operated?
A. The program continues to be operated by the College Station Parks and
Recreation Department. - 71
B. The program is operated by the College Station Little League organization.
-12
* Don't like Little League rules; not like high school/college fast pitch!
* Our coach's attitude bothers me a bit. He is very much emphasizing
competition and winning. I do not like that and feel that there should be a
stated philosophy to the effect that winning is not an emphasis -at their level!
* I am dissatisfied with the way that certain coaches were able to obtain
players from another team just because they knew people in the Parks Dept.
If there is to be a random selection, then it should be done with the coaches
present like they do in Little League. I don't like the drafting policy either.
The rest of the program was done well. The pitching clinic was excellent..
* I do not like the 4 run rule. I would like to see it go back to the 7 run rule or
play until there is 3 outs.
* Operated by the Little League organization for equal monies to be spent on
both leagues.
* At least (the very least) a girl's little league that can develop these kids.
* Definitely the College Station Parks Department.
* I don't mind either. Have experienced both and both do a good job.
* I would like to see scoreboards for the girls, like Little League has.
* I very strongly prefer C.S. PARR organize league. Our experience with
Little League has shown them to be very unorganized, too competitive and
to have poor communication to participants.
* Practice fields need restrooms; real restrooms, not port -a -potties.
* Never to Little League! —Geared too much to winning, all-stars. Not enough
emphasis on learning, enjoying the game, developing everyone.
* Whichever would make it best for the players.
* Having experience with both, C.S. PARD does a much better job; less
politics.
* We need to have closer background checks of our coaches. Absolutely no
smoking should be allowed at any Little League games around our kids.
* Operated by Little League but with ASA rules.
PARTICIPANTS SURVEY
Are you having fun playing softball this season?
Are you getting to play a lot?
Are you learning anything about softball?
Do you like your team?
Would you like to play more games?
If you attended Bob Brocks clinic
did you have fun and learn about softball?
YES - 149 NO-0
YES - 149 NO-0
YES - 126 NO - 13
YES - 147 NO-2
YES - 145 NO-4
YES - 105 NO - 10
.. :f.. .. - ..... . . .. • •..... ...... ........... .............. . ...................
.. .. .. . .... ... . .. e
• 7 •• 'fin ..
.: ... .... .
4-
PARTICIPANTS SURVEY
Are you having fun playing softball this season?
YES-149
NO-0
Are you getting to play a lot?
YES -149
NO-0
Are you learning anything about softball?
YES-126
NO-13
Do you like your team?
YES-147
NO-2
Would you like to play more games?
YES-145
NO-4
If you attended Bob Brocks clinic
did you have fun and learn about softball?
YES-105
NO-10
Powell Robinson
693-3575
August 11, 1997
Presented to College Station Little League Board of Directors
Request for Chartering
College Station Little League Girl's Fast Pitch Softball
Background
This past year was a great one for Little League in the Brazos Valley. The Eagle reported the excitement
beginning with opening ceremonies and continuing through All Star play. The College Station National
Major Boys had a spectacular year winning the state title and competing for a slot in the LL World Series.
Over in Bryan, Little League girl's All Star teams slugged it out with the winner advancing to district.
Cars were decorated cheering on their respective teams. What a festive and exciting time it was for these
youths.
However, the College Station girl's sat on the sidelines having been denied the right to join the action
with their friends and represent College Station against their peers in Bryan, Franklin, Madisonville,
Hearne, Waco, and other surrounding communities. Instead they were given three choices:
(1) Traveling to Bryan and play in Bryan North's division,
(2) Play in the College Station City League, or
(3) Stay home.
All three of these are inferior choices when compared to the opportunities offered to College Station boys,
and other youth in neighboring communities.
Proposal
We propose that College Station Little League promote girl's fast pitch softball just as they have the boys'
program: no more and no less. This would entail:
1. Including information about the girls' program in all advertisements and registration notifications;
2. Establishing board positions for the girls' program;
3. Chartering girls' teams to play in College Station as a league when numbers permit, and to inter
league with Bryan teams when necessary;
4. Selection of an All Star team to represent each girls' age group;
5. Assigning the girls' program their share of responsibility in fund raising and promotion of College
Station Little League;
6. Establish a spirit of cooperation to work with concerned parents to get the program started this
coming season.
7. Be willing to incur some inconveniences in the short term in order to promote the long term benefit of
college station youth.
Why Do We Want Little League
1. The LL organizational structure provides an ability to inter league during the regular season in order
to maintain a critical mass of teams. This is not true in CS city league. For example, in CS City
League last year there were only two teams in the 13-15 age group these teams joined with Iola for a
total of three teams -NOT ENOUGH TO MAKE A LEAGUE. With the inter league capability of LL
these two teams could have merged with other LL divisions. The structure is readily available to
make this happen in Little League. For example, in Bryan last year inter leaguing resulted in two
leagues of 7 and 8 teams, respectively for 13-15 year olds. Hence, when numbers are tight, LL has a
structure for obtaining a critical mass. This is important because as girls' get older their participation
numbers naturally fall due to other interests. College Station has only had 4-5 teams in the 11-12 age
group for the past several years and 2-3 teams in the 13-15 age group. These are not enough teams
to keep the league viable.
2. Little League Drovides both a recreational and competitive format for the Mayers,. Regular league
play is suitable for beginner while more experienced players aid in their development. More
experienced players provide a leadership role during the regular season and compete for slots on the
All Star teams. The All Star teams are an integral comvonent of maintaining the more experienced,
plavers' dedication to the league. and a reward for their off season developmental efforts which often
include hitting, pitching, and position clinics. While during regular season everyone does battle for
the league championslMp, All Star play provides an even greater incentive for player development and
continued participation in the program. The older player usually make up the majority of the All Star
team.
3. It is very import to recognize the importance of player development in fast pitch softball. For
example, learning to be a pitcher requires numerous hours of practice spanning years. It is the
reward of All Star play that makes this investment payoff for many girls. Without All Star play the
trend in College Station City League play is for the better players to drop out of the league and either
pursue Bryan Little League or tournament team play. These options are not available for all girls as
many are intimidated to play in Bryan where they do not know anyone, and tournament ball is very
expensive from both a time and dollar perspective. The result is that the quality of level of play in the
city league suffers. Without good pitchers the league is diminished even further resulting in a
downward spiral of quality, attrition, and frustration. The organizational structure of the College
Station City League does not adequately provide a format for developing the girls' critical skills
necessary to keep the league viable, or to prepare for competing at the high school level.
3. After 5 vears of existence the College Station Citv League had been unable to establish itself as a
viable alternative for all age groups. While the league is doing fine for younger girls', it appears to be
getting worse for girls or ages 11 and older. Of the 15 girl's that requested to play CS Little League
last year and were denied. Only 3 were willing to play CS city league and their experiences were not
most disappointing. Six played ball at Bryan North and most were impressed with the LL
organization and format, and 6 sat out. The girls who played at North are committed to getting LL
going in College Station.. These girls' have been left without an adeauate mogram in which to
develop while CS bovs get to compete all the wav uD to the College World Series.
4.
y
® CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
PARKS & RECREATION
POST OFFICE SOX 9960
COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS 77842.9980
August 14,0 (409) 764-3773
Memorandum
To: Steve Beachy, Director of Parks and Recreation
From: Linda Waltman, Recreation Superintendent
Subject: Response to Mr. Jansen's letter regarding Girls Softball in College Station
1/`�/'7*�
I have reviewed Mr. Jansen's letter concerning girls softball in College Station. It seems that the best
response is to simply provide information on the girls softball programs we do offer here in College
Station.
Brief History:
The College Station Parks and Recreation Department began offering a girls softball program in 1993.
Prior to this slowpitch and fastpitch leagues were offer by two different organizations run by volunteer
parent groups. Although the volunteer parent organizations had made a good attempt at organizing and
running the league, the leagues were declining due to low participation numbers. The boards approached
the City to ask that they take over the running of the girls leagues. The City was glad to do so, and
through patience, hard work, and a "no quit" attitude the participation numbers are up and the league is
successfully operating.
League Information:
Currently we offer three seasons of girls softball
Fastpitch February - May Fee: $30/$20/$10
Slowpitch May - July Fee: $30/$20/$10
Fastpitch September - November Fee: $30/$20/$10
Changes made to the 1997 College Station program due to consumer input:
Increased the number of games played per season. We now offer 10 (vs. 8) regular season
games, with a double elimination tournament at the end of the season, thus 12 games granted
per season.
Added the post season tournament for additional tournament play, as requested.
Register teams so that they have the option of attending ASA and TAAF State and National
Tournaments (One of our 12 & Under ASA teams won the ASA State Tournament, which was
held in our community, and advanced to the ASA National Tournament in Midland, Texas where
they competed against 72 other teams from around the United States.).
Offered coaches clinics.
Offered additional player instruction clinics.
Brought in US Olympic Coaches and Players.
lie provide:good -things'in Iifel
� a4Tv
y
Older age groups teams have played other area teams (similar to inter league play in Bryan LL)
Held registration with CS Little League for customer convenience
We have continued to host ASA State and Invitational tournament in our community to benefit
our local teams as well as for the economic benefit to our community.
City Staff:
In Mr. Jansen's letter he comments that the third advantage to a CSLL run program would the ability of
the CSLL to "draw on its own experience in running a highly successful boys program, to get the girls
program off and running". The College Station Parks and Recreation Athletic staff have years of
experience at league organization and operation. In addition, the staff has successfully hosted numerous
regional, state and national tournaments. There is little, if any comparison one can make to this
professional staff that we are so lucky to have here in College Station. As you know they are constantly
evaluating and making changes.to leagues and programs to seek "a better way" and to "meet customer
needs". From the previous list it is clear that we do listen to the customer and make every attempt to
provide services requested.
Other Notations:
n In Mr. Jansen's letter (paragraph number three) he states that the City League is inferior to Little League
l because, "the number of teams falls off dramatically with the age of the girls and that poor quality of play
is part of the problem", he goes on to say (paragraph number 7) that a real plus for CSLL run program
(� Q would be so that the older girls could play in an "inter -league" play with Bryan LL. As stated previously leftj�
`a we have had our "older girls" play against, "inter -league" if you will with area ASA teams. This is no
different than what he suggests. As far as the "quality of play", I find it hard to believe that the "quality of
play would be so different in the two organizations,, however I do know that there must be some level of
"quality of play" or we would not have had our 12 and Under. team win the ASA State Championship and )
advance on to Nationals.
We have never threatened to take away fields from the Little League organization in the event that they
sponsor softball teams. Everyone that had attended anyded .Little League board meeting or several Parks C
lJ
Board meetings would know that we have simply stated that we would continue to offer ourro Y
P� C�
because all �vpre in agreement that it was meeting the girls needs. a
Vt h 7 G� CaopEY'� u/l_ �, ,
�f C that kids e kids, and that there is no difference in the desires of the kids in either
We agree vn�f him tha ,
town, therefore whatever "City Official" he speaks of in paragraph 8 of his letter was not a Recreation
Employee. Our girls softball teams like the Bryan girls softball teams have competed successfully locally
and state wide. —' �� s
eAA4s6 � kay W W'ii
In Summary:i' \ P% i.c-✓ Ad ,e
/�✓��l �
What is important for all to remember is that there are differences in both programs, Little League and
ASA/City League. Our program keeps in mind,the recreational player but also provides opportunities for
the competitive player. I am sure, in their own way'so does the Little League program. It is the American
way to offer people choices and let them make up their own minds. Through our participant survey as ,txS fxS,
i
well as parent surveys it appears that we are meeting the needs and that the customer is satisfied with our i
program. In addition, our participation numbers continue to increase another indication that "we must be eS�J f 1 i
doing something right" e �� � Lj a rL lilt 81
407's'- elm t�
tek�-Ue,,&d
u�+6
j"'As
y �_ x
i
�2� ��ce in flax&w nv
�s�o,a l
The Texas Comets 14 and under girls fastpitch softball
team placed second in the Spring Klein Girls Softball
Demolition Classic Tournament in Klein. The Comets
advanced through the winner's bracket to the final
round with victories over the Sugar Land Outlaws, the
Texas Outlaws and the Texas Turn-2. The Comets will
play in the Texas ASA Girls Division I Fastpitch State
Championships in Bryan -College Station this week-
end. The team is (front row, from left): Amy Jansen,
Allison Dean, Lauren Boone, Laci Trotter, Rachel
Werner, Jill McNutt, Lauren Leggett; (middle row)
Jennifer Liebengaod, Lacy Kuder, Audrey Lero, Layne
Nelson, Lindsay Robinson; (back row) coaches Danny
Scamardo, Andrea Scamardo and Clint Neatherland.
A
iC�/eroque
'n College Station Variki Aid -Recreation
Girls Softball F.4st"PiParticipationh Pidipati6ii History
,
1993 8 teams
1994 11 teams
1995 20 teams
1996 27 teams
Spring 97 (fastpitch)
8 &U 10 teams
10&U 6 teams
12&U 4 teams
14&U 3 teams
23 teams14&U
Summer 97 (slowpitch) 8 &U 6 teams
10&U 4 teams
12&U 5 teams
15 teams
Fall 97 (fastpitch)
To Be Registered
104 participants
132 participants
206 participants
274 participants
+
84 participants
?-_r
+
�5' -
/ID
79 participants
3 +
45 participants
t
32 participants
239 participants
-------------
62 participants
48 participants
59 participants
169 participants
IVY
March 24, 1997
Dear PATRIOTS:
Brie Carter, Randi Eastep, Marah Fry, Nola Fry, Lindi Grall
Marcie Greenbaum, Katie Guest, Layne Nelson
Lindsey Robinson, Amanda Tyler, Jayme Wakefield
and Kalie Williams
Our first practice will be on Monday, March 31, 1997. Enclosed is a map to the
practice field and a massage to the Players and Parents of the 1997 Bryan North
PATRIOTS. Come prepared to practice, because our first game is on Saturday, April 19,
1997. The players currently playing on Bryan/College Station 11iigh School girl softball
teams will join us after their season is over.
Kenneth Wakefield & Ira Greenbaum
13 Brie Carter
731-8313
Randi Eastep
693-7507
/5 March Fry
846-3549
Nola Fry
846-3549
) 4 Lindi Grall
776-0698
45' Marcie Greenbaum
846-2494
j5 Katie Guest
776-0932
13 Layne Nelson
776-8659
J 7j Lindsey Robinson
1 ai- Jayme Wakefield
693-3575
776-0539
I-S Amanda Tyler
J.3 Kalie Williams
846-0857
846-7202
�aRT�lea s
�A2Je�
1997 SENIOR GIRLS SCHEDULE ? -rekibS
WEST EAT
6:001R8:001 6: 01 8:0011 6:00 18:001 6:001 8:001 6:00 58:001
;119- (-1-2* ( 3.-.4*._1 5-6 1 7-8 ( ( 1-2 ( 5-3 ( 6-7 y
------------------------------------------------------------------
2:1 k 3- 1- 7-5 1-6 5-4
22 4-2 8-6 2-3
23 5-7
24 1-4 5-8 3-1 6-2
25 . 2"3> 6-7 7-4
------------------------------------------------------------------
28
29 TAAS
30 TAAS
M 1 TAAS
--2--$1-5---------6-------4------------1---------4-6---------7-3-
5 $2-8 7-1 2-5 3-4 7-6
6 $4-6 541,,
7 $1-8 1-4 3-6
5-2
9 7-4 2-7 5-1
------------------------------------------------------------------
12
$2-7
6-1
4-5
13
$4-5
8-;3:z
3-2
6-1
14
4-7
?5
2-4
5-7
1-3
-:
1-
6-8
2-6
7-5
------------------------------------------------------------------
19
1-2
6-7
2=0.
$2-1
4`3`
6-5 8-7
5-4
21
3-7
8-5
4-2
23
4-1
7-6
3-5
------------------------------------------------------------------
26
BHG
27
FINAL
28
EXAMS
29
1-7
6-4
4-3
7-1
30
$3-5>t.?
8-2
6-5
------------------------------------------------------------------
J 2
1-5
3-4
7-2
,3
$4-8
2-6
7--; 5-1
4
4-1
7-6
5:
r3`=
7-6
5-3
6
1-4
5-8
6-3
------------------------------------------------------------------
v9A
4-,a
..+ram a
8-7
2-4
5-3
10
1-2
5-6
11
2-1
5-6
12
$2-4
6-8
m
--------------------------------------------------------------
r= .�
• 7-5
1-7
6-4
* OPENING
* CEREMONY
* 1-2 3:30
* 3-4 7:30
NORTH
2 - iciQ��
3-16�1� �
4 - Vroc�P,Jts
HARVEY
5 - M�urzA-1 s
lu
Lek UW
6 eo
v7 - /Zee � des
8 -
TEAM LISTED
FIRST IS
HOME TEAM
HOME TEAM
SITS IN 1ST
BASE DUGOUT
$ DENOTES HOME TEAM MUST LINE(CHALK) THE FIELD AT LEAST 15 MINUTES
BEFORE'THE 6:00 GAME.
Recreational Sports Association Invitees
Initial Meeting
September 30,1997 -- 7:00 p.m.
Ronald Carter
College Station Little League
P. O. Box 9041
College Station Texas 77842
Mark Langwell
Brazos Valley Fall Baseball League
3953 Robin Trail
College Station Texas 77845
Randy Lee
Outlaws Baseball
8113 Butler Ridge Drip
College Station Texas: Dft, Vk5
Terry Thigpen
Pony League Baseball
P. O. Box 9960
College Station Texas 77842
Luis Cifuentes
Youth Soccer Association
712 Willow Loop
College Station Texas 77845
K. C. Donnelly
Brazos Magic Soccer Club
Feather Run
(ege Station Texas 77840
Juan Vasquez -Aid — i Y Jvxma
Aggieland Soccer Leal 13 , :S Women's Tennis League
305 Highlands Street Aster
College Station Texas - lege Station Texas 77845
Ross Rogers
C. S. Independent School District
2118 Welsh
College Station Texas 77842
Karl Kapchinski
Colt League Baseball
1517 Bluebonnet Drive
College Station Texas 77840
Julian McMurrey
3400 Mustang Lane
College Station Texas 77840
Bob Leland
College Station Bryan Aquatics
1028 Walton Drive
College lege Station Texas 77840
Keith Hollingshead
Dept. of Recreation, Parks & Tour. Sci.
Texas A&M University
College Station Texas 77843
THE COLLEGE STATION RECREATIONAL SPORTS ASSOCIATION
Mission
The purpose of the College Station Recreational Sports Association shall be to coordinate and
foster the planned activities of the various independent athletic organizations and city -
sponsored leagues, in an effort to provide the citizens of College Station with the opportunity
to participate in quality amateur sports programs on or in quality athletic facilities.
The name of the association shall be "The College Station Recreational Sports Association;"
hereafter referred to as the "Association."
1. Membership shall consist of one representative appointed by each recreation/sports
organization within the City of College Station which desires to use facilities under the
jurisdiction of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department/Parks and
Recreation Board. The appointed representative must have the authority to make
binding decisions on behalf of the represented organization with respect to facility use,
scheduling and overall involvement. Any organization desiring to use athletic facilities
requiring a user's agreement with the City of College Station must be represented in the
Association.
2. New organizations desiring membership in the Association must petition and meet with
the Association ninety (90) days prior to the meeting at which membership is conferred
or denied. Each organization must have Association approval for scheduled use of city
athletic facilities for either practice or games.
3. Minimum membership requirements for an organization include the following:
a) a written constitution and governing bylaws
b) a roster of officers
c) a current financial report
d) evidence of serving primarily the citizens of College Station
e) a representative. who must be a reputable citizen of College Station. If the president,
or other designated primary director, of the organization/club is not a citizen of
College Station, the president may attend meetings as an ex-officio member, but the
organization representative must also be in attendance.
4. The appointed Chair of the Association shall be a veteran member of the College Station
Parks and Recreation Board, appointed for a two-year term by that board. For the first
year of the term, the Chair must concurrently be a member of the Parks and Recreation
Board who has served for at least one year; for the second year the chair may have
completed the term on the Parks and Recreation Board. During the second year of the
term of the incumbent Chair, a successor shall be appointed.
5. An organization shall lose standing and the privilege of scheduled use of city facilities if
the representative misses a scheduling or policy meeting unless the Association Chair
has been notified in advance that a substitute will represent the organization. The
substitute must have full authority to duly represent the organization.
6. Each organization shall notify the College Station Parks and Recreation Department and
the Association Chair immediately upon the change of representative.
M
The Association derives its authority from the Parks and Recreation Board, of which it is a
duly constituted subcommittee. The Parks and Recreation Board shall have the authority to
reject organizations for membership and/or to require a different representative. Appeal of
any actions by the Association shall be to the Parks and Recreation Board. Parks and
Recreation Board decisions are final. Rejected applications for membership may be
resubmitted after ninety (90) days.
1. The Association shall require satisfactory evidence of compliance with requirements.
The Association shall have the authority to reject applications for membership if an
organization is unable to satisfy these requirements.
2. The Association shall have the authority to exclude from membership organizations
which promote activities which are in conflict with the mission statement of the
Association, the Parks and Recreation Department, the Parks and Recreation Board, or
the City of College Station.
3. The Association shall have the authority to schedule. seasons and special activities, such
as tournaments, which use facilities normally under the jurisdiction of the Association
provided that such activities do not conflict with activities scheduled by the Parks and
Recreation Department staff. Such facilities include:
CIF For soccer
Anderson Park
Southwood Athletic Park
Central Park
Thomas Park
Lincoln Center
Jack and Dorothy Miller Park
Georgie K. Fitch Park
CIE For youth baseball
Southwood Athletic Park
( Wayne Smith Park
Brothers Pond Park
Georgie K. Fitch Park
Gabbard Park
CIF For youth softball
Bee Creek Park
Lemontree Park
Fairview Park
Gabbard Park
4. Schedule requests are to be submitted to the Parks and Recreation Department for
review. The PARD staff will check the master calendar for possible conflicts then pass
to the Association with a recommendation and for final consideration. The Association
will endeavor to resolve schedule conflicts, but in general, requests for one-time rental
use will take precedence over practices and regularly scheduled games will take
precedence over both. The priority for scheduling will be as follows:
a. Emergency maintenance
b. Interagency agreements between the City of College Station and the College Station
Independent School District
c. Regularly scheduled games of Association members
(1) Recreational and inclusive leagues, in other word leagues which do not have
tryouts which may exclude some from league participation
(a) Youth
(b) Adults
(2) Competitive and select leagues; which may eliminate some from participation
based upon some criteria for selection
(a) Youth
(b) Adults
d. TAMU athletic and Recreational Sports
e. One time rentals
f. Scheduled maintenance
g. Scheduled practice
h. Non-scheduled, non -essential maintenance
i. Non-scheduled practice
5. Removal of membership for other than the reasons mentioned above shall require the
recommendation of the Association and the approval of the Parks and Recreation
Board. Cause for such action may include, but is not limited to, actions by the member
which are inconsistent with the objectives of the association.
Governance
The Association shall be subject to all the laws, regulations, and policies to which the City
of College Station itself is subject. Furthermore, the Association shall adhere to the
ordinances, policies, and regulations of the City of College Station, albeit the Association
shall have the prerogative to petition the appropriate authority when the consensus of the
Association is at variance with established law or policy.
Amendments
Recommendations for amendment of this document may be made to the College Station
Parks and Recreation Board which shall render final approval. The formulation of
recommendation shall require two meetings, one of which may be scheduled as a special
meeting. The first meeting will constitute and initial reading of proposed changes and the
second meeting shall be necessary for passage of the proposed changes. Such
recommendations can only be made if a quorum exists at both meetings. The
recommendation must pass with a two-thirds or greater majority.
Meetings
Meetings shall be scheduled bimonthly on dates to be determined by and for the
convenience of the membership. Such meetings will be announced in the calendar posted
at the Parks and Recreation Department Central Park office and shall be open to
attendance by the public.
The Chair shall call meetings to order and serve as moderator for the meeting. Meetings
shall adjourn after business has been conducted and upon the call by the Chair and
passage by the membership attending of a motion to adjourn. Meetings of the Association
shall be conducted under Robert's Rules of Order, the most current edition. A quorum to
conduct business will consist of sixty percent of members and actions shall require a
simple majority.
Mate of the Association Report
Annually the Association shall make a formal report to the Parks and Recreation Board
regarding the actions taken by the Association. This shall include, but not be limited to the
following:
1. Establishing schedules for the various seasons .
2. Resolution of conflicts between Association members
3. Planning issues which may have been recognized by the Association
4. Other items as deemed appropriate by the membership of the Association
This report shall be a summary of the year's activities; therefore should include items
possibly previously reported to the Parks and Recreation Board.