MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Marsiglia, LeGrand, Giffin, Hess, Fierke, Brooks, DeBlieux, Masinter, Katz, Laborde, Shreves, Schoen, Guidry, Romig, Hemperley, Pappalardo, Payton and Schrenk
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, LaFranca, Hoffman, Hales, Chase, Clarkson, Claverie, Famet, McKeithen, and Brown.
STAFF: Bob Becker, George Parker, Rob DeViney, Paul Soniat, Julie LaCour, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Ryck Soto, Joseph Taranto, Trevor Haynes, Joey Richard, Kevin Cox
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and said it was an honor and pleasure to serve as President of the City Park Board. He also said it was an honor to preside at the first board meeting in the Park's new Administration building. Lupo asked Board members to review the current roster as well as Board Committee Assignments and notify Denise Joubert if there are any changes. President Lupo requested all Committees set a standardized monthly meeting I schedule. The December minutes were approved.
The Chief Executive Officer introduced Joey Richard with Postlethwaite & Netterville, who is the independent auditor for the Park. Richard presented his financial audit and delivered a positive report. He reported there are no negative audit findings. Commissioner DeBlieux reported the Park retained an outside firm to review the Park's credit card statements and there were no findings. Becker thanked Rob De Viney and Kevin Cox for their help with the audit.
Julie LaCour, Director of Special Events reported Celebration in the Oaks was a huge success mostly due to great weather throughout December. LaCour thanked the staff for their hard work. Becker thanked LaCour and staff, Amusement staff as well as the Garden staff for their efforts.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Work continues on the tennis complex, Popp Fountain reception hall, and the lighting project. Roadway repairs are underway. Bids for the landscaping of the tennis center are being reviewed. The bid for the new shelter at the Marconi soccer fields is due in February. Design proposals for miniature golf have been received and are being scored and evaluated. I Athletics - No Report Golf - Becker reported work continues on the examination of the golf plan and hopes to finalize I soon. A Public Hearing will be held when the plan is finalized. Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported the committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Miniature Golf project. Sponsorship has been secured for ten holes with prospects for six additional holes. The Committee is also working with a prospect in regards to the naming rights for one of the two Miniature Golf courses planned. Hess requested board members notify the committee if they know of any potential sponsors. The annual giving fund is going well. lndividualletters will be mailed out to each board member to verifY their support of the Park. Hess advised Board members to make the Committee aware of any donations to the Park on their behalf.
Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported the Park had a good December due to strong performance in Celebration in the Oaks. The Park received the manifest for Voodoo Music Experience and ticket sales were lower than expected.
Special Events/ClTO - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported the committee discussed a new fundraiser to be held at Henry Shanes car warehouse. The committee is working on highlighting the 25th anniversary of the first Celebration in the Oaks. The Rock 'N Roll Marathon is th scheduled for February 13 .
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks reported the committee met jointly with the Botanical Garden Foundation where John Emerson gave a presentation of the Botanical I Garden Master Plan. The committee voted and endorsed the plan. Paul Soniat presented the plan to the Board. A motion was unanimously passed to adopt the plan as a component of the Park's Master Plan.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported a retirement party for John Bullard is scheduled th for January 29 • An Art market to celebrate NOMA's Centennial Celebration is scheduled for May 14th on the Great Lawn.
Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz reported there are four open-At-Large positions on the Board. The committee recommends Ronnie Slone and Steve Pettus for two of the four open At Large positions. The Board will take action on these nominations at the February Board meeting. President Lupo thanked Commissioner Katz and the committee for a great job in recruiting prospective Board Members.
Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the committee is currently working on the cooperative endeavor agreement with the Children's Museum.
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the grand opening ofthe new Tennis facility has been tentatively scheduled for March 24th. The Committee plans to invite Governor Bobby I Jindal, Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne and Mayor Mitch Landrieu to attend the opening festivities. .3
Botanical Garden- No Report I Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported the Friends currently have 3600 members. Lark in the Park is scheduled for Marchi 8th.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the committee is working on lighting and irrigation of the Dog Park. An Anniversary celebration has been scheduled for March 27th in conjunction with Dog Day afternoon.
New Business - President Robert Lupo expressed condolences on behalf of the Board for the loss of Bob DeViney father of Chief Operating Officer Rob DeViney.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, February 22nd at 4:00 pm in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
I Laura Claverie Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brennan, Brooks, Brown, Chase, Claverie, DeBlieux, Giffin, Hales, HemperJey, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Masinter, McKeithen, Marsiglia, Pappalardo, Payton, Shreves, Schoen, Schrenk and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Clarkson, Farnet, Fierke, Guidry, Romig and Sardie
STAFF: Bob Becker, George Parker, Rob DeViney, John Hopper, Kevin Cox, Lisa Laraway and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Leslie Kramer and Kevin Colomb
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and introduced new Commissioners Mrs. Rita Vesich and Mrs. Joey Brown.
The January minutes were approved
President Lupo introduced Leslie Kramer the operator of Equest Farms who reported on a th I fundraiser Tails but no Black Tie scheduled for March 19 • Kramer is hopeful to beat last year's donation of $25,000. President Lupo thanked Kramer for her presentation and hard work on this event.
Chief Executive Officer Becker reported revenue for January exceeded budget while expenses are being kept under control.
Becker reported The Rock n Roll Marathon held on February 13 th was well attended and very successful for the Park financially. He also reported on the Tax Increment Financing District which allows the Park to recapture sales tax on events held in the Park. The Park should recap substantial revenue from Voodoo Music Festival. The "Big Rock" sculpture has been removed from the Park and placed at UNO. A Memorial Service was held at the Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn for Carlos Cashio who recently passed away. Carlos was the leading landscape architect for many of the Park's projects.
Becker introduced Kevin Cox as the newly hired Controller for the Park. Kevin was the CPA the Park retained on a consultant basis to help reconcile accounts and prepare for the audit.
Becker presented a Resolution to authorize Kevin Cox, Controller as additional signature for Capital One Operating and Payroll accounts. The Resolution also authorizes Kevin Cox as I additional signature for Whitney Bank accounts and authorizes Kevin Cox as additional signature for Louisiana Asset Management Pool (LAMP) accounts. The Resolution was unanimously adopted. I Chief Development Officer John Hopper reported the Park has been busy with volunteers from several universities during spring break. Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Ace Torre, the designer for the Festival Grounds anticipates producing construction documents by the end of April with construction starting in September. Work continues on the tennis complex and Popp Fountain reception hall. The lighting project and roadway repairs are near completion.
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand updated the Board on upcomin~ athletic events. The LHSAA State Soccer Championship is scheduled for February 25th and 26 and will be held at Tad Gormley th Stadium. The 2011 football draw is scheduled for March 16 . The Park received $25,000 from Clorox for the "Toilet Bowl" which will be used to waterproof the floors and install new bathroom fixtures.
Golf - Becker reported work continues on refining the estimates for the new golf course construction and adjusting the plan to better utilize the available space. A Public Hearing will be held on March 22nd on a revised plan. President Lupo emphasized the importance for the Board to review the revised plan.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported the committee is moving forward with the I Capital Campaign for the Miniature Golf project. Sponsorship has been secured for eighteen holes. Hess requested board members notify the committee if they know of any potential sponsors.
Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported the Park is ahead of budget for the year. The committee is working with staff on reviewing financial plan for Celebration in the Oaks. The committee is also working on improving the Capital's budget worksheet.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Susan Brennan updated the Board on upcoming events. Brennan reported the committee is creating a solicitation committee to assist with fundraising for Celebration in the Oaks. The committee is still considering a fundraiser to be held at Henry Shane's car warehouse. Becker encouraged Board Members to attend Park events.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Work has begun on building new trails to the top of the "mountain" in Couturie Forest which is funded with a Louisiana Trails grant. The committee also discussed re-training the Maintenance staff in regards to the Tree Protection Policy.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported preparations continue for the museum's looth I anniversary celebration. Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz reported the Committee recommends Steven Bingler for one of the three open-At-Large positions on the Board. The Board will take action on this nomination at the March Board meeting. The Board unanimously elected Steve Pettus and I Ronnie Slone for two open at Large positions. President Lupo thanked Commissioner Katz and the committee for a great job in recruiting prospective Board Members. President Lupo reported the 2011-2012 Nominating Committee consist of Commissioners Errol Laborde, Thomas Fierke, Laura Claverie, and Larry Katz. The committee was unanimously re-elected. There is currently one vacancy on the Nominating Committee, if anyone is interested in serving, please let Becker or Lupo know.
Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the committee is currently working on the cooperative endeavor agreement with the Children's Museum.
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the grand opening of the new Tennis facility has been scheduled for March 24th. The committee is working on finalizing opening festivities.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Joey Brown reported Lark in the Park is scheduled for March18th and would like 100% Board participation.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the committee is working on lighting of the I Dog Park. An Anniversary celebration has been scheduled for March 27th in conjunction with Dog Day afternoon.
New Business - President Lupo reported a Board Retreat has been tentatively scheduled for th Friday, April I st. Becker reported Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne will visit the Park on March 30 for a briefing. President Lupo thanked the staff and Board for their hard work.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, March 22nd at 4:00 pm in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie I Secretary 1
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, March 22, 20 II at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brennan, Brooks, Chase, Claverie, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hales, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Masinter, McKeithen, Marsiglia, Pappalardo, Pettus, Romig, Sardie, Shreves, Schoen, Schrenk, Slone and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Clarkson, Famet, Brown, DeBlieux and Payton
STAFF: Bob Becker, George Parker, Rob DeViney, John Hopper, Kevin Cox, Lisa Laraway and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Trevor Haynes, Meredith Hathorn, Ace Torre, Henry Kinney, Tom Bernard, Leonard Noto, Glenn Ousset, Mark Stein, Ray McClanahan, Frank Donze, J. Hannan, Wayne Orton, Joelle Finley, Leo Gorman, Mike Payne, Gerry Barousse, Mike Rodrigue, Mike Tifft, Johanna Gilligan, K. Claverie, D. Deruen, Brian Manzelle, Melissa Gray
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and introduced new Commissioners Julie Sardie, I Steve Pettus and Ronnie Slone. The February minutes were approved.
President Lupo reviewed the Rules for Public Comments at City Park Board meetings which were adopted at the meeting held on September 22, 2009.
President Lupo introduced Resolution 2011-01 to amend the City Park Master Plan to make modifications to the plan for golf. Chairman Lupo read the Resolution and Bob Becker presented the proposed plan showing the original golf footprint, the proposed golf footprint and other changes. The Board heard public comments from Michael Tifft, Gerry Barousse, and Melissa Gray. Mr. Tifft expressed support for the Master Plan changes and expressed his hope that minimum damage to wildlife would occur during construction. Mr. Barousse, from the Bayou District Foundation also expressed support for the changes and partnership opportunity with the Park. Mrs. Gary expressed her support and appreciation for the proposed changes. Commissioner Bill Hoffman moved, Commissioner Laura Claverie seconded, and the Board unanimously approved Resolution 2011-0 I.
President Lupo introduced 2011-02 to amend the "1" land use category in the land use plan to better reflect potential uses in said land use category and Bob Becker presented the changes. The Board allowed for public comment, but none were offered. Commissioner Joe Pappalardo moved, Commissioner Tom Fierke seconded, and the Board unanimously approved Resolution I 2011-02. President Lupo introduced Resolution 2011-03 to designate a site in the Big Lake area for a boat house containing food service, restrooms and boat rental offices, and Bob Becker presented the I changes. The Board allowed for Public comment, but none were offered. Commissioner Masinter moved, Commissioner Tom Fierke seconded and the Board unanimously approved Resolution 2011-03.
President Lupo thanked everyone for coming and for their interest in the City Park.
Chief Executive Officer Becker reported the Park had a great month financially in February due to favorable weather conditions. Becker reported on Governor Jindal's recommendation for Fiscal Year 2011-2012. The Park is currently in the proposed budget to receive revenue from the Fair Ground slot machines. The Park is dependent on this revenue since the Governor has previously eliminated the Park from the general fund budget. Becker will follow the Legislative session closely and report updates as necessary.
A motion was unanimously approved to amend the Agenda to include two Resolutions for application of Grant Funds.
A Resolution was unanimously passed that authorized the Park to apply to the Louisiana Office of State Parks to seek federal funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. If funding is received, the resolution obligates the Park to a 50% match of the project cost. Funds would be used for a new playground at the Festival Grounds. I A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing the Park to apply for a grant through the Louisiana Recreational Trails program. If funded, the resolution obligates the Park to a 20% match of the project cost. Funds would be used to build the bridge over the lagoon for the new Couturie Forest entrance.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Bids were received for the Soccer Pavilion and were over budget. The new Tennis complex is complete and work will begin to take down the lights, fencing and netting on the existing hard courts to prepare the area for the miniature golf project.
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported on upcoming events. The LHSAA State Soccer Championship held at Tad Gormley Stadium was very successful. The 2011 football draw took place and there are fewer games scheduled to be played at Tad Gormley and Pan American Stadium due to redistricting.
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported the committee is moving forward with the I Capital Campaign for the Miniature Golf project. Sponsorship has been secured for twenty 9
holes. Hess requested board members notify the committee if they know of any potential sponsors. I Finance - Commissioner Bill Hof'finan reported the Park had a great month in February due to strong performances in Athletic Services and Golf. Year to date self generated revenue is ahead of budget while expenses are below budget. Kevin Cox has been a great asset in providing the Committee with reports which provide better clarity of the different functions taking place in the Park.
Special Events/ClIO - Commissioner Susan Brennan updated the Board on upcoming events. The committee is still considering a fundraiser to be held at Henry Shane's car warehouse.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The committee reviewed the planting design for the new Tennis facility. The Committee also discussed options for tree plantings along 1-610.
NOMA - Commissioners Masinter, Lupo and Becker met with the leadership of the Art Museum to discuss future plans of the Park and Museum.
Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz reported there is currently one vacancy on the Nominating Committee; notify Becker or Katz if anyone is interested in serving. The Board unanimously elected Steven Bingler for one of the Open at Large positions. President Lupo thanked Commissioner Katz and the committee for a great job in recruiting prospective I Board Members. Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reminded all Commissioners to file their Financial Disclosure forms by May 15th. The forms should be mailed to the Louisiana Board of Ethics in Baton Rouge. Failure to file by the deadline will result in a penalty.
Public Relations - Commissioner Laura Claverie reported facebook currently has over 11,000 fans.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the grand opening of the new Tennis facility has been scheduled for March 24th. The hard courts will remain open until March 29th and the clay courts will remain open until demolition. Laborde thanked the staff for all their work. President Lupo encouraged all Commissioners to attend the grand opening.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported Lark in the Park was very successful and achieved its goal. Giffin thanked all Commissioners for their participation.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported there are currently 2000 permit holders. An Anniversary celebration has been scheduled for March 27th in conjunction with Dog Day afternoon. The Committee is planning a fundraiser in August to raise funds for lighting the Dog I Park. /0
New Business - Becker reported the Board Retreat is scheduled for Friday, April I ~. I Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments. The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, April261h at 4:00 pm in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie Secretary
I
I II
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Bingler, Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson, DeBlieux, Fierke, Hales, Hess, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Masinter, Marsiglia, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Schrenk, and Slone
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, Claverie, Famet, Giffin, Guidry, Hoffman, McKeithen, Romig, Sardie, Schoen, Shreves and Vesich
STAFF: George Parker, Rob DeViney, John Hopper, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Henry Kinney
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone.
The March minutes were approved.
A Resolution was unanimously passed which authorizes Robert Becker to execute any documents required by the Department of Transportation and Development for the development I ofTri-Centennial Place ParkinglPhase II.
Chief Operations Officer DeViney reported the fishing rodeo was successful as well as the opening of the new tennis facility.
A successful resolution has been reached in regards to the federal audit finding which questioned expenses to remediate the Park's buildings after Hurricane Katrina. Through the arbitration process FEMA concluded the amount disputed was reasonable by industry standards, therefore there is no financial impact to the Park.
Committee Report:
A&E - No Report; A discussion took place in regards to parking issues in the Park. DeViney will discuss the concerns with Urban Systems who is the process of conducting a survey of signage for the Park.
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported on upcoming events. UNO has scheduled five football games at Tad Gormley Stadium. The committee is reviewing rental fees for various fields.
Golf - The attorneys are working on a draft of a proposed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Bayou District Foundation which will be presented to the Board for its consideration I within the next several months. I~
Development - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Miniature Golf project. Sponsorship has been secured for twenty I holes. Masinter thanked Commissioners Brennan, Hess, Marsiglia, Katz and McKeithen for their commitment to sponsor a hole. The Stanley Ray Foundation has committed to sponsor one eighteen hole course. The committee passed out a list of Corporations and Foundations and requested board members notifY the committee if they a relationship with anyone on the list.
Commissioner Susan Hess reported Mr. and Mrs. Savoie have committed $500,000 for an endowment of the new Soccer Pavilion in memory of their son Matthew Savoie. A plaque honoring Matthew wi1l be displayed on the Pavilion. Commissioner Hess thanked Commissioner Fierke for his help in securing this donation.
Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported revenue for March was below budget. Amusements revenue was less than anticipated due to the timing of Mardi Gras which resulted in the late opening of the Amusement Park. Golf is on schedule to make its budget for the year. Auditors will begin a special study to review and update our cash handling procedures.
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks commended the staff on the clean-up efforts from Easter and Crescent City Classic. Commissioner Laborde recommended better signage around Dueling Oaks as well as other historic tree signage. Brooks recommended continued education of employees on the Tree I Protection Policy. NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported Movie Night in the Sculpture Garden has been very successful, as well as Art in Bloom.
Nominating - No Report
Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reminded all Commissioners to file their Financial Disclosure forms by May 15th. The forms should be mailed to the Louisiana Board of Ethics in Baton Rouge. Failure to file by the deadline will result in a penalty. A settlement was reached in the dispute over the failure of the original low bidder of the tennis construction to go forward with the project. Masinter thanked Henry Kinney for his work on this matter.
Public Relations - Chief Development Officer John Hopper reported Travel & Leisure Magazine rated City Park as "One ofthe 12 Coolest City Parks in America." The Park received lots of media coverage in regards to this honor. John Hopper will receive a Proclamation from the City Council on behalf of the Park.
Work is scheduled to begin on revamping the website.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported Management is in the process of reviewing the I rental agreements of the Men's and Women's Tennis clubs. 13
Botanical Garden- No Report I Friends of City Park - No Report Dog Park - DeViney reported security cameras have been installed at the Dog Park.
New Business - Rob Deviney thanked Commissioner Tim LaFranca for his efforts in helping the Park identifY the individuals responsible for graffiti throughout the Park.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, May 24th at 4:00 pm in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie I Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, May 24,2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Bingler, Brooks, Clarkson, Claverie, DeBlieux, Fierke, Giffin, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, McKeithen, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Romig, Schrenk, Shreves and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, Brown, Chase, Famet, Guidry, Hales, LeGrand, Masinter, Sardie, Schoen and Slone
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, John Hopper, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich, Bridget Tydor and Denise Joubert
GUESTS:
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and reported on the Park and the great public relations the Park has been receiving. Lupo would like to appoint an Adhoc Committee to be sure we are maximizing our public relations and advertising potential. If any Commissioner has experience in AdvertisinglPublic Relations, contact Lupo or Becker if you are interested in serving on the Committee.
I The April minutes were approved.
Becker introduced Bridget Tydor, a planning intern at the University of New Orleans who will be working at the Park this summer.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported the Park had a good month financially in May due to excellent weather conditions and strong performances in various departments. Budget preparations have begun for FY 2011-2012. Recommendations will be presented to the Finance/Executive Committee and to the Board at the June meeting.
The annual Symphony concert was successful as well as Art in the Spark which was held on the GoldringlWoldenberg Great Lawn.
Work continues on the Cooperative Endeavor Agreements with Urban Farm and Bayou District Foundation.
Becker updated the Board on the Legislative Session and reported the Park is still in the budget for the slot tax at the Fair Grounds. The Park also appears in House Bill #2. In addition to preserving our appropriation for golf, the Bill moves the amusement park renovations to Priority I #1 and appropriates $500,000 in Priority #2 and $4,500,000 in Priority 5 for the splash park. /5
For the sixth consecutive year, volunteers from the New York Parks Department came to volunteer in the Park. This is the longest volunteer relationship with an organization outside the I area. Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Plans for the Festival Grounds are near completion and will hopefully be bid in September. The committee discussed the Maintenance facility; there are very limited funds available to rebuild the facility and need to consider other alternatives. A meeting was held with Cashio/Cochran and the consultants for the miniature golf project to review the preliminary designs. A discussion took place regarding parking issues in the park. The committee will review a study which was conducted in the 1990's.
Athletics - Becker reported on a meeting with Loyola University about renovating the Quadraplex to accommodate their baseball and softball program. It was discussed that Loyola would have to cover the cost to relocate our Maintenance facility.
Golf - The attorneys are working on a draft of a proposed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Bayou District Foundation. Once the draft is complete, it will be submitted to the Bayou District Foundation for review. President Lupo thanked the staff for the extensive work on this project. Councilwoman Clarkson thanked all Commissioners for their dedication to the Park.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported she, Hopper, Bob Becker and Tony Biagas I will attend a reception hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Savoie to raise money for an endowment ofthe new Soccer Pavilion in memory oftheir son Matthew Savoie. Sponsorship has been secured for twenty three holes for Miniature Golf. The Committee would like the Board to sponsor a hole, contact Hess or Masinter if you are interested in becoming a sponsor.
Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported year to date is substantially ahead of budget with net income above budget in golf, concessions, catering, amusements, athletic services, botanical garden and special events.
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee participated in a design meeting for Miniature Golf. Tulane University gave a presentation on Grow Dat Youth Farm program.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - No Report
Legal- No Report I Public Relations - Commissioner Laura Claverie reported the Park has 13,000 facebook fans. Jip
The website averages 1000-1700 visits per day. The website hopefully will be revamped in the I next fiscal year. Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported Management is in the process of reviewing the rental agreements of the Men's and Women's Tennis clubs.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported on upcoming events. Lark in the Park has been scheduled for March 2, 2012.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported there are 2500 permit holders ranging from fourteen states and twelve parishes. A fundraiser 101 Donations is scheduled for August 20th to benefit lights and irrigation at the Dog Park.
New Business - Beau Bassich reported the clutch on the Carousel has gone out and is in the process of being assessed.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, June 28th I at 4:00 pm. Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie Secretary
I 11
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Bing1er, Brennan, Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson, Claverie, Giffin, Guidry, Hales, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LeGrand, LaFranca, McKeithen, Marsiglia, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Schrenk, Slone and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners DeBlieux, Fierke, Famet, Hess, Masinter, Romig, Sardie, Schoen and Shreves
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, George Parker, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich, Bridget Tydor and Denise Joubert
GUESTS:
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone.
The May minutes were approved.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported the Legislative Session has ended and the Park is in the budget for the slot tax at the Fair Grounds. The Park also appears in House I Bill #2. In addition to preserving our appropriation for golf, the Bill moves the amusement park renovations to Priority #1 and appropriates $500,000 in Priority #2 and $4,500,000 in Priority 5 for the splash park.
Becker and Kevin Cox presented and reviewed management's recommendations for the 2011- 2012 operating budget. The recommended budget recognizes a loss in State general operating support and addresses this loss of revenue through increases in self-generated revenue and transfers from the 11-12 tax proceeds from the slot tax at the Fair Grounds. After review of the budget, the Board unanimously adopted the 2011-2012 budget. Becker and Lupo thanked Kevin Cox for all his work on the budget and those of the Department heads.
Commissioner Marjorie McKeithen recommended conducting a study on the impact of City Park on the State economy in order to have information available which would support our efforts to receive general operating support.
A dedication of the new Louisiana Trail at Big Lake will be held @5:30 this afternoon. Mr. Feil, the donor, will attend as well as officials from the Trust for Public Land.
Committee Report: I A&E - No Report 16
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported demand continues for baseball/softball fields.
Golf - A draft of the proposed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement on Golf development and I management has been submitted to the Bayou District Foundation for review. Development - No Report
Finance - No Report
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Brennan reported the Celebration in the Oaks preview th party has been scheduled for November 18 •
Horticulture and Grounds - No Report
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - No Report
Legal- No Report
Public Relations - Commissioner Laura Claverie reported the Park has 14,000 facebook fans. The website will hopefully be revamped in the new fiscal year.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported that the Men's and Women's Tennis Clubs have I merged into the City Park Tennis Club and 150 annual season passes have been requested. A new Tennis clothing line is now available and the Park is also reviewing options for some level of food service.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported Susan Hudlow has been hired as the Special Events Coordinator.
Dog Park - No Report
New Business-
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5: I 0 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, July 26th at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary Laura Claverie I Secretary
I
I dD
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brennan, Brooks, Chase, Clarkson, Claverie, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LeGrand, LaFranca, Masinter, Marsiglia, Schoen, Shreves, Pappalardo, and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Hales, McKeithen, Payton, Pettus, Romig, Sardie, Schrenk and Slone
STAFF: Bob Becker, John Hopper, George Parker, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich, Bridget Tydor and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Leslie Kramer, Will Tregre, Trevor Haynes, Henry Kinney and Doug Adams
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and recognized Bob Becker's ten-year anniversary with New Orleans City Park. Becker thanked his staff and Beau Bassich for sharing all his help and knowledge over the years. President Lupo thanked Becker for his dedication and leadership.
Becker reported that City Park Improvement Association was incorporated on August 13, 1891 I and will celebrate 120 years of the Association's stewardship of City Park. The June minutes were approved.
Leslie Kramer, the operator of Equest Farms, presented the Park with a check for $30,000 from Tails But No Black Tie. President Lupo and Bob Becker thanked Leslie for the donation and for all her work on the event.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported the Park had a good month financially in June due to excellent weather conditions and strong performances in various th departments. The Park also had a very strong fiscal year which ended June 30 •
The Governor issued an Executive Order implementing a hiring freeze. The Park is in the process of filing a request to hire two Police Officers.
Becker reported on the recent reports of coyote sightings in the Park. The Park will continue the program of attempting to trap the coyotes and will post information on the website in regards to how to live with urban wildlife.
Board Volunteer Day has been tentatively scheduled for September 10th to help with the I landscaping ofPopp Fountain and the Arbor Room. ~I
I Committee Report: A&E - Commissioner Pappalardo updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Arbor Room should be completed by September and the Festival Grounds is expected to go out to bid by the end of August.
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported demand continues for baseball/softball fields. Discussions took place in regards to parking for events at Tad Gormley. Commissioner Errol Laborde recommended scheduling a meeting with Councilwoman Guidry in regards to parking on the Marconi neutral ground. Commissioner Masinter recommended contacting Delgado in regards to allowing the Park to utilize their parking lots for events in the Park. Commissioner Hess recommended making frequent announcements at events in regards to picking up trash.
Golf - A meeting was held with the golf consultants and the State to review the budget and discuss the next steps in the design process. The Park has asked the State to amend the design consultant's contract so as to proceed with the replacement of the golf clubhouse. A meeting was held with the Army Corps Of Engineers to determine the permits required and procedure for submitting those requests.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for twenty four holes for Miniature Golf. The Committee would like the Board to sponsor a hole, contact Hess or I Masinter if you are interested in becoming a sponsor. John Hopper thanked all Board Members who sponsored a hole. Stephen Ryman has been hired to replace Jim Morrison as Volunteer Coordinator for the Park.
Finance - Commissioner Hoffman reported the Park had a great year financially and the staff has done a great job keeping expenses under control.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Brennan reported the Celebration in the Oaks preview th party has been scheduled for November 18 • The Committee is seeking sponsorship for several new exhibits. Marketing is expanding to outside parishes.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks reported several trees have fallen in the Roosevelt area of the Park. The trees are overcup Oak trees and are reaching the end oftheir normal lifespan, which is shorter than Live Oak trees. The Lupo Fountain located in Big Lake was struck by lightning but should be operating within two weeks.
NOMA - Commissioner Masinter reported NOMA is interested in expanding the Besthoff Sculpture Garden.
Nominating - Commissioner Katz reported the Nominating Committee currently has one I vacancy. The Board unanimously elected Mark Romig to serve on the Nominating Committee for 2011-2012. If anyone is interested in serving as President elect for 2012 and President for 2013-2014, contact Katz. I Legal - Commissioner Masinter reported the Committee is reviewing ongoing legal issues. Public Relations - Commissioner Laura Claverie reported the Park has 15,000 facebook fans. The Social Network Committee met to discuss possibilities for a City Park mobile phone application.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported there are structural problems on two hard courts; also the courts are adapting well to weather conditions. Testing of all of the hard courts will be undertaken to be sure the problems on the two courts are not present in any other courts.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported Martini Madness has been scheduled for September 16th and Ghost in the Oaks is expanding to two nights.
Dog Park - Commissioner Shreves reported the Dog Park currently has over 2,700 permit th holders. 101 Donations is scheduled for August 20 •
New Business - I Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments. A motion was made by President Lupo, seconded by Commissioner Hoffman and approved unanimously to enter into Executive session to discuss personnel matters. No action was taken while in Executive session.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, September 27, at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie Secretary I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting ofthe Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brooks, Bingler, Brown, Chase, Claverie, Clarkson (represented by Baxter) DeBlieux, Fierke, Giffin, Hess, Hoffinan, Katz, Laborde, LeGrand, LaFranca, Marsiglia, McKeithen, Pettus, Schrenk, Schoen, Shreves, Slone, Pappalardo, and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, Famet, Guidry, Hales, Masinter, Payton, Romig and Sardie
STAFF: Bob Becker, John Hopper, George Parker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich and Denise Joubert
GUESTS:
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and thanked Shell Oil for their donation of $40,000 for Couturie Forest.
The July minutes were approved.
I In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported the Park had a good month financially in July and August mainly due to strong performance in Golf and Stadium concessions.
The Arbor Room project is complete and will host its first event on October 1st.
Becker reported on a meeting with Paul Rainwater, the Commissioner of Administration, to discuss the Park's capital projects and the need for the Park to receive funding from the State's general fund for next year.
Becker and President Lupo met with the Chancellor at Delgado to discuss several issues including parking and the use of Pigeon Island for some of their classes.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The pre-bid meeting for the Festival Grounds was held today and bids are due October 11 tho The Soccer Pavilion is scheduled to be completed by mid-November. A review of the miniature golf design has led to the repositioning of the entry and ticketing building and modification to the proposed I architectural design. Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported demand continues for baseball/softball fields. leGrand reported the Park received a proposal from Loyola University in regards to renovating the Quadraplex to accommodate their baseball and softball program. The Park is in the process of I responding to a proposal from the Chicago Fire in regards to their soccer contract. The Junior Olympics was very successful with over 14,000 athletes participating.
Golf - The Park has applied for Corp of Engineers permits and Coastal Use Permits for the golf project. The State has begun to revise the consultant's design contract with the goal of authorizing him to proceed to construction drawings within the next month.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for twenty five holes for Miniature Golf. Sponsorship has also been secured for one eighteen hole course.
Becker reported since Hurricane Katrina fundraising efforts have secured approximately $91 million dollars.
Finance - Commissioner DeBlieux reported the Park is ahead of budget projections for the fiscal year, due to strong performance in Golf and Stadium Concessions. Amusements were below budget mainly due to inclement weather conditions. President Lupo thanked the Finance Committee for their efforts.
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The I committee discussed continued efforts towards shoreline erosion. Brooks reported several trees have fallen in the Roosevelt Mall area of the Park. The committee recommended evaluating the trees to determine if they have reached the end of their normal lifespan. Mayor Landrieu recommended re-opening the tunnel under 1-610 and the railroad tracks which would provide greater access to the Park and the Festival Grounds.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - Commissioner Katz reported the Committee recommends Karen Fernandez for one of the three open-At-Large positions on the Board. The Board will take action on this nomination at the October Board meeting. If anyone is interested in serving as President elect for 2012 and President for 2013-2014, contact Katz.
Legal- No Report
Public Relations - Commissioner Laura Claverie reported the Social Network Committee met to discuss the new website design and would like to present to the Board at the October meeting.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Park is planning to host a City Park Tennis tournament. Commissioner Edgar Chase has joined the Tennis Committee. Laborde also reported there are structural problems on two hard courts; testing of all of the hard courts will be I undertaken to be sure the problems on the two courts are not present in any other courts. Botanical Garden- No Report I Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported Martini Madness was very successful. Ghost in the Oaks has expanded to two nights.
Dog Park - Commissioner Shreves reported 101 Donations was very successful. The funds will be used for lighting and irrigation at the Dog Park. A weather station has been donated to the Dog Park.
A Resolution was passed which authorizes Robert Becker to enter into any and all Cooperative Endeavor Agreements with the Department of the Treasury, State of Louisiana to secure the line item appropriations in the "Beautification and Improvement of the New Orleans City Park Fund."
A motion was unanimously approved to amend the Agenda to include New Business.
New Business: Commissioner Errol Laborde presented a proposal to modifY the By-Laws in regards to the Nominating Committee. The proposed changes are as follows: The Committee shall consist of no less than five (5) Commissioners, as opposed to three (3) Commissioners. The proposal will also allow Commissioners to serve no more than four (4) consecutive one year terms, as opposed to two (2) consecutive one year terms. I Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments. The meeting was adjourned at 5: 15 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, October 25, 2011 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting ofthe Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, October 25,2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brooks, Brennan, Brown, Chase, Claverie, Clarkson (represented by Baxter) DeBlieux, Fierke, Giffin, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LeGrand, Marsiglia, Masinter, McKeithen, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Famet, Guidry, Hales, LaFranca, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Romig, Schoen and Sardie
STAFF: Bob Becker, John Hopper, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Henry Kinney, Trevor Haynes, Karen Fernandez, Joe Bean
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone
The September minutes were approved.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported operating results for September were below plan due to poor performance in Amusements and Concessions as well as the loss of I Labor Day weekend due to inclement weather conditions.
Becker reported the Park received a successful bid from Cobalt Construction for the Festival Grounds project and expect to sign the contract next week. Cobalt is the same company which built the Great Lawn.
The Garden fundraiser Magic in the Moonlight was successful; Becker thanked the Board members who attended the event.
Two new parking areas have been opened on land formally occupied by the tennis courts. The surface is temporary until permanent improvements can be made.
The State Bond Commission approved the funding for the splash park project. A line of credit of $500,000 for planning is immediately available and the funds for construction will become available after August 1,2012.
Becker met with a representative of the neighborhood association across Marconi to discuss events in Tad Gormley as well as options for parking on the Marconi neutral ground.
A Resolution was unanimously adopted authorizing Robert W. Becker the powers of appointing I authority as such are contemplated by the Rules of the State Civil Service Commission. Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Soccer I Pavilion is scheduled to be completed by the end of November. The Catering Complex should be completed by the end of October. Several staff and Board members met with our food service consultant, Manask & Associates, who gave their preliminary report on the concepts for food service in the Boat House. Schrenk also reported we received the testing results on the tennis courts and these results will be turned over to the contractor for his analysis and recommendations on how to repair the damage.
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported the Park is still waiting for a response from Loyola University in regards to renovating the Quadraplex and from the Chicago Fire in regards to their soccer contract.
Golf - The State sent an amended contract to the design consultant authorizing him to complete the construction drawings. The Park is still waiting for a response from the Bayou District Foundation in regards to the draft of the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported the Committee, with the help of Mr. Savoie has raised $500,000 for the Soccer pavilion and efforts continue towards raising additional funds for improvements. Fundraising for Miniature Golf is ongoing.
Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported the Park is ahead of budget for the year. I Revenue in Amusements is below budget mainly attributed to issues with the Groupon program. Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Susan Brennan reported the committee is still seeking sponsorship for Celebration in the Oaks.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Signage has been installed at Louisiana Trails at Big Lake. A meeting took place with a group of stakeholders for the Master Plan at Couturie Forest to brief them on the progress of implementing the plan and upcoming activities. The Committee also discussed plantings at the entrance of Wisner and Filmore.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported NOMA has finalized the FEMA claim in connection with the basement. Storage of the art is being moved to an off-site location.
Nominating - Commissioner Katz submitted the names ofthe officers for 2012 that will be put into nomination at this meeting and voted on at the November meeting. Those officers are Bill Hoffinan, President-Elect, Edmund Schrenk, Vice-President; Susan Brennan, Vice-President; Larry Katz, Vice-President; Karen DeBlieux, Treasurer; and Jackie Shreves, Secretary. The Board voted unanimously to elect Karen Fernandez to one open-At Large position. The committee further recommends Cleland Powell and Elizabeth Sloss for two of the open-At-Large positions on the Board. The Board will take action on these nominations at the November Board I meeting. If anyone is interested in serving on the Nominating Committee, contact Katz. Legal - The Committee is reviewing ongoing legal issues. I Public Relations - No Report Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Committee met with representative of the Sports Foundation to discuss the possibilities of hosting a Tennis tournament in conjunction with the New Orleans Bowl.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported Friends currently has three full time employees. Ghost in the Oaks and Martini Madness were very successful and grossed between $80-90,000.
Dog Park - Commissioner Shreves reported The Garden Gate will replace the dead trees at the Dog Park. The annual membership fee has been increased to $45.00. The lighting project should begin shortly and we are still waiting for estimates in regards to irrigation at the Dog Park.
A motion was unanimously approved to add changes to the By-Laws affecting the Nominating Committee, to the Agenda.
New Business: The Board, after discussion, unanimously approved an amendment to modify the By-Laws. The approved changes are as follows: The Committee shall consist of no less than five (5) Commissioners, as opposed to three (3) Commissioners. The proposal will also allow Commissioners to serve no more than four (4) consecutive one year terms, as opposed to two (2) I consecutive one year terms. Finally, Board members will have to have served at least one year on the Board to be considered for election to the Nominating Committee.
A Resolution was unanimously adopted naming Desmond Gales as Chief Train Engineer of New Orleans City Park.
Public comment was then invited; Joe Bean representing the NAACP inquired about the rental rates for Pan American and Tad Gormley stadium for a semi-pro football game which included fund raising components.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 4:00 pm at the Arbor Room.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie I Secretary MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, November 22,2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Arbor Room.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Bingler, Brooks, Claverie, Clarkson, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Marsiglia, Masinter, Payton, Pettus, Romig, Schrenk and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, Brown, Chase, DeBlieux, Famet, Guidry, McKeithen, Pappalardo, Sardie, Schoen, Shreves and Slone
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, David Carpenter and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Henry Kinney, Susan Baxter
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and introduced new Commissioner Karen Fernandez. Lupo reported Management and Staff are currently reviewing Golf, Loyola Baseball and Urban Farm proposals.
The Friends requested the October board minutes reflect Ghost in the Oaks and Martini Madness I grossed between $80 - 90,000. The October minutes were approved with the correction noted. In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported the Park had a great month financially in October. Catering had the busiest month ever with revenue exceeding $400,000.
Becker also reported on a meeting of the A&E Committee and the Executive Committee to review the previously designated site for the Splash Park. After review, everyone agreed that moving the Splash Park to the alternate site on Palm Drive near the Maintenance Complex would alleviate parking congestion at the front of the Park and provide more space for the Splash Park, as well as additional parking opportunities.
The Festival Grounds construction contract with Cobalt has been signed and the contractor expects to start work after Thanksgiving with a completion date of November, 2012.
A meeting was held with City Park staff and members of Tulane Medical Center to discuss ways for the Park and Tulane to partner to fight childhood obesity.
A tree planting ceremony was held in Couturie Forest to honor Veterans Day. 111 trees were planted and several veterans spoke at the event.
A Resolution was presented to the Board adopting the Compliance questionnaire which is part of I our annual audit. The Board unanimously adopted the Resolution. A Resolution was unanimously adopted that guarantees City Park will provide the required match for the Marconi bike path, as well as design and testing fees. The bike path was included I in the Transportation Enhancements Program through DOTD, with $690,080 for construction. Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Soccer Pavilion is scheduled to be completed by the end of November. The miniature golf design of repositioning the entry and ticket building is moving forward and should go out to bid by February.
Athletics - Andrea LeGrand reported attendance for high school football games has decreased from previous years. The current rates will be reviewed at the beginning of the year. The committee discussed a request from Joe Bean at the October board meeting in regards to rental rates for nonprofit organizations. The committee feels that the rates should be determined on the actual event being held.
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for twenty six holes for miniature golf. Hess thanked Laura and Philip Claverie for sponsoring a hole.
Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman reported operating revenues for the month as well as the I year is ahead of budget. Golf revenue decreased and expenses increased due to an increase in maintenance expenses to maintain the Course. The Groupon discount coupon in Amusements will expire in November.
Special Events/CITO - On behalf of Susan Brennan, President Lupo thanked everyone who attended Celebration in the Oaks preview party.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Two arborist examined the Overcup oak trees on Roosevelt Mall and recommended some of the fourteen trees for removal. The Committee will conduct a detailed inspection of the trees before recommending to management a course of action. Commissioner Edmund Schrenk recommended not planting trees along Roosevelt Mall without repairing the drainage system. The committee also discussed the tree fund with Friends of City Park for trimming and lightning protection for the Ancient Grove Oak trees.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the Odyssey ball was successful.
Nominating - The Board voted unanimously to elect Bill Hoffman, President-Elect, Edmund Schrenk, Vice-President; Susan Brennan, Vice-President; Larry Katz, Vice-President; Karen DeBlieux, Treasurer; and Jackie Shreves, Secretary. The Board also unanimously elected Cleland Powell and Elizabeth Sloss to two open-At Large positions. The committee further I recommends Tom Fierke and Ben Hales for a second four year term which will be voted on at 31
the December board meeting. Commissioner Errol Laborde recommended reviewing and modifying the By-Laws to clarify the duties of the President-Elect. I Legal- The Committee is working on proposals for baseball and Urban Farms. Public Relations - George Parker and David Carpenter gave a web-site presentation. The purpose is to modernize the website. Parker thanked Commissioner Laura Claverie, Mark Romig, Larry Katz as well as City Park staff, Amanda Frentz, Linzey Powers, David Carpenter and Kerry Guillory for their work on this project.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Park will host the New Orleans Bowl Tennis th tournament on December 17 • A new line of tennis clothing is currently available in the Pro Shop.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported the chairs for Lark in the Park are Gayle Benson, Margo DuBos and Juli Miller Hart, who will appear with Gen Trimble the honorary chair on the Jan~ cover of St. Charles Avenue magazine. Friends will host "Toast to the Oaks" in honor of the 30t anniversary of Lark. The event will be held on January 6th in the Arbor Room.
Dog Park - No Report I New Business: Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, December 13,2011 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brennan, Brooks, Chase, Claverie, Clarkson, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hales, Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Marsiglia, Masinter, McKeithen, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Powell, Schoen, Schrenk, Shreves, Sloss and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Guidry, Romig, Sardie, and Slone
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Joey Richard, Brandy Smith, Susan Baxter, Joe Cook, Valesquez Jones and Juli Miller Hart
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and introduced new Commissioners Elizabeth Sloss and Cleland Powell. I The November minutes were approved. President Lupo introduced Juli Miller Hart, co-chair for Lark in the Park, which is scheduled for March 2, 2012. Hart reported this is the 30th anniversary for Lark in the Park and indicated she would like 100% Board participation for the event.
President Lupo presented the President's Award to several individuals for their outstanding support of the Park. The recipients were:
Joe Cook Leadership in the development of the partnership between Fox 8 and the Park
Valesquez Jones Support of City Park's recovery from Hurricane Katrina from the Governor's office.
Jeffrey & Amy Silverman Support and dedication to the Park and the volunteer and challenge course program
Jeffrey Feil Support and dedication to the Park and the Big Lake project I Senator John Alario Support for the recovery of City Park from Hurricane Katrina 33
Chief Executive Officer Becker introduced Joey Richard with Postlethwaite & Netterville, who is the independent auditor for the Park. Richard presented his financial audit and reported there was one management finding regarding cash handling at the Tennis facility. In January, Richard I will report to the Finance Committee the results of the cash handling audit and is also scheduled to begin an audit in Golf.
In his Management Report, Becker reported on December lOth Celebration in the Oaks had a record crowd of more than 10,000 people. Becker reviewed several of the major accomplishments in 20 II which included: • Opened the new City Park Pepsi Tennis Center • Opened the Arbor Room at Popp Fountain • Opened the new Administration Building • New deck in Couturie Forest • New Soccer Pavilion near completion • New landscaping at Big Lake • Prepared the site for Miniature Golf course • Created temporary parking in Tri-Centennial Place • Secured state funding for the Splash Park • Started construction on the Festival and Recreational Grounds • Started design of the miniature golf complex • Hosted ten million visitors • Planted 650 new trees I The Board unanimously passed a resolution adopting procurement policies for Disaster Community Development Block Grants. This procurement policy will apply to the Festival Grounds, as well as future projects funded by Community Development Block Grants.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk reported ground breaking for the Festival Grounds took place. The anticipated completion date for the project is one year. The Miniature Golf project is currently in a design phase and anticipates bidding in mid February.
Athletics - Becker reported the Park is working to assist Tulane with their request for practice venues for their track, football, and tennis teams which are being displaced by their new stadium construction.
Golf - Becker reported the State has signed the final design contract to complete construction drawings for the new course. We are moving to apply all of the golf course damage claims to the course which will take 2-3 month for FEMA review. Meetings have been held with the BDF attorneys to finalize the draft CEA and Management Agreements.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for twenty eight holes for miniature golf. The Committee is still working to secure sponsorship for one of I the eighteen hole courses. Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman commended Kevin Cox and his staff for their work with the audit. I Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Susan Brennan encouraged all Board members to attend Celebration in the Oaks.
Horticulture and Grounds - No Report
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported NOMA will celebrate its looth anniversary on Friday, December 16th .
Nominating - The Board voted unanimously to elect Tom Fierke and Ben Hales for a second four-year term. The Committee further recommends Andrea LeGrand, Dessa Giffin and Will Tregre for three open-At Large positions. The Board will take action on these nominations at the January board meeting.
Legal - The Committee is reviewing ongoing legal issues.
Public Relations - Commissioner Laura Claverie reported Amanda Frentz is in charge of all social media for the Park.
Tennis - Becker reported the New Orleans Bowl Tennis tournament has been canceled, due to scheduling conflicts. I Botanical Garden- No Report Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported the chairs for Lark in the Park are Gayle Benson, Margo DuBos, and Juli Miller Hart. They will appear with Gen Trimble, the honorary chair, on the January cover of St. Charles Avenue magazine. Mary Johnson and Jackie Palumbo are Friends' new appointees to the Board.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the I st phase of the lighting project has begun. The Dog Park is currently processing permit renewals.
New Business:
President Lupo recognized outgoing Board Members Susan Hess, Laura Claverie and Paul Masinter. Lupo thanked them for their outstanding service to the Board and distributed commemorative plaques.
President Lupo presented Bob Becker with a plaque recognizing his ten years of exemplary service at the Park. I Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments. The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
I Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Laura Claverie Secretary
I
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by the President. The meeting was held in the Administration building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brooks, Chase, Clarkson (Baxter) Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Pettus, Schoen, Schrenk, and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Hales, Payton, Powell, Romig, Shreves, Sloss, Slone and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Michael DeShazo, Susan Hess
President Robert Lupo welcomed everyone and introduced Mary Johnson and Jackie Palumbo as Friends appointee to the Board.
On motion of Hoffman, seconded by Marsiglia, the Board voted to go into executive session in accordance with La. R.S. 42:16, et seq. The purpose of the executive session was to discuss strategy related to the claim of Lisa Laraway arising out of her former employment with the I NOCPIA. A roll call vote was held and following voted as indicated:
The following Commissioners voted yes: Brooks, Chase, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Pettus, Schoen, Schrenk, Tregre.
At the conclusion of the executive session, the Board voted to come out of the executive session. Thereafter, a motion to adjourn was made by Hoffman, and seconded by Marsiglia. No action was taken during the executive session.
Becker requested the December board minutes be modified to reflect the following change: Richard presented his financial audit and reported there was one management letter comment regarding cash handling at the Tennis facility. In addition he stated additional policies and procedures have been adopted and controls have been implemented to ensure timely preventative and detective identification of all cash receipts. The December minutes were approved with the correction noted.
In his management report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported Celebration in the Oaks was very successful, with a record attendance of over 150,000 people. Increases in expenses occurred due to additional event security. A discussion took place in regards to security within the Park I and security for Celebration in the Oaks. Becker prepared a listing of some of the major indicators of activity in 2011 and a comparison of I those with 2010. President Lupo commended the staff for their hard work which is reflected by the increase in revenue.
John Hopper reported over 600 volunteers from Bristol Meyers are scheduled to come to the Park. The annual direct mail appeal raised more than last year. The Monteleone family made a donation to install LED lights on the columns at the front entrance of the Park.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The catering complex has been completed, Miniature Golf project anticipates bidding in March and upgrades have begun at the Peristyle. We are waiting for the State to appoint consultants for the splash park.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand updated the board on several upcoming events. She also reported on the request received from Joe Bean of the NAACP in regards to hosting football games in the Park. Work has begun to repair two fields at the Quadraplex and should be available to rent by March 1st. Commissioner McKeithen requested basic rates be posted on the website.
Golf - A design review meeting was held with all consultants on the new championship golf I course. Planning is moving into final construction drawings. A revised agreement was submitted to the Bayou District Foundation for their consideration. The committee anticipates the project going to bid by mid-June, with a completion date oflate 2013 or early 2014. President Lupo thanked Commissioner Will Tregre for all his work on this project.
Development - Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty holes for miniature golf. The endowment for the Soccer Pavilion has exceeded its goal of $500,000. The Park received a $100,000 donation from the Rosemary Foundation. Commissioner McKeithen reported her firm made a donation of $125,000 to sponsor a golf course at the new championship golf course.
Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman reported year to date the Park is ahead of budget. Management is reviewing concession operations. Joey Richard presented recommendations to the Committee in regards to Cash Management.
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. A representative from Dana Brown and Associates gave a presentation on the wetlands at Festival Grounds. Two arborists examined the Overcup oak trees on Roosevelt Mall and recommended I fourteen trees for removal. The Committee recommended removing and replacing eight trees in 3'0
2012 and six trees in 2013. The Board recommended placing an article in the newspaper and signage to make the public aware of the situation. I NOMA - No Report Nominating - The Board voted unanimously to elect Will Tregre, Dessa Giffin and Andrea LeGrand for three open At-Large positions. Commissioner Katz reported the Nominating Committee currently has one vacancy, if anyone is interested in serving on the committee contact Katz.
Legal - The Committee is reviewing ongoing legal issues.
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Park will host USTA Sanctioned Tennis th tournament on March 23- 25 •
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Dessa Giffin reported work continues on Lark in the Park. The theme for this year is "Love Makes a Grand Entrance", with the funds dedicated towards the entrance into the Botanical Garden. Giffin thanked all Board members who attended Toast in the Oaks. I Dog Park - No Report New Business: Becker reported in 2011 the State Legislature passed a law requiring Ethics training for every state employee and commissioner in 2012.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary I 39
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, February 28,2012 at 4:00 p.m. by Commissioner Hoffman. The meeting was held in the Administration building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brooks, Chase, Clarkson (Baxter) Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hales, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, McKay, Palumbo, Payton, Pettus, Powell, Schoen, Schrenk, Shreves and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Lupo, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Guidry, Johnson, McKeithen, Pappalardo, Romig, Sloss, Slone and Tregre
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob De Viney, Kevin Cox, Beau Bassich, Tony Biagas, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Trevor Haynes, Leslie Kramer, Susan Hess, Mark Stein, Daphne Derven, Kristin Shannon
Commissioner Bill Hoffman welcomed everyone and introduced Marie McKay as the appointee of the Senate to the Board.
The January minutes were approved.
I Commissioner Hoffman introduced Leslie Kramer, the operator of Equest Farms, who reported th on the "Tails but no Black Tie" fundraiser scheduled for March 17 • Hoffman thanked Kramer for her presentation and hard work on this event.
Commissioner William Hoffman introduced Resolution 2012-01, authorizing the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association to accept the terms and conditions of a non-binding term sheet with The Administrators of the Tulane Educational Fund d/b/a Tulane University of Louisiana; requesting and authorizing the Park Employment and Procurement Corporation to prepare and execute a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with The Administrators of the Tulane Educational Fund d/b/a Tulane University of Louisiana in accordance with the terms and conditions of the non-binding term sheet; and providing for other matters in connection therewith. Commissioner William Hoffman read the resolution and Bob Becker provided comment on the terms and conditions of the term sheet and the Resolution. The Board allowed for public comment, but none were offered. Commissioner Steve Bingler moved, Commissioner Gerald Schoen seconded, and the Board unanimously accepted the terms and conditions of the term sheet and approved Resolution 2012-01.
Commissioner William Hoffman introduced Resolution 2012-02, authorizing the new Orleans City Park Improvement Association to accept the terms and conditions of a non-binding term sheet with The Emeril Lagasse Foundation; requesting and authorizing the Park Employment and Procurement Corporation to prepare and execute a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with The I Emeril Lagasse Foundation in accordance with the terms and conditions of the non-binding term sheet; and providing for other matters in connection therewith. Commissioner William Hoffinan read the Resolution and Bob Becker provided comment on the terms and condition of the term sheet and the Resolution. The Board allowed for public comment, but none were offered. I Commissioner Steve Bingler moved, Commissioner Jackie Shreves seconded, and the Board unanimously accepted the terms and conditions of the terms sheet and approved Resolution 2012-02.
Hoffman introduced Mark Stein, Daphne Derven and Kristin Shannon of the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. Mr. Stein said it has been a pleasure working with the Park and they are excited about the project.
In his management report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported mid-year budget meetings were held with department Directors to get an update in regards to the annual budget.
Becker introduced Tony Biagas, Director of Athletic Services who reported on the Louisiana High School Athletic Association State Soccer championship games which was held in Tad Gormley stadium. Biagas commended his staff as well as Denise Joubert and Commissioner Andrea LeGrand for their work in making this event successful.
Chief Operations Director, Rob DeViney updated the Board on the claim with FEMA to replace the Lady Bug roller coaster.
The Park received bids from Equest Farms and Crescent City Show Stables for the stables lease. The Park will examine the bids to be sure both parties submitted responsive bids according to bid I specifications. Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Park is reviewing the completed plans for the Miniature Golf project. Restoration of the Peristyle is ongoing. In mid-March, the State will select a design firm for the splash park. The Children's Museum has reduced the scope of their project and will make a presentation to the Park.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported the high school football draw is scheduled for March ih.
Golf - A design review meeting was held on the latest construction drawings of the new championship golf course. The committee anticipates the project going to bid by the end of June.
Development - Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty holes for miniature golf. The endowment for the Soccer Pavilion has exceeded its goal of $500,000. Hess reported the Park has reached $100 million in public and private funding for the Park's recovery.
Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman reported year to date the Park is ahead of budget. I Management is reviewing concession operations and is in the process of recruiting a Director of Food and Beverage. Postlethwaite and Netterville reviewed cash management procedures and efforts are on-going to address concerns.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Susan Brennan reported Lark in the Park is scheduled for nd I • Friday, March 2
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The committee toured the Tulane University Grow Dat Youth Farm site. High school students will work as paid interns at the farm.
th NOMA - Paul Masinter reported Art in Bloom is scheduled for March 18 •
Nominating - The 2012-2013 Nominating Committee consist of Commissioners Larry Katz, Errol Laborde, Tom Fierke, Mark Romig and Edgar Chase. The Board unanimously re-elected Commissioners Katz, Laborde and Fierke to a third term, Commissioner Romig to a second term and Commissioner Chase to a first term. Hoffman thanked everyone for serving on the Committee.
Legal - The Committee is reviewing ongoing legal issues.
Public Relations - Commissioner Karen Fernandez reported the committee is working on website re-design requests for qualifications.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Park will host USTA Sanctioned Tennis th I tournament on March 23- 25 • Court repairs are ongoing and lighting at the entrance to the Tennis Center is being reviewed.
Botanical Garden- No Report
Friends of City Park - Becker reported this is the 30th armiversary of Lark in the Park. The Friends have secured a car to be raffled. The theme for this year is "Love Makes a Grand Entrance," with the funds dedicated towards the entrance into the Botanical Garden.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the irrigation project is completed and the lighting project is near completion. A bead dog is scheduled to be installed by the end of the week.
New Business: Becker reported a meeting is scheduled for tomorrow with members of the Legislative Delegation to discuss the upcoming Legislative session. Becker congratulated Karen Fernandez for being elected to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Certified Planners.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, March 27, I 2012 at 4:00 pm. Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I
I 43
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Chase, Clarkson (Baxter), DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, Lupo, McKay, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pettus, Powell, Romig, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brown, Famet, LeGrand, Pappalardo, Payton, and Schoen
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Henry Kinney, Trevor Haynes, Leslie Kramer, Susan Hess, Paul Masinter, Melissa Gray, Dolly Jorden, John Gray, Mary Antonini, Jon Cromwell, Elizabeth Cromwell, Ann Asprodites, Cynthia Ashman, T. Boyce, Susan Davidson, Andrew Kramer, Michael Johnson, Booth Pohlmann, C. Cromwell, S. Addison, Victoria deLisle I President Lupo welcomed everyone. The February minutes were approved.
President Lupo read the rules for receiving public comments on agenda items and asked speakers to abide by those rules. He reviewed the public comment sign in sheet and noted that three individuals had indicated that they wish or may wish to speak.
He then called on the CEO to present management's report and recommendations on the evaluation ofthe bids received for the stables lease. CEO Becker presented management's report, indicated that both legal counsel and the Board's Executive Committee concurred in the recommendations and answered questions from several board members. The President then called for public comment.
The first speaker was Victoria DeLisle who the President allowed to speak several times. She raised questions about the sufficiency of Equest Farm's bid. Next Melissa Gray spoke and indicated that she thought there were only about six facilities in the country comparable to those at City Park. Leslie Kramer, representing Equest Farms spoke about the investment and programs which the current lease holders have made to the facilities. That concluded the public comment.
Commissioner McKeithen asked whether the Board had the discretion to reject all bids if one of I the bids met all the minimum requirements. Henry Kinney, the Board's legal counsel, indicated that if there was a qualified bidder, that bidder had to be awarded the bid. Commissioner's Shreves and Katz discussed the Executive Committee's review ofthe matter. President Lupo indicated that the experience referenced in the bid of Crescent City Show Stables, LLC. did not I meet the bid's requirements either in terms of the type of experience presented nor in having that experience at a facility substantially like that at City Park. After more discussion, Commissioner Fierke made a motion to approve the recommendation of management that the Crescent City Show Stables, LLC bid be declared non-responsive and that the lease of the stables be awarded to Equest Farm, LLC. Commissioner McKay seconded the motion and the following roll call vote occurred.
Yes - Brooks, Chase, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, Lupo, McKay, Palumbo, Romig, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, Tregre, Vesich - 23
Nay - McKeithen, Pettus, Powell- 3
The President announced that the motion passed 23 votes to 3 votes.
In his management report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported the Park has been extremely busy with numerous events including Hogs for the Cause, "Tails But No Black Tie," Sugar Bowl Track Meet, USTA Sanctioned Tennis Tournament, as well as other events.
All Park employees received three hours of training on Park Policies and Procedures. A I handbook containing all of the Park's policies will be distributed to all employees. Chief Operations Director, Rob DeViney reported representatives from FEMA are scheduled to reassess the Lady Bug roller coaster.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Festival Grounds is still on schedule. Plans are being finalized for the Miniature Golf project. Restoration of the Peristyle is ongoing. The Children's Museum has reduced the scope of their project and will make a presentation to the Park.
Athletics - No Report
Golf - The latest construction drawings of the new championship golf course are underway. The committee anticipates the project going to bid by the end of June. The Park is in the process of requesting that FEMA increase the damage claims on existing project work sheets for the golf courses.
Development - Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty holes for miniature golf. The Committee is working with a prospect in regards to the naming rights for the second I Miniature Golf Course or potentially the entire project. Hess requested board members notifY the committee if they know of any potential sponsors. The endowment for the Soccer Pavilion has exceeded its goal of $500,000. President Lupo thanked Susan Hess, Paul Masinter and John I Hopper for their work on the project. Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported yearto date the Park is ahead of budget. Management is reviewing concession operations and is in the process of recruiting a Director of Food and Beverage or possibly outsourcing operations. Golfis in the process of being audited. The cash management procedures recommended by Postlethwaite and Netterville have been implemented.
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Five of the Overcup Oak trees on Roosevelt Mall have been removed and replaced with ten new Live Oak trees. The committee received a demonstration of the Arbor Pro Tree Management system and recommends purchasing the upgraded software. The Committee recommended developing policies in regards to usage of the Festival Grounds
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - No Report
Legal- Paul Masinter reported the Personal Financial Disclosure forms are due in Baton Rouge th I by May 15 • Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the USTA Sanctioned Tennis tournament was successful.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Giffin reported Lark in the Park was a tremendous success. Giffin thanked the Board and City Park staff for their help and support.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the lighting project is complete.
New Business: Commissioner Errol Laborde inquired about the status of the By-Laws Committee. Becker reported there is a draft to be reviewed. President Lupo reported the Annual meeting of the City Park Improvement Association was held this morning. Becker reviewed all past and future projects of the Park.
Public comment was then invited; there were no public comments.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, April 24, 2012 I at 4:00 pm. Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary Jackie Shreves Secretary
I
I Y1
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson (Baxter), Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKay, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Powell, Romig, Schrenk, Sloss, and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, DeBlieux, Famet, Guidry, McKeithen, Schoen, Shreves, Slone and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Henry Kinney, Trevor Haynes, Susan Hess, Paul Masinter, Ricardo Gutierrez
President Lupo welcomed everyone and thanked Commissioner Mark Romig for a wonderful and successful Navy Week. Volunteers from various branches of the Navy worked all week throughout the Park.
In his President's report, Lupo reported that he, Becker, Bill Hoffman and Mike Marsiglia met I with the Mayor and briefed him on the Park's progress and discussed issues important to the Park and the City.
Lupo also reported that the City of New Orleans - Office of Community Development conducted an onsite fiscal monitoring review of the Festival Grounds project. Nofindings or concerns were identified regarding the use ofD-CDBG funds on behalf of the Park.
The March minutes were approved.
In his management report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported Miniature Golf Clubhouse and Courses are both out to bid.
Representatives from the Children's Museum provided an update on their project to members of the Executive and Architectural Committee. They reduced the scope of the first phase and will submit new building and architectural plans for review.
A kickoff meeting was held with the State on the Splash Park. A meeting is scheduled with aquatic consultants who will make a presentation on state of the art water park planning.
Becker attended a picnic with several national board members from Trust for Public Land and I thanked them for their support of the Park. Becker updated the Board on the Legislative Session and reported: • House Bill 1 - unlikely the Park will be put back in the bill • House Bill 2 - At this time the Park was not approved for any additional projects. I • The proposed TIF legislation has run into opposition from the Governor's office, as have a number of other TIF bills being considered by the Legislature.
Becker also reported on Senate Bill #734 which would remove the exemption from paying for water below a legislatively described threshold.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing Robert Becker to apply for grant funds from the FHWA Recreational Trails Program.
Chief Administrative Officer, George Parker reported effective January 1, 2012 all employees and Commissioners are required to complete mandatory Ethics training on an annual basis. The required training is available online. Once you have completed the training, print the Certificate of Completion and give a copy to Denise Joubert for your file.
Henry Kinney reported Crescent City Show Stables has filed a lawsuit in Federal court. The Park has filed a motion to dismiss the suit from Federal Court.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Festival Grounds schedule has been updated with a completion date of September. Schrenk I reported that Harrison, Wisner, Marconi and Robert E. Lee have been resurfaced. Filmore is scheduled to be resurfaced and a new bike path constructed. Commissioner Steve Bingler commended the staff for their hard work.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand updated the Board on upcoming events. LeGrand reported the 2012 football draw took place with 20 games scheduled for Tad Gormley and 47 games at Pan American stadium. Scout Island is scheduled to close early 2013 which will result in a loss of revenue due to not being able to accommodate several sports. Commissioner Powell asked if the field at Tad Gormley was still "Alerion Field." Becker replied the naming rights for the field are expired. Powell recommended marketing the naming rights for several available facilities.
Golf - Discussions continue with Bayou District Foundation. Becker anticipates the project going to bid by the end of July. Depending on growing season, the completion date of the course could be Fall, 2013 or Spring, 2014.
Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman reported operating results for March were below plan, mainly due to inclement weather conditions several weekends during the month. For the year, operating results are still ahead of budget. Commissioner Hoffman commended Kevin Cox for providing the Committee with detail reports analyzing weather conditions and its impact on the I budget. Special Events/CITO - Commissioner LeGrand reported Symphony in the Oaks is scheduled for nd th May 2 and Cork in the Park is scheduled for May 18 • I Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee has begun review of a proposed public arts policy which would guide the Committee in considering future art acquisitions. The Committee is undertaking goals and objectives implementing green elements in the Park. Commissioner Bingler asked if the Park has an Architectural Standards Plan in place. A discussion took place in regards to developing architectural design guidelines and Master Landscape Plan within the Park.
NOMA - An event took place honoring Leah Chase.
Nominating - No Report
Legal- Paul Masinter reported the Personal Financial Disclosure forms are due in Baton Rouge th by May 15 • Notify Denise Joubert once the forms have been completed.
Public Relations - Becker reported website design bids are due by the end of June.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Oilmans Tennis tournament was successful. The Committee discussed removing the fence and expanding the land to Lagoon area.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events. Sales of car I rame tickets are ongoing. Dog Park - No Report
New Business:
Public comment was then invited; Mr. Gutierrez spoke on behalf of the DeSaix Neighborhood Association in regards to bicycle and pedestrian access at the Festival Grounds and the 1- 610/railroad sound walls.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves I Secretary 5D
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting ofthe Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brennan, Brooks, Clarkson, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hoffman, Katz, Lupo, McKeithen, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Schoen, Shreves
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, Chase, DeBlieux, Famet, Guidry, Hales, Johnson, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, McKay, Palumbo, Powell, Romig, Schrenk, Slone, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Henry Kinney, Trevor Haynes, Susan Hess, Paul Masinter, Laura Claverie, Susan Baxter and Katie Adams
President Lupo welcomed everyone
The April minutes were approved.
In his management report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported budget preparations have begun for FY 2012-2013. Recommendations will be presented to the FinancelExecutive I Committee and to the Board at the June meeting.
The bids for the miniature golf clubhouse were received and greatly exceeded the budget. All bids were rejected and the designer will make design changes to the building. Bids for the courses also exceeded the budget. However the low bidder is a contractor the Park has previously successfully worked with. In addition the amount over the budget is not as large as the clubhouse. Therefore the Executive and A&E Committee recommend the Park accept the bid. The low bidder was Durr Heavy Construction.
A meeting was held with the splash park consultants to review state of the art water park features.
Becker thanked President Lupo and Commissioner Hoffman for attending Employee Appreciation day at the Quadraplex.
Becker updated the Board on the Legislative Session and reported: • The proposed TIF legislation which ran into opposition from the Governor's office has been resolved. The bill removed the State Secretary of Economic Development from the approval process necessary for the State to participate in the TIF. The amended bill substitutes the Commissioner of Administration for the Secretary since the Commissioner I is not bound by the strict criteria as the Secretary. 51
Becker also reported on Senate Bill #734, which would remove the exemption from paying for water below a legislatively described threshold, has not advanced through the legislative process. I Henry Kinney reported the lawsuit filed by Crescent City Show Stables in Federal Court has been dismissed.
Becker reported FEMA requested additional documentation in regards to the damage claim to the roller coaster. The manufacturer wrote a letter emphasizing why the damage to the roller coaster should be a FEMA claim.
Committee Report:
A&E - Becker updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The A&E committee reviewed the plans for the covered rink at the Equestrian Facility. When the final drawings are complete, Becker will bring them back to the committee for review. Festival Grounds schedule has been updated with a completion date of October.
Athletics - No Report
Golf - A meeting took place with Bayou District Foundation to review the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement.
Development - Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty two holes for miniature golf. Hess requested board members notify the committee if they know of any I potential sponsors. Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman reported operating results for April were below plan. Catering and Amusements accounted for the majority of the budget variance. For the year, operating results are still ahead of budget.
Special Events/CITD - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee considered the proposed public arts policy which would guide the Committee in considering future art acquisitions. The policy will be brought to the A&E committee for review. The Committee is also developing goals and objectives, continuing training for the staff and better coordinating the maintenance of grounds in the Park.
NOMA - Masinter reported management is examining the expansion plans for the Sculpture Garden and the Museum.
Nominating - No Report I Legal- The committee is reviewing on-going legal issues. Public Relations - Commissioner Fernandez reported there were seventy-four responses to the RFPs for the website design. Final bids are due by the end of June. I Tennis - Becker reported all court repairs have been completed. Friends of City Park - Commissioner Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events. Friends will be featured on the June/July issue of Tourism Matters magazine. Sales of car rame tickets are ongoing.
Dog Park - Commissioner Shreves reported within two weeks the Dog Park had over 3000 swipes. The new hours of the Dog Park are 5:30am to 9:00pm.
New Business:
Public comment was then invited; there was no public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary I Jackie Shreves Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Pavilion of Two Sisters.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Chase, Clarkson, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, Lupo, McKay, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Pettus, Romig, Schoen, Schrenk, Slone and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Hales, LeGrand, McKeithen, Payton, Powell, Shreves, Sloss, and Tregre
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Trevor Haynes, Paul Masinter and Susan Baxter
President Lupo welcomed everyone
The May minutes were approved.
Chief Executive Officer Becker and Controller Kevin Cox presented and reviewed management's recommendations for the 2012-2013 operating budget. The recommended budget I recognizes a continued loss in State general operating support and addresses this loss of revenue through increases in self-generated revenue. After review, the Board unanimously adopted the 2012-2013 budget. President Lupo thanked Kevin Cox for all his work on the budget.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing Robert Becker to sign the CEA with Louisiana DOTD for the Marconi bike path.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported operating results for May were slightly ahead of plan. Golf and Catering had strong results offsetting Amusements and Storyland. For the year operating results are still ahead of budget.
The City Park Tax Increment Finance Board met and approved an allocation of $400,000 from tax increment revenue through June of2013. $300,000 was allocated to miniature golf and $100,000 was allocated for improvements at the Arbor Room.
The Legislative Session has ended and Becker reported:
• The TIF legislation passed, this bill substitutes the Commissioner of Administration for I the Secretary of Economic Development in the TIF process. The Park was not included in HB#1 the State's Operating Budget for the 3,d year. In HB#2 (the State's construction budget), the appropriations from last year remain unchanged. We also received $50,000 in Priority #2 for additional tennis center improvements and $135,000 I for maintenance center improvements in Priority #2 and #5. Senate Bill #734, which would remove the exemption from paying for water below a legislatively described threshold, did not pass.
The construction contract was signed with Durr Construction for the two 18 hole miniature golf courses. The Miniature golf clubhouse will be re-bid on July 17'h.
Becker reviewed a proposal from Morning Call to operate Parkview Cafe. The Board unanimously approved Managements recommendation that City Park Improvement Association authorize the Park Employment and Procurement Corporation (PEPCO) to negotiate and enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Morning Call.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Representatives from the Children's Museum presented the new plan which reduces the scope of the first phase of the project. The A&E Committee approved the revised plan. Commissioner Schrenk reviewed site plans prepared by Torre Design for the Splash Park. I Athletics - No Report Golf - Becker reported progress is being made with Bayou District Foundation on the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement. Budget issues over the construction of the championship course have been resolved and the State has been requested to authorize the design consultants to complete the plans so the project can be bid.
Development - John Hopper reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty-three holes for miniature golf. Paul Masinter commended John Hopper and his staff for the great press the project has been receiving.
Finance - No Report
Special Events/ClIO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee discussed planting designs to enhance Filmore Avenue. Training for the staff to maintain grounds in the Park is scheduled to begin.
NOMA - Paul Masinter reported Susan Taylor continues to pursue great events for the Museum. NOMA has hired a consultant to develop a concept for the expansion of the Sculpture Garden I and the Museum. 55
Nominating - No Report
Legal- The committee is reviewing on-going legal issues.
I Public Relations - Commissioner Karen Fernandez reported proposals for the website design are being reviewed.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported a golf ball, which appeared to be embedded in the concrete, expanded and burst through a tennis court due to the heat. Tennis has begun hosting Friday night Tennis socials which have been well received.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events. Memberships are going well, with a 63% retention rate. A professionally produced Public Service Announcement for the car raffle will begin airing in July.
Dog Park - No Report
New Business: The Park participated with WYES on a film about City Park. The film will th debut August 8 •
President Lupo commended Commissioner Ronnie Slone for being selected as a Role Model by the Young Leadership Council. I Public comment was then invited; there was no public comment The meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, July 24,2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I 50
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIAnON I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Chase, Clarkson (represented by Baxter), DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Powell, Romig, Schoen, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Brennan, Brown, Farnet, Guidry, McKay, Payton, Pettus and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, Chad Harper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Dr. Dennis Gleiber
President Lupo welcomed everyone.
Chief Operating Officer Rob DeViney introduced Chad Harper, who has been hired as the Director of Concessions for the Park. I The June minutes were approved.
A presentation of the 2011 Needs Assessment Survey was presented to the Board by Dr. Dennis Gleiber of the Olinger Group. Highlights include favorable response to the Park's activities, as well as an increase in the number of visits to the Park.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing Robert Becker to serve as the designated representative of the NOCPlA for the purposes of compliance with the provisions of the Louisiana Public Works Act.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported the Park had a successful fiscal th year which ended on June 30 • Golf and Catering had strong results and for the first time Athletic Services produced a profit. Revenues beat budget expectations by approximately $610,000. Investments in the Arbor Room, the City Park/Pepsi Tennis Complex, and in Celebration helped account for our increased revenues. Kevin Cox presented two PowerPoint slides highlighting preliminary FYI2 results. The tirst slide showed that City Park FYI 2 revenues and net exceeded budget by approximately $580,000 and $320,000, respectively. The second slide showed that the Endowment increased by $870,775 to $2,142,603, mostly from contributions. Cox said that Tennis and Matt Savoie donations accounted for the majority of the increase and commended John Hopper's good work in Development and the good partnership I with the Friends of City Park. 57
A meeting was held with the State Department of Transportation and Development for the second phase of the Tri-Centennial Place improvements. The State selected a consultant to I prepare the design for various projects in the Tri-Centennial Place area. Becker attended the International Urban Parks Conference in New York and gave a presentation on the Park's Master Plan and the recovery from Hurricane Katrina.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The committee met with the Splash Park architect and decided on a design plan. The committee reviewed and approved the Public Art policy. A favorable bid was received for our re-bid in the miniature golf clubhouse. The Committee also reviewed a plan by Tulane Rowing Club for a facility to house sculls.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported the final installment of Sugar Bowl funds will be used for HVAC for home side concessions, enhanced lighting, and new track equipment at Tad Gonnley Stadium. Tulane will practice track in Tad Gonnley and tennis at the Tennis facility.
Golf - Commissioner Will Tregre commended Billy Casper management for maintenance of the course. The new courses should go out to bid by the end of September. Progress is being made with Bayou District Foundation on the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement and hope to finalize I and adopt at the September meeting. Development - John Hopper reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty-three holes for miniature golf.
Finance - No Report
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee discussed StorylandiGarden entrance. Grow Dat and Urban Farms have requested a compost site. The Audubon Society approached the Park in regards to developing a bird habitat. Discussions are ongoing in regards to developing a maintenance policy for the Festival Grounds.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - No Report I Legal - The committee is reviewing on-going legal issues. 58
Public Relations - Commissioner Karen Fernandez reported five firms will give a website presentation next week.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported Tennis has begun hosting Friday night tennis I socials which have been well received.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the Dog Park will host a Halloween event.
New Business:
Public comment was then invited; there was no public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, September 25,2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Chase, Clarkson, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKay, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Pettus, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brown, Famet, Guidry, Hales, Johnson, McKeithen, Payton, Powell, Romig and Schoen
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Susan Hess, Paul Masinter and Susan Baxter
President Lupo welcomed everyone.
The July minutes were approved.
Chief Operating Officer Rob DeViney reported the Park suffered significant damage from Hurricane Isaac. The damage consisted ofloss or damage to hundreds of trees, lost inventory from power outages, fence damage and lost revenue from facilities closed. Weddings were I moved to the Pavilion due to having generator power. The Park suffered a loss of around $160,000 which will come out of reserves. Becker thanked the Friends who provided funds for work not reimbursable by FEMA and also thanked employees for their hard work to bring back the Park's facilities.
DeViney reported the Governor's Office of Homeland Security assigned a new project manager, whom we worked with in the past, to assist with the rollercoaster damage claim.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing Robert Becker to enter into any and all cooperative endeavor agreements with the Department of the Treasury to secure line item appropriations in the Beautification and Improvement of the New Orleans City Park fund.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Becker reported despite weather conditions operating results for July and August were ahead of budget plan.
A meeting was held with the Director of Civil Service to seek support for an extension and expansion of the Parks unclassified hiring authority. The Director was very supportive of our request and we expect to go before Civil Service Commission in November. I We are in the process of submitting a claim to the state for lost revenue as a result of Hurricane Katrina. The State did not pay for lost revenue because the damages from Katrina were so large they ran out of insurance funds. The State is filing a lawsuit with the insurance carrier for lost revenue and we are submitting our claim to the State's overall claim. We are also submitting a I claim with the State for lost revenue from Hurricane Isaac.
The State adopted a new Performance Evaluation System. The plans are the basis for employee evaluations which will occur next July.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The committee toured the Festival Grounds site and reported the project should be completed by the end of November. The Miniature Golf project is on schedule. Construction of the covered rink at Equest Farms should begin within two weeks and Morning Call is scheduled to open at the end of October.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported Cross Country has relocated to North of 1- 610 and has been well attended.
Golf - Becker met with Bayou District Foundation and the designer, and is scheduled to meet with representatives from the State to review our golf damage claims. Due to Hurricane Isaac, the State granted the designer an extension to October 15th to complete the construction I drawings. Development - Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for thirty-five holes for miniature golf. Becker asked all board members to review the list of potential sponsors for Celebration in the Oaks and notify John Hopper if you know anyone on the list. If anyone has any fond memories or personal stories they would like to share for the year-end mail appeal, contact John Hopper or Linzey Powers. The Park received the third $250,000 installment from Pepsi for their sponsorship of the City ParklPepsi Tennis Center. We also received the final installment of$IOO,OOO from the Sugar Bowl commitment for Tad Gormley stadium. The Park received over $6,000.00 from donors to help with tree damage from Hurricane Isaac.
Finance - Commissioner Bill Hoffman reported inclement weather conditions reduced the revenue for July and August; however expense control was effective at reducing our expenses. The Committee is reviewing the cost of purchasing additional generators for the Park.
Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee toured the Festival Grounds with focus on the Bioswale wetland area. Bioswale is a low lying area which holds water during heavy rain and planted with various aquatic plants designed to remove pollution from surface runoff water. A Wetland conference taking place in New Orleans will be planting in the area. The committee also discussed the planting design for I the Festival Grounds and concentrated on screening the service area adjacent to 1-610 and Le\
providing shade for walking trail. The majority of trees lost in Hurricane Isaac were termite II damaged. NOMA - Paul Masinter reported the New Orleans Museum of Art suffered significant water damage from Hurricane Isaac. The City of New Orleans and FEMA will pay for repairs to the building. Commissioner Liz Sloss reported Magic in the Moonlight is scheduled for October 19th in the Botanical Garden.
Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz reported there will be one vacancy on the board for 2013 and 2014. At the October meeting the names of the officers for 2013 will be submitted and voted on at the November meeting. If anyone knows someone interested in serving on the board, contact Katz. If anyone is interested on serving on a Committee, contact Hoffinan.
Legal- The committee is reviewing on-going legal issues.
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde thanked the staff for working to re-open the facility so quickly after Hurricane Isaac.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events and reported Martini Madness was very successful. Jackie Palumbo reported Lark in the Park is scheduled for March 15th and she, along with Kimberly Zibilich and Helen Smith, will chair the event. The theme is Cabana Night and will take place on the Great Lawn. The funds will be I dedicated towards the Splash Park. The 2012 ornaments are being designed by India Stewart and will be on sale for $15.00.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the Dog Park will host a Halloween event for permit holders.
New Business: Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson asked if the Park had a preventative maintenance program for trees in the Park. Becker reported the Park has a tree survey which is entered in Arbor Pro and is the basis for our preventative program. The Park also has a program with Mosquito and Termite control to treat large Oaks on City Park Avenue.
Public comment was then invited; there was no public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary I Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners was called to order Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Lupo. The meeting was held in the Administration Building.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Clarkson, Fierke, Giffin, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKay, Payton, Pettus, Romig, Schrenk, Shreves and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brown, Chase, DeBlieux, Famet, Fernandez, Guidry, Hales, Laborde, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Powell, Schoen, Slone, Sloss and Tregre
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, Julie LaCour and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Susan Hess and Susan Baxter
President Lupo welcomed everyone.
The September minutes were approved.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for I September reflects the expenses with the recovery from Hurricane Isaac as well as the storm's impact of closing facilities. While a large portion of storm related expenses will be recovered by FEMA, the Park had to pay these costs out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
Bids for the Amusement Park project were received and exceeded the budget. The State will rebid the project.
We had a kickoff meeting with FEMA on our Hurricane Isaac claims, which is the first step toward seeking reimbursement of our expenses.
Director of Special Events, Julie LaCour, reported this is the 14th annual Voodoo Festival. A licensed arborist will be on-site to enforce the Park's Tree Protection policy. Camping will take place on the Rugby field and Voodoo will provide twenty-four hour security.
A ground breaking ceremony was held for the new covered riding rink at Equest Farms. Senator Landrieu spoke at the event. I Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Festival Grounds project should be completed by the end of November. The Miniature Golf I project is on schedule and the Committee is scheduled to tour the site in November. Construction of the Police Stables should begin within a month. Morning Call is scheduled to open at the end of October.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported revenue is down due to cancellation of scheduled games and damage to fields from Hurricane Isaac. The NFL halftime practice will be held in Tad Gormley.
Golf - Becker reported a draft of the proposed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Bayou District Foundation was sent to the Attorney General for review. We received favorable comments from the Attorney General. The plans for the golf course are complete but the State is waiting on FEMA to begin and complete the environmental assessment and take action on our request to version up our damage claims.
Development - No Report
Finance - No Report
Special Events/CITO - No Report I Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Steve Durant, an exhibit designer, will advise on adding artifacts to the Miniature Golf course to differentiate between the Louisiana course and the New Orleans course. Volunteers from the WEFTEC conference planted grass and wetland plants at the Festival Grounds. Volunteers from Shell Oil will plant additional plants and trees in the area. Ace Torre will develop a multi- year landscaping plan for the Festival Grounds. $75,000 was obtained from the State of Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries fund to help shore up an island in Bayou Metairie.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - Commissioner Katz submitted the names of the officers for 2013 that will be put into nomination at this meeting and voted on at the November meeting. Those officers are Bill Hoffman, President, Robert Lupo, Past President, Edmund Schrenk, Vice-President; Ronnie Slone, Vice-President; Karen DeBlieux, Vice-President; Larry Katz, Treasurer; and Jackie Shreves, Secretary. The Committee also recommends Errol Laborde for a second four year term and Susan Hess for an At-Large position on the Board to replace Susan Brennan. The Board will take action on these nominations at the November Board meeting.
Legal - The committee is reviewing on-going legal issues. I Public Relations - No Report Tennis - Rob DeViney reported the Park will host a tennis tournament in conjunction with the New Orleans Bowl.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events and I reported Ghost in the Oaks was very successful. The proceeds will be used to purchase a new train.
Becker reported Commissioner Edmund Schrenk, Dessa Giffin, and several staff members toured Couba Island. Couba Island is approximately 3100 acres. It is owned by City Park Improvement Association and managed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the Dog Park hosted a Halloween event which was very successful. There are currently 2400 permit holders.
New Business: A Resolution was presented to the Board adopting the Compliance questionnaire which is part of our annual audit. The Board unanimously adopted the Resolution.
Public comment was then invited; there was no public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, November 27, 2012 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, November 27, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Robert Lupo. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Chase, Clarkson, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKay, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Payton, Pettus, Schoen and Shreves
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brennan, Brown, Famet, Guidry, Powell, Romig, Slone, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, Julie LaCour and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Susan Hess, Trevor Haynes, Paul Masinter, Leslie Kramer, Mike Rodrigue, Trey Iies, Paul Masinter, IT. Hannan, Gerry Barousse, Kimberly Ziblich and Susan Baxter
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
I President Lupo welcomed everyone.
Chief Executive Officer Bob Becker reported that the NOCPIA applied for a marketing grant from BP and was granted $400,000 over the next two years. Chief Executive Officer Becker acknowledged Linzey Powers, Kevin Cox and John Hopper for their efforts in receiving the grant.
Chief Administrating Officer George Parker introduced Kathy Ellis, who has been hired as the Human Resource Director for the NOCPIA.
President Lupo introduced Leslie Kramer, operator of Equest Farms, who presented the NOCPIA with a check for $35,000 from Tails but no Black Tie, the fund raising event held at the stables. President Lupo thanked Ms. Kramer for the donation and all her work on the event. President Lupo also stated that he was happy to have the new lease signed and excited about the new Covered Riding Rink. The grand opening for the Covered Riding Rink will be March 16,2013, which is also the date for Tails but no Black Tie. The Covered Riding Rink project is estimated to cost approximately $800,000. Equest Farms currently has $350,000 dedicated funds towards the covered rink; Ms. Kramer and family members will donate an additional $300,000 for the completion of the rink. I The October minutes were approved. President Lupo introduced Kimberly Ziblich, co-chair for Lark in the Park, which is scheduled for March 15,2013. Ms. Ziblich updated the Board on the activities planned for the event. Ms. Ziblich reported that the theme for the event is "Cabana Nights," with the funds dedicated toward I the Cabana Plaza in the Splash Park. Ms. Ziblich thanked Capital One for a $25,000 donation and indicated she would like 100% Board participation for the event.
President Lupo then called upon Chief Executive Officer Becker to give an overview of the City Park Golf Complex (the "Golf Complex") and a proposed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement ("CEA") between the NOCPIA and the Bayou District Foundation ("BDF") for the development and construction ofthe Golf Complex.
Chief Executive Officer Becker recapped the history of NOCPIA's efforts to improve the Golf Complex, which began prior to Hurricane Katrina with the development and adoption of the City Park 20lS Master Plan. Funding was requested from the State Capital Outlay Bill to begin the golf improvements, which were estimated at that time to total approximately Twenty Million Dollars ($20,000,000). After City Park experienced extensive damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, it became clear that additional capital would be needed for the planned improvements in addition to the Capital Outlay funds and the damage claim funds coming from FEMA. NOCPIA then sought to issue a Request for Proposals ("RFP") to seek the additional capital. The Attorney General reviewed the RFP and suggested that it also include a request for management services for the Golf Complex. The RFP was revised and issued. Three proposals were received, and the BDF's proposal was selected as most responsive.
The BDF's proposal contributed Eight Million Nine Hundred Thousand Dollars ($S,900,000) of 'I capital (including in-kind goods and services), plus management services for the entire Golf Complex. After receiving the proposal, NOCPIA engaged legal and economic experts to evaluate the proposal and analyze the economic potential of the Golf Complex, which after its development would include two IS-hole golf courses, a driving range, clubhouse and associated facilities, as opposed to the four golf courses City Park operated prior to Hurricane Katrina.
Chief Executive Officer Becker then outlined the agreements that will be necessary to enter into the relationship with the BDF contemplated by the RFP and the BDF proposal. These include (I) a CEA by and between NOCPIA and BDF, which outlines the basic business relationship between the parties; (2) a Management Agreement by and between NOCPIA and BDF, which specifically details how the Golf Complex is to be managed; and (3) an Operating Agreement, which shall be entered into by and between the BDF, as manager of the Golf Complex, and PGA Golf Course Properties, Inc., as the initial operator of the Golf Complex, and sets forth the operational standards for the Golf Complex. The Operating Agreement shall be approved by NOCPIA prior to its execution.
Chief Executive Officer Becker also indicated that during the current negotiation process the design of the new IS- hole golf course has been underway by the State. The State's consultants, Torre Design and Rees Jones Golf, have been assisted by the PGA in the preparation of these I plans. Chief Executive Officer Becker indicated that the Management Report outlined this process in further detail (a copy of which is attached to these Minutes as Attachment A), but the basic terms of the CEA included a term of 35 years, a contribution of Eight Million Nine Hundred Thousand I ($8,900,000) of capital (including in-kind goods and services) by the BDF, an allocation of the Net Operating Income ("Nor") of75% to NOCPIA and 25% to the BDF of the first $1,150,000 ofNOI with any amount ofNOI received in excess of that amount be allocated 55% to CPIA and 45% to the BDF.
Commissioner Tom Fierke asked about the return of contribution of the Management Fee, and Chief Executive Officer Becker indicated that the operator will be paid a Management Fee equal to four percent (4%) of Gross Revenues earned each fiscal year for the operation of the Golf Complex, which is similar to the arrangement NOCPIA currently has with Billy Casper Golf. As set forth by the BDF response to the RFP and as stated in the CEA, the operator will contribute seventy-five percent (75%) of its Management Fee (or three percent (3%) of Gross Revenues) for capital improvements in the Golf Complex.
Commissioner Gerry Schoen asked Mr. Gerry Barousse, a representative of the BDF who had previously made a public comment, what the schedule will be for the implementation of the new golf course. Mr. Barousse indicated that depending on when the State released the plans for bidding, the new golf course would open in either 2014 or 2015.
President Lupo thanked members of the Golf Committee, the Executive Committee, staff, and the BDF for their efforts pertaining to the Golf Complex, and asked if there were any further I public comments. Chief Executive Officer Becker then indicated that City Park Management concurred with the recommendations of the Golf Committee and the Executive Committee, which recommended that the Board of Commissioners of NOCPIA approve the proposed CEA in substantially the form presented, with such changes, amendments and modifications as may be agreed upon by the Chief Executive Officer of New Orleans City Park and the President of NOCPIA, provided that the value of the BDF contributions be verified by said Chief Executive Officer and President and further provided that the CEA not be executed until the Board of Commissioners of NOCPIA approves the Management Agreement between NOCPIA and the BDF.
Commissioner Karen DeBlieux moved to approve the proposed CEA in substantially the form presented, with such changes, amendments and modifications as may be agreed upon by the Chief Executive Officer of NOCPIA and the President of NOCPIA, provided that the value of the BDF contributions be verified by said Chief Executive Officer and President and further provided that the CEA not be executed until the Board of Commissioners of NOCPIA approves the Management Agreement between NOCPIA and the BDF, as recommended by City Park Management, the Golf Committee and the Executive Committee. Commissioner William Hoffman seconded the motion.
After soliciting and receiving public comment, President Lupo called the vote, the result of I which was unanimous in favor, with one abstention. In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for October were slightly below budget, mainly due to the expenses associated with the recovery from Hurricane Isaac as well as the storm's impact of closing facilities. While a large portion of I storm related expenses will be recovered by FEMA, the NOCPIA had to pay these costs out of pocket and wait for reimbursement. The first weekend of Celebration in the Oaks was very successful; attendance was doubled from last year.
Chief Executive Officer Becker reported there was one fatality on the grounds at Voodoo Festival due to a drug overdose. This was the first fatality in fourteen years at the event. Staff has met with the promoter to discuss the incident and the security plans for next year. There were no issues associated with on-site camping for the event.
Committee Report:
A&E - Chief Executive Officer Becker updated the Board on various projects in New Orleans City Park. The Festival Grounds is near completion, and dedication of the project is tentatively th scheduled for December 17 • The miniature golf project is behind schedule but is expected to be complete by the projected date. A section of tent fabric has been replaced with glass at the Arbor Room.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported that Commissioner Edgar Chase was voted Alumnus of the year for Jesuit. I Golf - See above Report. Development - Susan Hess reported sponsorship has been secured for all thirty-six holes of miniature golf, as well as the naming rights for the 2nd course. The 1st course is named for the Stanley Ray Foundation and the 2nd course for FNBC Bank.
Finance - No Report.
Special Events/CITO - No Report.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee discussed the maintenance program to be put in place when miniature golf opens. The soccer fields at the Festival Grounds fields are being sodded with rye grass. Bayou Tree has completed work on raising tree canopy and removing poison ivy. The Committee is working on developing policies for the Festival Grounds to prevent damage during events.
NOMA - Paul Masinter reported Odyssey Ball and Love in the Garden were both very successful.
Nominating - The Board voted unanimously to elect Bill Hoffman, President; Robert Lupo, Past President; Edmund Schrenk, Vice-President; Ronnie Slone, Vice-President; Karen DeBlieux, I Vice-President; Larry Katz, Treasurer; and Jackie Shreves, Secretary. The Board also voted unanimously to elect Errol Laborde for a second four-year term and Susan Hess to one open at large position. President Lupo thanked Commissioner Katz and the Committee for their efforts. I Legal- The Committee is reviewing on-going legal issues. Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported that New Orleans City Park will host a tennis tournament in conjunction with the New Orleans Bowl.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Dessa Giffin reported that Friends is awaiting delivery of the new train with proceeds from Martini Madness and Ghost in the Oaks.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the dog park generated over $100,000 in revenue for the fiscal year. 101 Donations is scheduled for August, 2013.
New Business: Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson thanked Commissioner Larry Katz and the Board for bringing Morning Call to the Park.
Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December I 18,2012 at 4:00 pm. Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I II
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, December 18,2012 at 4:00 p.m. by President Robert Lupo. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brennan, Brooks, Chase, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry (represented by Sherri Wilder), Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, Lupo, McKay, Palumbo, Pappalardo, Pettus, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, Clarkson, Famet, Hales, LaFranca, LeGrand, McKeithen, Payton, Powell, Romig and Schoen
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, Julie LaCour and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Paul Masinter, Joey Richard, David Duplantier, Byron Decodau, Jo Hoddinott, Dan Etheridge, Scott Bernhard, Emilie Taylor, Johanna Gilligan, Leo Gorman, Shannon Templet, Gabrielle Champagne, Beth Donze, Senator Edwin Murray, R. K. Hoddinott and Darryl Hunt
I A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Lupo welcomed everyone.
The November minutes were approved.
President Lupo presented the President's Award to several individuals for their outstanding support of the Park. The recipients were:
Scott Bernhard, Dan Etheridge and Emilie Taylor Appreciation for Creatively Designed Grow Dat Facility
Johanna Gilligan and Leo Gorman Grow Dat Youth Farm
R.K. Hoddinott Fundraising and Support of City Park
Frank Donze Tireless, Accurate and Thoughtful reporting on the Park
Shannon Templet Support and Leadership with the State Civil I Service Commission Senator Edwin Murray Support and Leadership In the Louisiana Senate I Representative Nick LoRusso Support and Leadership in the Louisiana House of Representatives
President Lupo recognized Darryl Hunt the lobbyist retained by the Friends of City Park and thanked him for his service and dedication to the Park.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for November were ahead of budget. FEMA has obligated the debris removal claim which will allow us to submit invoices for reimbursement.
The Park has instituted a change in the admission policy at Celebration in the Oaks. All teenagers under the age of 17 are required to be accompanied by an adult over the age of 21. In addition we also increased security on the weekends to help enforce the policy. There have been no problems since the policy was implemented.
Jeffrey Feil, the donor of the exercise equipment at the Festival Grounds met with Becker, John Hopper and Susan Hess to inspect the equipment. President Lupo thanked everyone who attended the Festival Grounds dedication it was well received by the Mayor.
The Lagasse Foundation has decided not to proceed with their proposed urban farm project on I Zachary Taylor. Becker reviewed a list all completed and upcoming projects of the Park's Master Plan.
Joey Richard with Postlethwaite & Netterville, who is the independent auditor for the Park presented his financial audit and delivered a positive report. He reported there are no negative audit findings.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in New Orleans City Park. The miniature golf project is behind schedule but is expected to be complete by the projected date.
Athletics - No Report
Golf - Commissioner Will Tregre reported Becker is working with FEMA to increase the damage claim. President Lupo and Becker are meeting with Gerry Barousse to discuss outstanding issues.
Development - President Lupo reminded everyone to fulfill their annual pledges by the end of I the year. Finance - Commissioner Karen DeBlieux reported Celebration in the Oaks has exceeded expectations. I Special Events/ClIO - No Report. Horticulture and Grounds - No Report
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - No Report
Legal- The Committee is reviewing on-going legal issues.
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the RL Carriers tennis tournament was very successful and hope to seek sanctioning from the UST A next year.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Dessa Giffin thanked the Park for their help during her term as President and reported Mary Johnson is the new President of Friends.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the dog park has over 2600 permit holders. 101 Donations is scheduled for August 24, 2013 in the Arbor Room. I New Business: President Lupo recognized outgoing Board Members Susan Brennan and Joe Pappalardo. Lupo thanked them for their outstanding service to the Board and distributed commemorative plaques.
Commissioner Bill Hoffman recognized Robert Lupo as outgoing President and presented him with a plaque thanking him for his hard work, leadership and passion as President of the Board and stated he will have big shoes to fill. Becker also thanked Lupo on behalf of the staff for his support, leadership and direction as President. President Lupo wished Commissioner Hoffman the best in his years as President.
Commissioner Bill Hoffman asked Board members to review Board Committee Assignments and advise if there are any changes.
Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson (represented by Susan Baxter), Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hales, Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFrranca, LeGrand, Lupo, McKay, Payton, Pettus, Powell, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Famet, Masinter, McKeithen, Palumbo, Romig Schoen and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, George Parker and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Alan Heintzen
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed everyone and said it has been an exciting twenty-nine days as I Board President. Hoffman thanked Commissioners who serve on a Committee and asked all Commissioners to review the Board Committee Assignments and advise if there are any changes.
The December minutes were approved.
President Hoffman introduced Alan Heintzen, a former Board Member and a member of the PEPCO Board.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for December were ahead of budget. Celebration in the Oaks was very successful and a total of 140,000 people attended the event over thirty-one days. Celebration represents 15% of total revenue for the year.
The dedication for the Festival Grounds was held on December 17'h. Becker thanked all Board Members who attended the dedication. Hogs for the Cause is scheduled for March 23,d on the Festival Grounds with potentially 30,000 people attending.
Several major events revolving around the Super Bowl will be held in the Park including ESPN party and halftime practice in Tad Gormley Sadium, NFL Owner's party in the picnic area next to Amusements, as well as numerous events being held at the Art Museum. The three events in I the Park will produce unbudgeted revenue. Becker is in the process of scheduling a Board Retreat aud will keep you updated on the chosen date. I Committee Report: A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The committee visited the miniature golf site aud reported the building aud course are behind schedule. The Police Stables project is ongoing. Schrenk reviewed projects which are part of Federal Trausportation Appropriations secured by Senator Mary Laudrieu.
Athletics - No Report
Golf - Commissioner Will Tregre reported the State completed the review of construction drawings. We are waiting for FEMA to complete environmental assessment aud review of damage assessment. Once completed the Park cau finalize agreement with Bayou District Foundation aud go out to bid.
Development - Commissioner Susau Hess reported the Park commissioned a Consultant to develop a five-year Strategic Development Piau for the Park. The Executive Committee will review the piau, which will be discussed at the Board Retreat.
Finauce - Commissioner Larry Katz reviewed the Celebration in the Oaks comparative summary from 2012 compared to previous years which reflect a small increase in ride tickets aud a major increase in the Concessions area. The event was very successful despite issues with the train, as I well as the implementation the new minor escort policy. The claim for the roller coaster has been reformatted aud sent to Washington for review.
A discussion took place regarding minimizing long entrauce lines. Mauagement will discuss the issues in a follow up meeting with staff. Laborde asked if we are pleased with the coverage Charmel 8 is providing. Mauagement will meet with the station to evaluate the coverage aud provide suggestions of chauges next year.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin reported the Committee IS working on formulating a Master calendar.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks reported Dan Preziosi has been promoted to Assistant Director of Botanical Garden. The Committee discussed Festival Grounds landscaping and efforts to further shade the path and screen railroad tracks and a portion of Christian Bros. Tulane Grow Dat would like to expand their growing area.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - According to the By-Laws, the President makes all appointments to the Committees with the exception of the Nominating Committee which is voted on by the Board. I The Nominating Committee members are Larry Katz, Errol Laborde, Edgar Chase, Tom Fierke, and Mark Romig. If anyone is interested in serving on the Nominating Committee contact Larry Katz or Bob Becker. The election for the Nominating Committee will be held at the February I meeting. Legal- No Report
Public Relations - John Hopper reported Saks Fifth Avenue has partnered with City Park for the month of February. When you shop and use your Saks credit card they will donate 5% of your total sale to the Park.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the committee is discussing projects for funds allocated by the State Legislature for Tennis. Tulane is currently practicing at the Pepsi Tennis Center.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Friends currently has more than 3500 members. Lark in the Park is scheduled for March 15th and the theme for the event is "Cabana Nights," with the funds dedicated toward the Cabana Plaza in the Splash Park.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported Lindsey Goldring and Zak George from Animal Planet will be at the Dog Park on February 2nd offering training and answering questions.
New Business: Tails But No Black Tie, the fundraiser for Equest Farms, has been tentatively rescheduled for May 18, 2013. I Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 26,2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffinan. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson, Crawford, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hess, Hoffinan, Katz, Laborde, LaFrranca, LeGrand, Lupo, Masinter, McKay, Palumbo, Pettus, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Famet, Hales, Johnson, McKeithen, Payton, Powell, Romig and Tregre
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Leslie Kramer, Susan Baxter
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed everyone and introduced Billy Crawford as the Governor's appointee to the Board. He then thanked Gerry Schoen for his service. The President then I recognized Commissioner Edgar Chase who was named Board Chairman of the Metropolitan Crime Commission. Commissioner Robert Lupo congratulated Commissioner Liz Sloss whose daughter reigned as queen of Rex.
The January minutes were approved.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for January were ahead of budget, mainly due to several major events revolving around the Super Bowl including ESPN party and halftime practice in Tad Gormley Sadium and the NFL Owner's party in the picnic area next to Amusements. The three events in the Park will produce unbudgeted revenue. Year-to-date we are still below budget due to costs associated with Hurricane Issac; we are expecting to be reimbursed 75% of our costs from FEMA.
The first annual Color Run was held in the Park the morning of Endymion parade. This was the first event held on the Festival Grounds and was well attended.
Becker thanked the Friends of City Park for helping with funding to purchase a new fun house the "Wacky Shack" to replace the pirate ship which cannot be repaired. Delivery of the new fun house should take place in June. We are still waiting on action from FEMA on our claim for the I roller coaster. Becker and DeViney participated in a conference call with the Governor's Office, State Department of Facilities Planning, and representatives of FEMA, and learned that FEMA has decided that a complete Environmental Assessment of the golf project will be undertaken. In I addition FEMA will conduct a complete archaeological analysis of the entire 2S0-acre project which will involve shovel testing over the entire ground with more intensive shovel testing in the area between the lagoon and Wisner. This additional testing will delay the project between two to four months from going out to bid.
Becker introduced Leslie Kramer, operator of Equest Farms, who invited all Commissioners to visit the facility to see all improvements and progress of the Covered Riding Rink. The grand opening for the Covered Riding Rink will be May 18,2013, which is also the date for Tails but no Black Tie. Commissioner Robert Lupo encouraged all board members to attend.
The Board Retreat has been scheduled for March I sl from 8:30 to II :30am.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The old tennis courts lot between Irby and Anseman will be paved and become a parking lot. The H&G Committee will devise a landscaping plan for the area. The contractors for the miniature golf project have made significant progress over the last month but are still behind schedule. The footprint of the covered rink at Equest Farms is extensive although the building is not very high. The Committee visited Christian Bros School to discuss the school's request to fence in the campus due to increase traffic from the Festival Grounds. The Committee is working with them I on a plan acceptable to both parties. Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported the event held by ESPN in Tad Gormley Stadium caused damage to the field, track and the gravel parking lot. All repairs have been completed. Tad Gormley hosted the State Soccer Championship which was well attended. A discussion took place in regards to the need of better coordination between departments regarding scheduling of events. Tulane track team, as well as the New Orleans Voodoo, are practicing in Tad Gormley Stadium.
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess encouraged everyone to review the five-year Strategic Development Plan for the Park, which Julia Walker will present at the board retreat. President Hoffman reported the Executive Committee held a special meeting to review the plan and is looking forward to everyone's imput. The plan will significantly impact the future of fundraising capabilities.
Finance - No Report
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on future events. Giffin reported the Rock n Roll Marathon has acknowledged responsibility for damage to the grounds I due to rain. The Committee is working on formulating a Master calendar. Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee is planning a board planting day in May at Miniature Golf. Bayou Tree is I scheduled to remove over one hundred trees and move four Live Oak trees from the Golf course in May. The Park currently has over 20,000 trees. The Committee discussed ways to address drainage issues on the Festival Grounds. Paul Soniat and Dan Preziosi are developing plans to screen the service area adjacent to 1-610 corridor. The Committee also discussed replacing the City Park hedge along Lelong Avenue with funds dedicated for maintenance from the Lelong family. Commissioner Liz Sloss asked if the Live Oak trees will survive the move. John Benton of Bayou Tree reported he had great success in the past with the process.
NOMA - Paul Masinter reported NOMA hosted numerous events in conjunction with the Super th Bowl. Johannah Brown reported Art in Bloom is scheduled for March 20 . David Edwards is the new Chair of the Museum. Discussions are ongoing in regards to expansion plans of the Sculpture Garden.
Nominating - According to the By-Laws, the President makes all appointments to the Committees with the exception of the Nominating Committee which is voted on by the Board. The 2013 Nominating Committee consist of Commissioners Larry Katz, Errol Laborde, Tom Fierke, Mark Romig and Edgar Chase. The Board unanimously re-elected Commissioners Katz, Laborde and Fierke to a fourth term, Commissioner Romig to a third term and Commissioner Chase to a second term, Commissioner Fernandez and Giffin to a first term. President Hoffman thanked everyone for serving on the Committee. I Legal- Paul Masinter reported the committee is reviewing on-going legal issues. Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported Tennis has begun hosting Friday night Tennis socials which have been well received.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Jackie Palumbo reported Friends currently has more than 3500 members. Lark in the Park is scheduled for March 15 th and the theme for the event is "Cabana Nights," with the funds dedicated toward the Cabana Plaza in the Splash Park. The Friends have secured a Subaru Outback and Vespa to be raffled. Board members are not eligible to participate in raffle. Commissioner Susan Hess encouraged everyone to participate in Lark in the Park which will towards your Park contribution.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported 101 Donations fundraiser is scheduled for August 24th in the Arbor Room.
New Business: Becker reported the black swan is still in the hospital and will hopefully be returned to the Park in a week. Commissioner Errol Laborde suggested that when a final proposal is advanced for the fence at Christian Bros. that the entire board discuss the issue. I Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, I 2013 at 4:00 pm. Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, March 26, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Chase, Clarkson (represented by Susan Baxter), Crawford, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry (represented by Sherri Wilder), Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LeGrand, Lupo, Masinter, McKay, Palumbo, Pettus, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Fernandez, Hess, LaFranca, McKeithen, Payton, Powell, and Romig
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, George Parker and Denise Joubert
GUESTS:
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed everyone and reported the Annual Meeting of the City Park I Improvement Association was held this morning. Becker reviewed the status of City Park's Master Plan at the meeting.
Hoffman indicated, discussions are ongoing in regards to the John F. Kennedy site.
Hoffinan thanked all Board Members who attended the Board Retreat and reported a Development Boot Camp will be held on April 4th from II :30 to 12:45.
Chief Administrative Officer, George Parker, reported effective January I, 2013 all employees and Commissioners are required to complete mandatory ethics training which is available online. When completed Commissioners should give a copy of the Certificate of Completion to Denise Joubert for the file. The Personal Financial Disclosure forms are due in Baton Rouge by May 15 th.
The February minutes were approved.
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for February were ahead of budget, mainly due to several major events revolving around the Super Bowl. Year-to-date we are still below budget due to costs associated with Hurricane Issac; we I are expecting to be reimbursed 75% of our costs from FEMA. Special Events Director, Julie LaCour, reported the Hogs for the Cause fundraiser held on March 22 and 23,d was a tremendous success. Some traffic problems were encountered as it was a busy weekend with the Sugar Bowl Track Meet occurring on the same days.
I A concert was held in Pan American Stadium on March 17'h. Several complaints were received in regards to the loudness of the music which we addressed with the promoter and the Criminal Sheriff's office.
A meeting was held with the State and FEMA about the status of our roller coaster claim. FEMA agreed that the damage to the coaster was storm related and not deferred maintenance. FEMA asked for further testing on the coaster's structure which we are in the process of ordering.
FEMA is in the process of completing the Environmental Assessment of the golf course project.
Grow Dat has requested additional acreage for their Urban Farm project. Management is reviewing the request.
Loyola University has decided not to pursue their proposal for a baseball facility in the Park.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The old Tennis lot between Irby and Anseman will be paved and continue as a parking lot. DOTD changes are being made to the Bike Path on Marconi. The contractors for the miniature golf I project have made significant progress over the last month. The course should be completed by the end of March while the building should be completed by April 24th. The Committee visited Christian Bros School to discuss the school's request to fence in the campus due to increase traffic from the Festival Grounds. The Committee is working with them on a plan acceptable to both parties.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported repairs from the event held by ESPN in Tad Gormley Stadium have been completed. The field at Pan American needs to be replaced and should be under warranty. The fields at the Festival Ground are rented three nights a week for soccer and kickball leagues. The 2013 football draw took place with 21 games scheduled for Tad Gormley and 44 games at Pan American stadium. Discussions are ongoing with the Chicago Fire in regards to their contract. Anyone interested in serving on the Athletic Services Committee contact Andrea LeGrand or Bill Hoffman.
Golf - No Report
Development - No Report
Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz reported concessions net margins increased over the last eight months. Since Morning Call opened, the revenue of the gift shop increased. Becker report I the endowment has reached $2.6 million; we started at $43,000. Special Events/CITO - No Report
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. The Committee discussed landscaping plans for the Festival Grounds, Miniature Golf, and the I new Botanical Garden entrance. The Committee also discussed the City Park hedge along Lelong Avenue with funds dedicated for maintenance from the Lelong family. Further discussions took place in regards to developing plans to screen the service area adjacent to 1-610 corridor. The Committee is planning a board planting day in May at Miniature Golf.
NOMA - Paul Masinter reported Art in Bloom was successful.
Nominating - No Report
Legal - Paul Masinter reported the committee is reviewing on-going legal issues. The Executive Committee approved a new contract for Golf legal consultant. Commissioner Steve Pettus is working with the Committee on By-Laws revisions
Public Relations - Becker reported the Park submitted a 2nd round grant application request for the BP marketing fund.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the second annual Grand Slam Tennis tournament was successful and thanked Commissioner Larry Katz for his donation.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Lark in the Park was a tremendous I success. Johnson thanked the Board and City Park staff for their help and support. Johnson asked all board members to pass along any feedback received. Commissioner Will Tregre congratulated the Friends for a phenomenal event.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported the Dog Park is celebrating its third anniversary on March 27th and giving away 200 tickets to Zephyr's Bark in the Park lfi.ame on April 14th at Zephyr Stadium. 101 Donations fundraiser is scheduled for August 24t in the Arbor Room.
New Business: Becker reported the Park has been searched numerous times for the missing teacher. Commissioner Tregre and Fierke suggested installing crosswalks on Henry Thomas and Palm Drive and on Marconi by soccer fields.
Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23, 2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, April 23, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Chase, Clarkson (represented by Natalie Mitchell), Crawford, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Hales, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, McKay, Palumbo, Pettus, Powell, Romig, Schrenk, Shreves, Slone, Sloss, and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Brown, DeBlieux, Famet, Guidry, Hess, Lupo, Masinter, McKeithen, Payton, and Tregre
STAFF: Bob Becker, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, George Parker and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Alan Heintzen, Leslie Kramer, Jude Olinger, Megan Holstine
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed everyone and congratulated Bob Becker for being selected by the I University of New Orleans College of Liberal Arts "Alumnus of the Year." Hoffman also reminded everyone the Personal Financial Disclosure forms are due in Baton th Rouge by May 15 •
The March minutes were approved.
The LPO Swing in the Oaks is scheduled for April 24th at 6:30pm on the Great Lawn.
Hoffman introduced Leslie Kramer, operator of Equest Farms, who reported the Covered Riding Rink is complete and the grand opening is scheduled for May 18t\ which is also the date for Tails but no Black Tie.
Becker introduced Jude Olinger and Megan Holstine of the Olinger Group who presented the 2012 Needs Assessment Survey to the Board. Highlights include favorable response to the Park's activities, as well as an increase in the number of visits to the Park.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing the application for a State Recreational Trails grant for bicycle amenities as well as a small trailside pavilion on Scout Island.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing Robert Becker to accept construction of the Tri-Centennial Place Parking State Project through the Louisiana Department of Transportation I and Development. Bl
In his Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for March were ahead of budget. Year-to-date we are still below budget due to costs associated with I Hurricane Isaac; we are expecting to be reimbursed 75% of our costs from FEMA. The Jefferson Chamber held an event in the Park which is the first time this meeting has been held outside of Jefferson.
Becker reported that $2,650,000 has been placed in the Governor's recommended capital budget and filed in HB 2 for the City Park Maintenance Complex improvements. The funds still have to go through the Legislative Session and remain in the Capital Outlay bill.
The schedule of events for the opening of Miniature Golfis as follows: nd • May 22 - Sponsor Event 6-9pm rd • May 23 - rain date for sponsor event • May 24th - Grand Opening 10:30am
Commissioner Tom Fierke asked if the Park decided not to develop a landscaping plan to screen the service area adjacent to 1-610 corridor. Becker stated he participated in a conference call with the Regional Planning Commission who contracted a noise consultant to discuss a scope of work to develop recommendations for sound walls along 1-610. A landscaping plan is in prepartation.
Committee Report: I A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Christian Brothers requested the Park allow the school to erect a perimeter fence to provide extra security to the school's campus. The school is proposing to erect a black vinyl-coated 4' chain link fence to the rear of the school and a4' aluminum fence on the front sides of the school The fences would be erected on a concrete mow strip. The A&E committee voted to allow the Christian Brothers to erect the fence with several considerations. The Committee also discussed parking conflicts presented by Delgado students using the Park.
Athletics - No Report
Golf - FEMA is in the process of completing the Environmental Assessment of the golf course project. The archeological analysis has been completed and we are waiting on the report.
Development - John Hopper reported the committee is fundraising for several capital projects. Cork in the Park is scheduled for May 17th in the Pavilion of Two Sisters. Amanda Frentz has been promoted to Media Manager. The new website is scheduled to launch mid-May. The Park has 33,000 likes on Facebook compared to Gambit that has 19,000 likes. The Black Swan is still at the veterinarian recovering from ACL surgery. Commissioner Mary Johnson requested a list of City Putt donors prior to opening. I Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz reported the Park had a great year in 2012. This year was budgeted conservatively, through good management we were able to exceed profit forecast and I keep revenue in line with last year. Special Events/ClTO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin the Committee is working on formulating a Master calendar. The Committee is working on enhancing Celebration in the Oaks preview party.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand updated the Board on various projects. The Committee toured Miniature Golf facility and discussed landscaping plans for the facility. A Board work day has been scheduled for May II th to complete the planting at Miniature Golf.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - No Report
Legal- Commissioner Steve Pettus reported the Committee is working on By-Laws revisions
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Southwestern Athletic Conference Tennis tournament was successful. The Sunbelt conference requested to submit a bid for 2014. I Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Friends currently has over 3700 members. The Friends have secured a Subaru Outback be raffled through July 24th. Board members are not eligible to participate in raffle.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported a pet adoption event is scheduled for the next three weekends. 101 Donations, NOLA City Bark's fundraiser for improvements at the Dog Park is scheduled for August 24th in the Arbor Room.
New Business:
Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
I Jackie Shreves Secretary MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson (represented by Susan Baxter), Cra\\ford, DeBlieux, Fierke, Guidry, Hales, Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Masinter, Palumbo, Shreves, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Famet, Fernandez, Giffin, Lupo, McKay, McKeithen, Payton, Pettus, Powell, Romig, Schrenk and Slone
STAFF: Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, George Parker and Denise Joubert
GUESTS:
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed everyone and congratulated Errol Laborde for winning the National City and Regional Magazine Association Award for "Column" for his monthly column I in New Orleans Magazine.
Hoffman reported "Cork in the Park" and "Tail But No Black Tie" were very successful.
The April minutes were approved.
In his President's report, Hoffman reported that he, Becker, and Robert Lupo met with Mayor Landrieu and briefed him on the Park's progress and discussed issues important to the Park. President Hoffman also met with Senator Landrieu who is very optimistic the JFK land swap deal will be completed.
The new website has launched; contact John Hopper or Amanda Frentz if you have any comments. A commercial paid for by the BP grant is being shown on the internet in outer market cities.
In the Management Report, Chief Operations Officer Rob DeViney reported the opening of City Putt was very successful. DeViney thanked John Hopper and his staff for PR coverage of the City Putt grand opening and the launch of the new website.
DeViney reported that $2,650,000 has been placed in the Governor's recommended capital budget and filed in HB 2 for the City Park Maintenance Complex improvements. The funds still I have to go through the Legislative Session and remain in the Capital Outlay bill. A meeting was held with the State and FEMA in regards to the roller coaster. FEMA requested further testing on the coaster's structure. We are waiting for the results from a metallurgist. The I new fun house the "Wacky Shack," funded in part by Friends of City Park, is scheduled for delivery on June l2'll.
Committee Report:
A&E - No Report
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand updated the Board on upcoming events. LeGrand reported general maintenance work is underway for the upcoming football season.
Golf - The archeological analysis has been completed and we are waiting on the report. The number of rounds of golf is down 20% mainly due to inclement weather conditions. Commissioner Tregre commended Billy Casper Management for keeping expenses down despite a decrease in the number of rounds played.
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported Liz Sloss is Co-Chair of the Development committee. Hess requested board members notify the committee if they know anyone interested in representing the Park outside the region. The committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Roller Coaster and the Botanical Garden. The committee will also begin focusing on Planned Giving for the Park. I Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz noted some interesting trends that bode well for the Park, which he attributed to good management by Bob and the staff. However, Hurricane Isaac costs total around $500,000, of which $375,000 are expected to be reimbursed. While rounds at golf are down fairly significantly, lower costs have allowed net to only be below plan by $26,000. Also, the Lady Bug is out of service, but revenues are slightly up over last year. Furthermore, these operations have high margins with nearly 50% of revenue dropping to the bottom line. While Concessions appears to be down over $200,000, actually this is because we budgeted operating Parkview whereas we are actually collecting rent from Morning Call. Excluding this effect we are actually up $19,000. Also, the Jr. Olympics was in last year's results, which generates close to $100,000 in revenue. Most encouraging is that the net and net margins are higher and he gave praise to the efforts of Chad Harper, the Park's new Concessions Director for implementing better service and cash controls. Athletic Services, which traditionally has lost money, is actually net positive year to date and Larry thanked Andrea LeGrand and Denise Joubert for their good work. Finally, Larry pointed out that not only were Catering operations higher from a revenue standpoint, but also had higher margins. As more and bigger events are booked, a higher percentage drops to the bottom line because there are a certain amount of fixed costs associated with these operations.
Special Events/CITO - President Hoffman reported the Committee is working on enhancing the Celebration in the Oaks preview party. The Committee is working on an event scheduled for I July 3'd on the Great Lawn. The Marine Corp band is scheduled to perform. Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks thanked everyone who attended board planting day. The Committee discussed landscape maintenance at City Putt to control torpedo grass. Several trees planted near the shelter at the I Festival Grounds are impeding the solar panels and need to be moved. Trees are being marked for the 1-610 corridor planting, which will be done in sections.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the World's Fair Exhibit is currently on display at the museum. Becker participated in a panel discussion on the 1984 World's Fair.
Nominating - No Report
Legal- Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the Committee is reviewing on-going legal issues.
Public Relations - Commissioner Edgar Chase reported the committee discussed analytics tracking of the Park's media-buys.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Sunbelt conference requested to submit a bid for 2014.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Friends sold 21 new memberships the first weekend of City Putt. The Friends have secured a Subaru Outback be ramed through July 24th. Board members are not eligible to participate in rame. A Public Service Announcement for the car raffle will air now through July 24th. Commissioner Johnson thanked Commissioner Larry Katz for including Friends in Dots Diners Charity contest. Friends came in I second place and won $1000.00. Shon Cowan Baker and Ashley Lauren Barocco will chair Martini Madness.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported there are more than 1800 permit holders. 101 Donations, NOLA City Bark's fundraiser for improvements at the Dog Park, will be held August 24th in the Arbor Room. The new Dog Park T-Shirt will be unveiled soon.
New Business: New Orleans City Park was named one of the top 20 most beautiful city parks in the world by Travel and Leisure magazine.
DeViney asked everyone to keep Beau Bassich's son Jimmy in your prayers, he is gravely ill.
Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary 93
Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Crawford, Clarkson (represented by Susan Baxter) DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, McKay, Palumbo, Pettus, Schrenk, Sloss and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, Chase, Famet, Hales, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, Masinter, McKeithen, Payton, Powell, Romig, Shreves, Slone and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, George Parker and Julie LaCour
GUESTS: Susan Lavie, Brendan Minihan
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed and thanked everyone for coming. I The May minutes were approved.
Public comment was then invited; Susan Lavie spoke on behalf of the Mid City Volleyball Group in regards to the potential to construct sand volleyball courts in the Park. Becker responded that he asked the City for $2 million to fund a first-class volleyball complex and we would probably not construct just one or two courts.
Brendan Minihan spoke on behalf of high school Cross Country coaches who want to improve the course and provide a better experience for the runners. Becker responded he would like to make the course safer and minimize the damage to the grounds, with the understanding this is not a commitment to a permanent cross country course.
In his President's report Hoffman reported the Park had a successful Legislative Session; we received funding for the Splash Park as well as the Maintenance Complex. Becker reported the Louisiana Children's Museum received their project allocation in Priority 5.
In the Management Report Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for May were below budget, the main reason was increased expenses. Year-to-date we are still below budget due to costs associated with Hurricane Isaac; we are expecting to be reimbursed 75% of I our costs from FEMA. • Becker reported FEMA completed its environmental review of the golf course project and signed a "Finding of No Significant Impact". We are still waiting for final FEMA action on our damage request which will help us finalize our funding for the entire plan. I The State included language in HB2 which gives flexibility to pre-qualify golf course contractors. Only contractors certified by Golf Course Contractors Association will be allowed to bid on the project.
• The City Council passed the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement which enables funds to be transferred to the State for the Splash Park project. Becker thanked Councilwoman Guidry and Clarkson for their support.
• Staff met with the promoter of Voodoo Music Experience to review the new site plan for the Festival Grounds.
• Field Turf agreed to replace the synthetic field at Pan American under its warranty program with an option to install an upgraded field at a reduced cost.
• The new "fun house" attraction for amusements arrived and is being installed.
Chief Executive Officer Becker and Controller Kevin Cox presented and reviewed management's recommendations for the 2013-2014 operating budget. The recommended budget recognizes a continued loss in State general operating support and addresses this loss of revenue through increases in self-generated revenue. After review, Commissioner Tom Fierke moved to adopt the recommended budget Commissioner Edmund Schrenk seconded the motion and the I Board unanimously adopted the 2013-2014 budget.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The committee discussed parking conflicts presented by Delgado students using the Park. The Park hired a consultant to conduct traffic impact analysis. Additional parking will be added to the volunteer area for access to Couturie Forest which will be funded by a grant and Friends of City Park. Christian Brothers has installed the fence along the back side of the school.
Athletics - Becker reported the Park was awarded the 2014-2015 State Soccer Championships at Tad Gormley.
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Liz Sloss reported the Committee discussed developing a Live Oak Society with funds dedicated for Park operations. The committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Roller Coaster and the Botanical Garden.
Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz noted year to date revenues were $11,000 lower, while I expenses were $116,000 higher than prior year. The bulk of increased expenses include 9l,o
advertising expenses as a result of City Putt, Hurricane Isaac expenses, grand opening party for donors of City Putt and additional one-time item expenses for City Putt.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin reported the Zombie Run was well attended. I rd Julie LaCour reported on the event scheduled for July 3 on the Great Lawn. The Marine Corp band and the Navy band are scheduled to perform.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks reported four large Chinese Elms were planted in City Putt to provide immediate shade. The Committee discussed drainage on Festival Grounds being routed towards bio-swale. The Committee requested Voodoo being confined to the Festival Grounds.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz reported there are no vacancies for new board members in 2013. In 2014 there will be several vacancies therefore any board members wishing to nominate potential candidates to serve on the Board should submit names to Commissioner Larry Katz.
Legal- Commissioner Steve Pettus reported the Committee is working on By-Laws revisions
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Becker reported the Committee discussed upcoming tournaments as well as upcoming I capital projects. Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported the committee has begun working on Martini Madness. The Friends newsletter, which is the membership issue, was mailed. This issue will list all benefits and should help educate members. John Hopper gave a tour of Couturie Forest to members. Additional tours are scheduled for the Carousel and the Ancient Live Oaks. Friends Fest is scheduled for July 24th.
Dog Park - No Report
New Business:
Additional public comment was then invited; there was no additional public comment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at 4:00 pm.
Julie LaCour I Recording Secretary Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I
I 98
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Chase, Clarkson, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry (represented by Diana Raphael), Hess, Hoffman, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, Masinter, Palumbo, Payton, Romig, Shreves and Sloss
ABSENT: Commissioners Brown, Crawford, Famet, Hales, Johnson, McKay, McKeithen, Pettus, Powell, Schrenk, Slone, Tregre and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, Denise Joubert and Julie LaCour
GUESTS: Graham Hayes, Allison Marquette, Lance Hatten, Joe Llewellyn, Clay Latimer, Ricardo Gutierrez, Susan Baxter
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting. I President Hoffman welcomed and thanked everyone for coming. The June minutes were approved.
In his President's Report, Hoffman congratulated Julie LaCour on a successful July 3rd event on the GoldringIWoldenberg Great Lawn. The Marine and Navy bands played, along with a fireworks display. Julie LaCour stated the Marines were pleased to perform and are hopeful this will become an annual July 3rd event. Commissioner Susan Hess recommended sending pictures ofthe event to Mr. Goldring.
In the Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported the fiscal year ended on th June 30 ; operating results were below budget due to expenses incurred from Hurricane Isaac and our inability to be reimbursed 75% of the damage by FEMA. Staff and our attorney met with the General Counsel of the Governor's Office to discuss our reimbursement requests for Hurricanes Isaac and Gustav and are hopeful progress will be made soon. Operating results for June were ahead of budget. City Putt continues to do well and helped us achieve our financial results in June.
• Becker reported the paving of Filmore is near completion, wildflowers have been planted north side of Filmore. • A meeting took place with New Orleans Museum of Art to discuss a revised plan for the I expansion of the Sculpture Garden. 99
• A meeting was held with representatives of cross country to discuss preparation of the course. • Work continues on the Cooperative Endeavor Agreements with the Louisiana Children's I Museum, Tulane Grow Dat, and Bayou District Foundation. • The annual Zulu Picnic was held at the Festival Grounds with minimal issues. • The contractor for the permanent pumping station on the Orleans Canal has begun to set up a staging area on Marconi and Robert E. Lee. We are planning to meet with the contractor in regards to the restrictions required as part of the right of entry process. • Becker presented the capital requests before the City Planning Commission at their annual budget hearing. • Earl Sires has been hired as the new Volunteer Coordinator.
Committee Report:
A&E - Becker updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The committee discussed the potential of the Sculpture Garden expansion. Due to construction in the Amusement Park, the price of ride bands has been reduced. The State is in the process of finalizing the plans for the new golf course. The project should go out to bid in August and open in spring of 2016. The State agreed to only accept bids from contractors certified by Golf Course Contractors Association.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported Athletic Services, which traditionally has lost money, was over budget for the year. LeGrand thanked Tony Biagas and Denise Joubert for the success. The Park was awarded the 2014-2015 State Soccer Championships at Tad Gormley. I Field Turf agreed to replace the synthetic field at Pan American under its warranty program with an option to install an upgraded field at a reduced cost. The field at Tad Gormley was also tested and proved to be in good condition.
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Liz Sloss reported the Committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Roller Coaster. Ten cars are available for sponsorship at $25,000 each.
Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz noted that City Putt rounds in July had not dropped off from the stellar performance in June, so the momentum is continuing. Lots of activity on the Great Lawn, higher attendance at the Botanical Gardens and Morning Call bodes well for the Park. In fact, Parkview Gift Shop (next to Morning Call) sales were almost $60,000 ahead of budget, which translate into roughly $30,000 in additional net.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin reported the Louisiana Seafood Festival will th th be held October 11 , 12'\ and 13 at the Festival Grounds. Sponsorship letters for Celebration in the Oaks will be mailed soon.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks reported the committee discussed a plan to redesign the landscaping in City Putt. Four I large Chinese Elms were planted in City Putt to provide immediate shade and a misting system 100
has been installed. The Committee also discussed the need for improvements along the water edge by the Girl Scout Cabin and a new phase of replacement of Overcup Oak trees with Live Oak trees along Roosevelt Mall. Work has begun on limbing up Oak Trees along Robert E. Lee, Wisner, and Harrison. The Committee also discussed the need to move forward with a I comprehensive composting plan.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported on a meeting with NOMA to discuss possibilities of expansion areas.
Nominating - No Report
Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the Committee is working on the Management and Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for the golf course.
Public Relations - Commissioner Edgar Chase reported the Committee discussed branding of the Park and the possibility of a photographic contest to highlight iconic parts of the Park. The Committee also suggested having a donate/paypal button on Facebook. Commissioner Karen Fernandez suggested offering bike rental tours to increase utilization of the Park. The Committee also discussed analytics tracking of the Park's media-buys and website. Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson suggested social media to promote the entire Park because the majority of people have no concept of everything the Park has to offer.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the summer camp program is very successful. The Park secured Southwestern Athletic Conference and the Sunbelt Conference tournaments for I 2014. Friends of City Park - Commissioner Jackie Palumbo reported Friends Fest will be held tomorrow night in Amusements. Martini Madness is scheduled for September 20th in the Arbor Room.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported there are more than 2000 permit holders. 101 Donations, NOLA City Bark's fundraiser for improvements at the Dog Park, will be held August 24th in the Arbor Room. The new Dog Park T-Shirt is on sale for $20.00.
New Business: Becker reported that last year the Orleans Levee District abandoned the servitude of the banks of Bayou St. John and the Park assumed jurisdiction. As a result the Park will become more involved in regulating the banks and water of the Bayou.
Becker passed out and reviewed an article on East Baton Rouge Parish Recreation (BREC) which, unlike the Park, receives the majority of its revenue from property taxes. The article addresses the need for increased funding and the challenges of finding new ways to generate more revenue.
Becker reported the proposal of Mid-City Volleyball Group to construct sand volleyball courts I along Bayou St. John was rejected. This group had previously approached the Park in regards to I DI
the potential of bringing sand volleyball to the Park. Becker stated that he included in his capital budget request to the City $2 million to fund a first -class volleyball complex. I Public comment was then invited; Clay Latimer and Ricardo Guitterez of the DeSaix Neighborhood Association addressed the Board with concerns regarding the Zulu Picnic on the Festival Grounds particularly with regard to traffic control and trash pickup. Julie LaCour agreed to notify the President of the Neighborhood Association of upcoming events on the Festival Grounds. Becker said he appreciates their support of the Park.
Becker introduced Lance Hatten, Superintendent of John Lafitte and New Orleans Jazz National Park who provided information on services the Parks provide to the Community. Becker thanked him for coming and said if there is an opportunity to partner on any programs or events let him know.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 24,2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves I Secretary
I MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Chase, Clarkson, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry (represented by Diana Raphael), Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Palumbo, Payton, Schrenk, Shreves and Slone
ABSENT: Commissioners Brown, Crawford, DeBlieux, Famet, Hales, Lupo, Masinter, McKay, McKeithen, Pettus, Powell, Romig, Sloss, Tregre and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Susan Baxter, Jay Proskovec, Brandy Barbarin, Peter Hickman, Allison Marquette and Susan Lavie
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting. I President Hoffman welcomed and thanked everyone for coming. The July minutes were approved.
In his President's Report, Hoffman reported he is in the process of contacting all board members to discuss strategies to increase development activity. Hoffman recognized Commissioner Jane Brooks whose husband Walter Brooks has been selected to receive an "Excellence in Government" award from the Bureau of Governmental Research.
Becker introduced Jay Proskovec of PCCP Constructors. He gave a presentation on the construction of the Orleans Pumping Station. Commissioner Tom Fierke asked if there are any plans to do community service, Mr. Proskovec said there is a team building group funded by the Joint Venture actively looking for places in the community to volunteer.
In the Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for July and August are ahead of plan which is very encouraging considering July and August is typically one of our weakest periods for generating revenue. City Putt continues to do well and helped us achieve our financial results. Amusements did surprisingly well considering the challenges with the ongoing construction project.
• Becker reported FEMA agreed the damage to the roller coaster was a result of Hurricane Katrina. Becker thanked Rob DeViney for his hard work and persistence. We await the I final paperwork from FEMA before we can sign a contract for the new ride. 103
• Louis Bischoff, the former golf course superintendent for Billy Casper Golf has been hired as the new Director of Grounds Maintenance. • FEMA agreed to increase the value of our golf damage claims to recognize additional I damage not recorded in the original project worksheets. • Planning meetings were held with Rehage Entertainment on the site plan and security st nd arrangement for Voodoo Music Experience which is scheduled for November 1 , 2 and 3'd in the Festival Grounds. Commissioner Fernandez discussed the need of shuttle buses for the event. Kevin Cox discussed the Park's compensation for the event. • City Park has been designated one of the "Great Places in Louisiana" awarded by AARP, the Center for Planning Excellence, and Louisiana Travel.com. • Beau Bassich is being honored by St. Elizabeth's Guild as a Hall of Fame Activist. • Walter Brooks, the Executive Director of the Regional Planning Commission, was selected to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Bureau of Governmental Research. Mr. Brooks has been a longtime supporter of the Park and principally responsible for the repaving of Filmore and Harrison.
A Resolution was unanimously passed authorizing Robert Becker to enter into any and all cooperative endeavor agreements with the Department of the Treasury to secure line item appropriations in the "Beautification and Improvement of the New Orleans City Park fund."
I Committee Report: A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. A presentation was made to the committee from Global Green and Dana Brown on best practices and sustainability for future construction projects. The Park is moving forward with the co operative endeavor agreement for The Children's Museum.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported ESPN will broadcast the St. Augustine vs. John Curtis football game scheduled for Friday, October 4th at Tad Gormley Stadium. The committee discussed plumbing issues at Tad Gormley as well as the possibility of the scoreboard in Tad Gormley which is over ten years old being replaced in the next year. Field Turf agreed to replace the synthetic field at Pan American under its warranty program with an option to install an upgraded field at a reduced cost. A proposal was sent to the Brees Foundation to assist with the cost of the upgraded field. The Louisiana Fire Soccer contract is close to being resolved.
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported the Committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Roller Coaster. Ten cars are available for sponsorship at $25,000 each.
Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz stated that all significant financial items were covered under I the Management Report section. Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events. Sponsorship letters for Celebration in the Oaks have been mailed and would like 100% participation from the Board. Giffin thanked Amanda Frentz for creating a new Celebration in the Oaks website and marketing campaign. Giffin also thanked the Claverie family for chairing I the Children's Preview Party. President Hoffman encouraged all board members to participate in the event.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks mentioned the wildflowers are in bloom on Roosevelt Mall in front of Tad Gormley Stadium. The committee discussed the need to hire a tree service to monitor the ground work for the new Lady Bug structure to ensure tree protection, as well as potential improvements on Lelong A venue and options for landscaping in front of Morning Call. Additional discussion considered a new phase of replacing the Overcup Oak trees with Live Oak trees along Roosevelt Mall and planting trees for shade along the path of the Festival Grounds. Brooks is working on a draft of a new policy for the Ancient Grove Oaks to provide for additional care. Several Palm trees on Anseman were removed due to a fungus.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz reported there are no vacancies on the Board for 2014. If anyone is interested in serving as President elect for 2014 and President for 2015-2016, contact Katz. Also Commissioners Edgar Chase, Edmund Schrenk and Marjorie McKeithen I st four year term ends December 31, 2013 and will be considered for a 2nd four year term. I Legal- No Report Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the Monday night Saints football game will have a significant impact on Tennis.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Martini Madness was successful. There are currently 3S00 members, and the retention rate increased significantly over the last couple of years. The Friends newsletter was mailed and includes the timeline and history of Friends events. The issue also includes a financial chart of events over the years. Stephanie Kaston has been hired to replace Casey Duplechain. Ghost in the Oaks is scheduled for Oct ISIh th and 19 .
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported 101 Donations was very successful. The funds will be used for a shelter and walkway in the small dog park. Shreves thanked Councilwoman Clarkson and Guidry for attending the event. The committee is working on implementing educational programs with public schools to teach proper care of dogs. Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson thanked Shreves for a fabulous event and suggested changing the pricing structure to attract a younger crowd. I New Business: /05
Public comment was then invited; Susan Lavie and Peter Hickman spoke on behalf of the Mid City Volleyball Group in regards to the potential to construct sand volleyball courts in the Park. I Becker responded at this time there is no plan to construct volleyball courts but he has asked the City for $2 million to fund a first-class volleyball complex.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I
I I D(p
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIAnON I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Brown, Chase, Clarkson, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry (represented by Diana Raphael), Hales, Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, Masinter, McKay, Pettus, Powell, Romig, Schrenk, Shreves and Sloss
ABSENT: Commissioners Crawford, Famet, Laborde, McKeithen, Palumbo, Payton, Slone, Tregre and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper, Julie LaCour and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Peter Hickman
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed and thanked everyone for coming. Hoffman mentioned Becker is I being honored by Family Service as one of the Most Outstanding People for 2013 and will be rd honored at a gala held on October 23 •
The September minutes were approved.
In the Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for September were ahead of plan for the first quarter of our fiscal year. City Putt continues to do well and helped us achieve our financial results. The endowment has exceeded $3 million; we started at $43,000.
rd The Voodoo Music Experience, which is scheduled for November 1,2 and 3 , has begun setting up in the Festival Grounds. Julie LaCour reviewed the site plan for the event and reported there is a strong security plan is in place. President Hoffinan would like feedback from anyone who attends. Becker said Friday will be intense due to high school football games being held at both stadiums.
Magic in the Moonlight, a fund raiser for the Garden, was very successful. Commissioner Mark Romig was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.
Becker reviewed the agreement with the Chicago Fire. Commissioner Andrea LeGrand, on behalf of the Athletic Services Committee, recommends the lease for approval. The board I unanimously authorized PEPCO to enter into the agreement with Chicago Fire. Beau Bassich is being honored by St. Elizabeth's Guild as a Hall of Fame Activist. I Committee Report: A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. The Committee discussed changes to the Master Plan which relocates the Splash Park to a new location mainly due to parking concerns. The Park entered into a contract with Burke Kleinpeter to conduct a study on the impact of Delgado students parking in the Park. The report will also offer suggestions of how other parks deal with parking issues from adjacent facilities. The Marconi Bike Path was ready to go out to bid but the Federal Government changed the funding formula. It was determined that the Recreation Trails grant can be used as a match therefore we substituted a previous application to add the bike path as a match. We await the final approval letter from the State before we go out to bid. Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson would like to be kept up-to-date on the project.
Athletics - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported that scoreboard and plumbing issues at Tad Gormley have been repaired. Joe Brown Park has begun hosting high school football games; it is too soon to see if there will be any impact on the Park. The fields at the Festival Grounds will be closed until mid-November due to Voodoo Music Experience. If anyone is interested in joining the Athletic Services Committee contact LeGrand.
Golf - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported the State has not released the Golf project for bidding because the Administration has not made the funds available in the Capital Outlay. The I process, however has begun, by moving four large oaks trees and relocating them on the site. Development - Commissioner Susan Hess reported the Committee is moving forward with the Capital Campaign for the Roller Coaster. Ten cars are available for sponsorship at $25,000 each. Hess requested Board members to notify the committee if they know of any potential sponsors. The committee discussed hosting several small receptions called "Get To Know Your Park" to discuss the possibility of becoming a donor to the Park.
Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz noted financial performance has been strong both in terms of revenue and operating margins for the first 3 month of the new fiscal year, in part due to no hurricane this year. Golfwas one area that struggled to meet budgeted revenues, which were $62,000 below budget. However, lower than budgeted expenses meant that net declined by only $6,000. Higher repair costs at Amusements and Tennis pressured margins there. Parkview Gift shop results continue to be strong, likely the result of increased activity from Morning Call.
A Resolution was presented to the Board adopting the Compliance questionnaire which is part of our armual audit. The Board unanimously adopted the Resolution.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin updated the Board on upcoming events. Giffin thanked Superior Energy for a $70,000 donation, she also thanked all board members who I became sponsors. We received great reviews from the Louisiana Seafood Festival. Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks updated the Board on various projects. Brooks reported a contractor is working to deal with drainage issues in Miniature Golf. The City Park hedges along Lelong A venue will be removed. The removal of the hedges which are I currently unmaintainable will open up the view of Big Lake area. Brooks mentioned the wildflowers on Roosevelt Mall in front of Tad Gormley Stadium are in bloom and receiving a lot of attention. A volunteer group will be working on landscaping in front of Morning Call. The committee discussed the possibility of planting additional trees along the path of the Festival Grounds after Voodoo Festival. A proposal was received from the Audubon Society and Tulane Grow Dat group for a bird corridor in Couturie Forest.
NOMA - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported discussions are ongoing in regards to the Sculpture Garden location and expansion project.
Nominating - Commissioner Larry Katz submitted the names ofthe officers for 2014 that will be put into nomination at this meeting and voted on at the November meeting. Those officers are Susan Hess, President-Elect; Bill Hoffman, President; Edmund Schrenk, Vice-President; Ronnie Slone, Vice-President; Karen DeBlieux, Vice-President; Larry Katz, Treasurer; and Jackie Shreves, Secretary. The Committee also recommends Edgar Chase, Edmund Schrenk and Marjorie McKeithen to serve a second four year term on the board. The Board will take action on these nominations at the November Board meeting.
Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported work continues on the By-Laws and Articles of Incorporation.
Public Relations - Commissioner Edgar Chase reported the unveiling of the book by Kerri I th McCaffety will be held on November 25 at Ralph's on the Park. The book will be sold in the Botanical Garden gift shop for $40.00.
Tennis - Becker reported the attendance for the R+L Carriers Tennis Tournament was low but are hopeful for larger attendance in the future.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Friends held a cocktail reception to thank the sponsors and donors of 2013 Lark and introduce the new committee for 2014 Lark, which will benefit the Carousel. Ghost in the Oaks was very successful. There are currently 3769 Friends members.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported 101 Donations netted $49,000. The funds will be used for a shelter and walkway in the small dog park. There are currently 2270 permit holders.
New Business: Becker reported the City'S Capital Budget has been approved by the planning commission. Included in the capital budget is 700,000 for the Park devoted to the new garden entrance. Councilwoman Clarkson responded the City hopes to sell the bonds late fall or early I spring. 109
Public comment was then invited. Peter Hickman spoke on behalf of the Mid City Volleyball Group in regards to the potential to construct sand volleyball courts in the Park. Becker responded at this time there is no plan to construct volleyball courts but he has asked the City for I $2 million to fund a first-class volleyball complex.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:\0 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 26,2013 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
Jackie Shreves Secretary
I
I 110
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, November 26, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at I Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Chase, Clarkson, DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, Palumbo, Payton, Pettus, Romig, Schrenk, Slone, Sloss and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brooks, Brown, Crawford, Famet, Giffin, Guidry, Hales, Masinter, McKay, McKeithen, Powell, Shreves and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, George Parker, John Hopper, Julie LaCour and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Douglas Meffert
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
President Hoffman welcomed and thanked everyone for coming.
I The October minutes were approved.
In the Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported operating results for October were somewhat disappointing as we missed our budget by approximately $20,000, mainly due to the threat of Tropical Storm Karen. As a result, the Fall Garden Show and several weddings were canceled this resulted in a significant loss of revenue. However, for the first third of the year we remain ahead of plan by nearly $273,000.
The Voodoo Music Experience went very well on the Festival Grounds with the exception of the sound. The Park as well as the City Council, received numerous complaints in regards to the noise. We held a wrap up meeting with the promoter and emphasized the importance of addressing the sound issues and will follow-up with a letter putting our position in writing. Becker met with Councilwoman Guidry in regards to the complaints and feels the City will take a stronger approach related to noise at outdoor music festivals. Julie LaCour reported there was minimal damage to the grounds mainly due to dry weather. Although there were complaints relating to the noise, there were fewer parking and trash complaints. The event was successful and should be financially rewarding for the Park. Commissioner Romig asked if there is a sound clause in the contract. The contract does not have a specific sound clause but does state that Voodoo has to obtain every appropriate city permit.
No progress has been made to secure the release of State funds for the Golf and Splash Park I projects. t II
The Civil Service Commission approved new unclassified positions for the Park. These positions will help address our staffing needs currently and in the future. I The Park received an award for "Great Places in Louisiana" sponsored by AARP and the Center for Planning Excellence. We received a check for $1500.00. Linzey Powers wrote the application for the grant.
Included in your packet is the 1st edition of the employee newsletter since Hurricane Katrina. Also included are the dates of the board meetings scheduled in 2014.
President Hoffman reported on a great article in the University of New Orleans magazine on Becker called "Man with a Plan."
Becker introduced Doug Meffert, Executive Director of Audubon Louisiana, gave a presentation on an Urban Bird Corridor in Couturie Forest. Mr. Meffert proposed a 60-acre bird corridor conjoined with Grow Dat Youth Farm which would provide a habitat and recreation amenities for Park patrons. Audubon Louisiana received a $25,000 from the Selley Foundation to remove invasive species, develop trail and signage along the trail.
Committee Report:
A&E - Commissioner Edmund Schrenk updated the Board on various projects in the Park. Burk Kleinpeter completed a study on the impact of Delgado students parking in the Park and I will meet to review the findings and suggestions. Discussions are ongoing with the New Orleans Museum in regards to the expansion of the Sculpture Garden.
Athletics - No Report
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Liz Sloss reported Geneva Marney has been hired as Major Gift and Planning Officer for the Park. The Holiday appeal was mailed out. Ralph Brennan hosted a book signing by Kerri McCaffety. Another book signing will take place on December 5th at Morning Call. Commissioner Karen DeBlieux suggested several board members join together to sponsor a roller coaster car. DeViney received notification from FEMA that the final review of the paperwork for the roller coaster is underway. The company has begun preliminary engineering work for the new coaster. DeBlieux thanked Commissioner Katz and Palumbo for sponsoring a roller coaster car. Sloss reminded all board members to fulfill their annual pledges by the end of the year.
Finance - No Report
Special Events/CITO - Julie LaCour thanked everyone who participated in Celebration In The I Oaks preview party. LaCour also thanked Commissioner Karen DeBlieux for setting up the party. Attendance doubled for the Family Night party. President Hoffman thanked LaCour and her staff for a great job. I Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Andrea LeGrand reported the Committee reviewed the use of the Festival Grounds during Voodoo. Because the weekend was mostly dry, there was minimal damage to the site. The soccer fields have been rolled to remove any ruts. Committee also discussed the importance of allowing public access to most of the Big Lake area during Voodoo Festival. Volunteers from Shell Oil did a major cleanup of the edge of Bayou St. John including removal of Chinese tallow trees and planting of new cypress trees. A budget of $10,000 has been set for new tree planting at the Festival Grounds site. Plantings will take into consideration use patterns observed during Voodoo as well as other events. The Board viewed a slide show of recent plantings throughout the Park including the area in front of Morning Call, various sites in Amusements, and areas near the entry to the Festival Grounds. The first two letters of the City Park hedge along City Park Avenue have been replanted by Vista Landscapes.
NOMA - No Report
Nominating - The Board voted unanimously to elect Susan Hess, President-Elect, Edmund Schrenk, Vice-President; Ronnie Slone, Vice-President; Karen DeBlieux, Vice-President; Larry Katz, Treasurer; and Jackie Shreves, Secretary. The Board also voted unanimously to elect Edgar Chase, Edmund Schrenk and Marjorie McKeithen to serve a second four year term. President Hoffman thanked Katz and the committee for their work.
Legal - Commissioner Steve Pettus reported work continues on the By-Laws and Articles of I Incorporation. Public Relations - Commissioner Edgar Chase reported the committee will pursue a photo contest of the Park. The last portion of the BP grant will be used for advertising out of the region for CITO.
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the handicap ramp should be complete within two weeks.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Casie Duplechain will replace Rodney Thoulion as Executive Director for Friends.
Dog Park - No Report
New Business: Councilwoman Clarkson updated the Board on the City's budget hearings.
Public comment was then invited.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December I 17,2013 at 4:00 pm. I \ '3
Denise Joubert I Recording Secretary Jackie Shreves Secretary
I
I I Ii
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION I A meeting of the Board of Commissioners (the "Board") of the New Orleans City Park Improvement Association (the "NOCPIA") was called to order Tuesday, December 17, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. by President Bill Hoffman. The meeting was held in the City Park Administration Building, located at 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.
PRESENT: Commissioners Brooks, Chase, Clarkson (represented by Susan Baxter) DeBlieux, Fernandez, Fierke, Giffin, Guidry, Hess, Hoffman, Johnson, Katz, Laborde, LaFranca, LeGrand, Lupo, Masinter, McKay, McKeithen, Palumbo, Pettus, Powell, Schrenk, Shreves, and Tregre
ABSENT: Commissioners Bingler, Brown, Crawford, Famet, Hales, Payton, Romig, Slone, Sloss and Vesich
STAFF: Bob Becker, Rob DeViney, Kevin Cox, John Hopper, Geneva Mamey and Denise Joubert
GUESTS: Tim Ryan, Walter Brooks, Stephen Frischhertz, Ellen Frischhertz, Dr. Gregory Rich, Dr. Rose Lemarie, Diana Raphael
A quorum was present and voting throughout the meeting.
I President Hoffman welcomed and thanked everyone for coming.
The November minutes were approved.
Chief Development Director, John Hopper, introduced Geneva Marney who was recently hired as the Major Gifts and Plarmed Giving Officer for the Park.
In the Management Report, Chief Executive Officer Becker reported final numbers are not available due to timing of the Board meeting. Celebration in the Oaks results are below plan due to inclement weather conditions. Management is prepared to the deal with the shortfall.
No progress has been made to secure the release of State funds for the Golf and Splash Park projects.
The Trust for Public Land made the final payment on their pledge for the Festival Grounds. The funds will go toward the construction of a playground in the area by the Reunion Shelter. Becker showed pictures of a shelter at the ropes course on Goat Island built by Tulane Architectural students as a class project.
President Hoffman presented the President's Award to several individuals for their outstanding I support of the Park. The recipients were: , 15
Steve Frischhertz Donation of services and improvements to the Park's lighting system. I Eddie Williams Assistance in bringing back the "Ladybug Roller Coaster." (Not Present)
Walter Brooks Tireless efforts to direct State and Federal resources to the Park.
A special award for Environmental Services to the Park was presented to:
Dr. Gregory Rich Care and treatment of Amanda, City Park's Black Swan.
Dr. Rose Lemarie Care and treatment of Amanda, City Park's Black Swan
Dr. Kenneth Ranson Care and treatment of Amanda, City Park's Black Swan (Not Present)
Becker introduced Dr. Tim Ryan, Ph.D. who presented an update on the Economic Impact of City Park on the New Orleans economy. President Hoffman thanked Dr. Ryan for his presentation.
Becker reviewed a list all completed and upcoming projects of the Park's Master Plan. A Public I Hearing is tentatively scheduled for February 18th to discuss changes to the Master Plan. Becker stated in 2014 the Park will again make an effort to be included in the State's General Fund, and will also take an aggressive approach in seeking other public aid for the Park. Commissioner Cleland Powell asked if the Park has a lobbyist; Becker said the Friends retain a lobbyist at the State level.
A brief discussion took place in regards to the management of Bayou St. John. Councilwoman Susan Guidry would like to be included in any future discussions in regards to the management of the Bayou.
Committee Report:
A&E - No Report
Athletics - No Report
Golf - No Report
Development - Commissioner Susan Hess approached Norfolk Southern Railroad for a possible I donation. j lip
Finance - Commissioner Larry Katz reminded all Commissioners to complete the Audit Questionnaire.
Special Events/CITO - Commissioner Dessa Giffin reported the preview party was successful I with lots of room to grow. Attendance for the Family Park doubled with over 1800 people attending.
Horticulture and Grounds - Commissioner Jane Brooks showed pictures of four oak trees being moved from the Golf Course.
NOMA - Discussions are ongoing in regards to the Sculpture Garden expansion.
Nominating - No Report
Legal - Commissioner Paul Masinter reported work continues on the By-Laws and Articles of Incorporation.
Public Relations - No Report
Tennis - Commissioner Errol Laborde reported the handicap ramp at the tennis complex has been completed. Laborde encouraged everyone to visit the Pro Shop which has lots of great merchandise.
Friends of City Park - Commissioner Mary Johnson reported Casie Duplechain has been hired as I Executive Director for Friends. Friends currently has more than 3800 members. Lark in the Park is scheduled for March 14th with the funds dedicated toward the restoration of the Carousel. Beau Bassich is the honorary chair for the event.
Dog Park - Commissioner Jackie Shreves reported a public meeting is scheduled for December 17th. The shelter for the small Dog Park will be installed by February.
New Business: President Hoffinan reminded all Commissioners Ethics training is due by December 31 st.
Public comment was then invited.
The meeting was adjourned at 5 :00 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 28, 2014 at 4:00 pm.
Denise Joubert Recording Secretary
I Jackie Shreves 1/1
Secretary