COMMISSIONERS:
Benjy Cooke, Chair
Lisa King Mattese Lecque, Vice Chair
Teddy Manos Andy Thomas, Secretary-Treasurer
Ravi Sanyal
Tom O’Rourke, Executive Director Collin Bruner
Commission Update
______
September 17, 2014
Commission Meeting – Monday, September 22, 2014, 5:30pm – CCPRC Headquarters
Commission Meeting Highlights
AGENDA REVIEW
Old Business – We have some information that we think would serve you well to have updated.
Bulow Boat Landing – This is an issue that has put CCPRC in a position that we don’t think we should be in. The developer of Poplar Grove feels as if the landing is on his property and that he would like to control access. This was discussed at our meeting and our Commission felt strongly, as did staff, that ANY action to decrease water access is not a good idea. I have been called to meetings with the County Staff and the developer. I would like to inform the Commission as to where this issue stands. I feel as if this is a legal matter that the County should settle so that we can firmly let the developer know our position. That will be a decision of County Council. This could get a bit ugly. and I wanted to inform you. Spring Grove Property – This is the development for which we applied for County Greenbelt funds. The funding was deserved and we would like to inform the Commission as to where the matter stands. McLeod Plantation – This project is really moving along. We want you to know about it and talk about the “Grand Opening.” It won’t be long!
Administrative Services Report – There will be items to approve. They are spelled out in your packet, but I wanted to explain one item, which mainly revolves around cash flow for our Lease. We will ask for the Commission to approve a “Reimbursement Resolution” to our Capital Lease program. We generally do this when one lease ends and before another starts. Jeremy Cooke, our Bond Attorney, draws up the resolutions when we do them. He will complete this one. The purpose of the reimbursement resolution is so that we don’t come up short as David Chappell purchases the vehicles for this lease and the start up costs for McLeod Plantation. We may not need to reimburse ourselves anything. This also does not give us any EXTRA funds. We will only purchase what we approved in the budget.
SCRPA State Conference – We all have returned, and we would like to inform the Commission of Awards that were received.
861 Riverland Drive Charleston, South Carolina 29412 (843) 762-2172 FAX (843) 762-2683
CHARLESTON COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING 861 RIVERLAND DRIVE, CHARLESTON, SC, 29412 MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2014
AGENDA I. Call To Order And Welcome Cooke
A. Introduction of Guests and Notification to Media
II. Public Comments
III. Approval of Minutes Cooke
A. (ACTION) Approval of minutes of August 18, 2014 Regular Commission Meeting
IV. Old Business
A. Bulow Boat Landing Update B. Spring Grove Property Update C. McLeod Plantation Update
V. New Business
A. Administrative Services Report Bowie 1. Status Report 2. (ACTION) Solid Waste Disposal Service Contract Approval 3. (ACTION) Community Recreation Athletic Equipment and Uniforms Contract Approval 4. (ACTION) VoIP Implementation Project – ATCOM Business Technology Solutions, Inc. Contract Approval 5. (ACTION) McLeod Plantation Startup Budget Approval 6. (ACTION) Reimbursement Resolution for FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease Approval 7. (ACTION) Vehicle Purchases Approval
B. Executive Session – Contractual Matters O’Rourke C. SCRPA Conference Highlights O’Rourke
VI. Next Meeting
A. Regular Commission Meeting, Monday, October 20, 2014, 5:30pm at CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC UNAPPROVED MINUTES CHARLESTON COUNTY PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING 861 RIVERLAND DRIVE, CHARLESTON, SC, 29412 MONDAY, AUGUST 18, 2014
Commission Members Present: Mr. Benjy Cooke, Ms. Mattese Lecque, Mr. Andy Thomas, Ms. Lisa King, Mr. Ravi Sanyal, Mr. Teddy Manos
Commission Members Absent: Mr. Wes Lybrand
Staff Present: Mr. Tom O’Rourke, Mr. David Bennett, Mr. Kevin Bowie, Mr. Steve Hutton, Mr. David Chappell, Ms. Gina Ellis-Strother, Ms. Julie Hensley, Mr. Phil Macchia, Ms. Jan Coulter, Ms. Karen Thompson, Mr. Michael Bradley, Ms. Nikki Bowie, Ms. Patty Newshutz, Ms. Barbara Evans, Mr. Drew Hill, Ms. Beth Burkett, Ms. Lindsay Patterson and Mrs. Pam Ragland
Guests Present: Mr. Collin Bruner, Ms. Mary Lang, Ms. Margaret Lang, Ms. Rhett Bains, Mr. Ryan Clucas
Legal Counsel Present: Mr. Dwayne Green
I. Call To Order and Welcome
A. Introduction of Guests and Notification to the Media
The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission met on Monday, August 18, 2014 at the CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC. Ms. Lecque, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order and welcomed those in attendance. Ms. Lecque informed those present that notification of the meeting had been sent to the local news media and others requesting notification and asked that the record reflect the Commissioners present.
II. Public Comments
There were no public comments at this meeting.
III. Approval of Minutes
A. (ACTION) Approval of minutes of July 21, 2014 Regular Commission Meeting
Motion to approve the minutes of the July 21, 2014 Regular Commission Meeting was made by Ms. King, seconded by Mr. Thomas, and approved by the Commission. (#009-1415)
B. (ACTION) Approval of minutes of August 14, 2014 Special Commission Meeting
Motion to approve the minutes of the August 14, 2014 Special Commission Meeting was made by Mr. Sanyal, seconded by Mr. Manos, and approved by the Commission. (#010-1415)
Mr. Cooke arrived and assumed the gavel.
Regular Commission Meeting August 18, 2014 Page 2 of 4
IV. Old Business
A. Skate Board Park
Motion to enter into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing a contractual matter was made by Ms. King, seconded by Mr. Thomas, and approved by the Commission. (#011-1415)
Upon coming out of Executive Session the Chair stated that a contractual matter was discussed and no action taken.
Motion to authorize staff to execute the original Purchase and Sale agreement for approximately 3.3 acres of highland and the adjoining marsh on Oceanic Street, TMS # 464-00-00-013 for a price of $800,000 for the construction of a Skate Board Park, increase the Skate Park Capital Project budget by $928,000 with funds coming from the City of Charleston and the Speedwell Foundation, authorize staff to immediately engage the design build team to expeditiously move toward the finalization of the master plan, the finalization of the construction documents, and to schedule the public workshop to gain community input on the project, and ultimately construction, was made by Mr. Sanyal, seconded by Ms. King, and approved by the Commission. (#012-1415)
B. CFO Hire Status Report
Mr. O’Rourke informed the Commission that the search for the Chief Financial Officer position is on schedule, 69 applications have been received so far, interviews will be scheduled later this month.
V. New Business
A. Administrative Services Report
1. Status Report
Mr. Bowie presented the checks in excess of $7500 and the financial reports for July and responded to questions, stating that so far this fiscal year is showing higher revenues than July 2013.
2. (ACTION) Soft Drink Product, Equipment, Services and Sponsorship Contract Approval
Mr. Bowie reported that an RFP was issued and publically advertised for soft drink product, equipment, services and sponsorship for a base period of five years and five (one) year options, and that two firms responded.
Motion to approve entering into a contract with Coca-Cola Consolidated for soft drink product, equipment, services and sponsorship for the base five-year period and five one-year options with funds coming from the appropriate operating budget and future appropriations of the Commission, was made by Ms. Lecque, seconded by Mr. Sanyal, and approved by the Commission. (#013-1415)
3. (ACTION) PICP Marsh Boardwalk Repairs Construction Contract Approval
Mr. Bowie reported that an RFP was issued and publically advertised for Palmetto Islands County Park Marsh Boardwalk Repairs for a construction project, and that three firms responded. Regular Commission Meeting August 18, 2014 Page 3 of 4
Motion to approve entering into a contract with Rakes Building and Maintenance Contractors DBA Blutide Marine Construction for Palmetto Islands County Park Marsh Boardwalk Repairs in the amount of $423,176.74, with the funds coming from the approved CIP Budget, was made by Mr. Manos, seconded by Mr. Sanyal, and approved by the Commission. (#014-1415)
4. (ACTION) Consultants for Disaster or Storm Related Damages Approval
Mr. Bowie reported that an RFP was issued and publically advertised for consultants for disaster or storm-related damages for a base year and nine (one) year options, and that seven firms responded.
Motion to approve entering into a contract with Collins Engineers, Liollio Architecture and Terracon Consultants, Inc., for consultants for disaster or storm-related damages for a base year with nine additional one-year options was made by Mr. Sanyal, seconded by Ms. Lecque, and approved by the Commission. (#015-1415)
B. (ACTION) Fees/Changes Approval
Ms. Gueldner reviewed the history of the Agency and fees, and Mr. Macchia presented each staff proposal in detail.
Motion to approve: Increasing Cooper River Marina monthly rate to $13.60/ft; Increasing Cooper River Marina semi-annual rate to $12.20/ft; Increasing Cooper River Marina annual rate to $11.05/ft; Increasing Cooper River Marina 30amp rate to $16.00/mo; Increasing The Lake House at Bulow facility rental fee Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays to $3500; Increasing The Lake House at Bulow Peak and Non-Peak weekday facility rental fee to $2000 and $1500, respectively; Increasing James Island County Park and Wannamaker County Park rental fees for all open air shelters and rents by $25; Increase James Island County Park Conference Center daytime rental to $300 and combo rate to $425; Increasing Gold Pass fee by $5; was made by Ms. Lecque, seconded by Mr. Sanyal, and approved by the Commission. (#016-1415)
C. Agency Highlights
1. Lifeguard Recognition
Mr. O’Rourke introduced Ms. Rhett Bains, ocean rescue lifeguard, who while off-duty participated in the rescue of a man from the Charleston Harbor on Father’s Day. The Commission thanked Ms. Bains for her efforts. Mr. O’Rourke stated that he had received a thank you letter from the man and wanted to bring Ms. Bains to the Commission meeting for recognition.
2. Environmental Education Program/Student Report
Mr. O’Rourke introduced Ms. Margaret Lang, who recently completed a project for her class at Academic Magnet High School. Ms. Lang’s project involved work with Ms. Beth Burkett and Ms. Lindsay Patterson and students at Murray-Lasaine Elementary School. The Commission commended Ms. Lang on this project and the work with the environmental education program.
Regular Commission Meeting August 18, 2014 Page 4 of 4
D. September Commission Meeting Date
Mr. O’Rourke informed the Commission that the regularly-scheduled monthly meeting in September falls during the South Carolina Recreation and Parks Association annual conference. The Commission agreed to change the date to Monday, September 22.
VI. Next Meeting
A. Regular Commission Meeting, Monday, September 22, 2014, 5:30pm at CCPRC Headquarters, Charleston, SC.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Benjy Cooke, Chair Pam Ragland, Administrative Manager September 2014
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Table of Contents
August 2014 Checks Over $7,500 4 Combined and Governmental Statements 5 Enterprise Statements 6 - 7 Capital Improvement Projects Statement 8
Staff Diversity 9 Volunteer Report 10
Capital Improvement Projects Update 11 - 14
Action Item: Solid Waste Disposal Service Contract Approval 15 Action Item: Community Recreation Athletic Equipment and Uniforms Contract Approval 16 Action Item: McLeod Plantation Startup Budget Approval 17 - 18 Action Item: Approval of Reimbursement Resolution for FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease 19 - 21 Action Item: Vehicle Purchases Recommendation 22 Action Item: VoIP Implementation Project – ATCOM Business Technology Solutions, Inc. Contract Approval 23
3
3 August 2014 Checks in Excess of $7,500
Date Check # Vendor Description Amount Operating (General Agency and Enterprise) 8/7/2014 3277 Experian Marketing Solutions, Inc QAS SQ maintenance 8/1/2014-7/31/2015 $19,912.38 8/13/2014 3303 Berkeley Electric Cooperative Electricity $11,445.03 8/13/2014 3335 Nature's Calling Inc Waste disposal and emergency portable toilet $8,738.08 8/13/2014 3369 Apex Broadcasting Advertising fees $8,690.00 8/18/2014 3382 SC Department of Revenue Admissions JICP admissions tax $12,820.30 8/18/2014 3383 SC Department of Revenue Admissions WCP admissions tax $24,620.77 8/19/2014 3431 Duffield Inc Whirlin' Waters supplies $12,537.74 8/19/2014 3436 Greene, Finney & Horton LLP Internal audit services $15,500.00
8/19/2014 3443 Move IT SC, LLC Consulting services $19,916.66 8/19/2014 3456 SCE & G Electricity $122,766.94
8/27/2014 3486 AT&T Agency data circuits $10,064.72 8/27/2014 3491 Charleston County Radio user fees $32,490.00
8/27/2014 3493 Charleston County Fleet Operations Fuel charges for agency vehicles $10,631.74
8/27/2014 3499 Charleston Water System Water $8,695.06 8/27/2014 3512 The Icee Company Resale food/drink $9,517.76 8/27/2014 3528 Pepsi-Cola Resale food/drink $7,638.39
8/27/2014 3551 Verizon Wireless Agency cell phone services $8,100.75
Capital Improvement Program 8/7/2014 3250 Hydro Corporation FBFP Pile Encapsulations $30,331.89 8/19/2014 3442 Meadors Inc DBA Meadors Construction McLeod Phase I Development $117,394.76 8/27/2014 3511 Hydro Corporation FBFP Pile Encapsulations $44,989.39 8/27/2014 3525 Oak Tree Village Express HFOL Train Cars $40,000.00
Human Resources 8/7/2014 1125 Great West Retirement Services - Wells Deferred comp $12,616.50 8/14/2014 1127 South Carolina Retirement System Retirement $84,146.87 8/14/2014 1128 South Carolina Retirement System Retirement $61,759.17 8/20/2014 1137 Great West Retirement Services - Wells Deferred comp $12,711.50
4
4 Combined and Governmental Statements
Combined General and Enterprise Prior Year to Date- Current year Year to date- Current Month Funds August 2014 Actuals budget Actuals % of Budget Activity
General Fund Revenues 336,043 13,432,705 237,976 2% 50,941
Enterprise Revenues 3,660,486 14,381,930 4,004,862 28% 1,585,971
Total Operating Revenues 3,996,529 27,814,635 4,242,838 15% 1,636,912
General Fund Expenditures 2,093,542 13,447,670 2,154,208 16% 982,876
Enterprise Expenses 2,400,936 15,120,731 2,347,031 16% 1,481,238
Total Operating Expenses 4,494,478 28,568,401 4,501,239 16% 2,464,114
Net Income/(Loss) (497,949) (753,766) (258,401) (827,202)
Transfers In 1,634,678 1,971,623 - 0% 1,634,678
Transfers Out 7,962,202 5,298,400 - 0% 2,513,360
Change in Fund Balance (497,949) (753,766) (258,401) (827,202)
Prior Year to Date- Current year Year to date- % of Current month General Fund August 2014 Actuals budget Actuals Budget activity
Tax Millage 135,822 12,709,035 - 0% -
Executive - - - 0% -
Administrative Services - - - 0% -
Marketing - - - 0% -
Human Resources - - - 0% -
Finance 19,091 104,500 33,275 32% -
Park and Recreation Services 15,826 35,160 17,195 49% 2,736
Recreation 165,304 505,390 187,506 37% 48,205
Maintenance-Boatlandings - - - 0% -
Planning & Natural Resources - 76,000 - 0% -
Operations - 2,620 - 0% -
Total Revenues 336,043 13,432,705 237,976 2% 50,941
General Administrative - - - 0% -
Executive Division 128,491 940,100 105,369 11% 56,417
Administrative Services 670,885 2,302,990 634,025 28% 160,161
Marketing 132,747 970,325 120,024 12% 60,954
Human Resources 107,428 1,117,755 85,402 8% 31,466
Capital Projects 102,828 847,015 114,431 14% 58,068
Finance 90,586 865,895 91,170 11% 55,787
Park and Recreation Services 137,879 846,495 154,000 18% 81,085
Recreation 298,702 2,521,640 371,607 15% 210,114
Maintenance 122,584 1,575,015 181,056 11% 93,992
Plannning 33,812 308,535 36,898 12% 19,288
Park Operations 267,600 1,151,905 260,226 23% 155,544
Total Expenditures 2,093,542 13,447,670 2,154,208 16% 982,876
Net Income/(Loss) (1,757,499) (14,965) (1,916,232) (931,935)
Transfers In - 336,945 - 0% -
Transfers Out 5,448,842 2,785,0405 - 0% -
Change in Fund Balance (7,206,341) (2,463,060) (1,916,232) (931,935)
5 Enterprise Fund Statement
Prior Year to Date Current Year Year to Date- Current Month Enterprise Funds August 2014 Actuals Budget Actuals % of Budget Activity Beachwalker County Park
Operating Revenue 86,736 204,740 109,723 54% 50,844
Operating Expenses 39,209 253,985 43,893 17% 25,299
Net Income/(Loss) 47,527 (49,245) 65,830 25,545
Bulow Plantation
Operating Revenue 15,894 160,000 28,685 18% 19,061
Operating Expenses 2,135 52,175 2,643 5% 2,614
Net Income/(Loss) 13,759 107,825 26,042 16,447
Caw Caw Interpretative Center
Operating Revenue 1,938 21,240 3,057 14% 1,050
Operating Expenses 26,818 246,650 29,995 12% 16,225
Net Income/(Loss) (24,880) (225,410) (26,938) (15,175)
Cooper River Marina
Operating Revenue 211,521 709,000 262,427 37% 73,755
Operating Expenses 54,676 432,940 56,258 13% 34,319
Net Income/(Loss) 156,845 276,060 206,169 39,436
Folly Beach Coast Guard Base
Operating Revenue - - - 0% -
Operating Expenses - - - 0% -
Net Income/(Loss) - - - -
Folly Beach County Park
Operating Revenue 64,627 265,250 81,819 31% 39,101
Operating Expenses 37,021 239,660 27,900 12% 19,946
Net Income/(Loss) 27,606 25,590 53,919 19,155
Folly Beach Fishing Pier
Operating Revenue 389,273 1,212,560 426,281 35% 184,857
Operating Expenses 191,480 1,203,790 194,454 16% 131,894
Net Income/(Loss) 197,793 8,770 231,827 52,963
Isle of Palms County Park
Operating Revenue 210,639 461,290 221,912 48% 92,861
Operating Expenses 90,551 410,430 69,093 17% 42,321
Net Income/(Loss) 120,088 50,860 152,819 50,540
James Island County Park
Operating Revenue 980,862 5,582,255 1,006,539 18% 423,271
Operating Expenses 779,647 5,104,555 714,422 14% 471,945
Net Income/(Loss) 201,215 477,700 292,117 (48,674)
Laurel Hill Plantation
Operating Revenue 600 7,800 675 9% - 6 Operating Expenses 166 24,135 220 1% 40
Net Income/(Loss) 434 (16,335) 455 (40) 6 Enterprise Fund Statement
Prior Year to Date Current Year Budg- Year to Date- Current Month Enterprise Funds August 2014 Actuals et Actuals % of Budget Activity McLeod Plantation
Operating Revenue - 224,430 - 0% -
Operating Expenses 3,292 224,960 2,369 1% 1,902
Net Income/(Loss) (3,292) (530) (2,369) (1,902)
Mount Pleasant Fishing Pier
Operating Revenue 127,271 434,605 153,513 35% 62,262
Operating Expenses 85,362 570,665 98,323 17% 60,743
Net Income/(Loss) 41,909 (136,060) 55,190 1,519
Move IT
Operating Revenue - - - 0% -
Operating Expenses - 521,616 84,960 16% 32,126
Net Income/(Loss) - (521,616) (84,960) (32,126)
Mullet Hall Equestrian Center
Operating Revenue 63,823 223,855 72,195 32% 211
Operating Expenses 64,343 432,025 69,072 16% 27,589
Net Income/(Loss) (520) (208,170) 3,123 (27,378)
Old Towne Creek County Park
Operating Revenue - 34,750 - 0% -
Operating Expenses 5,264 73,090 2,628 4% 3,187
Net Income/(Loss) (5,264) (38,340) (2,628) (3,187)
Palmetto Islands County Park
Operating Revenue 194,926 571,040 207,929 36% 82,246
Operating Expenses 204,265 1,116,630 211,726 19% 134,899
Net Income/(Loss) (9,339) (545,590) (3,797) (52,653)
Park Rec Enterterprise
Operating Revenue 121,597 1,218,470 141,593 12% 61,194
Operating Expenses 116,239 1,067,410 123,460 12% 69,314
Net Income/(Loss) 5,358 151,060 18,133 (8,120)
Skate Park
Operating Revenue - 28,570 - 0% -
Operating Expenses - 94,225 - 0% -
Net Income/(Loss) - (65,655) - -
Wannamaker County Park
Operating Revenue 1,190,779 3,022,075 1,288,514 43% 495,258
Operating Expenses 700,468 3,051,790 615,615 20% 406,875
Net Income/(Loss) 490,311 (29,715) 672,899 88,383
Total Revenue 3,660,486 14,381,930 4,004,862 28% 1,585,971
Total Expenses 2,400,936 15,120,731 2,347,031 16% 1,481,238
Total Net Income/(Loss) 1,259,550 (738,801) 1,657,831 104,733 0%
Transfers In 1,634,678 1,634,678 7 - 0% 1,634,678
Transfers Out 2,513,360 2,513,360 - 0% 2,513,360
Change in Fund Balance 380,868 (1,617,483) 1,657,831 -102% (773,949) 7 Capital Improvement Projects Statement
Combined Capital Projects Fund August 2014 Current Year Budget Year to Date- Actuals % of Budget Current Month Activity
Total CIP Expenses 4,520,588 192,716 4% 192,716
Capital Projects Fund Detail
FBFP Piling Encapsilation 546,722 75,321 14% 75,321
JI SPA Replacement 135,074 - 0% -
Limehouse Master Plan 16,950 - 0% -
McLeod Phase 1 Development 3,128,010 117,395 4% 117,395
Old Towne Bld Stabilization 88,733 - 0% -
Old Towne Pier Replacement 6,971 - 0% -
PI Boardwalks & Ramps 435,693 - 0% -
Skate Park 138,435 - 0% -
West Ashley Phase I 24,000 - 0% -
8
8 Staff Diversity
Diversity Vision Statement: The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission will provide high quality park facilities, programs, and services to the ever-changing community we serve by recruiting, training, and retain- ing a qualified and diverse staff.
Current Staff Statistics:
August 2014 Staff Statistics/EEO Information
Full Time Employees Part Time Employees Total of All Employees
Number of Employees 180 670 850
White 147 539 81%
Hispanic 4 11 2%
African American 20 73 11%
Asian 2 10 1%
Indian 1 1 1%
Two or more Races 6 36 5%
Male 105 296 47%
Female 75 374 53%
9
9 Volunteer Report
Volunteer Services: The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission takes great pride in the diversity of facili- ties and programs we offer, our excellent customer service, and most importantly, our fun atmosphere. In exchange for hours worked, volunteers receive multiple benefits, inclusive of a reciprocal pass (which requires a minimum of 30 hours served).
Current Volunteer Statistics:
August 2014 Volunteer Information
Activity Category Hours Volunteers Campground Host 516 12 Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series 74 16 Commissioners 7 12 Company Picnic 17 3 Reggae Nights Concert Series 60 13 Shaggin on the Cooper 12 3 Special Needs Prom 25 9 Special Swim Night 6 2 Thursday Night Boogie 6 2 Total Hours 723 Previous Report Hours 779 Fiscal Year to Date Volunteer Hours 1502
The Value of Volunteer Hours:
The equivalent of one full-time employee is 162.5 hours per month. The monthly cost with salary and benefits for an entry level specialist full-time employee is $3,943 per month.
723 volunteer hours / 162.5 = 4.45 full-time employees Monthly Savings = 3943 x 4.45 = $17,546.35
10
10 Capital Projects Update
McLeod Plantation
August was a particularly hot month, but it also saw a lot of progress on the Workmen laying McLeod Project. Most of the utilities have been run and are now complete. brick flooring at the The main sewer tap under Country Club Road went in without a hitch, Pavilion. which was a relief to all. Currently the site is a bit rough, but due to the tree barricades and additional fencing installed prior to construction, all areas should be able to be fine graded easily, grassed and returned to preconstruction aesthetics with no ill effects on the land- scape.
At the Pavilion, construction was been slowed due to a hitch in getting the trusses for the roof of the building. However, materials are now in production and the trusses should be delivered to the site next week. Once delivered, roofing will get under way, followed by completion of the re- strooms and storage areas. In the meantime, the contractors have been laying the brick flooring allowing steady work to continue at the pavilion.
The boardwalk footings at the Wappoo Creek edge have been poured and the framing for that structure is well underway.
Meadors foreman inspecting the Welcome Center The north side (Wappoo Creek side) will be completed building pad. by the mid-November in accordance with the grant requirements. That work is on schedule but tight due to the issue with the trusses.
In the meantime, attention has also turned toward the Welcome Center. Work has started in the preparation of the foundation which will be followed by structural work and pouring the founda- tion.
At the main house, Hazmat teams have been steadily moving material out (in plastic bags) to be taken to a hazardous materials disposal site. The crews spent two weeks preparing to remove the material. The actual removal of the material takes only about a week. They should be wrapping up their operation later this week. Once complete, Meadors’s crews will be able to re-enter the build- ing and begin the general repairs, followed by painting of the interior.
While asbestos abatement work has been going on inside the main house, Meadors’s (Above) The boardwalk underway. crews have been working on the Gin House. (Below) Siding installation at the Gin House. The siding has been installed (it was pur- posefully left unfinished from stabilization), and later this week or early next, painting will begin. The Gin House will be painted a historic green, the color identified from the paint analysis study done on the building prior to stabilization.
Lastly, the interpretative work is nearing completion. This work is required to be finished by the end of September in accordance with the Heritage Corridor Grant. All work, except for the exhibits, will be delivered to PRC by that Custom interpretative exhibit platform and computer date. The exhibits will be installed near the very end of the 11 station almost complete. project—likely in January.
11 Capital Projects Update
Skatepark Now that the soil conditions on the Oceanic Street site are understood, and more importantly, through the work of our consultants, a working remedy to enhance the stability of the soils can be planned into the design and construction as the Skatepark moves forward. Although the planning can pick up where it left off, the soil preparation will need to be strategically added to the schedule, as it will be a multi-step process. Hightower, the prime consultant on this project, has met with staff and are leading the planning team forward.
On site, the billboards have been dismantled and removed as well as SCE&G has nearly completed the transmission line pole placement with- in the easement that fronts the site. The timing could not be better; to have the exact location of these poles determined prior to completion of the design of the Skatepark is beneficial to our consultants and will streamline the coordination process with SCE&G.
Also of note, the closing on the purchase of the Oceanic Street property will conclude this month.
SCE&G transmission poles being set
Projects—Design Assistance
Capital design staff has been busy this month assisting several parks with planning for the next cycle of replacement and repair projects. This planning includes providing a design concept or solution with enough detail to estimate a cost for budgeting purposes. These projects are to provide better service to customers as well as provide facilities that will generate additional revenue. Projects include: planning for changing/ dressing cabanas at Folly Beach County Park, a minor update to the retail counter at the Folly Fishing Pier, an update to the Big Oak Shelter at Palmetto Islands County Park and enhancement to the existing entry plantings at Isle of Palms County Park. Also, under way are the draw- ings and specifications for “skinning” the baseball field at Thompson Hill Community Recreation area. This project has received a grant and will upgrade this field so it can used in an official capacity for games, rather than just a practice field, as it’s currently used.
Upcoming Projects— Thompson Hill Ballfield Improvements, Cooper River Marina Breakwater Cable
12
12 Capital Projects Update
Folly Beach County Park Beach Monitoring
The contracts for GEL Engineering and the College of Charleston are now in the second year of monitoring the beach at Folly Beach County Park. Overall, both studies show the groin has reduced the sand loss. College of Charleston Graduate Student Robin L. Banner’s report found “the groin appears to be most successful at retaining sediment up to 325 meters up- drift (toward the Pelican Watch Shelter).”
Folly Beach Fishing Pier Pilings
Hydro Corporation, our pier piling contractor, continues to make progress towards putting new encapsulations onto the 31 pilings. Hydro has now completed installing 13 new pile encapsulations. The project is scheduled for a total of 150 days, weather permitting.
Hydro’s scaffolding below deck— 13 new encapsulations now Hydro’s diver securing rebar to pile fiberglass sleeves for encapsulation. complete.
Old Towne Creek County Park Pier Replacement We have reissued a Request for Proposals for the Pier Replacement. The proposals are due on September 30th, at which time staff will evaluate them for the best value to CCPRC.
13
13 Capital Projects Update
Consultant Services for Disaster or Storm Related Damages All of our consultants’, Collins Engineers, Inc., Liollio Architecture Inc., and Terracon Consultants, Inc., contracts have been signed and returned and are now in service to use. CCPRC is currently holding informational meetings with each one of the consultants to exchange contact information and other requirements. Consultant Services for Debris Removal Contracts We are currently putting together an RFP for Debris Removal contracts for CCPRC. This contract would include all Charleston County Parks and work in conjunction with the Disaster or Storm Related consultants. The purpose of RFP will allow clean-up, utilizing some private vendors, to begin almost immediately after the disaster has passed and reimbursement by FEMA.
Palmetto Islands County Park Marsh Boardwalk Repairs BluTide Marine Construction, Collins Engineering and our staff have held the pre-construction meeting and work has commenced on this project. Major components of this project are new decking, deck framing and additional “sister” piles for the Nature Island Boardwalk as well as several other older boardwalks around the park. The contractor is per- forming demolition on five boardwalks. These major decking replacements to the thirty-five year old structures are projected to add ten to fifteen years to their useful life.
Capital Grants
$250,000 from the Coastal Access Improvement Funds for the construction of a dock, pavilion, paths, parking, and landscaping at McLeod Plantation is approved and extended until November 30, 2014; $250,000 from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant to help subsidize the same elements as well as construction of the maintenance building has been approved; $75,000 grant from the SC National Heritage Corridor has been increased from $50,000 and awarded for the planning, design, construc- tion and implementation of the Interpretive Program at McLeod Plantation and has been extended one year until September 30, 2014; $61,459 grant application from the SC National Heritage Corridor Fund for the Pier Replacement Project at Old Towne was approved and has been extended six months until February 22, 2015; $14,194 grant from the Park and Recreation Development (PARD) has been approved to “skin” the baseball field at the Thompson Hill Playground; and
$500,000 grant from the Medical Society of South Carolina—Roper St. Francis Hospital14 Endowment has been approved to fund the “Move IT Program.”
14 Action Item: Solid Waste Disposal Service Contract Approval
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom O’Rourke FROM: Kevin Bowie DATE: September 15, 2014 RE: Solid Waste Disposal Service Contract Approval
A Request for Proposal 2015-003 was issued and publically advertised for solid waste disposal services for CCPRC for a base year and four one-year options. Four firms responded.
The intended purpose of the proposal was to seek qualified firms to provide solid waste disposal services at our county park sites.
Republic Services of South Carolina provided the best overall proposal through the best value price and technical evaluation. They are the second largest provider of services in the domestic non-hazardous solid waste industry. Republic Services of South Carolina has extensive outstanding experience and has been in business since 1998. The total estimate for the base year is $26,353 with a total estimated amount of $139,794 for the base year and four one-year options.
Recommend approval to enter into a contract with Republic Services of South Carolina for solid waste disposal ser- vices for a base year with four one-year options with funds coming from the appropriate operating budget and future appropriations of the Commission.
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15 Action Item: Community Recreation Athletic Equipment and Uniforms Contract Approval
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom O’Rourke FROM: Kevin Bowie DATE: September 16, 2014
RE: Community Recreation Athletic Equipment and Uniforms Contract Approval
A Request for Proposal 2014-030 was issued and publically advertised for Community Recreation athletic equipment and uniforms for CCPRC for a base year and two one-year options. Five firms responded.
The intended purpose of the proposal was to seek qualified firms to provide rural recreation athletic equipment and uniforms.
The solicitation was evaluated for multiple awards. The total estimates for the first year are respectively BSN $80,587 and T&T Sports (local vendor) $24,543. The total estimates for the base year and two one-year options are respectively BSN $269,010 and T&T Sports (local vendor) $76,040.
Recommend approval to enter into a contract with BSN and T&T Sports for a base year with two one-year options with the funds coming from the approved General Agency Operating Budget and future appropriations of the Com- mission
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16 Action Item: McLeod Plantation Startup Budget Approval
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom O’Rourke FROM: Kevin Bowie DATE: September 16, 2014 RE: McLeod Plantation Startup Budget Approval
Construction on McLeod Plantation continues to progress as we look forward to an Early 2015 opening. We are at the point in project where we need to begin the process of ordering equipment and furnishings to be ready for opening day. Directors have provided a list of needs from their areas that include fleet vehicles (a Ford F-150 and carts), interior furnishings, various grounds equipment and IT systems. I have enclosed a detail list for your review. Funding for the startup needs will happen using the 2013 GO Bond, Capital Equipment Lease and the McLeod Enterprise Operating Fund. The 2013 GO Bond will purchase items related to interior furnishing of the structure such as retail fixtures, office furniture, kitchen equipment and alarm system installation. The Capital Equipment Lease will fund equipment that have typically shorter asset life such as IT equipment, Electronic equipment, Two-way Radios and Grounds Equipment. Some items requested do not qualify for either debt instrument and will need to be purchased from McLeod Enterprise fund. They include small purchases, supplies and temporary items.
Recommend setting a McLeod Planation Startup Budget of $221,000 with funding coming from the 2013 GO Bond, Capital Equipment Lease and the McLeod Plantation Enterprise Fund based on the startup list and recommendations provided by staff. Recommend the purchase of the Ford F-150, John Deere Mower and Utility Cart utilizing State Contract and the purchase Club Car Carts utilizing the Commission’s current contract with the reseller.
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17 Action Item: McLeod Plantation Startup Budget Approval
McLeod Startup Budget Funding Amount From 2013 GO Bond Interior Finishes (Office Furniture, Retail Fixtures, House Furnishings, etc.) 29,000 Small Equipment (Appliances, Safety Equipment, Signage, etc.) 12,700 Alarm Installation 1,000 Total 42,700 From Capital Equipment Lease Fleet Vehicles and Equipment (1 F-150, 3 Carts and JD Mower) 76,455 IT Equipment (Networking Equip, Workstations, Radios, Time clock, POS equipment, etc. 33,960 Visual and Audio Equipment and stantions (Video displays, Sound Equipment etc.) 17,400 Furnishings for the grounds (Picnic Tables, Trash Cans, Recycle Bins etc.) 11,740 Grounds Maintenance Equipment (Power Washer, Blower, Generator, Pole Saw, etc.) 5,100 Total 144,655 From McLeod Enterprise Miscellaneous Supplies (Plumbing, Electrical, Interpretive, Building, First Aid, Office etc.) 6,800 Professional Services (Museum Collection Management, Cell Phone Tour, IT Equipment Installation) 13,050 Building Supplies 5,000 Software License 2,850 Small Equipment (Tools, Locks, Traffic Cones, Tents, Wheelchair, Vacuum, etc.) 5,945 Total 33,645 Total Startup 221,000
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18 Action Item: Approval of Reimbursement Resolution for FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom O’Rourke FROM: Kevin Bowie DATE: September 16, 2014 RE: Approval of Reimbursement Resolution for FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease
Jeremy Cook with Haynesworth Sinkler Boyd is preparing a Reimbursement Resolution document for the Commission to consider at its next meeting. This document is required by the Internal Revenue Service and lenders to allow us to reimburse ourselves for costs incurred that are eligible to be paid under our municipal lease agreements prior to the lease agreement be- ing executed.
The Commission’s FYE 2015 budget contains an approval for the Commission to borrow $1,000,000.00 to cover capital equipment purchase of the Commission. This borrowing will be repaid through the Debt Service Fund. The Capital Equip- ment Lease funding allows us to spread out our payments over the expected life of the assets and allows us to smooth out peaks and valleys in the budget cycle.
It is expected that the Capital Equipment Lease offering will be advertised within the next month and awarded shortly thereaf- ter. This resolution covers us in the event that we have items approved for purchase under the lease are delivered or pur- chased prior to the official closing date on the borrowing. The Commission has approved this type of resolution on many of its previous borrowings in order to allow us to defer borrowing until a favorable time for the Commission and to reduce total borrowing costs.
Recommend approval of the Reimbursement Resolution for the FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease to cover purchas- es that have been approved by the Commission under the approved FYE 2015 Capital Improvement program.
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19 Action Item: Approval of Reimbursement Resolution for FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease
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20 Action Item: Approval of Reimbursement Resolution for FYE 2015 Capital Equipment Lease
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21 Action Item: Vehicle Purchases Recommendation
MEMORANDUM
TO: Kevin Bowie FROM: David Chappell DATE: September 12, 2014 RE: Vehicle Purchases Recommendation
In the FYE 2015, we budgeted for 14 replacements system wide. After reviewing service records and the current condition of the fleet, the following vehicles are recommended to be replaced to keep a viable fleet for the Commission.
Vehicle number Notes Replacement Cost 4518 Crown Vic 2008 Poor condition – high miles F-Explorer - $25,900 4714 Ranger 2010 Beach Park – rusted F-150 Ext Cab long bed - $21,600 4716 Escape 2010 Engine light, seals, AC F-Escape –$25,000 4257 Ranger 2006 Beach Park – rusted F-150 Reg Cab short bed - $19,000 4364 F-150 2006 High miles – poor condition F-150 Reg Cab long bed – $19,000 4488 Escape 2008 Engine problems F-Escape – 25,000 New vehicles F-Explorer Executive Division $30,000
Recommend utilizing State Contract for the Purchase for 7 vehicles for a budget of $165,500 with funding coming from the Capital Equipment Lease.
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22 Action Item: VOIP Implementation Project—ATCOM Business Technology Solutions, Inc. Contract Approval
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom O’Rourke FROM: Kevin Bowie DATE: September 16, 2014 RE: VoIP Implementation Project – ATCOM Business Technology Solutions, Inc. Contract Approval
Our IT staff recently requested proposals from qualified firms that were part of a nationally recognized cooperative agreement or had an existing technology contract with GSA for replacement of our current legacy phone systems throughout the park system. Our current phone system at HQ is reaching the end of its life and offers no room to expand. Many key phone sys- tems out in our facilities are also nearing their end of life. This proposal was written to procure a centralized VoIP system, newer features and capabilities to expand. Phase 1 will include HQ, 7 sites using the current system, three additional sites and McLeod Plantation. We will implement future phases as funds are appropriated by the Commission.
A best value evaluation was conducted with three responding cooperative contractors. The evaluation team fully supports recommending the cooperative purchasing agreement with ATCOM Business Technology Solutions, Inc. under the National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA). ATCOM is a reseller of Mitel sytems.
“NJPA is a public corporation or agency serving as a municipal contracting agency. NJPA creates national cooperative con- tract purchasing opportunities and solutions on behalf of its members which include all government, education and non-profit agencies nationwide. These cooperative contract purchasing opportunities present both time and money savings for their users by consolidating numerous individually prepared solicitations to one cooperatively shared process.” NJPA is well recognized by the National Institute of Government Procurement and CCPRC is a member of that alliance.
The total estimate for the Phase 1 is $126,680 with a total estimated amount of $263,840 for the total system and support for five years.
Recommend approval to enter into a contract with ATCOM Business Technology Solutions, Inc. to provide Phase 1 VoIP phone system replacement in the amount of 126,680 with funds coming from the Capital Equipment Lease and 4 one year options for support and additional phases based on future appropriations of the Commission.
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23 Administrative Services
Superintendent of Administrative Services-Kevin Bowie Information Technology Coordinator-Melissa Muse Director of Human Resources-Jan Coulter Director of Capital Projects-David Chappell Human Resources Manager-Juliana Leypoldt Assistant Director Capital Projects-Andy Hammill Employment Coordinator-Karen Thompson Assistant Director Capital Projects-Cynthia Montague Human Resources Coordinator -Latanja Wright Senior Planning Manager-Patricia Newshutz Volunteer Coordinator-Erin Guerrero Senior Capital Project Manager-Bruce Wright Director of Finance-Tommy Hale Capital Project Manager-Erick Briles Finance Manager-Cindy Jones Capital Project Manager-Ray Ely Staff Accountant-Carolyn Thames Senior Administrative Assistant-Penny Westerfelhaus Revenue Manager-Jackie Boyd HVAC Supervisor-Dale Kirk Accounting Technician-Linda DeMonti HVAC Specialist III-Victor Herrera Accounts Payable and Payroll Specialist-Tiffany Lyman HVAC-Rodney Stone Procurement Manager-Debby Taylor Maintenance Supervisor-Support-Rich Raab Procurement Coordinator-Lanna Wright Maintenance Specialist II-Jonathon Moore Budget Coordinator-Victoria Jilote Maintenance Specialist II-Ronald Willis Finance Projects Coordinator-Jeanne Lange Fleet Manager-Sam Spiggle Information Technology Manager-Eric Richards Crew Chief-Scott Spencer Information Technology Coordinator-Catherine Farah Mechanic III-David Calvert
Administrative Services is the administrative support for Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission. We maintain policy for personnel, finance, and procurement; our customers are staff and vendors who enter into a business relationship with CCPRC. The Superintendent of Administrative Services supervises the following departments: Human Resources, Finance, Procurement, Budget, Fixed Assets, Information Technology, Grants, Capital Projects, and Support Maintenance.
Contact Administrative Services: 861 Riverland Dr Charleston SC 29412
Phone: (843) 762-2172 Fax: (843) 762-2683 www.ccprc.com COMMISSION REPORT SEPTEMBER 2014
Activity: AUGUST In the News Events, Parks, and Programs
Group Sales & Sponsorship Partnerships and Public Perspectives Stats - Attendance, Parks & Program Services, and Web
In the News
County settles on Neck area property for long-delayed skatepark Brenda Rindge , Aug 19 2014 6:47 pm
After searching for five years for the perfect site for a skate- The commission decided Monday to go ahead with building park in the Charleston Neck area, the county Park and Recrea- the skatepark there after Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley Jr. tion Commission has settled on the location it wanted all said the city would pick up half the cost of removing the con- along - a 25-acre property on Oceanic Street. crete debris. The $500,000 would be available because the property is located in a Tax Increment Financing District, a The long-delayed park could open sometime in 2015 at 1593 public financing method for redevelopment and community Oceanic Street, which has 3 1/2 acres of upland nestled be- improvement projects. tween Interstate 26 and the Ashley River marsh. "The commission found the Oceanic site which seemed to be - "The one question everybody asks is, 'When am I going to is - excellent because it is centrally located," Riley said Tues- skate?'" said county parks Executive Director Tom O'Rourke. day. "That was by far the best site they considered and so ... "The answer is, I don't know. It's going to take less than a cou- we worked to help identify funds. I sent a memo to every ple years and a little more than a year." member of City Council and there has been no dissent. I'm confident that City Council will overwhelmingly support this." The issue will go before City Council in September. In addition to the city funds, the Charleston-based nonprofit Speedwell Foundation donated about $400,000 to remove the debris and prepare the site for the skatepark. Plans for the skatepark will be unveiled at a public meeting the commission expects will be held soon, O'Rourke said. Removing concrete should take about three months, he said. The planned park will be "regional quality," O'Rourke said, meaning it will be 25,000 square feet or more so that it can host competitions. "We're moving as fast as we possibly can," he said. "Our site selection process, after 5½ years, is finally over."
What do you think? Will you use the skate park in the Neck Area of Charleston once it is completed? The commission has wanted to build the skatepark at the Oceanic Street property for several of years, but was deterred by the discovery of tons of concrete that had been dumped Yes, definitely. there and covered with dirt, O'Rourke said.
Someone in my family probably will. Parks revenue was sufficient to buy the land, which cost $800,000, he said, but building a skatepark there would not have been feasible because of the cost of removing the con- I’m not sure. crete, estimated at nearly $1 million.
"We just thought as an agency there's no need to dump extra No, I will not. money into this site when we have 10,000 acres of park land all over the county," O'Rourke said.
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In the News
New 85-acre park at gateway to Johns Island will appeal to outdoors people Diane Knich , Aug 26 2014 7:38 pm Aug 26 9:59 pm
The Charleston County Park & Recreation Commis- sion is planning an 85-acre park with striking views of the Stono River and the John F. Limehouse Bridge at the gateway to Johns Island. Right now, it has no money to launch the plan to build Stono River County Park, Julie Hensley, the commission's director of planning and resource management, told dozens of people gathered at a public comment session Tuesday at St. Johns High School on Johns Island. The commission currently is gathering public input on what the park should in- clude, so the plan will be ready when money be- comes available. "It really all depends on funding," Hensley said. Tuesday's meeting, the second public meeting on the park, included presentations on two different plans.
One plan would include overnight accommodations, Marie Langlois, from the consulting group Stantec, said the including cabins and campsites. park will provide passive recreation opportunities such as The other would include a public shelter facility, and a shelter hiking trails. It won't include things like baseball fields, she facility that people could rent. said. "This is a park for nature lovers." Both plans would include a trailhead for the nearby West She also said the plan will consider nearby housing develop- Ashley Greenway, trails, a kayak launch and public restrooms. ments. "We are surrounded by neighbors and we want to be a good neighbor as well." Hensley said park commission leaders will review public com- ments and then develop a final master plan by Sept. 22 and Herndon McElmurray, who lives near the proposed park, said post it on the commission's website. he wants the site to remain natural so he can see alligators and deer. She also said the land was previously set to be developed, but it then was donated to the commission in 2012. "People "But I want a developed park where people can access the consider the park a good alternative to the development that land." Right now, it's so wild nobody can use it, he said. was in progress." The 85-acre site is situated in the West Ashley and Johns Island areas of the City of Charleston. It in- cludes about 25.3 acres of highland, a 12.2-acre marsh island and 48 acres of marsh adjoining the Stono River. Information on future plans for the park is availa- ble at www.charlestoncountyparks.com/ StonoRiverCountyPark.
Charleston County Park and Recreation are planning an 85-acre park between Rantowles Creek and John F. Limehouse Bridge over the Stono River. BRAD NETTLES/STAFF
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In the News
Second Public Meeting Scheduled For Future Park At Limehouse Bridge by admin , By Sarah Reynolds for The Island Connection
The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission will host a second public meeting and workshop about the future of the agency’s property located near the Limehouse Bridge. This piece of land, located in the Stono River between West Ashley and Johns Island, will become the “Stono River County Park.” It is currently undeveloped and a master plan is in the works to make it a CCPRC facility. The public is invited to attend the meeting, held on Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 6-7:30 p.m. at St. John’s High School (1518 Main Road on Johns Island). At the meeting, project leaders will present information on the site as well as current conceptual design alternatives for the property. The public will be invited to share comments and opinions about what they would like to see at the property. The meeting will be hosted by staff from CCPRC and the agency’s consultants for the property, Stantec. This is the second public workshop about this future park prop- erty. The first meeting was held in July. Members of the public who were unable to attend the first workshop are encouraged to view that meeting’s presentation online and to learn more about the property in advance at www.CharlestonCountyParks.com/StonoRiverCountyPark. Feedback received from both public meetings and surveys will be used to develop a master plan for the property. In December way to the south. Stunning views of the Stono River and the of 2012, CCPRC received the property through a generous do- potential for water access create further opportunities for pas- nation. sive recreation and enjoyment, including a potential connection to the proposed Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail. The site offers opportunities for kayaking, bird watching and other recreational activities. The master planning process for As for the future direction of the property, Julie Hensley, this project will explore pedestrian and vehicular circulation, a CCPRC’s director of planning, notes that citizens should under- dock connection to the marsh island and river, and constructed stand that it still may be a matter of years before the park is improvements that provide opportunities for recreation. Be- developed. yond the site, the planning process will explore connections to “However, we are very excited about the opportunities for trail the West Ashley Greenway and the Southeast Coast Saltwater connections offered by this site and look forward to developing Paddling Trail. The intended process will include seeking guid- the master plan for the property,” said Hensley. ance and input from a Steering Committee and the community. The property located at the Limehouse Bridge is one of several The 85.5-acre site is situated in the West Ashley and Johns Is- undeveloped lands recently acquired by CCPRC that will one land areas of the City of Charleston, near the Limehouse Bridge. day be a county park. The mission of CCPRC is to improve the It is composed of approximately 25.3 acres of highland, a 12.2- quality of life in Charleston County by offering a diverse system acre marsh island and 48 acres of marsh adjoining the Stono of park facilities, programs and services. The large park system River. A proposed development had begun infrastructure im- features over 10,000 acres of property and includes three land provements at the property when it was acquired and donated parks, three beach parks, four seasonally-lifeguarded beach to CCPRC. Portions are zoned under conservation and others areas, three dog parks, two landmark fishing piers, three water- are restricted to recreational use. The property’s plant commu- parks, 19 boat landings, aclimbing wall, a challenge course, an nities consist of mixed-mesic, bottomland hardwood, and mari- interpretive center, an equestrian center, cottages, a time forests, as well as early successional and tidal salt marsh. campground, a marina, as well as wedding, meeting and event An active CSX rail line abuts the property to the north, and the facilities. West Ashley Greenway terminus is within 300 yards of the site. The park system also offers a wide variety of recreational ser- With its close proximity to the Greenway, the property provides vices – festivals, camps, classes, programs, and more. For more an excellent opportunity to serve as a trailhead. Its adjacency to information on CCPRC, call 843-795- 4386 or visit the CSX rail line also creates the potential to extend the Green- www.charlestoncountyparks.com. 4
In the News
Do You Live in One of America’s Most Dog-Friendly Cities? Post by Elisabeth Geier | August 4, 2014
America… a nation united by dogs. According to the Humane Society, 47% of households have at least one. Of course, some American cities outshine the rest when it comes to welcoming dogs. With ample outdoor space and cultural activities catering to canines, these are the most dog-friendly cities in America. America’s most dog-friendly cities Charleston, SC
Flickr/Tanya
Dog Fancy recently named Charleston “the Southeast’s best city for dogs,” and it’s easy to see why. Charles- ton’s southern charm, history, and beautiful beaches are all accessible to dogs. You can even relax with your pooch at Yappy Hour at the park.
Flickr/North Charleston
Charleston County lifeguards showcase skills at regional competition Saturday, August 16, 2014
Lifeguards from Charleston County Park and Recreation Com- home third place in the Open Men's Division run-swim-run mission (CCPRC) beach parks spent two days in North Myrtle event. Beach showcasing their skills while competing in the South Several guards placed within the top 10 of various individual Atlantic Lifeguard Association (SALA) Championships held on events, earning the entire Charleston County team points for July 9 and 10. The team, composed of 15 ocean rescue life- each winner that placed. Those winners included Lauren guards, took home fourth overall in the “A” division, which is Weeks, Sarah Thibaudeau, Caroline Hairfield, Jessica Baynes, comprised of lifeguard teams from the larger beach areas in Kaitlyn Deitsch, Ryan Bing, Alex Parler, Kurtyss Kasten, Chase the South Atlantic region. Heffron, Stephen Fernandez and Alex Wood. Several Charleston County team members won individual Seven lifeguards from CCPRC will travel to Virginia Beach from awards as well. Ryan Bing was named region champ in the Aug. 7-9 to compete in the USLA National Lifeguard Champi- Open Men's Division 2-kilometer run. Stephen Fernandez was onship against lifeguard teams from all across the country. the age group runner-up in the surf race, board race, run- This will be the first time CCPRC has competed in this national swim-run and international ironman. Lauren Weeks won third event in over six years. place in both the Open Women's Division board race and in- ternational ironwoman. Weeks also placed within the top 10 For more information on the Charleston County Park and Rec- in the 2-kilometer run and the surf ski race. Alex Parler took reation Commission and its lifeguard staff and water safety program, visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com
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In the News
7th Annual Carolina Green Fair Returns to James Island County Park on September 21 Published: 8/27/2014 9:18:32 AM
To promote sustainability throughout the Lowcountry, the munity Stewardship Project engages students to come up Carolina Green Fair is partnering once again with Charles- with new stewardship ideas to benefit the community. Pro- ton County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) to ject funding is provided to various Dorchester and Charles- hold their 7th annual festival. Over the years, the Carolina ton County schools. Stop by the festival’s project showcase Green Fair has joined CCPRC to divert waste at county park to see some powerful young minds in action! events. This year, the Carolina Green Fair brings their popu- Carolina Green Fair attendees can also take advantage of lar festival back to James Island County Park on Sunday, hands-on attractions at James Island County Park like the Sept. 21 from noon – 5 p.m. Climbing Wall, slacklining, and mountain biking, making this This year’s Carolina Green Fair continues its mission to edu- year’s fair fun for a wide variety of interests. The event will cate and encourage South Carolina residents to use envi- also include a KidZone with Charleston Fun Factory and an ronmentally friendly products, services and technologies. Eco-Carnival featuring activities and games from local non- As a presenting festival sponsor, Charleston County’s Envi- profit organizations to entertain the little ones. Families can ronmental Management Department will highlight the explore wildlife exhibits on site from The Center for Birds of County’s green initiatives like recycling and composting, Prey. The Charleston Animal Society will bring out some and also educate residents on the many offerings available wonderful animals that are up for adoption, while sharing their mission of becoming a no-kill shelter by 2015. Additionally, the Carolina Green Fair will offer op- portunities to shop and stock up on environmentally -friendly projects, or to exchange old clothes for new ones at the popular Re-Trends Clothing Swap. Festival-goers can watch food and cooking demon- strations by local chefs from many favorite Low- country restaurants. Refreshments from Southern Eagle and Bota Box Wine will also be on hand. Then, stop by the festival Health & Wellness area for de- mos and sessions showcasing preventative wellness and outdoor fitness. There will also be dozens of exhibitors, artisans and vendors at the festival. Crews Subaru of Charleston, the event’s official auto sponsor, will be on site featuring cars for the earth- conscious adventurer. On hand to make sure noth- ing goes to waste will be Eco-Products and Food to make their homes and businesses more eco-friendly. Waste Disposal, who will provide compostable paper products and sort waste for delivery to Charleston County’s “Charleston County, a leader in solid waste management in Bees Ferry Compost Facility. On average, the fair diverts an the Southeast, is proud to sponsor the Carolina Green Fair incredible 97% of its waste from landfills and has set the and support a local event that has made enormous strides standard for other large-scale events working toward green to becoming waste-free, setting a standard for other events initiatives, including the park’s Lowcountry Cajun Festival, to follow,” said County Council Member Colleen Condon. which diverted more than 90% of its waste in 2013. “The Green Fair affords an opportunity for citizens to learn the importance of waste reduction and to recognize that Admission is free to the Carolina Green Fair! Just pay the $1 recyclable items are resources that contribute to a sustain- gate fee at James Island County Park to experience all the able future.” event has to offer. For more information, visit www.carolinagreenfair.com or This year, the Carolina Green Fair is proud to introduce a www.CharlestonCountyParks.com new project that is inspiring local youth to action. Spon- sored by the Bosch Community Grant, the Green Fair Com-
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In the News
Charleston County Parks introduces Adaptive Recreation Expo, set for Sept. 28 Published: 8/28/2014 1:04:11 PM
Physical fitness should be a part of life for everyone, and the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) wants to help residents make that a goal. That is why CCPRC is launching the Adaptive Recreation Expo from noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 28 at James Island County Park. “The Adaptive Recreation Expo will showcase a variety of adaptive sports and leisure activities,” CCPRC’s Assistant Director of Recreation Susie Goudy said. “It is the perfect avenue for our patrons with physical limitations to try some- thing new, rediscover a past recreational pursuit and to just have fun. That is what this event is all about.” The event will feature a variety of activities that will be mod- ified so that those with physical challenges can participate. The expo will include yoga, archery, paddling, boccia, and meet the growing needs of community members with limita- climbing. American Canoe Association-certified Adaptive tions. Since its inception, the AccessABILITY program has Paddling instructors will assist participants with adapting offered 20 additional opportunities for this often-overlooked watercraft to fit their needs. There will also be wheelchair- population. It is hoped that new programming, including the basketball and wheelchair-dance demos, and participants expo and other future ventures, will continue to serve the can take advantage of a nature tour and experience hand needs of this community. cycling. CCPRC strives to help participants develop lifelong leisure Additionally, the Adaptive Recreation Expo will feature ven- skills, which will enable them to participate in recreation dors on site who will offer expert information, demonstra- programs throughout the year. tions, and equipment. Admission to the Adaptive Recreation Expo is free with regu- “We are excited to offer this recreational opportunity for our lar gate admission to James Island County Park ($1 per per- patrons who have physical limitations,” Goudy said. “It is our son), but participants are encouraged to pre-register. Those goal to continue to expand our programming for this under- who pre-register by Sept. 14 will receive free lunch and a t- served population, offering more opportunities throughout shirt. For more information about the Adaptive Recreation the year.” Expo or to register, visit www.CharlestonCountyParks.com/ Launched in 2012, CCPRC’s AccessABILITY program strives to AdaptiveExpo
Catch the big one at Big Kahuna Fishing Tournament Aug. 16 Sunday, August 3, 2014
Grab your fishing rod and head out to the Folly Beach Fishing The Mount Pleasant Pier will hold its Cooper River Challenge Pier for the biggest fishing tournament of the summer. The tournaments on Sept. 6 and Oct. 4. The Mount Pleasant Pier is Folly Beach Fishing Pier will host its annual Big Kahuna Fishing a sight to see and offers fishing in the shade of the Arthur Rav- Tournament on Saturday, Aug. 16. enel Jr. Bridge.
The Big Kahuna includes prizes for the largest game fish catch Both piers offer everything a novice needs for a fun day of fish- in each of the following categories: Adult Angler, Lady Angler, ing, including equipment rentals, tackle and frozen bait, plus Youth Angler, Senior Angler, Total Weight of Five Fish and King knowledgeable staff to offer tips. For more information about Mackerel. the tournaments, call the Folly Beach Fishing Pier at 843-588- 3474, the Mount Pleasant Pier at 843-762-9946, or visit Online registration is available through Thursday, Aug. 14 at www.charlestoncountyparks.com/fishing. www.charlestoncountyparks.com. Day-of registration begins at 6 a.m. and tournaments end at 4 p.m. Registration fees vary.
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In the News
rUNdead Zombie 5K returns Oct. 25 to Wannamaker County Park - early registration ends Oct. 10 Published: 8/22/2014 2:50:13 PM
Charleston’s original zombie run is back! The 3rd annual rUN- Following the race will be the Aftermath post-race party, fea- dead Charleston 5K returns Saturday, Oct. 25 to North Charles- turing live music, a costume contest with prizes, a movie ton Wannamaker County Park, and registration is now open. screening, a youth area featuring zombie tag and other events, vendors, food, beverages, and an awards ceremony. Spectators Presented by the Charleston County Park and Recreation Com- (ages 12 and up) are encouraged to attend rUNdead for just $5, mission and On Purpose Adventures, rUNdead takes place on or by bringing 5 canned food items for donation to the Low- the winding trails of Wannamaker just before sunset. The 5K country Food Bank. Spectators ages 12 and under are free of course takes runners through woods and clearings, over bridg- charge with an adult chaperone. Runners ages 12-15 may com- es, across creeks, along ponds, and of course, through a maze pete in the race, but must be accompanied by an adult. Groups of blood-thirsty zombies. of 10 or more can save on race registration by holding their Not only will runners race against the clock on rugged terrain, own food drives to benefit the Lowcountry Food Bank. For they will dodge the undead at this challenging and exciting 5K. more information on that opportunity, visit rundead5K.com. Participants will receive a belt with three detachable flags. As Registration is available at www.rundead5K.com or by calling runners make their way through the course, zombies will 843-795-4386 (through Friday, Oct. 24). Registration rates in- attempt to grab the flags. Runners who bring five canned goods crease on Oct. 10, so interested participants are encouraged to for donation to the Lowcountry Food Bank will receive an extra register today! Visit www.rundead5k.com for further details, to health flag before the race, increasing their chance of “survival” read race rules, and to view videos and photos of the race. to the end of the course. The rUNdead Charleston 5K is presented by the Charleston Limited registration is also available to be a zombie on the race County Park and Recreation Commission and On Purpose Ad- course! In addition to traditional slower-moving zombies, a ventures. Other supporters and sponsors include HOCOA of new category this year is the addition of the “raging” zombie, a Charleston and 1st Class Painting and Restoration (presenting running, more active member of the undead. Runners are also sponsors), Intown.com (costume party sponsor), Cinnebarre encouraged to dress in costume. Runners and zombies are in- (post-race movie sponsor), and the Paul Mitchell School of vited to visit the “zombie assimilation station” to receive un- Charleston (providing artists and makeup for zombie assimila- dead makeovers prior to the race. Gates open at 2 p.m. and tion). rUNdead 5K is still currently accepting spaces for vendors the race begins at 5 p.m. and sponsors. For more information, visit www.rundead5k.com. Charleston County lifeguards showcase skills at regional competition Saturday, August 16, 2014
Lifeguards from Charleston County Park and Recreation Com- Several guards placed within the top 10 of various individual mission (CCPRC) beach parks spent two days in North Myrtle events, earning the entire Charleston County team points for Beach showcasing their skills while competing in the South each winner that placed. Those winners included Lauren Atlantic Lifeguard Association (SALA) Championships held on Weeks, Sarah Thibaudeau, Caroline Hairfield, Jessica Baynes, July 9 and 10. The team, composed of 15 ocean rescue life- Kaitlyn Deitsch, Ryan Bing, Alex Parler, Kurtyss Kasten, Chase guards, took home fourth overall in the “A” division, which is Heffron, Stephen Fernandez and Alex Wood. comprised of lifeguard teams from the larger beach areas in Seven lifeguards from CCPRC will travel to Virginia Beach from the South Atlantic region. Aug. 7-9 to compete in the USLA National Lifeguard Champion- Several Charleston County team members won individual ship against lifeguard teams from all across the country. This awards as well. Ryan Bing was named region champ in the will be the first time CCPRC has competed in this national Open Men's Division 2-kilometer run. Stephen Fernandez was event in over six years. the age group runner-up in the surf race, board race, run-swim For more information on the Charleston County Park and Rec- -run and international ironman. Lauren Weeks won third place reation Commission and its lifeguard staff and water safety in both the Open Women's Division board race and interna- program, visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com tional ironwoman. Weeks also placed within the top 10 in the 2-kilometer run and the surf ski race. Alex Parler took home third place in the Open Men's Division run-swim-run event. 8
In the News
Matthew Moldenhauer and Sandy O'Keefe win Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series Championship David Quick Aug 11 2014 4:57 pm
In only her second season of doing triathlons, a 35-year-old mother of two won perhaps the most prestigious local hon- or for the sport on Sunday.
Sandy Johnson O'Keefe of Summerville not only won the female open elite division of the 24th Charleston Sprint Tri- athlon Series but she set a new personal course record of one hour, two minutes and 22 seconds.
To put that in perspective, only 10 men had faster overall times on the course that featured a 600-yard swim, 12-mile bike and 5K run.
And if that's not enough, the branch manager of the Sum- merville Regions Bank took home the fastest time for wom- en in what she considered the weakest of her three disci- plines, the bike, with a split of 31:28.
"This year I got a new bike and really focused on improving," said O'Keefe, who plans to compete in the Kiawah Island Golf Resort Triathlon on Sept. 21 and the Beach 2 Battleship half iron distance race in Wilmington, N.C., on Oct. 25.
Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission Executive Director Tom O'Rourke makes a toast for Paul and Kathleen King during a party celebrating their 24 years of creating and building the Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series. David Quick/Staff
While she started running a decade ago after the birth of her first child, Kyla, O'Keefe started training with the Summer- ville Family YMCA Triathlon team and won her age group division in last year's sprint series. She decided to step up to open-elite this year and has been buoyed by her suc- cess.
After running the Boston Marathon next year, plans to turn her athletic focus to tri- athlon.
Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission Executive Director Tom The male champion, 31-year-old Matthew O'Rourke announces that the Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series Award will Moldenhauer, finished fourth overall on now be named for Kathleen King before presenting it to female champion Sunday with a time of 1:00:38, but point Sandy Johnson O'Keefe of Summerville, with children Kyla, 10, and Owen, 5, totals from two previous races this summer in tow. David Quick/Staff
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In the News
Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series Championship - continued
gave him the most in a year that marked the end of an era for the series.
Sunday's race was the last for sprint triathlon se-
ries founder Paul King and his family, which played critical roles in making the event happen over the last quarter century.
The Charleston County Parks and Recreation Com- mission, which has played a bigger role in the se- ries for two years, will be organizing the event entirely in the future.
"I've done a number of other endurance races, but this series is by far my favorite. By design, the sprint series makes athletes of all abilities feel good about themselves and about their sport, and makes us all better sportsmen as a result," said Moldenhauer.
August 11, 2014 Triathletes joined volunteers and Charleston County "We're a community of athletes here. You just Parks and Recreation Commission staffers on Sunday not only in cele- don't get that at the big name races." brating this year's Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series champions but to honor Paul and Kathleen King and their children, Amelia and Sky- After Sunday's race, triathletes and volunteers lar, for 24 years of creating and building the event. joined commission staffers in a "send-off" party for the King family, which included a champagne toast, the reading of a proclamation from the City of Charleston and a full breakfast.
As part of the honors, Commission Executive Di- rector Tom O'Rourke announced that the series male championship award will be named for Paul King and the female's award for Kathleen King.
For more results, go to https://www.ccprc.com/ index.aspx?NID=1507
Moldenhauer, who works for the commission, had not set his sights on winning the series earlier in the season, but said he was honored to have won it during Paul and Kathleen King's last summer as race directors.
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In the News
Celebrate the End of Summer with a South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program Sea Turtle Release AUGUST 4, 2014
Two sea turtles rehabilitated by the South Carolina Aquarium Why: To return an en- Sea Turtle Rescue Program are ready to return to the deep dangered Kemp's Ridley blue sea. The public is invited to say goodbye to Bay, a Kemp's and a threatened logger- ridley sea turtle, and Mitchel, a loggerhead sea turtle, on head sea turtle back into Wednesday, August 6, 2014 at 10 a.m. at the Isle of Palms the wild County Park. The release is being held in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and More on how to help: the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission You too can help threatened and endangered sea turtles. If (CCPRC). Attendees should plan to carpool, arrive early you find a sick or injured sea turtle, contact the SCDNR sea (County Park gate opens at 9am), and expect to pay for park- turtle hotline at (800) 922-5431. You can also help care for ing at the county park. sea turtles in recovery in the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program by going to scaquarium.org and mak- More about Bay: ing a donation and by visiting the South Carolina Aquarium Bay, an 11-pound juvenile Kemp's ridley sea turtle, was acci- and booking a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sea Turtle Hospi- dentally caught by a fisherman at the Edisto Beach State Park tal. fishing pier in June of this year. Bay swallowed the fishing hook and was quickly transported to the South Carolina For all media inquiries, please contact Kate Dittloff at (843) Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program where veterinarian Dr. 579-8660 or kdittloff(at)scaquarium(dot)org. Shane Boylan surgically removed the hook from Bay's esopha- gus. Had the fisherman simply cut the line leaving the hook in About the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Pro- Bay's throat, the endangered turtle could have died. After gram: surgery, Bay received antibiotics, vitamins, and a healthy diet In partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural of assorted fish. After three months of care, Bay is fully Resources (SCDNR), the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle healed and ready to return to the Atlantic Ocean. Rescue Program works to rescue, rehabilitate and release sea turtles that strand along the South Carolina coast. Located in More about Mitchel: the Aquarium, the Sea Turtle Hospital admits 20 to 30 sea Mitchell, a 65-pound juvenile loggerhead sea turtle, was turtles each year. Many of these animals are in critical condi- found stranded in the pluff mud on Hilton Head Island in May tion and some are too sick to save. of this year. Mitchel was found entangled in a fishing rig, mal- nourished, anemic and covered in barnacles. Upon admission According to SCDNR, over the last 10 years the average num- to the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Program, ber of sea turtle standings on South Carolina beaches each Michel was in a dangerous state of decline. The fishing line, year is 133. Of these, roughly 10% are alive and successfully weight, and hook were all removed, and Rescue Program staff transported to the Sea Turtle Hospital. To date, the South administered fluids, antibiotics, vitamins, and a healthy diet. Carolina Aquarium has successfully rehabilitated and released With a clean bill of health, Mitchell has been swimming 139 sea turtles and is currently treating 8 patients. The aver- around his/her tank and is enjoying a healthy diet in prepara- age cost for each patient's treatment is $35 a day with the tion for the trip back into the open ocean. average length of stay reaching nine months.
To track the progress of current patients in recovery, visit our About the South Carolina Aquarium: Sea Turtle Rescue Program blog at scaquarium.org. Be sure to The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston's most visited follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates from attraction, features thousands of amazing aquatic animals the hospital, including public sea turtle release details. from river otters and sharks to loggerhead turtles in more than 60 exhibits representing the rich biodiversity of South More on the sea turtle release: Carolina from the mountains to the sea. Dedicated to pro- Who: The South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Rescue Pro- moting education and conservation, the Aquarium also pre- gram and the CCPRC sents fabulous views of Charleston harbor and interactive What: Public sea turtle release exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages. When: Wednesday, August 6, 2014 at 10 a.m. Where: Isle of Palms County Park, Isle of Palms, S.C. 11
Events, Parks, and Programs
CCPRC Supports Special Olympics Competition
On August 23, 12 Special Olympic athletes from chapters in Charleston and Columbia SC, descended on James Island Coun- ty Park for two categories of Kayaking Competition; solo and tandem. Both categories competed over two distances: 200m & 500m with both male and female divisions.
The event was the conclusion for the Charleston team who participated in 8 weeks of trainings and practices with both CCPRC Outdoor staff and Special Olympic volunteers. Special thanks go out to Bill Johnson who volunteered and assisted with the program for over 5 seasons! The event was a joint effort by CCPRC Outdoor and Festival and Event staff.
Customer Quotes:
I would like to thank all of you (and your staff) for your roles in making yesterday's Special Olympics Kayaking Competition such a great success. I personally believe that this was one of our best! John, I know you put a lot of thought and effort into the course layout and it showed. Special Olympic Attendee
Thanks for yesterday and thanks for a full summer of support! Special Olympic Attendee
The athletes on both teams performed VERY well and everyone appeared to have a great time. I heard many very positive remarks from family members and visitors. Special Olympic Attendee
In the offseason, I will continue to work to grow Special Olympics Kayaking in South Carolina. Hopefully, next year we'll have an ad- ditional team or two at the competition. Special Olympic Attendee
Game Night Prom
CCPRC hosted a Game Night Prom for people with special needs on Friday, August 22nd at Bees Landing Recreation Center. The night was filled with lots of dancing, life sized candy land and the crowning of this year’s Prom Queen and King.
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Events, Parks, and Programs
The Annual Big Kahuna Fishing Tournament
It’s five in the morning and there’s a line of eagerly awaiting people outside the Folly Pier doors. No, this isn’t an Apple Store about to release the latest IPhone… this is the 19th Annual Big Kahuna!! A hundred and forty one anglers put their lines in the water and six reeled their way to the top of the tournament. The fish were plentiful and the prizes abundant. Our amazing sponsor, Bobby Hartin’s ESPN sports radio, had thousands of dol- lars in tackle donated from local tackle shop, Haddrell’s. In addition, anglers had a chance to win a car from Crew’s Subaru. Although nobody broke a state record to win the car, a great deal of people left with something in their hand from the raffle. Every tournament participant got a free 2014 Big Kahuna t-shirt and lunch courtesy of PRC and ESPN radio. This is one of the most affordable, easiest, and convenient fishing tournaments in Charles- th ton. Fishing at the Folly Pier means: no towing the boat or how to make the 20 Annual Kahuna extra special next sitting in the hot sand. It also boasts the best public beach year. One idea is to raffle off the grand prize even if nobody accommodations of bathrooms, shade shelters, tackle shop, breaks a state record. It may not be a car or boat, but per- and a full restaurant. haps a fishing kayak and guaranteed to be given away. That’ll draw a crowd. This year’s Big Kahuna saw a vast number of species with a total of 99 fish weighed in. The day couldn’t have been Fish caught this year included: 58 Whiting, 19 Blues, 8 Pom- better: mid-eighties with a slight on-shore wind and an in- pano, 5 Flounder, 2 Spanish Mackerel, 2 Jack Cravelle, 2 coming tide. We are currently in talks with ESPN radio on Lady Fish, 1 Spadefish, 1 Sea Trout, and 1 Red Drum.
Bird-Banding Project
On Wednesday, August 6, Natural History Interpretation Coordinator Keith McCullough had the opportunity to par- ticipate in a bird-banding project known as MAPS (Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship). This pro- ject is a nationwide effort to collect data about birds through their capture, analysis, and release. Information that is critical to the ecology, conservation, and manage- ment of North American bird populations. The event was held at the Webb Wildlife Center, a state owned property in Garnett, SC.
Present at the last MAPS session of the season were four The White-eyed Vireo in the photo was one of the 82 members of the South Carolina Bird Records Committee, individuals caught. including project leader and SCDNR staff member Lex Glov- er! Beginning at dawn, the group netted 24 species and 82 individual birds, both season high numbers for that location. birds in this way. This opportunity allowed Keith to network In addition, 21 birds were recaptures, having been banded with some of the state's foremost wildlife researchers and during a previous session. Much is learned from recapturing birding experts while developing skills that have potential for future CCPRC program offerings.
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Events, Parks, and Programs
Football and Cheerleading Season Kicks
Community Recreation (CR) has kicked off its fall sports season in the Baptist Hill, St. Johns, and McClellanville Communities!
Leagues are operating for in instructional flag football (ages 5-8), and tackle football (ages 8-14). As always, CCPRC sports promotes a focus on participation, sports- manship, team building and instruction in all our leagues, guided by standards of the National Association of Youth Sports (NAYS). Our cheerleading program for ages 4-14 provides instruction and cheering at the sidelines for our own youth football leagues.
On Saturday, September 6, the Baptist Hill Community Recreation team will host a Punt, Pass, and Kick event for area youth from 10am-1 pm. Staff looks forward to mak- ing this an annual event. McClellanville will host an opening We look forward to great crowds of family supporters at the day Football Jamboree on Saturday, September 13 at Lincoln sidelines for these events. High School. Each CR site will participate in scrimmages.
Giant Greeting Card Competition a Huge Hit
To many, the grand opening of the Holiday Festival of Lights munity, as well as those from educational daycare centers, may seem a long way off. However to CCPRC staff, the start church schools, and home school groups. The competition of the school year also brings with it, the start of registration accepts up to 40 entries on a first come, first served basis. for the very popular Giant Greeting Card Competition. With 2014 being the 25th anniversary of the Holiday Festival Each year this event draws creative, delightful entries from of Lights, our participants this year will be challenged to in- elementary, middle and high schools in the Charleston com- clude our theme colors of “silver and blue” as a significant component in their designs. Awards will be presented to first, second, and third place fin- ishers in elementary, middle and high school categories. In addition, four merit awards will be presented across categories to entries that may not finish in the main award area, but by indication of the judging, display exceptional effort and creativity. Winners receive a trophy and cash award to support development of the arts in their school.
Entries are judged by a large group of volunteer CCPRC staff from across divisions and park loca- tions. There is certainly great enthusiasm each year by staffs who participate in this both very serious and fun role as event judges. Complet- ed entries will be turned in to event staff on Thursday, October 30 and winners will be an- nounced at the awards event, Friday, Novem- ber 14 at 7:00 pm from Santa’s Stage.
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Events, Parks, and Programs
Mullet Hall Equestrian Center
Mullet Hall Equestrian Center designates one week in August, annually, for trail work. With no sched- uled events, it was the perfect time to cut back the over growth on the trails. WCP loaned their forklift work platform to trim those hard to reach limbs. Parks staff member, Susan Anderson, even volun- teered her services for one work day on the trail.
Charleston County Parks Presented State Programming Award
CCPRC won the Programming Excellence Award for the continue the program, and responding to additional re- population category over 30,000, by the South Carolina quests, expanded from four to six sites. An increase of ser- Recreation and Parks Association (SCRPA) at its annual vice from 400 to over 500 youth for the 2014 season! State Conference held recently in Hilton Head, SC. The This program has truly been an effort of cooperation and award was presented in recognition of the Rural Communi- dedication within agency divisions, from Community Recre- ties Swim Lessons Program, which was developed to pro- ation to Safety to Parks. All staff involved were honored to vide formal swim lessons to youth in our rural communi- have been part of this program, and look forward to con- ties, who do not have the same access to community tinuation of this effort in the years to come. swimming facilities and swim lessons that are available in Charleston’s urban and suburban communities. The pro- gram was judged on how it affected our community, chal- lenges faced, how the Agency’s mission and/or goals were met, public involvement and partnerships, uniqueness, resulting and long-term success, and economic impact.
A unique opportunity in the form of a portable swimming pool, to “bring the pool to the kids”, and a partnership with the Charleston County School District, the Community Ser- vices of Edisto, and the Lowcountry Aquatic Swimming Project (LAPS), enabled CCPRC to address this challenge and expand our overall water safety initiative and services to our rural communities. Using the Splash Zone Water Park along with the mobility of the portable pool, we were able to serve four elementary school and summer camp sites in 2013, reaching over 400 youth. We provided each child eight swim lessons (30 minutes each) serving a broad range of swimming abilities. In 2014, we met our goal to
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Public Perspective
Customer Quotes:
“We LOVED how professional, organized, and cheerful the counselors and junior counselors were. They always seemed to be fully engaged with the kids and we never saw any of them looking bored or irritable or speaking harshly to the kids, which we've seen (or heard about from our sons) with other camps. They were always smiling, polite, and helpful with us parents, as well. They always active- ly offered assistance, rather than waiting to be asked. We loved the fact that a consistent, effective system of discipline and positive reinforcement with the kids was used. The training program that the counselors and Jr. Counselors go through must be excellent. Our 7 year old is already looking forward to being old enough to be a Jr. Counselor! Aside from the impressive leadership, we loved the activi- ties that were offered. Our son did, as well. We couldn't have asked for a bigger or better variety of things he got to do. We hope both our sons will be able to attend your camps for years to come. You guys run a great program! We hope there is some way you can pass our compliments and appreciation along to the counselors. P.S. We just did the math; between our 2 sons, they've attended 8 other summer programs and yours is by far the best.” Explorers Camp Participant’s Parent
Parks Customer Service At Its Best! The refrigerator in the Mt. Pleasant Cooper River Room broke hours before a wedding reception last month. Laura Ed- wards, Assistant Pier Manager, and staff swung into action to provide the assistance needed for the reception to go off without a hitch. Below are the customers’ comments:
Please, please let Laura at the Mt. Pleasant Pier know how grateful we are for her and her co-worker's help with this wed- ding we had this past Sunday! The weekend couldn't have turned out better with all the craziness going on with the bride this past week. Laura's hospitality truly was a life saver! See message below from our day manager for the wedding on Sunday. P.S. That is the biggest cooler I've ever seen in my LIFE! BIG thanks to Laura at the Mt. Pleasant Pier – She and another of her coworkers were a very big help in securing the ac- commodations we made for the refrigerator. They offered the red cooler and helped me move it to the CCR using a maintenance truck. Laura stuck with us, too, and kept coming back around with more suggestions and offers of help. If we ran out of ice, they were prepared to fill coolers from their machines, too. She also had the maintenance staff follow- up with us to see if there was anything else they could do. CCPRC staff get A+’s for Sunday – they really helped us pull it off.
Splash Zone Lifeguards Impress Visitors!
My family went out to Splash Zone for the first time on Sunday. I've spent a lot of time in and around pools – (I used to be a lifeguard at four different facilities and I spent five or six years as a swim coach.) I have never been more impressed with the attentiveness of a group of lifeguards as I was at Splash Zone. Whoever supervises the guards out there has them well trained and looking very professional. I never saw one make a save, which is a good thing, but I did feel like they were very well aware of everything that was happening. They were moving, patrolling, and in and out of the water the entire time.
I just wanted to pass on some positive feedback. Hopefully it can make it to the right person. As a parent of two small kids, it was a reassuring feeling. Aside from being impressed with the guard staff, my family had a great time, which made it a great morning.
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Partnerships & Community Outreach
Charleston County Public Library: CCPRC partnered with the library to provide books to approximately 2,700 children at six Summer Camp and Odyssey Camp locations.
Charleston County School District’s Great Teachers, Great Leaders: CCPRC attended the conference and met with new teachers to promote Charleston Coun- ty Parks’ events and pass sales.
South Carolina Aquarium: CCPRC promoted its events and sold passes at the Aquarium during Shark Week.
Charleston RiverDogs: CCPRC renewed its partnership with the RiverDogs, which includes onsite presence at Family Sunday games to promote events and sell passes.
Stats-Parks & Program Services
Total Calls In: 8,066
Average Talk Time: 2.39
Average Wait Time: 0.35
Online: $ 46,007
Front Desk: $ 296,038
Total Revenue: $ 342,045
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Group Sales & Sponsorship
Through Corporate Online Pass Sales, companies can purchase discounted park passes . In August, the following companies purchased Gold Passes generating $4,462.
Corporate Online Pass Sales
Benefitfocus: $58 (1 Gold Pass)
Blackbaud: $117 (2 Gold Passes)
Boeing: $526 (9 Gold Passes)
Bosch: $117 (2 Gold Passes)
Charleston County School District: $409 (7 Gold Passes)
Charleston County Government: $175 (3 Gold Passes)
The Citadel: $234 (4 Gold Passes)
College of Charleston: $526 (9 Gold Passes)
MUSC: $1,657 (30 Gold Passes)
Roper Hospital: $234 (4 Gold Passes)
Trident Health System: $58 (1 Gold Pass)
Trident Technical College: $117 (2 Gold Passes)
VA Medical: $117 (2 Gold Passes)
Wells Fargo: $117 (2 Gold Passes)
GOLD PASS REVENUE
$100,000.00
$- 2012 YTD 2013 YTD 2014 YTD
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Group Sales & Sponsorship
Sponsorship During the month of August, the following companies sponsored various special events, generating $19,392.*
Event Company Value Reggae Nights Summer Concert Southern Eagle $2,000 Bota Box $455
Thursday Night Boogie Southern Eagle $2,000 Bota Box $455
Shaggin’ on the Cooper Southern Eagle $2,000 Bota Box $455 Duncan’s Boats $350 SC Federal Credit Union $350
Yappy Hour Southern Eagle $2,000 Bota Box $455 Charleston Veterinary Referral Ctr $150 Charleston Animal Society $1,000 Crews Subaru of Charleston $2,000
Pups, Yups, & Food Trucks Southern Eagle $2,000 Bota Box $455 Charleston Animal Society $1,000 Crews Subaru of Charleston $2,000 Bluegreen Vacations $267
*Please note the companies listed above are sponsoring multiple events throughout the year; therefore their total investment is distributed among select events.
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Stats-Web 08/01 - 08/31
Website Visitor Summary CharlestonCountyParks.com
Visits Unique Visitors Page Views Unique Page Views
August 2014: 95,167 August 2014: 72,258 August 2014: 378,851 August 2014: 252,472
How Are They Finding Us? Most Popular Pages
1. CharlestonCVB 11. Facebook.com 1. Home page 11. Cottages 2. Yahoo 12. Waterparks.com 2. Campground & Cottages 12. Folly Beach CP 3. IOP.net 13. Yelllowpages.com 3. Waterparks 13. Wedding Venues 4. CharlestonFamilyFun.com 14. GoodSamClub.com 4. Campground 14. Kiawah 5. Sciway.net 15. BorrowedandBlue.com 5. Whirlin’ Waters 15. IOP County Park 6. FollyBeach.com 16. TripAdvisor.com 6. James Island County Park 16. Extra Value Days 7. ChasWeddingGuide.com 17. Halfmarathons.net 7. Splash Zone 17. Beach Parks 8. Facebook.com (mobile) 18. CharlestonCounty.org 8. Parks & Facilities 18. Palmetto Islands 9. CharlestonCVB (mobile) 19. KiawahIsland.org 9. Wannamaker 19. Human Resources 10. GoodSamCamping 20. RunningInTheUSA.com 10. Splash Island 20. CSTS
Facebook Engagement
Email Marketing Overall Metrics
23.8% Open rate (929,757)
13.9% Clicks (129,074)
Last 3 Months
31.1% Open rate (80,263)
12.9% Clicks (10,378)
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3 2 1 Stats-Attendance August 2014August 2013 August 2012 August 2014August 2013 August 2012 August 2014August 2013 August 2012 August Bulow is closed in closed January is Bulow for maintenance waterpark,and attendance.Includes HFOL, C&C Includes waterpark attendance. waterpark attendance. Includes Attendance Attendance Attendance 2013 vs 2014 2013 vs 2014 Occupancy Occupancy Occupancy Vehicles Vehicles Vehicles Variance % % Campsites 21,456 19,782 17,270 6,259 5,359 3,361 1,674 PICP BWP 17% 73% 66% 59% 900 8% 1 62,029 60,170 56,040 Cottages 1,090 5,207 4,117 1,859 FBCP JICP 26% 73% 64% 63% 3% 0 2 11,398 65,550 59,675 52,705 WCP 1,688 9,710 7,814 5,875 Marina 17% 97% 98% 95% 10% IOP 1 22,864 19,186 11,175 TOTAL 3,678 CAW 19% 58% 45% 52% Bulow 51% 331 974 643 710 Facility Attendence August vs Attendence August 2014 Facility 2015 MHEC 100 42% 25 85 60 FB PIER FB 40,802 37,510 33,184 3,292 9% MP Pier MP 29,180 24,325 17,375 4,855 20% Attendance 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 50,000 0 19,282 17,185 10,826 2,097 BWP 12% August2012 Attendance 207,526 15,063 5,631 9,432 FBCP 60% 0 Attendance Attendance Attendance Aug 2013 2013 Aug 2012 Aug August2013 Attendance 2013 vs vs 2013 Aug 2014 31,075 24,728 19,011 6,347 Attendance 2014 26% 253,824 IOP % Bulow 11,569 2,542 9,027 7,749 28% 80% 251 565 314 305 SI August2014 Attendance 3 286,075 17,320 17,865 16,824 Laurel -545 -3% Hill 15 15 SZ --- 0 0 Towne 35,235 32,597 30,385 2,638 WW Old Old 8% --- 0 0 0 0 286,075 253,824 207,526 64,124 59,489 54,958 TOTAL 32,251 TOTAL 4,635 13% 8% Rain: 7.08" Rain: 91.8 Temp: 3.95" Rain: 89.3 Temp: 7.76" Rain: 88.2 Temp:
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Stats-Attendance **IncludesWaterpark, and attendanceHFOL, C&C waterpark *Includes attendance. Attendance 1314 vs1415 vs1415 1314 Attendance Occupancy Occupancy Occupancy Attendance YTD 1213 YTD 1213 YTD YTD 1415 YTD 1415 YTD 1314 YTD 1415 YTD 1314 YTD 1314 YTD 1213 YTD 1415 1314YTD Vehicles Vehicles 1314vs Vehicles Variance 1415 % % Campsites 13,475 11,761 47,664 45,256 42,203 1,714 9,600 2,408 BWP PICP* 82% 15% 77% 74% 5% 152,930 137,221 133,051 Cottages 11,774 15,709 2,235 9,539 JICP** FBCP 86% 23% 82% 81% 11% 0 159,366 143,956 143,851 27,560 24,078 21,652 15,410 Marina 3,482 WCP* 97% 14% 98% 96% 11% IOP 52,809 45,378 31,252 TOTAL Bulow* 7,431 1,890 1,360 1,410 16% 45% 26% 50% 39% CAW 530 YTD Attendance 1314 vs. YTD Attendance1415 1314 13,235 11,560 10,600 1,675 MHEC 14% 94,059 88,237 77,233 FB Pier FB 5,823 7% MP Pier MP 12,217 69,329 57,113 48,325 21% 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 500,000 600,000 700,000 Attendance 0 42,110 39,726 32,182 2,384 BWP 6% Attendance YTD 1213 YTD 545,168 Attendance Attendance Attendance YTD 1415 1415 YTD YTD 1314 YTD1314 YTD1213 1314 vs vs 1314 30,953 24,041 6,912 1415 FBCP 29% % 0 Attendance YTD 1314 YTD 615,753 22,520 23,999 23,412 11,816 78,426 66,610 55,954 -1,479 18% -6% IOP SI Attendance YTD 1415 YTD 690,754 45,391 46,221 50,177 Bulow -830 64% -2% 303 777 474 359 SZ LaurelHill 93,744 85,525 91,050 8,219 -93% WW -185 10% 200 15 0 Old Towne Old 161,655 155,745 164,639 TOTAL 5,910 4% --- 0 0 0 0 690,754 615,753 545,168 75,001 TOTAL 12%
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Planning Division
Commission Update September 2014
Planning Division Project Update
Spring Grove Purchase Pending
On August 7, 2014, the Charleston County Greenbelt Bank Board unanimously approved the alloca on of $2,567,000 to CCPRC for the acquisi on of the 638‐acre Spring Grove property. Before the funding alloca on can be finalized, County Council must first approve the purchase. Council’s decision has been delayed, as they have voted to defer their decision for this funding request un l the current property owner, Mead Westvaco, can finalize its development agreement with Charleston County for the proposed East Edisto project. It is unclear how long it may take to finalize the development agreement, but the Greenbelt funds have been earmarked un l then.
If approved, the purchase of this property will provide a future park in the northwestern por on of the County, which is currently lacking in recrea on facili es. The site is importantly posi oned at what is considered the entrance to the ACE Basin. It includes 528 acres of highland, of which 252 acres are cleared fields that were created by mber harvests. The site has over 4,000 lineal feet of frontage along Highway 17 just south of Ravenel, providing easy access and the opportunity to connect with the proposed East Coast Greenway. Addi onally, there are 4 miles of exis ng unpaved roads within the property that can serve as future trails.
Ducks Unlimited may be a purchasing partner if the State Conserva on Bank agrees to grant funding for a conserva on easement on the property. The decision for their funding request will be made in October.
Forested area within the Spring Grove property Cleared area within the Spring Grove property