HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-16-1992 Regular MeetingThe Recreation Board of the City of Fairhope met Wednesday, December 16,
1992 at 6:30 p.m. at the City Administration Building, 161 N. Section Street
Present: Chairman Richard Bass; members Larry Thomas, Charlie Langham,
Rae Jackson, Stanley Fant Phil Rutherford, Betty Rivenbark
and Mike Ford
Mr. Bass recognized a delegation of golfers who were here tonight 'to ask
why the board had put up a sign at the Volanta Park saying that no golfing
is allowed. Jim Merrihew asked what brought this about. The board
responded saying that we have had numerous complaints over the years
but most recently a lady called and said that she was walking at the park
and a golfer had hit at her and she had called the police and the board and
reported the incident, -but, there was nothing that the police could do but
take her complaint. The board had discussed the incident as well as looking
at the liability we are facing if we ignore the situation and something happens.
Larry Thomas told them that he had discussed with Phil trying to find some-
place else but at this time we do not have a place. The golfers argued that
most of the time the park is empty when they are out there. Further, that
when there is a group there they usually turn around and leave and do not
even stop. Stanley responded saying that he- is sure that this is true, and
that they are a conscientious group of people or they would not be here to-
night trying to discuss the situation with us. Mr. Zahn and Jim Kerr also
made statements about why they thought we should allow them to use it.
They asked if we could not have hours for golfers and have someone
monitor it. It was pointed out that a person walking would not be looking
for golfers and we did not have a way to monitor it. Richard Bass ex-
plained that this was not done without a great deal of consideration and study.
That we discussed putting the signs up to see if we could control the situation
ourselves rather than make ordinances and have to arrest people. Most of
the group understood why this was necessary since coming tonight to talk
to the board. Jim Kerr asked what other plans do we have for the park..
he asked about the oak tree that was cut down, and if we were going to
try and enforce the lease law, that he has seen dogs running at large with
their owners out there. Phil said we were not going to stop people from
walking dogs if the dogs were with their masters and they had them under
control. The group was thanked for coming up and discussing this with us
and was told that it is not a dead issue, we will continue to try and find
someplace for them to go. It was suggested possibly having the golf course
charge only $1.00 for a bucket of balls for anyone over 65. This suggestion
will be passed on also for consideration.
Mary Burtnett was present tonight to talk with the board about the girl's
softball association. She related that Linda Skooglund had submitted her
resignation to the board and that she will taking her place only for the year
she has left in her term. She gave the board a list of officers(in file) and
said she will continue to work with us. She was given the new policy that
was just worked up for people using Stimpson Field. She looked over it and
was told by the board if she did not understand it or if she needed anything
else to please get back with us.
The minutes were approved as written, and the bills were approved on motion
by Stanley Fant, seconded by Larry Thomas and unanimously carried.
Rae reported on the art program and brought up again the issue of us having
to pay to use Theatre 98 building.
Stanley said he thought we should address again with Keith Powell the problem
we are having with his staff parking in areas we have asked them not to use.
It was decided to send him a letter so as to have something in writing, also
to include they are to stay out of new building and not use our equipment.
The Recreation Director was discussed and all thought it would be a good idea
to get the Mayor come and talk with us and to exchange ideas about what
he wants and what we want.
The board tabled the golfing issue until- the January -meeting in order to look
for new sites and study more. A motion was made by Stanley Fant seconded by
Larry Thomas and unanimously carried.
There being no further business, meeting was duly adjourned.