07-29-2019 Minutes MINUTES OF THE OCOEE
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD
REGULAR MEETING HELD ON July 29, 2019
I. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m. in the Annex Building-Parks and
Recreation main office, Ocoee, FL 34761. The roll was called and it was declared
there was a quorum.
A. PRESENT: Chair Rainer, Vice-Chair Graham, and Member Applegate.
Also present were Parks and Recreation Director Mark Johnson, Ex-Offico
Member Commissioner Wilsen, and Senior Administrative Assistant Kim
McMillin.
ABSENT: Member Maranan (Absent excused) and Member Stewart
(Absent excused).
B. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND VISITORS:
Patty McKey, a city resident, was a guest speaker and presented her ideas
photos of improvements and repairs to be made at Tiger Minor. She requested
up to four pickle ball courts, two pickle ball courts per each tennis court, to be
created as this is a growing trend for all ages. She also notes cracks and slopes
with water puddles are some reasons for the request to rework the use of the
tennis courts. In order to attract residents in Ocoee who play pickle ball, as
many currently participate in Winter Garden. Director Johnson stated quotes
were obtained to re-do the courts but were at a high cost. He suggested re-
doing the far east court which is in the best condition to undergo the
transformation for a pickle ball court. The board suggested a re-evaluation of
all parks with amenities. A map with amenities was distributed to all members
for open discussions. One of the improvement quotes that was obtained for the
Parkside-Coventry Park tennis courts totaled about $34,000.00.
A. NEW BUSINESS
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Member Applegate seconded by Vice-Chair Graham made a motion to
accept the minutes of the March 25 th meeting and the May 20 th discussion.
The motions passed unanimously.
B. BEST FEST 2019
Asst. Director Johnson reported this year's event had the most attendees,
noting the location next to Starke Lake is extremely favorable. He added the
West Orange Chamber has shown interest in hosting the event annually due to
the positive feedback for the location.
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C. EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA
Director Johnson announced that the attendance was approximately 1,200.
The event went well and was busy as always with about 14,000 eggs
distributed; this year there was a DJ. He also mentioned they are always
looking for suggestions on how to add to and improve the event.
D. BIG ORANGE GAMES
Director Johnson reported on the event noting that although many pre-
registered, only about half participants attended. It was suggested that other
activities be added such as having a face painter and giving out popcorn to
lengthen the day as a special event for the participants.
E. Frank W. Turner Park
Director Johnson announced the dedication of the re-naming ceremony had a
nice turn out. Ex-Offico Member Commissioner Wilsen praised the event
as well planned and executed from the tent to the white resin chairs to the
unveiling of the new sign.
III. OTHER BUSINESS
Director Johnson announced the City Commission's consensus approved
renaming Central Park to Vandergrift Park per the request of the Vandergrift
family, as the former Mayor was remembered for his dedication to baseball. It
was suggested to announce the dedication on opening day of Little League.
Chair Rainer questioned what the process for renaming a park is or if there is
a protocol in place. Director Johnson will research various municipality's
criterias.
Ex-Offico Member Commissioner Wilsen announced the date for Spring
Fling will be March 28, 2020.
Vice-Chair Graham expressed an interest to distribute a map with park
amenities that would be offered for visitors to view according to their interests.
Senior Administrative Assistant McMillin will email a copy of the current map
with park amenities to the members.
Member Applegate inquired if the Holiday Event will be held this year.
Director Johnson stated the event will be held on December 7, 2019 with the
location to be determined due to construction. Member Applegate mentioned
that Mr. and Mrs. Claus are pre-booking quickly.
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Chair Rainer asked for the remaining balance for the board. Sr,
Administrative Assistant McMillin will email the board the remaining budget
balance.
Director Johnson announced that the Fitness Center at Jim Beech Recreation
Center may be re-located to Vignetti Center due to DCF regulations. Updates
will be available per DCF requirements for Before/After Care Programs.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 PM.
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Chair 4n Rainer Sr. Admin. Asst. H. Kim McMillin
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