Forney Parks Board Nov. 19 2014: master plan, amphitheater rentals, duck safety

During its regular Nov. 19, 2014 meeting the Forney Parks Board:

• Heard from James Williams of Shrickel, Rollins & Assoc. about the proposed Open Spaces Master Plan. This was based on the results of town-hall meetings, online & mail surveys, including people in the FISD area, not just City residents. They suggest the city move away from smaller parks, which will be handled by HOA's, and move forward with a North-side park, as well as expanding the trail system. They have proposed 154 acres of trails, but only 43 acres are needed. If a North-side park happens, some sports fields might move to avoid splitting families between parks. There was some discussion about which type of aquatic center might be feasible, and the multi-purpose recreational center should be put on hold. It is likely the city would require a commercial partner for the aquatic center.
• The board then had a lengthy discussion re: rental of the Spellman Amphitheater, whether renting it to operators, groups or individuals would be feasible, what the costs would be, whether revenue could be generated. Due to a multiplicity of requests by city council, Mr. Curry said he would have to update his research from 3 years ago and present several options to the board for consideration. Mr. Eastep said he didn't want to be a landlord, and renting out a multi-million dollar facility would have many challenges. He suggested everyone just assume alcohol was not going to be allowed, and move forward from that point. Mr. Curry also mentioned that large events would impact sporting event scheduling, due to parking. They discussed the cost of insurance a renter would have to pay ($500 or more) and for events of more than 100 people, proper security would be required.
• Ms. Tiesman gave a brief events report, stating the Veterans Day event had 800 people, and Trail of Treats had 10,000 vistors and 60 booths. She is very busy getting ready for Christmas on Main Dec. 6.
• Re: vandalism at the Soccer complex and arson at Eastside Park: thanks to a facebook post by a "suspect", 3 juveniles and their parents have met with Forney PD and will be paying restitution and possibly providing community service time.
• Mr. Eastep said he had been asked if the Parks Board could help with an issue involving ducks inhabiting the pond on Ridgecrest Road. It seems the ducks are laying eggs, which are then being used as projectile devices by unnamed persons. As the ducks may not be city-provided, the matter should probably be handled by the police dept.