Summary

The meeting included significant discussions and decisions regarding the Oak Ridge Pool. The key outcomes are as follows:

1. Public Input:

The board reviewed public feedback on the pool’s future, with 491 responses received. Key preferences included upgraded showers and restrooms, and improved concessions. 52 respondents preferred no changes, while 411 supported various modifications.

2. Pool Improvement Options:

The board discussed three options for pool improvements:

Option 1: Rebuild the existing pool with new mechanical systems, locker rooms, additional parking, and separate bus parking. Estimated cost: $28,897,000.

Option 2: Divide the pool area into two separate pools: a competition pool and a recreational pool with a lazy river and water slide. Estimated cost: $22,543,000.

Option 3: A slightly smaller version of Option 2. Estimated cost: $21,943,000.

3. Next Steps:

The board will present these options at the City Council work session on March 19th for further discussion and decision-making. The City Manager will evaluate the impact on city taxes and funding for other projects.

Full Text

Minutes of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board Meeting

February 8, 2024 Regular Meeting

The February 8, 2024, meeting of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board was convened at 7:00 pm in the Oak Ridge Recreation Center Social Room with Chairman Jake Greear presiding.

1. Call to Order

2. Roll Call

Present: Jake Greear, Terri Daugherty, Ann Miller, Dan Robbins, Alissa Jones, Kelly Mccampbell, Brittany Hensley

Absent: Chris Melhorn, Doug Bataille

Also Present: Jon Hetrick, Recreation & Parks Director, staff liaison

Also Absent: Seth Rodgers, Recreation & Parks, Special Projects, staff liaison

3. Approval of February 8th Agenda

No change to agenda order. Agenda approved.

4. Approval of January 2023 Meeting Minutes

Approved as drafted/printed (unanimous).

5. Officer reports:

None.

6. Committee Reports / Board Work Plan:

Oak Ridge Pool

Jon: City council met Jan 30th, and we presented the presentation. Consultants went over the public input that was received. 491 responses. (Reviewed PowerPoint). Public input preferred amenities: 1) upgraded showers and restroom, 2) concessions. 52 wanted to stay the same. 411 wanted various types of changes.

Option 1: essentially a rebuild of the existing pool, but with new mechanical systems and new locker rooms. With additional parking and separate entrance and parking for buses. $28,897,000 including 20% contingency to account for unknowns under/with soil.

Option 2: using the same area/footprint but breaking it up into two pools. One competition-type pool and one recreation-type pool with a lazy river and water slide. Estimated cost: $22,543,000. Another benefit, if you have to close one pool, you can still have the other open.

Option 3: Estimated cost: $21,943,000. Size and shape of the pools are a little different from option 2. Option 3 is just a little bit smaller.

March 19th City Council work session, pool estimates will be discussed.

CIPs Review

Jon and Seth presented to the planning commission last month. They are meeting to discuss the CIP for the entire city, not just this department. Recommendations will be presented to City Council in March.

North Boundary Greenway

Nothing new to report.

Greenway System

Haw Ridge – Anderson County provided keys to the buildings last week. Attorneys are finalizing paperwork. Has potential for trailhead development.

Parks & Rec Stewardship, Maintenance, and Trail Development

CVTA is having a Haw Ridge trail day next weekend, Saturday, Feb. 17th.

Rugby – Friday the 16th.

Secondary & Long-Term Objectives

Facilitating community events. Next event: Easter, weekend before or after. Some chili cookoffs (smaller event(s)). Outdoor sports event this summer, probably at Haw Ridge. Possibly mountain biking, hiking, and pickleball.

Rails to Trails

Still working on their most recent request about an environmental impact study. The engineering firm is trying to show that due diligence has already been done. New contact person assigned to the project.

Advisory support for conference center design

Progress ongoing but delayed due to snow. Roof work is in progress. City manager is working with Jon regarding plaza redesign and funding.

Support Melton Lake Bridge Preliminary Design

Nothing new to report.

Support Continued Development of the Peace Bell Pavilion

Dan: Parks staff helped spread rocks provided by Willowbrook. The Scarboro 85 committee received $125,000 from Anderson County, matching the City’s contribution, so design work can begin.

Explore Opportunities for Continued Development of Disc Golf

The club is working on updates at the mounds. Jon is getting estimates for new baskets to replace the ones at Carl Yearwood Park.

Support Blueways Initiatives

Next meeting: Tuesday, February 20th, from 3:30-5 pm at the Civic Center Social Room.

Proposal for $20 million. City manager has expressed support.

7. Unfinished Business:

Clark Center Park – On the agenda for City Council Monday. Smith and Hensley are requesting discussions with the DOE regarding the transfer of the property. City manager is reviewing associated costs.

8. New Business:

Board Elections. Unanimously voted to retain all officers in their current roles.

9. Appearance of Citizens (Non-agenda Items):

Doug C. attended. Reference to Jan. meeting, Blount County industrial development. President Brian Daniels noted that new companies will have access to greenways. Would like the board to make a recommendation to City Council regarding greenway connectivity for local businesses.

10. Announcements:

League of Women Voters – Breakfast with Legislators, 4th Monday, Feb. 26th at the Civic Center Social Room. City Manager will attend the Civic Center social room Valentine’s Day event to discuss the history of the Greenways organization.

Director’s Report:

Things are going well.

Future agenda items:

Discussion of Doug C.’s suggestion regarding greenway connectivity. Jon will work on getting the City Manager to attend a board meeting. The City Manager is interested in a detailed greenway connectivity study.

Next meeting: March 14, 2023.

11. Adjournment