Summary

• The board received final survey results on the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool renovation project.
• Funding of $125,000 was secured for a pool design contract.
• Plans to finalize scope of work by fall were discussed, with board assistance in vetting.
• Public discussion on pool renovations was postponed until after hiring assistance for the project.
• Potential fundraising opportunities for pool improvements were considered.

Full Text

The July 28, 2022 meeting of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board was convened at 6:09 pm in the Oak Ridge Recreation Center Social Room with Chairman Jake Greear presiding.

Roll Call

• Present: Mark Cantrell, Alissa Jones, Kelly Mccampbell, Melissa McMahan, Chris Melhorn, Dan Robbins, Michelle Thornton, Jake Greear
• Absent: Brad Spears
• Also Present: Jon Hetrick, Recreation & Parks Director, staff liaison

Approval of the June 9, 2022 Meeting Minutes

The June 9, 2022 meeting minutes were approved with no changes.

Board Work Plan

• Oak Ridge Swimming Pool:
  • Survey final results were shared with the board via email; Jon covered the highlights of the findings.
  • Received funding of $125,000 for a design contract for a pool renovation project.
  • Goal to finalize scope of work by fall; board will assist with vetting.
  • Public discussion postponed until after hiring assistance for the renovation project.
  • Discussion on potential fundraising opportunities for pool improvements.

North Boundary Greenway

Carryover discussion around unintended usage on some trails.

Greenway System

• Rails to Trails Project:
  • Received 4-year extension on grant.
  • Reallocation of funds on transportation improvement plan.
  • Intent to acquire trail line within 40 months.
• Greenway Master Plan Support:
  • Discussion planned for fall/winter on integrating plans with city’s long-range plan.
• Roadside Safety Evaluations and Advocacy:
  • No new updates.

Blueways Initiative

• Discussions with National Parks Services initiated by Ellen Smith.
• Funding approved for NPS consultant to visit and engage with community on local trails and parks.
• Plan to involve nonprofits like Advocates for the OR Reservation (AFOR) and TN Citizens for Wilderness Planning (TCWP).

Parks & Recreation Stewardship, Maintenance and Trail Development

Realtors continue to promote Oak Ridge greenways as a benefit for moving to the area.

Secondary Objectives

• Community Events:
  • List of events provided by Jon Hetrick, including city and outside organization events.
• No updates on disc golf course or soccer complex.
• Conference Center Update:
  • Design development progressing, with geotechnical work on south side near the creek.

Unfinished Business

None to report.

New Business

None to report.

Appearance and Citizen Comments

Citizens Bill Henry, Zeke Sanchez, and Doug Colclasure addressed the board on various topics.

Updates and Observations (Non Action Items)

None to report.

Director’s Report

• Funding approved for pool design work and multiple other projects in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
• New position for Special Projects Coordinator posted, applications accepted through August 12.

Future Agenda Items

None.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:02 PM.