MINUTES OF THE PARK GOALS COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL OF CIVIC ASSOCIATIONS September 25, 2008
Chairman Doug Sterner opened the meeting at 6:05 p.m. 

In attendance were made:
Abel Cornejo – Lake Ridge
Rudy Herman – Chula Vista Isles
Debora Van Valkenburgh – Chula Vista Isles
Marilyn Markus – Bermuda Rivera
Ernest Jones – Manager of Fort Lauderdale Park Rangers    
Minutes of the last meeting approved. After introductions, Doug, once again, reminded group of the goals:
1) Find a method to continue to increase green space.
2) Attempt to spread parks throughout the city . . . not centered in any one area or district.  Try to find an equitable approach.
3) Explore ways to increase the number of Park Rangers and coordinate Police and Park Rangers.

Discussion Points:
      
• Debby and Rudy are beginning their fifth year working towards completion of Ann Herman Park. While funding has been allocated for this park, no schedule for construction or completion is available. Parks and Recreations staff transition has impacted the neighborhood’s working relationship with the Parks Dept. Rudy is a contractor and has offered his expertise to assist the city with design and engineering. Still the project has not moved forward.  
• Marilyn Markus shared information regarding American Golf Course that she received from Commissioner Teel (See Attached).
• Ernest Jones, manager of the City of Fort Lauderdale Park Rangers, gave a presentation on the overview of the Ranger’s responsibilities (See Attached).
• For the estimated 70 parks in the entire park system there are two to four Rangers on duty from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and there are four to six Rangers on duty from 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM. 
• For the last three years, the Rangers coordinated closely with the police department and meet to discuss issues, especially criminal in nature.
• A Junior Ranger Program was attempted to bring more young people to assist and to reward community service hours.
• A Park Watch Program was attempted without positive results.
• The Rangers have been working with security employees of the condos along Riverwalk to promote safety and to encourage residential activities.  
• Doug suggested requesting a budget for the Ranger Program. Ernest recommended asking a representative from City Parks to join the Goals Committee. Ernest welcomed any questions; contact: 954.828.4633.

Meeting adjourned at 7:25 PM.
Next meeting will be October 23, 2008 at 6 PM in the City Hall Cafeteria.

Respectfully submitted, Marilyn Markus