Open Space Advisory Board Agenda and Packet 2018 08 08

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Open Space Advisory Board Minutes July 11, 2018 Page 2 of 5 those that RSVP'd. Upcoming events: Walk & Talk with the Mayor on July 21 at Daughenbaugh Open Space, Bird Walk for Kids on July 25 at North Open Space, Weed Information Booth on July 26 at Davidson Mesa Open Space. The Youth Corp is wrapping up their time on Open Space projects; this year they worked on Davidson Mesa trails and the bird blind at Hecla Lake. F Dispatch issues resolved; rangers completed dispatch training and communications with Police Dept. are going well. G. Full time Maintenance position is vacant again. Seasonal workers are filling in especially with mowing but seasonal hiring was several months behind schedule due to lack of applicants. Hiring has been difficult for all Departments and many organizations in this area. VI. Board Updates A. Helen reported on Walkin' and Talkin' with the Mayor held last month at North Open Space. She noted that the focus was more on what the "ranger role" is and bending the mayor's ear re: specific neighborhood issues, rather than on general education. Ember said they would focus on more programing for the next walk. VII. Public Comments on Items Not on the Agenda Gary Mansdorfer, 1117 W Enclave Cir. Gary talked about the email he sent to Ember (hard copies distributed) about allowing a 12" weed barrier & layer of rocks in Open Space along the fence line. He noted that this can reduce use of herbicide and promote native plants, and provides much more effective weed control than the currently -allowed mowing protocol (10 ft. buffer - for fire control). He also noted that prairie dogs seem to be re -colonizing up at Davidson Mesa and encouraged Board to keep an eye on this issue. VIII. Discussion Item: Ascent Church Property - Trail Elevation Selection Presented by Allan Gill, Parks & Recreation Project Manager; Jim Candy, Co -Pastor at Ascent Church; Jim Blankenship, JLB Engineering Two options were discussed for east -side trail elevations: higher trail elevation (on top of a built berm) or lower trail elevation (with berm alongside to control drainage). Jim Blankenship explained the cross -sectional diagrams included in the packet. Missy asked if proposed uses on the rest of the parcels has been determined as this would help guide trail decisions. Jim B. reported that the other two owners have no current plans to develop their parcels; future possible development nature is unknown. Mike asked about maintenance aspects; Ember responded that this is technically a parks designation and while it will be seeded with a native grass mix it will likely be mowed regularly. Jim Candy noted that both options are ok with Ascent Church, but prefers trail on top of berm to provide better views for users, although if trail is on top of berm, any future adjustments for drainage will be more difficult. Allan noted that both options are acceptable to City and that decision rests on aesthetics. Fiona asked if there is a significant cost difference in building and/or maintenance. Jim B. & Allan said no. Peter noted an elevated trail is at less risk from potential future flooding. Ember noted an elevated trail is easier to maintain. Higher elevation is unanimously preferred by OSAB.