2023-07-12
Blair Park Board Meeting Minutes for July 12, 2023
Call to Order: The Blair Park Board meeting was called to order by
President Neil Jensen at 7 p.m.
Present: Neil Jensen, Joe Burns, Kristi Rounds, Sarah Boeka, Todd Wick,
Betsy Anderson and Park Superintendent Pat Long.
Approval of Minutes: The May 10, 2023 minutes were approved by Sarah
Boeka and seconded by Kristi Rounds.
Approval of Bills: No bills were submitted for approval.
Old Business:
1. Discussion continued regarding possible locations, size and facility
features for a dog park. Potential locations will be reviewed and
evaluated by city administrative personnel. Kristi Rounds reported
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another fund raiser was scheduled for Sunday July 16 at the Blair
Golf Course.
New Business:
1. Kari Ramsey, Assistant League Director with the Nebraska
Interscholastic Cycling League, requested use of Black Elk
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Neihardt Park on September 9 and 10 for this year’s league
race. Saturday’s activities include set up of the race facilities,
marking of the course, bike activities/games for grade school
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participants, 6-12 graders and varsity riders and an opportunity
will be provided for race participants to see the course. The
course will be monitored by marshals for hazards and weather
conditions-NIC follows top notch safety protocols. Port-a-potties
and trash containers will be provided by the NIC organization as
well as tents for race officials and medical services. NIC has
contacted Angels Share and Easter Seals for permission to use
the “Dana Campus” parking facilities and green spaces to traverse
from the campus to Black Elk Neihardt Park. It is anticipated this
year’s race will draw about 250 riders.
A motion to allow the Nebraska Interscholastic Cycling League to
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utilize Black Elk Neihardt Park on September 9 and 10 for their
activities and bike race was made by Betsy Anderson and seconded
by Joe Burns. The motion carried.
2. An update was given on the proposed pump track; thus far
$40,000 has been raised of the $90,000 needed. A grant thru the
State of Nebraska with a 20/80 split is being pursued. It is
anticipated construction could begin in the fall of 2023 with track
completion in the spring of 2024.
3. The Ash trees on the center island entrance to the Deerfield
subdivision are in need of removal – they are suffering from
Emerald Ash Boer. Because of their size their removal will be
discussed with the city administration and contracted out for bid.
These trees will be replaced once removal is complete.
Adjournment: Kristi Rounds motion to adjourn the meeting was seconded
by Todd Wick. The meeting adjourned at 8:04 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Betsy Anderson July 20. 2023