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Commissioner Pentin asked whether funds for this project would be taken from other projects in the CIPR, and why improvements to the parking lot couldn't fall under the jurisdiction of Public Works. Commissioner Pentin also wondered if the $40,000 for Keller Mitchell would need to be adjusted if the Commission were to recommend that the City Council consider doing all segments of the project at one time. Mr. Wolfe advised that staff would prefer to do the work during the summer and not have to close the facility twice, and that the play yard and preschool building were higher priorities at this time. After reviewing slides of the play yard design, the Commission discussed with Ms. Hopkins the benefits of the proposed elements. Jill Maratsos, FOG Board President, 3591 Touriga Drive -advised that FOG has been raising funds for this project for a number of years. She also discussed the nightmarish problems associated with the preschool's parking lot, and the difficulties parents have getting in and out because of the tight turning radius and many blind spots. Chairperson Ellgas had questions regarding preschool traffic, the ages of the children attending the school, and the times they were attending. Ms. Hopkins advised that staff tries to make the parking lot situation workable, but at times it is frustrating. Commissioner Ritter advised that he liked the proposed design because it was unique and different. He also questioned what would happen to the existing play structures, and was advised by Mr. Wolfe that they are generally disposed of by the contractor. Commissioner Ritter felt that improvements to the parking lot should be a part of the project package. Commissioner Kinzer agreed that the plan is a good one. He also understands the parking lot issues, and feels the Commission should recommend it be included. Commissioner Dibiase was also comfortable with the proposed plan, and supports reworking the playground; however, he would also like to include the facility improvements, and felt that the Commission should support the parking lot improvement project. Mr. Wolfe indicated that he was unsure whether all three (3) projects could be completed at the same time. Chairperson Ellgas supported proposed improvements to the preschool and playground, but felt that parking issues were cyclical because of car sizes. She felt a study was required to determine the extent of the problem. She did feel, however, that some proposed elements for the playground were over-done, believing that less is more for kids. Chairperson Ellgas also questioned whether a study had been conducted comparing the costs of this playground with that of playgrounds at other day care facilities, and discussed with staff the hourly fee charged for preschoolers attending Gingerbread. Commissioner Pentin felt the proposed elements were great, and the building renovations are a must, but would like to see a parking lot diagram to determine what restructuring can be done to improve it. Commissioner Kummer was pleased with the proposed plan, especially the water trough area, paint wall and music wall. He also liked the idea of a garden of learning for the children. He supported the playground and building projects, and felt that the Commission should make some recommendation for the parking lot to be reviewed. A motion was made by Commissioner Pentin, seconded by Commissioner Kummer, to accept stafi? s recommendations for the conceptual design for the Gingerbread Playground and the proposed building Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes December 6, 2007 Page 4