INC PARC Meeting Minutes May 19,2015
INC PARC met May 19. Present were: co-chair Katie Fisher, Steve Fisher, Cindy Johnstone, Ray Ehrenstein, James T. Sample, Ronnie Crawford, Bridget Walsh, Brad Cameron, Nancy Francis, Diana Helper, Kathleen and Jay Rust.
PARC discussed the importance of finding more park space in the central neighborhoods of Denver, which is losing “great city” points by its lack of such space compared with other cities. Ideas include asking that the city consider converting land it may have that is unused into park space. Brad cited an example: 1701 Platte,
1701 Platt St
which is along I-25 and the river, and could be an open space respite for that growing area. PARC voted to write to encourage the city to use this site for a park. Any such sites should first be so considered, rather than automatically thought of as a building site to sell. Addition of open space and park space in the city is a part of INC’s Park Platform. Other ways mentioned to add parks include purchasing unused space to convert, and requiring developers to add ample open space to serve the people who will live and work in their new developments.
Katie said that DPR will charge non-profits only for the process fee, when they wish to use park space. At the Parks and Rec Advisory Board (PRAB) meeting she learned of plans to add many more parks to the Private Outdoor Fee-Based Activity (POFA) system. PARC reiterated its position that all commercial-use activities be eliminated from all parks. This would simplify identification of those using a park for commercial use without a permit, for there would be no permits. Entrepreneurs would find alternative spaces to use (the city could assist them). INC PARC continues to oppose POFA policy, which further commercializes the public parks. INC PARC opposes it in any Denver park.
Also: Katie gave an update on the Colfax Rec Center, where land is being sold for retail use, and another part for residences. The dog park will be much smaller. It is unclear if, or where compensatory park space may be obtained. Noise from the Colfax Marathon drew many complaints to the Office of Special Events, which says there will be a meeting to talk it over. PARC advises complaints be entered on line at 311, with a request for “response,” as these calls are tracked. An email from Jeanne Robb was read, stating that the land adjacent to Congress Park presently occupied by 911 (which is moving) will be occupied by work related to safety concerns. Jay said that a committee is being formed to discuss the incinerator being installed at the zoo. Ronnie updated the S. Platte project which is going well, with new paths and other good features.
Next PARC meeting is June 16, 2020 S. Monroe St., with speakers on water issues.
—Diana Helper, PARC member
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