8. First reading-campsite amended ordinance

Park Board Minutes-June 1, 2009 CASS COUNTY PARK BOARD MEETING CASS COUNTY COURTHOUSE JUNE 1, 2009-1:00 PM 1. MEETING TO ORDER A meeting of the Cass County Park Board was called to order by Chairman Chad Peterson at 1:00 PM on Monday, June 1, 2009, in the Commission Room, Cass County Courthouse. Members were present as follows: Vern Bennett, Scott Wagner, Ken Pawluk, Robyn Sorum, Darrell Vanyo, Barbara Werre and Chad Peterson. Also present were Camp Hosts Chuck Andel and Connie Johns. 2. MINUTES APPROVED MOTION, passed Mr. Wagner moved and Mrs. Sorum seconded to approve the minutes of the previous meeting held May 18, 2009. Motion carried. 3. ORDINANCE #1997-3 AMENDED (CASS COUNTY PARK CAMPSITES) Mr. Peterson introduced an amendment for the Cass County Park Campsites Ordinance #1997-3. He spoke with Sheriff Laney regarding firearms restrictions at the park. Mr. Laney stated the final decision on whether to have a total ban or allow unloaded firearms in the park would be up to the park board. Mr. Bennett questioned why campers are allowed to camp for 14 days and then required to be out of the park for 7 days. Mr. Peterson stated this policy seems fair to everyone and allows for some flexibility. Mr. Bennett asked if a 5 mile per hour (mph) speed limit was unusual as the speed limit in the park has been 15 mph. Mr. Peterson replied in the past the speed limit has not been enforced and a 5 mph speed limit allows for some margin. MOTION, passed Mrs. Sorum moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to forward Ordinance #1997-3 Amended Cass County Park Campsites to the Cass County Commission for a first reading of the ordinance including the 7 day period may be waived based on availability. Discussion: Mr. Bennett expressed concern for how the 14 day camping limit will be administered. He sees no merit in requiring a camper to move after 14 days if the campground is not busy. Mr. Andel stated this policy is a deterant to some campers as they want to be in the campground throughout the season and are willing to pay for the services. Ms. Johns said they received responses favoring both sides. Some campers approve of the 14 day limit as it allows room for other to camp while still others are upset as they would like to stay for the season. Mrs. Sorum stated camping time limits could be left to the discretion of the camp hosts. Mr. Peterson reminded the board that the purpose is to allow maximum people to enjoy the park. Mr. Bennett asked if the County Engineer Keith Berndt has been consulted regarding the speed limit in the park. Cass County Sheriff's Deputy Duwayne Nitschke was present and stated a 5 mph speed limit gives some margin so vehicle speeds do not get too high. He stated there will be a greater law enforcement presence in the park in an effort to make the park family