Steve Selin opened the meeting to the working session, discussing ‘takeaways’ from the presentation by Matt Galluzzo, representing Pittsburgh Riverlife, on June 13th.
Frank J. : They have a much larger staff and budget, obviously.
Rickie: It would be interesting to see who provided ‘seed money’ for Riverlife. They seem to have been able to cultivate great relationships with philanthropic and other organizations. Likely stakeholders and private entities. Rickie mentioned he was impressed by their defined service boundary and use of rubrics.
Steve: It’s easy to feel intimidated by the presentation, as their overall capacity is so large compared to Morgantown, but we must start where we are and work from there. They have 3 different levels of City involvement on their board, which gives power to the organization. We have a completely different ‘scale’, but there are so many possibilities. A great example is the West Virginia Botanic Garden.
Jenny: The importance of planning, cutting edge design, creating a real showpiece.
Bill K. : They seem to be very good at communication.
Ryan R: Agrees with the strong communication point, as well as marketing. They seem to generate excitement about what is happening.
Mary W.: Maybe we could help generate a newspaper article about river water quality. We have not done a great job of trying to educate the public on water quality and opportunities on the river. Morgantown needs to learn how to deal with vandalism. She discovered vandalism to the kiosk near the kayak launch and rollers were removed from the launch area. Lockers are a problem and should be rented out. Should have padlocks.
Ryan R.: Could we remove the lockers and put in an ADA fishing pier, or more parking? Mr. Solomon is working hard to remove junk cars.
Damien D.: Submitted a request through NETL for Congressional Directed Spending for Baltimore style trash racks
Bill K.: We want to maintain and enhance our relationship with Riverlife. What things can Morgantown replicate?
Jenny: How do we develop a Riverfront Plan?
Mary W: Engage Granville folks
Steve: There is great potential for a larger scale riverfront plan process.
Rickie: Agrees that an overall plan is needed. We need to show how connected the riverfront is and get folks excited about investing. Will provide information on potential action steps towards a riverfront plan at next meeting on July 25th.
Ella: The Wharf area is a Main Street area. How will they be included?
General Updates and Announcements:
Steve stated that Marissa (BOPARC) is working on design concepts and will be bringing playground designs to the group.
Ryan Ratliff announced some upcoming river events with non-profits.
Meeting adjourned at approximately 10:10 a.m.