Consider Disc Golf Utilizing the Lawful Gambling Fund Volunteer Match Program

For many years, the Park and Recreation Commission has made available (subject to City Council approval) up to $5,000 from the Lawful Gambling Improvement as a match to donated labor or purchased items for Ramsey parks. The program originated out of a desire to address smaller park improvements than are included in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), encourage community participation in meeting recreational system needs, and also provide for quick response to this opportunities. Recent use of this program were the installation of outfield fencing at Alpine Park, and the installation of automatic door locks for the Park Center building’s restroom at Central Park and concession stand/Lion's Pavilion.

For the approximately 19 years this program has been in existence, the Commission has been clear that the matching program should be made available to wide spectrum of park and trail users, and that the intention would be that the same groups should not receive funding in successive years. The attached application is from a Ramsey resident, and is not representing an individual or group previously funded.

While the attached Lawful Gambling Improvement Fund proposal from Mr. Kenneth Hiller is for the development of disc golf, the portion of the proposal that requires action from the Commission (at this time) would be the concept of sponsorship of the course to assist with the course design and funding.  Once the funding gap is closed, the course design at Elmcrest Park may be reviewed with the other aspects of the proposed project for a recommendation to City Council.

Mr. Hiller submitted the following statement with his proposal, and will be at the meeting to add more detail:

SPONSORSHIP:

"I would like to explore and discuss with the Commission the idea of creative ways to raise the additional funding needed (approx. $5,100) through corporate sponsorship. Some ideas are, but not limited to:
• General donations
• Advertisement at every hole
• Advertisement placement on course maps
• Auctioning of advertisement placement at desirable spots"

None required at this time.

Recommend the Lawful Gambling Improvement Fund applicant proceed with exploring sponsorships and donations for pairing with the fund for the development of a disc golf course in Ramsey.