Driftless Education & Visitor Center
The Friends of Pool 9 (FOP9) Board of Directors met at the Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center. Vice President English called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. Directors in attendance were, Bob Henkel, Larry Quamme, Bruce Revoir, John Mitchell, Bob Seeley, Jerry Boardman, Sue English, Joe Mazanec, Lisa Welch and Al Wuennecke. Also attending, Mark Schneden, Sabrina Chandler, Steve Casterton and Arlen Wonderlich.
Funding Request – Arlen & Steve presented plans for a “Splash Pad” to be added near the new playground equipment in the Lansing Park. The size would be an oval 25’ by 35’. They indicated the City had approved the project and the cost would be $35,000 plus installation. They are hoping the installation can be done with local contractors. Steve suggested that it will bring children to Lansing with families that use the river. They indicated they were hoping the FOP9 would pledge $5,000. After questions and answers and discussion, Jerry moved that the request be tabled until after the annual meeting. On second by Bruce the motion carried.
Sabrina Chandler Visit – Sabrina had been invited as relationships between the FOP9 and the McGregor District seemed strained and no participation of the FWS staff had occurred at any FOP9 events. Sabrina discussed the many cuts in budget and the drastic reduction in staff and also explained the many divisions within the FWS and how they relate to each other. The movement of sand to beaches was discussed and she talked about the various issues between federal departments that are involved. Sabrina will be following up on several issues and a very good discussion occurred. The FOP9 thanked her for her efforts and openness and the FOP9 expressed their willingness to be more involved and a “good friend”.
Approve Minutes – 7-16-18 – On motion by Jerry, second by Lisa, the minutes were approved as written.
Approve Financial Report – Larry provided copies of the 1/1/18 to 8/14/2018 financials. Total income for the period is $12,605.19, total expenses $14,892.12. As of 8/14/2018, $46,166.32 is deposited in the checking/savings account. On motion by Bob S., second, by John M., the report was approved.
Correspondence – Larry read a thank you note from the Blackhawk Park staff for the FOP9 financial support of the Youth Fishing Derby. Second, Erin Cubbon has been hired as Office Manager at the Driftless Center.
COMITTEE REPORTS:
MRAD – Lisa and Jerry indicated that most of the plans for the September 12, 2018 event are set. 66 7th graders from the Lansing and De Soto schools would be attending. Arrangements for making lunches will get set shortly and John V. would be seeking volunteer helpers.
Annual Meeting – Larry reported that the liquor license is approved. Natalie must have a list from each board member of what they are donating and the estimated value. The committee must start getting the items prepared for the auctions. PLEASE EMAIL NATALIE YOUR LIST AND IF NO DONATIONS ALSO RESPOND TO HER WITH AN EMAIL. The postcard inviting everyone to the annual meeting was discussed. Board members felt that more time was needed for the silent auction and the “annual meeting” part should be at 6:30, dinner at 7pm and the “live auction” follow the dinner. On motion by Al, second by Jerry, the postcard was approved with the noted changes.
Beach Projects – Members reported that the beach work on 7/25/2018 went well. Spraying of the poison ivy will occur shortly. .
Website Enhancement –Larry reported that design by Brian and staff is proceeding and draft designs will be coming soon.
ACTIVITIES:
Lansing Fish Days –Sue and John M. reported that the booth was well received and $473 of clothing was sold on a very hot day. The Iowa DNR fish trailer as always was a bit hit. Sue indicated that the booth location near the tent where the eagle and other shows occur is vital to our success.
Eastman Bible Camp Program – John and Mark reported that the children were quite young in age but the program was well received by the kids and also the adults.
Warehouse Work Day – Members reported that things went well and having the office cleared out and organized is wonderful. Sue was authorized to get needed plastic totes as needed.
Donation Box – Bob S. indicated that he had moved the donation box to the Winneshiek Landing and Bruce collected $30 from the box.
FWS Items -
Sabrina indicated that the contract for Conway Lake had been awarded by the USACOE to Kaiyuh Services LLC with the bid being $103,000 less than McHugh Excavating.
OTHER ITEMS:–
Handicap Ramp – Information about the deletion of the handicap ramp at the Village Creek Boat Landing project varies depending on who one talks to. It appears it was deleted from the project before the lower bids were opened and the cost may be $30 to $45 thousand. The FOP9 feels our organization should invite the DNR project manager to a meeting. Larry will follow up.
By-Laws Committee – The committee members are Larry, Bruce, Bob S. and John M. The committee will meet at the Driftless Center on Wednesday, 8/22 at 3:30pm.
Nominating Committee – Natalie appointed Bruce, Bob S. and Bob Hoksch to the Committee. On motion by Bob H., second by John M. the Board approved the appointments. Members with expiring terms includes Al, Larry, Lisa, Sue and Joe.
Scholarship Proposal – Bruce suggested that the FOP9 consider scholarships for graduating seniors from Lansing, De Soto and Seneca Schools. Members voiced support and the item will be added to the next Board meeting agenda.
Next Meeting – The next meeting was set for October 29, 2018 at 6:30pm at the Driftless Center.
ADJOURN – On motion by Jerry, second by Bob H., Sue adjourned the meeting at 8:50pm.
Larry Quamme, Secretary