After two landscape and architecture firms backed out of the project, the Isla Vista Recreation and Park District’s finance committee is now considering a new firm for its improvement plan concerning Anisq’ Oyo’ Park.

At Friday’s meeting, committee members discussed the possibility of hiring RRM Design Group to finish out the Anisq’ Oyo’ Park plans. Members also considered improvements for Estero Park, Perfect Park and Greek Park.

RRM Owner Jeff Ferber presented information about RRM’s past projects, including the Avila Beach Front Street enhancement plan and several renovations in Venice Beach. He also answered questions from the committee.

IVRPD plans to redesign the layout of Anisq’ Oyo’ Park, particularly relocating or reshaping the pond that has developed as a result of the storm drain running through the park. However, Diane Conn, who sits on the IVRPD Board of Directors, expressed concern about the Anisq’ Oyo’ Park project, citing the failures suffered with the two previous firms.

“In the past, we’ve had companies get attached to their design ideas and when the community priorities change, the companies are not willing to work with the community anymore,” Conn said. “We’re just trying to avoid that type of design ego.”

In addition to the Anisq’Oyo’ Park project, the committee also discussed improvements for Estero Park, which include a community center and skate park. The motion, which passed unanimously, recommended that the IVRPD enter into a contract with RRM to complete the planning and changes in Anisq’ Oyo’ as well as the planning for Estero Park.

After reviewing the two major park projects, the committee summarized its plans for the 2008-09 fiscal year.

The committee would like to see several changes in Greek Park as well, including the addition of a second basketball court and new sand for the volleyball pits. Interim General Manager Paul Le Sage said he would like to see much of the work on Greek Park completed by volunteers from the greek community.

In addition to the park renovations, the committee hopes to create a new position for a park ranger, in order to deal with the improper use of the parks, particularly alcohol violations.

A second motion, which also unanimously passed, stated that the finance committee will research a salary increase regarding the board of directors’ salary, after noting that the board is underpaid, compared to its counterparts in other areas.

The finance committee’s next meeting takes place on May 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and is open to the public.