The meeting covered several topics, with a portion dedicated to the financial challenges and opportunities facing the city’s parks. The commission reviewed the park financial information, noting that the park maintenance budget had reached 25% utilization. Despite going over budget by $1,000 due to late invoices, the overall expenditure was approximately $535,603, slightly exceeding the budgeted $534,200. Rising costs for repairs and supplies were a concern, prompting suggestions for future budget adjustments. The discussion included specific mention of building and facility repair supplies, covering items from playground repairs to irrigation work, which had not yet commenced due to recent frost conditions.

A draft capital improvement plan (CIP) for 2026 through 2030 was reviewed, focusing on projects like the Viking Meadows park and Booster West ball field lights. Although the 2026 budget showed a promising beginning balance of $333,000 for park acquisition and development, the commission was aware of outstanding park dedication fees from three developments, which could provide additional revenue. However, no projects were planned for 2029 and 2030.

The commission also addressed tree planting initiatives, emphasizing the lack of irrigation in many parks. The conversation suggested a shift towards installing shade structures as a more viable option. Members shared anecdotes about challenges such as vandalism and deer damage, which affected the health and aesthetics of park trees.

Another focal point was the planned installation of a sand volleyball court, with an estimated budget initially set at $5,000 but later reduced to around $3,000 based on further quotes. Location considerations were discussed, highlighting the importance of site suitability, particularly regarding existing conditions such as the prevalence of sandbur. Booster East was suggested as a potential site due to better grass conditions and available shade.

Discussions then shifted to the possibility of adding pickleball courts in smaller neighborhood parks, acknowledging a growing interest in the sport. Estimated costs for these courts ranged from $15,000 to $20,000 each, depending on the choice of materials. The commission weighed the durability of concrete against the easier repairability of blacktop, with plans to resurface existing tennis courts and paint lines for pickleball.

The meeting also touched on other park enhancements, such as installing disc golf goals and addressing drainage issues at Booster West. Maintenance needs at the concession stand at Booster Blast and bathroom siding at John Anderson Park were acknowledged, with a consensus that these required upkeep rather than capital improvements. Plans for future park budgets included potential borrowing for projects like the Baton Trail, with allocations of $120,000 for that project and $20,000 for John Anderson Park improvements.

In terms of community engagement, a town hall meeting was scheduled, and plans for a June parks tour were proposed, with a tentative date set for May 13. A significant part of the discussion revolved around logistical considerations, such as bus rental and selecting parks for the tour itinerary.

The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the commission’s work, despite the absence of a member, and highlighted the successful in-house management of the ice arena. The arena, noted for its high rental rates for dry floor events, had faced decreased rental sales due to a drop in youth hockey participation. However, increased rentals from other communities helped offset the financial impact, ultimately benefiting city taxpayers.