The most pressing topic at the meeting was the fee structure for tournaments. The board debated a proposal concerning the staffing and fee structure for youth tournaments. An analysis revealed that the current flat rate of $150 per tournament per park could result in a loss of approximately $2,200 in revenue. This prompted a recommendation to rescind this motion and instead implement a fee structure that would adequately cover staff costs, similar to past practices. Concerns arose about the significant cost increase for tournament organizers, who were accustomed to previous fee structures. The board stressed the importance of maintaining park accessibility without imposing prohibitive costs that could drive organizations to alternative venues.

A comparison was made with other agencies in Buffalo, Rogers, and Otiggo, which use a flat rate per day, per field, though it was unclear if their fees included staff time. The board aimed for a predictable cost structure that would encapsulate all potential charges, including overtime. It was suggested that effective scheduling could avoid overtime costs, maintaining staff hours within the standard workweek. The board emphasized transparency in communicating costs to tournament organizers.

The discussion also included adult tournament fees, where a motion was made to change the fees to $150 plus staff time as requested by the organizer. It was noted that no adult events had been held the previous year, with previous costs perceived as prohibitive. This change aimed to encourage more adult tournaments by providing a clearer, more predictable pricing model.

The board also approved the revised solar development agreement for Rotary Park. The Rotary Club requested that the responsibility for replacing solar panels not fall on them. Instead, Brainerd Public Utilities (BPU) would assume this responsibility, as all city solar projects fall under their jurisdiction. Some members expressed concerns about the lack of precedent for solar projects within parks and the potential confusion over long-term maintenance responsibilities. Despite these concerns, the motion to support the revised contract passed unanimously, with an understanding that the agreement would proceed to the city council for final approval.

In another discussion, the board addressed the replacement of bleachers at Memorial Field. It was highlighted that one set of bleachers was in urgent need of replacement due to storm damage. Although the current capital improvement plan scheduled this replacement for 2050, the board sought permission to proceed with a purchase using existing funds. The cost for the replacement was approximately $5,500, and the board debated whether to use funds from the capital improvement or maintenance budget. A motion was made to formally request the necessary funds, which passed unanimously.

Additionally, the board discussed the operation of JC’s warming house, considering whether to open it for the winter season. A motion was proposed to open the warming house four days a week, from Thursday through Sunday, aligning with peak usage times. The board also considered extending operations during school holidays to accommodate families. There was a strong sentiment against charging fees for skate rentals, with the staff preferring to encourage community engagement through free access to facilities.

The meeting concluded with the approval of the 2026 meeting schedule, including a proposed change to move the November meeting before Thanksgiving. The board also discussed park maintenance issues, including overflowing trash cans and graffiti removal. There was a collective desire for better waste management solutions, with suggestions to engage community service groups or local organizations to assist in addressing graffiti problems.