The commission’s deliberations began with a discussion on athletic field reservations for the 2025 season. Local youth organizations, such as the St. Francis Baseball Association and St. Francis Fast Pitch, were identified as priority users to ensure young residents have ample opportunities for participation. This decision stemmed from past conflicts over field usage and a desire to support nonprofit and youth-focused activities over for-profit club teams. The commission’s approach involved preparing a draft plan that balanced the needs of various organizations, with the understanding that no single team would receive all requested field time. They emphasized fairness, noting that underutilized reserved fields could be accessed by the public on a first-come, first-serve basis, particularly on weekends and Fridays.

The meeting also addressed the condition and maintenance of the fields, noting the contributions of club teams that had previously invested in improvements. A highlight was the potential for future arrangements where club teams could financially contribute to the upkeep of fields they use, similar to past investments in Ham Lake by the St. Francis Baseball Association. The Bandits’ reduced field usage was linked to the absence of lighting, with the cost of installing lights estimated at $350,000. The commission noted that the Capstone development’s contribution of $370,000 in park dedication funds could support future park planning, though concerns were raised about the staggered nature of these payments.

In terms of park financial management, the commission reviewed the park’s budget status. The park acquisition and development fund currently holds $190,000, more than budgeted for the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan due to Elevage Park dedication fees. An expected contribution from the Capstone project is anticipated to bolster this fund further. The park capital fund, with expenditures for playground projects, is also ahead of planned figures for 2025. The maintenance operations budget concluded the year under budget, with a surplus returning to the general fund for potential reallocation by the city council.

The commission’s forward-looking agenda included the completion of the Baton Trail project, with a budget allocation of approximately $120,000 for 2025. The project will likely require contracting for certain engineering aspects, particularly regarding wetlands navigation. Additionally, plans for a new trail at John Anderson Park were discussed, with intentions to involve local residents in the planning process. The impact of recent storms on John Anderson Park prompted discussions on tree removal and maintenance.

Attention also turned to the East Bethel Ice Arena, where improvements are underway following an ice rate increase aimed at maintaining financial viability. Renovations to the bathrooms, lobby, and a new scoreboard were highlighted, alongside the successful management of the concession stand by the youth hockey program’s board members. Public skating sessions were organized to encourage community participation, with favorable attendance noted during the holiday season. Staffing challenges at the ice rink have been addressed with new hires, primarily high school and college students, engaging effectively with patrons.

Other meeting highlights included discussions on the parks’ adoption program, with suggestions to recruit additional volunteers for spring clean-up and maintenance oversight. Memorial Park initiatives were also mentioned, encouraging community participation in a Valentine memorial project. The meeting concluded with an update on ice conditions on the channel, confirming a solid foundation for ice activities.