08:27A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the park system plan, which has been under development since January of the previous year. The plan aims to provide a roadmap for the city’s parks and recreation efforts, with a focus on addressing the needs arising from city growth and changing demographics. The representative detailed the project’s goals and the process undertaken, including analyzing demographic trends and conducting a thorough inventory of park amenities.

Community development specialist Hannah Dunn elaborated on the engagement efforts, which included online surveys and stakeholder meetings with groups such as the Oakdale Athletic Association. These efforts were designed to gather input on preliminary concept plans for park improvements. Feedback collected over the summer was incorporated into the plan, leading to refined proposals and discussions with the city council to develop cost estimates and prioritize projects.

One of the key features discussed was a proposed water play area at Tanner’s Park. Although details are not finalized, the term “water play area” is intentionally flexible to allow future city councils to decide on the specifics. Another subject of interest was Goose Pond Park, where a commissioner raised the prospect of signage to discourage feeding the geese. While these specifics were not detailed in the current concepts, they may be considered during final design phases.

The commission also reviewed a prioritization and phasing matrix that categorizes park improvements into short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals. This matrix is designed to be a dynamic document, allowing for adaptation and future input from both the Parks & Recreation Commission and city council.

23:39In addition to the plan, the commission discussed various upcoming events and initiatives. A live music schedule is set to begin on June 25th, featuring diverse bands, with the farmers market introducing new vendors. The amphitheater series will commence on June 12th, with performances from “Sustainable Safari” and “Yo-Yo Master Dazzling Dave,” among others. The summer concert series kicks off on June 18th, concluding with a children’s dance and bubble party on August 20th.

Summer programming at the Eer Schoolhouse, in collaboration with the Maplewood Oakdale Historical Society, will include one-room schoolhouse camps and open houses in September. Outdoor story time and craft sessions for children will also be held at the amphitheater throughout the summer, and new Zumba classes will be hosted at the Eater Schoolhouse.

In terms of fitness offerings, the Nature Preserve 5K is scheduled for June 28th, sponsored by the Everhard Group with Keller Williams Realty. Seasonal staff will assist at Summerfest on June 27th and 28th, featuring a popup splash pad in partnership with the fire department.

32:16The meeting also addressed wellness initiatives for the 50-plus demographic, with events planned at the Discovery Center. A commissioner noted the parks’ cleanliness but raised concerns about trash on multi-use trails, particularly after winter, and near recent construction sites.

34:27Updates on new construction projects were provided, including the upscale childcare center named Tiarra and Kenta, and plans for two new parks in the Willowbrook area. These parks will offer diverse amenities such as a soccer field, pickleball courts, and a turf volleyball court, addressing community interest in volleyball facilities.