Staff updates Ridge Run cabin design, seal coating and downtown planters; mud-run registration set

Project manager Rick updated commissioners on capital and parks projects, saying staff hope to finalize Ridge Run cabin plans this week and come back next month seeking permission to go to bid. He said conceptual designs for the Nature Playground at Lac La Rann are complete enough to finalize budgets for fundraising.

Rick said staff are soliciting quotes for seal coating the Quass Creek parking lot and that $25,000 is funded for that work, which staff expect to perform in the fall after baseball and softball seasons conclude. He also described collaboration with administration and consultants on the downtown master plan and the selection and planting of planters and trees along Main Street.

Director Mike amplified logistical concerns: the downtown planters were an alternate contract item estimated at $40,000; staff do not have budget for installation or longer-term maintenance. He provided specifics on the planter size and weight, saying the pots are 72 inches in diameter, 42 inches high and, when planted and filled, weigh about 4 tons. Staff noted maintenance and irrigation must be resolved before installation.

Ryan gave program updates: swim lessons concluded their first session with strong turnout, lifeguard instructor courses and interviews for two additional summer supervisors are underway, and the Dirty Ninja Mud Run registration opens March 1 at 6 a.m.

Next steps: staff will return with bid authorization requests for Ridge Run cabin, refined budgets for the Nature Playground and a plan to address planter installation and ongoing maintenance.