Parks commission unanimously backs director’s FY26–27 budget priorities

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously on Dec. 15 to recommend support for Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Boyer’s FY26–27 budget priorities.

Boyer told the commission the department’s FY25 expenditures totaled about $10,000,000, “80% is personnel,” and presented a prioritized list of proposed changes for next year. Key requests include converting two part‑time recreation specialist positions to full‑time, a 10% pay increase for lifeguards and pool supervisors, a $1+ hourly increase for casual staff, $40,000 for Pioneer Park event contracts, and several $30,000 allocations for temporary salary funding, park master plan updates and capital items. Boyer estimated the cumulative ask at roughly $300,000 (about a 3% increase on a $10 million base).

Why it matters: Commissioners framed the package as a mix of recruitment and operational investments intended to keep facilities open and improve customer service. Multiple members said staffing and livable wages were the department’s most pressing constraints, particularly for lifeguard recruitment and ensuring pool hours. Boyer said the department has struggled to maintain a full roster and that casual staff pay and retention measures are part of the problem.

Debate and action: Commissioners discussed whether the Carlson Center might attract scrutiny in a tight fiscal cycle and whether small additions (for example a halftime administrative assistant at Carlson Center) could be defended to the assembly. Assemblymember Kristen, attending the meeting, said she had heard strong public opposition to previous abrupt facility closures and advised caution in messaging. After discussion Commissioner David moved and Linda seconded a motion to recommend support; the motion carried 9–0.

Next steps: The director will submit a memo with ranked priorities to the mayor’s office; the mayor compiles the borough budget and forwards it to the assembly for hearings in April and final action in May. The commission’s recommendation will accompany the department’s request as it moves through the mayor and assembly process.