Parks board reviews FY24–25 budget proposal, marketing line items and events

The Lucas Parks & Open Space Board reviewed a draft FY2024–25 parks budget that staff said carries forward many existing line items while reflecting increases in facilities maintenance and contracted services. Staff member Joshua (S3) told the board maintenance contract costs had risen and that most event and program line items were unchanged from prior years.

Board members asked for detail on event budgets. Chair (S1) asked about an $8,500 Farmers Market line item and staff pointed to expense detail in the attachments. The board discussed signage and neighborhood outreach; staff said the city used last year’s signs at six locations and noted public works’ role in sign removal.

On marketing, Chair (S1) stated the draft includes $800 for promotional items and an additional $1,000 for social media boosts; staff said those amounts provide a place to start and committed to reporting back on results. Staff also summarized recent special events: a Keep Lucas Beautiful cleanup with about 80 signed participants, Founders Day activities, a Legacy 4-H auction that raised a record amount, and a recent farmers market with approximately 390 attendees.

No formal budget votes were taken at the meeting; staff will return with further details and any recommended changes as the budget process continues.