Board hears park project updates, irrigation savings and RCO grant plans

At the Aug. 8 Park Advisory Board meeting, staff briefed members on park projects, grant applications and water-conservation steps.

J.C. Kennedy reported that Phase 1 of the Sunset Park picnic shelter project is complete with new shelters and BBQs in service; the pad for the Phase 2 replacement shelter has been poured and the new structure is onsite pending installation. Kennedy said the installer is wrapping up other projects before installing the new shelter.

On capital funding, staff outlined several Recreation and Conservation Office grant applications: a Community Outdoor Athletic Facilities application for the AHRC ballfield and parking expansion (evaluations scheduled Sept. 3–30, initial awards Oct. 15, and preliminary ranked lists Oct. 29–30), and Local Parks grants for a Sunset Park pathway renovation and electrical additions. Kennedy also listed Sunset Park basketball and skate park improvements among planned projects for grant consideration.

Kennedy told the board that water-conservation efforts initiated by staff members Shawn and Kevin are projected to save approximately 10,897,750 gallons of irrigation water. He said the conservation was started because funding for park utilities was short; staff analysis shows an additional $30,957.55 is needed to fund utilities for the remainder of 2024, even after a $61,965.52 reduction compared with 2023 expenses.

Board members received photos and status notes on Highland Village, which staff reported still has weeds and bare spots needing maintenance. Kennedy also noted that the City Planning Department applied for a grant to develop a pathway connecting the Recreation Center to the Hayford Road sidewalk system.

The board approved routine meeting business but took no formal votes on projects or grants at this session; staff will return with updates as projects progress and grant decisions are announced.