Parks commission accepts recommendations for volunteer awards, will refine selection criteria

The El Dorado County Parks & Recreation Commission voted to accept commissioners' recommendations for nominees in a new volunteer recognition program and directed staff to refine selection criteria ahead of formal presentation in September.

Parks staff recommended selecting one honoree per district where possible and highlighted a set of multi‑district nominees that focus on trail stewardship, event support and defensible‑space work. "So, essentially, what we're trying to do here is make a selection...for a volunteer from each district that we could highlight their acts of service," parks staff said during the commission discussion.

Commissioners debated whether to reward individuals or organizations, how to weigh long‑term commitment versus single events, and whether nonresident volunteers who contribute substantially should be eligible. Staff suggested a revolving annual cycle and said the nominations would be included in the commission's annual report. Commissioners agreed it would be useful to develop a short scoring rubric before next year's awards, with possible metrics including cumulative volunteer hours, number of events supported and measurable impact on park operations.

During public comment Jenny McCormick (who identified herself for the record) suggested adding a student category or recognizing school and youth groups. The commission accepted that suggestion for consideration while keeping the initial approach focused on district nominees.

The motion "to accept the recommendations of each of the commissioners" was made and carried by voice vote; the record shows the chair called for "all in favor," members responded "Aye," and the chair stated the motion passes. Staff said the awards would be part of the commission's annual report presentation in September and that winners could be invited to a Board of Supervisors meeting for recognition.

Next steps: staff will work with commissioners to finalize selection principles and a scoring rubric to apply before the April cycle next year; the commission will present the awards in the September annual report.