Committee adds Huska Park bathroom repairs to 2027 CIP to restore operable facilities

Park Department staff told the committee the Huska Park restroom building has been inoperable for roughly four years due to vandalism and fire damage, and that professionals recommended repairing plumbing, fixtures and accessibility issues rather than demolishing and rebuilding.

Staff said repairing the existing structure is estimated at about $175,000; replacing and rebuilding the structure had previously been estimated near $500,000. The parks presenter said repairs would also require addressing ADA compliance and that daily staff checks would help mitigate vandalism but could not eliminate it.

Councilmember Kalo moved to add item 26996 (Huska Park bathrooms) to the 2027 CIP at $175,000; Councilmember Janssen seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Staff said details about where to reallocate funds would be worked out with finance as part of the 2029/2027 budget decisions.

Parks staff and multiple council members emphasized prioritizing maintenance of existing facilities and the regular public use of the site’s dog park and ball fields.