Parks and Rec Department outlines 2025 priorities and budget strategies in Westminster

The Westminster City Council held a study session on February 3, 2025, focusing on the Parks, Recreation, and Libraries (PRL) budget and operations. The meeting featured presentations from key department leaders, including Eric Oselberger, the acting Parks, Recreation, and Libraries Director, who provided an overview of the department's structure, budget, and priorities.

Oselberger began by emphasizing the importance of the PRL department, describing it as the "soul of the city" and a key differentiator for quality of life. He noted that the department has consistently received high satisfaction ratings in community surveys and highlighted its significant revenue generation, with a 35% annual revenue recovery rate, surpassing the national average.

The department operates with a budget of $47 million and employs 219 full-time equivalents (FTE), with seasonal staff bringing the total to nearly 1,000. Oselberger detailed the four major divisions within PRL: Operations, Parks, Golf, and Open Space; Library Services; and Recreation Services. Each division has specific responsibilities and goals, with a focus on community engagement and service delivery.

A significant point of discussion was the addition of two new full-time navigators and an increase of $1 million in funding for human services aimed at assisting individuals experiencing homelessness. Oselberger reported that the human services team successfully housed 64 individuals and provided temporary housing for 18 others in the previous year.

The Parks, Golf, and Open Space division was highlighted for its management of 2,337 acres of parks and 3,818 acres of open space. Oselberger mentioned ongoing capital projects totaling approximately $32 million, including improvements to various parks and open spaces.

Library Services, led by Amy Bridal, was also discussed, with a focus on enhancing community engagement and addressing the needs of underserved populations. The library team is working on a master plan to improve facilities and services, including a mobile library initiative.

Recreation Services reported record attendance and revenue, with over 1.1 million guest visits across facilities last year. The division is exploring partnerships to enhance programming for older adults and is addressing the growing demand for fitness and recreational activities.

Council members raised questions about funding sources, including state grants and public land dedication funds for park development. Oselberger confirmed that the department relies on the Colorado State Lottery and Conservation Trust Fund for operational support, while also acknowledging the challenges of maintaining existing facilities amid budget constraints.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for efficient resource management and the importance of community partnerships in delivering PRL services. The council expressed appreciation for the department's efforts and the positive impact on the community's quality of life.