The Oshkosh Advisory Park Board convened on May 13, 2024, to discuss various projects and budgetary considerations for the city's parks and recreational facilities. The meeting focused on updates to existing facilities, new project proposals, and funding adjustments.

The first item on the agenda addressed the Stevens Park Tennis and Basketball Court renovations. The board noted a significant increase in costs, with an additional $55,000 required for the project. This increase was attributed to updated pricing from consultants based on recent bids and the need for additional contingency funds.

Next, the board discussed the Leech Amphitheater's LED sign, which has required multiple repairs over the past few years. A recommendation was made to replace the malfunctioning panels to ensure the sign's functionality. Additionally, the board proposed the installation of new LED signs at South Park and Menomonee Park. These signs would allow for easier updates to event information and reduce staff time spent on manual changes.

The meeting also covered the need for river walk light bollard replacements due to low inventory and ongoing maintenance for park trails across various locations, including Rouge Park and South Park. A request for solar lighting along the trail between Traeger School and Sawyer Creek was discussed, reflecting community interest in enhancing safety and visibility.

Riverside Cemetery's road repaving was highlighted as an ongoing need, with a budget request of $25,000 for this biennial project. The board also reviewed the annual allocation of $50,000 for park trail maintenance.

Looking ahead, the board acknowledged that several projects from 2024 had not been funded and would need to be considered for future budgets. Notably, no funding was requested for Lakeshore Park in 2025, as the city plans to reassess priorities and utilize existing funds effectively.

The discussion concluded with a focus on playground renovations, particularly at Rainbow Memorial Park and other facilities that are nearing the end of their 20-year lifespan. The South Park Splash Pad was identified as a high-traffic area in need of updates, and a placeholder for renovations at Red Arrow Skate Park was also proposed.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to maintaining and improving Oshkosh's parks and recreational facilities while navigating budgetary constraints and community needs. The board plans to continue evaluating project priorities and funding strategies in the coming months.