City Council approves harassment policy and discusses trail and skate park updates

The Columbia City Park Board meeting held on May 3, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the approval of a harassment policy, updates on local memorials, and the progress of various park projects.

The meeting began with the board reviewing and approving the minutes from the previous meeting without any amendments. The primary focus then shifted to the newly proposed harassment policy, which included a definition of "volunteer" as requested by board members. After a brief discussion, the board unanimously approved the policy, allowing it to be forwarded to the relevant department for implementation.

Another significant topic was the status of the monuments at the flagpole, specifically the Korean War memorial. Board member Gary Bird reported that inaccuracies had been found regarding the names on the memorial. After thorough research, it was determined that the names listed were already memorialized at another location, leading to the decision not to relocate the placards. The board expressed appreciation for Bird's efforts in clarifying the situation.

The meeting also provided updates on the construction of a new trail near the high school, which is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed by July. The installation of a bridge is scheduled for May 22, with plans to finalize the trail's asphalt work shortly thereafter.

Additionally, the board discussed ongoing issues with the baseball field agreement with On Turf. Concerns were raised about communication lapses regarding field availability, which have led to scheduling conflicts. The board agreed that it would be beneficial for On Turf representatives to attend a future meeting to address these concerns and improve coordination.

Lastly, the board noted that the skate park is nearing completion, with a grand opening planned for June. However, there are concerns about safety, as many children have been using the park before its official opening.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to improving park facilities and ensuring effective communication with community partners. The next steps include finalizing the harassment policy, addressing the baseball field agreement, and preparing for the skate park's opening.