NCPRD Secures $1M Grant for Jennings Lodge Park Construction in 2026

In a recent City Council meeting held on July 15, 2025, in Milwaukie, Oregon, several key topics were discussed that could significantly impact the community. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance local parks and community services, alongside budgetary challenges faced by the North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District (NCPRD).

One of the primary discussions revolved around the NCPRD's recent achievements and future plans. The district secured a $1 million grant from Metro to develop a new park at Jennings Lodge Elementary, with construction anticipated to begin in spring 2026. Additionally, the Concord Park and Community Center is on track for a fall opening, marking a significant step in expanding recreational facilities in the area.

However, the meeting also revealed financial constraints affecting the NCPRD. The district has decided to discontinue waiving fees for park permits, a practice that previously supported local non-profits organizing community events. This decision has raised concerns among residents, particularly regarding the impact on community activities such as concerts in the Lewelling and Ardenwald neighborhoods, which were recently charged $400 in fees. The NCPRD's director emphasized that this change is a necessary response to budgetary pressures.

The council also discussed the upcoming meeting of the NCPRD board on July 30, which has not convened since the previous year's elections. This meeting is expected to address potential financing measures for the district, including the possibility of a bond or tax rate adjustments. The outcome of this discussion could have lasting implications for funding community services and maintaining park facilities.

In addition to these topics, the council is preparing for an update on senior transportation services and community center offerings, with concerns about potential cuts to these essential services. The council's commitment to enhancing access to parks and recreational opportunities was evident, with calls for more fully staffed community centers and improved park access across neighborhoods.

As the council continues to navigate these challenges, the next meeting on August 5 will focus on parks and green space goals, providing an opportunity for further community engagement and planning. The discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of balancing budgetary constraints with the need for accessible community services and recreational opportunities in Milwaukie.