The September 28, 2025, City Council Work Session in Des Moines, Iowa, commenced with an update from the Parks and Recreation Department, led by Director Ben Page. The meeting highlighted the department's mission to enhance community well-being through recreational activities and environmental stewardship.

Page introduced key staff members, including Assistant Director Jenny Richmond and Parks Manager Mike Gull, and acknowledged the presence of supportive community groups, such as the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Board and the Friends of Des Moines Parks and Recreation. He emphasized the importance of these volunteers in advocating for and fundraising on behalf of the department.

The presentation outlined the department's operational structure, which includes 71 full-time staff, 39 part-time employees, and over 300 seasonal workers, primarily for aquatics. The department operates with a budget of approximately $18.4 million, generating around $4.5 million in revenue, mainly from cemetery operations and recreational programming.

A significant focus of the discussion was the value of parks and recreation services to residents. Page presented data indicating that the median assessed home in Des Moines contributes about $156 annually to these services. He encouraged council members to consider the extensive benefits provided, including access to 92 parks, 20 aquatic facilities, and over 70 miles of trails.

The presentation also addressed community engagement, noting that participation in parks and recreation programs has surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Page highlighted that the pandemic underscored the importance of outdoor spaces, as parks and trails remained open while other facilities were closed.

Following Page's overview, Assistant Director Richmond took the floor to discuss the administrative aspects of the department, emphasizing the team's extensive experience and commitment to serving the community.

The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the department's initiatives and the continued support from the community, setting the stage for future discussions on enhancing recreational services in Des Moines.