Farmers Branch Parks and Recreation staff updated the board on multiple park projects and told members the City Council will consider how to use leftover funds from the prior fiscal year.

Squire Park: Staff said they hope to move forward in November with a design contract to develop the park’s design. The board was told the city will return a design contract to the board unless other funding priorities change.

Mercer Park: A surveying contract is active and staff expect survey results in a few months to complete design work. Staff described the Mercer project as multi‑phased: phase two would address elements outlined in recent packets and phase three would add a playground and other improvements on the south side. Staff said combining phases could lower overall costs if additional funding is provided.

Dutch Village Playground: Installation work is underway with excavation and equipment delivery; staff expect substantial completion of playground installation by mid‑November, with remaining site work and surfacing to follow into early 2026.

Oakbrook Median Restoration and Rawhide trail lighting: Oakbrook median concrete and pavers are in place and Encore (a partner/contractor) must finish certain items; once completed, the city will install irrigation and landscaping. Staff said Rawhide trail improvements have been phased; lights and additional panels are planned for the next construction phase.

Budget context: Staff told the board that City Council will meet with the new finance director, Jay Patel, to discuss how to allocate roughly $22.3 million in prior-year fund balance. Council could choose to amend the new budget if it decides to direct funds to Mercer, Squire or other projects; staff said a formal budget amendment would be required to distribute those funds.

Why it matters: The updates outline the timeline and funding options for multiple neighborhood projects that affect park amenities and scheduling. Board members asked for clarity on design timelines and potential council funding decisions.

Board direction: Staff said they will proceed with design procurement where feasible pending council decisions and return updates to the board.