The City Council approved a temporary parks consultant contract intended to raise maintenance standards across Lowell’s parks and athletic fields, after an extended debate about cost, duration and whether the city should instead invest in internal staff training. The manager said the role would be seasonal (roughly March–July and September shoulder seasons), about 20 hours weekly, and estimated the position at $45,000–$50,000 annually without city benefits.
Proponents—including several councilors and the manager—said the consultant would provide certifications (for example, landscape and applicator licenses), help bring certain services in‑house, and protect more than $10 million in recent park and field investments. Supporters noted tournament and economic benefits when fields are well maintained. Opponents questioned hiring an external trainer when long‑tenured parks staff and department management already exist; some said the same funds should protect front‑line services such as public health nursing. The CFO told councilors the position could be funded from current parks salary allocations without a new appropriation.
After questions about scope—councilors clarified the consultant would work on all parks, islands and open spaces, not only ball fields—the council approved the measure by roll call (several no votes recorded). The manager said he expected a roughly 32‑week seasonal engagement and suggested awarding training stipends to certifying employees rather than permanent hires.
The council asked for measurable outcomes and for the manager to provide an end‑of‑year report documenting how the consultant’s work affected maintenance, training and use of current staff. The vote funds a temporary line in FY2026 and directs the administration to seek results and consider bringing the work fully in‑house over time.