Whitefish council approves lease amendment adding Kusumoto property as Ted Kusumoto Park

The Whitefish City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑0504 on a motion from Deputy Mayor Giuseppe to amend the city’s Roundhouse Landing lease with BNSF to include an adjacent parcel formerly owned by the Kusumoto family and to establish that parcel as Ted Kusumoto Park.

Parks staff told the council the Kusumoto property lies west of the Walker property and BNSF proposed the amendment to manage the land as a public river access area “for the sole and exclusive purpose of a picnic area and landing for canoes and kayaks.” The staff memo in the council packet states BNSF acquired the additional parcel in February 2024 and proposed the amendment to the existing lease for Roundhouse Landing.

Maria, speaking for Parks and Recreation, said the naming recognizes the Kusumoto family’s long ownership of the land and honors Ted Kusumoto, the eldest son of the original homesteading family, and his World War II service. The lease amendment carries a 25‑year term; the city’s staff noted Whitefish City code and state law require council approval for leases longer than five years. The Whitefish Board of Park Commissioners unanimously recommended the amendment on Jan. 14, 2025.

Maria told council the financial impact is limited to the cost of a bench and plaque and ongoing routine maintenance; those costs can be covered from the existing parks operating fund. She said there is no annual rent due to BNSF under the proposed amendment. A councilor confirmed at the meeting that the change does not increase the city’s rent payments to BNSF.

Deputy Mayor Giuseppe moved to approve the resolution and Councilor Davis seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The council authorized the city manager to execute the amendment to lease BF71038 to add the property to Roundhouse Landing and establish signage or a bench identifying Ted Kusumoto Park.