Wasilla council adopts resolution to halt Nunley Park work, calls for consultant and public input

The Wasilla City Council on March 24 adopted Resolution Serial Number 25-12 directing the mayor to halt ongoing improvements at Nunley Park, hire an independent consultant to prepare a development concept, and route public input through the Parks & Recreation Commission.

The resolution, introduced by Council Member Matt Graham, follows council concern that Park improvements had begun without adequate commission and public involvement. The council amended the draft to replace the phrase “final improvement plan” with “concept plan,” to reflect the commission’s existing role under municipal code and to set a revised internal timeline for review.

Why it matters: Nunley Park is a visible public space used by residents and event attendees. Council members said a consultant-led concept and formal commission involvement will produce clearer designs the public can review and avoid mid-project changes after construction starts.

Council discussion focused on whether an outside design consultant is necessary for the scope of work and on timing. Council Member Matt Graham said the city needs to “realize our limitations” and involve the Parks & Recreation Commission rather than starting work and informing the commission after the fact. Public Works Director Eric Shaw described steps the department had already taken to contact contractors for design illustrations and said staff intends to present concepts to council and to use the Fourth of July public presence to solicit feedback. Attorney Wells proposed edits to ensure the resolution did not conflict with the mayor’s code authority or the commission’s statutory roles; the council accepted the attorney’s redline.

Amendment and timeline: Council amended the resolution so a concept plan — not a final design — must be submitted to council no later than June 23, 2025, allowing the Parks & Recreation Commission and the public to review and comment before any final bid or construction step. Public Works said it would aim to present an internal concept to council in June and use July 4 events for broader public feedback.

Outcome: After the council modified language to clarify the Parks & Recreation Commission’s role and to set the June 23 concept deadline, the resolution passed by voice vote with no recorded objections.

Context and next steps: The council instructed administration to coordinate consultant selection and to ensure the Parks & Recreation Commission and public notices are part of the process. Public Works said it will bring concept illustrations to council and share them with the commission; any future bidding or construction would follow the adopted concept and required procurement rules.

A copy of the amendment the city attorney provided will be attached to the final resolution in the municipal record.