Lakewood proclaims Parks Appreciation Day, approves $429,936 contract for Harry Todd Park improvements

The Lakewood City Council on April 7 proclaimed April 26, 2025, as Parks Appreciation Day and approved a $429,936 construction contract for improvements at Harry Todd Park as part of the consent agenda.

"This day is more than just a chance to spruce up our parks and make our green spaces a little nicer," said Jason Gerwin, chair of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, in accepting the proclamation. Gerwin told the council that volunteers and year‑round parks maintenance build community and urged residents to participate in the April 26 cleanup events scheduled at multiple park sites.

Council adopted the consent agenda, which included Motion 2025‑17 authorizing execution of an agreement with KBH Construction Company in the amount of $429,936 for Harry Todd Park improvements. The consent agenda was moved by Council member Pearson and seconded by Council member Bokey; the council adopted the full consent agenda by voice vote.

Council members and staff highlighted both the city’s ongoing capital park projects and the need to preserve funding for maintenance. Council member Branstetter said he supported the consent item but asked staff to keep alive the possibility of recognizing a community member tied to the park’s history, noting that any public art or naming would involve the Arts Commission and additional procedures.

The Parks Appreciation Day proclamation lists volunteer cleanup sites and a volunteer window on Saturday, April 26 (stated in the proclamation as 9 a.m. to noon at several parks including Edgewater Park, Fort Steilacoom Park, Harry Todd Park, Kiwanis Park, Primley Park, Springbrook Park and Lakewood Community Garden). The proclamation urges residents and community groups to participate.

KBH Construction’s $429,936 award was approved within the standard consent agenda process; the contract summary appeared in the city clerk’s agenda packet and is filed with the clerk.