Parks advisory board urges better outreach, programming and park connectivity; requests update on social media coordinator

The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Advisory Board presented its annual report to the City Commission on March 19, highlighting efforts to improve park programming, connectivity and community outreach across Hollywood.

Etorre de Torres, chair of the advisory board, told commissioners the 12‑member board visited 33 parks and facilities during the past year to document conditions and community feedback. De Torres said staff typically addressed safety and maintenance items rapidly after board reviews, and the visits also yielded ideas for new programming and for better promotion of existing services.

The board described its role in mobility and cycling planning: committee members helped develop the city’s mobility recommendations and provided input to the Broward County multimodal mobility master plan, which used Hollywood’s approach as a best practice, De Torres said. The board also recommended stronger marketing for recreation offerings, backing the hiring of a full‑time recreation communications coordinator to support the department’s new Active Net registration software and expand outreach through social media.

Other accomplishments included support for Ignite Hollywood — the board recommended funding that helped secure $150,000 to stage the event — and a Little Free Library program placing small book‑sharing kiosks at parks; Mara Berman Galante Park’s Little Free Library is installed, Oak Ridge Park’s is pending, and Stan Goldman Park’s is in progress, the board said.

Commissioners praised the board’s community engagement. Vice Mayor Quintana said staff should report back to the commission by the second meeting in April on the status of the new recreation communications coordinator and plans to activate social media pages. Commissioner Calari asked the board to coordinate with commissioners on adult day‑care initiatives at community centers, and Commissioner Gruber suggested expanded landscapes and water features in public plazas to strengthen walkability and placemaking.

Why it matters: The board’s work focuses on turning capital improvements and facilities into active, well‑used community assets. Commissioners said better communication and targeted programming will increase use of existing parks and community centers, reduce the “best kept secret” problem staff described and support neighborhood priorities.

Next steps: Staff was asked to provide an update to the commission on the social media/recreation communications role and to continue coordinating with the board on programming and Little Free Library installations.