Parks readies summer programs; council donation frees 400 youth football slots, department hires for Brewer Community Center

Parks staff told the board they are preparing for the summer season, opening camp and sports registrations, and launching partnerships to expand participation and scholarship support.

Reggie (Park director) said the department expects a larger youth flag-football season with more than 600 participants in its spring program and that the city is partnering with the school district on a junior-football initiative. He said Councilman Johnson provided remaining Hyatt funds that will cover registration fees and uniforms for the first 400 youth who register for the junior program; families will pay a $25 deposit that will be used toward equipment.

Staff also announced a national search that produced an internal promotion: Alicia Carney Harris Harrison (incoming Brewer Community Center manager) will take the Brewer center role in September. Reggie said the department posted the previous position internally to provide a growth path and will interview candidates to fill the vacated post.

Reggie also said the department plans to host multiple weekend softball tournaments this summer at South Lakes that in past years brought $40,000 to $50,000 in revenue per tournament; the department expects higher concession revenue now that it can accept on-site card payments.

Why it matters: expanded scholarships and tournament hosting can increase youth participation, reduce financial barriers and raise earned revenue for the parks system. Internal hires reflect succession planning and are intended to sustain operations as new facilities open.