Council backs $30,000 People, Parks & Community grant application to beautify Sand Island Park

City Council authorized the mayor to apply for a People, Parks & Community Foundation grant for $30,000 on June 17 to fund beautification and related improvements at Sand Island Park. The resolution authorizing the application passed 6–0.

The grant request was described in a June 11 memorandum from the city’s grants administrator; the memorandum recommended support if awarded to fund Sand Island improvements. Councilmember Grama Smith and Councilmember Wilhelm sponsored the resolution. Council discussion emphasized local support for the park: resident Doug Royston — who said he has spent “a lot of time” at Sand Island — urged the council to consult a wide range of park users, including anglers, performers, historians and walkers, and to consider the park’s role as an increasingly important green space. “Not simply park people … to get the real picture of Sand Island, it would be wonderful if you took all those different people seriously,” Royston said.

Councilmembers also voiced support during the resolution discussion. One councilmember said Sand Island is often referred to locally as “Central Park” and that continued community input will be important as the city moves forward. The administration explained the grant application is one of several funding sources being pursued; if the grant is awarded, city staff will return with project details and implementation steps, including any environmental reviews and design work required.

The council’s vote to authorize the grant application was unanimous. No specific construction contract was approved at this meeting; the resolution only authorizes the mayor to execute application materials and, if awarded, to execute necessary grant documents. The city’s Community and Economic Development staff will coordinate public outreach and next steps.