Morris Heidey, director of Parks and Recreation, presented the department’s FY2025–26 proposed budget and described major initiatives, staffing proposals and capital projects.

Heidey said the department is updating its parks and recreation master plan with a statistically valid household survey administered by ETC Institute and an interactive engagement website; the master plan is expected to be completed in early 2026 and staff said recommendations would inform FY2027 budget proposals.

Tourism and CVB: Heidey said city staff have worked to establish a standalone convention and visitors bureau (CVB), to be called Visit Independence. The CVB will be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that will take over tourism marketing and promotion functions; Parks and Recreation will retain museums and historic‑site operations. Heidey reported rising museum attendance, a printed visitor guide and tangible tourism projects including removal of a dangerous water tower and relocation and repainting of a railroad caboose.

Staffing and hours: The proposed Parks and Recreation budget included three recommended full‑time positions—a museum services coordinator, a customer service attendant for George Owens Nature Park and a recreation programmer—plus additional part‑time hours to expand operating hours at the Palmer Center, Sermon Center and the National Frontier Trails Museum during peak season.

Capital and operating items: Heidey listed multiple capital and equipment projects in the FY2026 budget cycle, including playground and pavilion replacements, cemetery equipment, a new trash truck and parking lot and trail repairs. He told council staff are holding some capital dollars—such as funds budgeted for demolition of Adventure Oasis—pending recommendations from the master plan; he said the dollars were budgeted so they would be available if the master plan recommends action.

Council concern: One council member cautioned that demolition funding for Adventure Oasis may be premature before master plan recommendations are final; Heidey agreed the funds are budgeted to ensure availability but do not compel demolition without council direction.

Ending: Heidey said the department will use the master‑plan process and public outreach to refine capital priorities and return recommendations during subsequent budget cycles. No formal council action on Parks and Recreation capital items was taken during the study session.