Shakopee City staff updated the council April 15 on efforts to pursue two national accreditations: American Public Works Association (APWA) accreditation for public works and CAPRA (Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies) for parks and recreation. Staff said the initiatives aim to document policies and standard operating procedures, improve operational efficiency, strengthen recruitment and succession planning, and demonstrate alignment with national best practices.

Kelsey McNutt, identified as Park and Recreation Director, outlined the CAPRA timeline: a preliminary application submitted in September, a self‑assessment and evidence submission this year, an on‑site verification visit in summer 2026, and a hearing at the national conference in September 2026. McNutt said the CAPRA self‑assessment includes 10 chapters and currently contains 36 “fundamental” standards; agencies must meet fundamental standards and achieve at least 90% overall on initial accreditation, with a higher threshold on renewal.

Public‑works staff briefed the council on the APWA accreditation process, which requires a comprehensive self‑evaluation of relevant policy chapters and a national peer review. Staff said their internal team has completed most of the applicable chapters and expects peer review within roughly a year. Officials said accreditation requires ongoing review every four years and will force the city to codify many practices that currently exist informally in staff knowledge.

Council members praised staff for pursuing the accreditations and asked about staff time, which departments are involved, and how the city will sustain the effort. Staff said employees from across the organization — finance, HR, parks, public works and others — are contributing to the evidence and that the city expects continuous work to maintain the accreditations after initial award.

No council action was required; staff asked for continued support as they bring related policies to council for formal adoption.