Commissioners hear Parks and Recreation staffing, vandalism declines and ongoing UTV access debate

Cowlitz County Parks and Recreation staff briefed the Board of Commissioners on January finances, reported lower vandalism at Riverside Park and heard commissioners voice continued support for allowing licensed converted UTVs in county parks.

Sean Roehle of Public Works, presenting parks finance details, said revenues for January were limited, with $2,145 in actual miscellaneous revenue against a $44,000 annual budget for rental and park use fees. He said personnel and services are the largest budget items and that the personnel line supports two positions. "This personnel budget supports 2 individuals, and we don't currently show that we have any vacancies," Roehle said.

Commissioners noted the small staffing level relative to the county’s geography. One commissioner said the parks crew "stretches from Cougar to... Hog Island," and that two people handle a broad area; staff reported recent use of summer help and significant overtime during busy months.

On vandalism, staff reported a decline at Riverside Park. "Our vandalism has dropped drastically compared to the last time we talked about it," a parks staff member said. Commissioners speculated arrests of individuals near the park may have contributed to the decline.

A longer‑running issue resurfaced about allowing licensed converted utility task vehicles (UTVs) in Riverside Park. One commissioner said he disagreed with a park board decision and reiterated, "I still believe that licensed converted UTV should be allowed in Riverside Park. I think grandfather should be able to go and watch their kids play ball." A parks board representative said the commissioner could raise the issue at the park board’s next meeting; the commissioner said he would do so.

Ending: Commissioners thanked Parks staff for their work across a large area and encouraged outreach to recruit temporary help and monitor vandalism trends.