Recreation, Parks & Library staff unveil draft strategic plan vision and values

Senior Library Manager Christina Cora Beckman presented a draft strategic-planning framework for the Recreation, Parks & Library (RPL) department and described the process staff used to develop a common vision, mission and values.

Beckman said the planning team, which included representatives from each division and an external facilitator, held two half-day retreats and drafted a vision statement: "To be the heart of the community, engaging generations, cultivating lifelong learning and memorable experiences in our welcoming places and spaces." She said the team also drafted a mission focused on inclusive, innovative services and identified five draft values for further definition.

Commissioners and staff discussed staffing, resource constraints and how the plan will translate into measurable outcomes. Commissioner Julie, who identified herself as an educator, suggested the values be more outcome-oriented and asked for performance measures that demonstrate delivery to the community. Ali, who led several recruitment and reporting items during the meeting, emphasized balancing internal responsibility for efficient resource use with advocacy for additional funding: "We need to be really thoughtful about resources and really take a hard look at, what is the cost of doing business? What's the return on investment?" the speaker said.

Director-level staff said the draft will be finalized after facilitator review and that staff will hold quarterly meetings to implement and monitor progress. The commission received the draft as an informational (receiving) item; no formal action or vote was taken.