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Commission debates restoring “parks” to name, tables decision to February
Summary
Commissioners discussed adding “parks” (and trails) back into the commission’s name to better reflect duties and to improve clarity with sponsors and the public; no formal action was taken and the item will return in February.
Chair Nathan Sticks opened a discussion on Jan. 8 about restoring “parks” to the commission’s name, saying the current title, Community Activities Commission, understates the body’s advisory role on parks, trails and related planning.
"I would like us to consider reintroducing parks into our title or some other name that lends itself to more than just activities," Chair Nathan Sticks said, arguing the change would clarify the commission’s remit for sponsors, businesses and new residents. He cited a passage in the city comprehensive plan — Chapter 5 — that, in his view, understates the commission’s parks-and-trails responsibilities by characterizing the commission’s role as limited to event recommendations.
Several commissioners voiced support for restoring parks to the name. Commissioners suggested alternatives including ‘‘Community Activities and Parks Commission,’’ ‘‘Parks and Activities Commission,’’ and names that avoid an unwieldy acronym while signaling both physical places and programming. Commissioners also discussed whether a single word (for example, “engagement” or “preservation”) might be broader but concluded that specific reference to parks and trails may help new residents and potential sponsors understand the commission’s scope.
The group did not vote on a name change. Chair Sticks asked commissioners to consider options and return the item at the February meeting; she said staff would assist with suggested language and that the commission would prepare any recommendation for council consideration if members agree on a change.
Commissioners referenced the municipal code change that formally renamed the Parks Commission to the Community Activities Commission in 2013; the ordinance number was not specified in the meeting record.
