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Commission hears proposal to continue popular amphitheatre yoga series; formal vote scheduled next month
Summary
Commissioners discussed a proposal to fund the fifth year of a Tuesday morning yoga series at the amphitheatre. The commission reviewed program history, participation, a proposed $3,000 budget for 20 classes, and options for weekend programming and DRD partnership; no formal vote was taken.
Commissioners discussed the proposal to continue the amphitheatre yoga series and the commission's portion of the special‑events budget.
Commissioner (presenter) reviewed the program's history: she said the commission began sponsoring yoga classes five years ago and that recent seasons drew record attendance (one week exceeded 200 participants). The 2026 proposal covers two weekly classes for 10 weeks (20 classes total) with instructor pay set at $145 per class and $100 for incidentals, for a total budget request of $3,000.
The presenter said that prior budgets ranged from $6,000 in early years to a $10,000 commission budget later, and that the proposed allocation would represent roughly 30% of the current special‑events discretionary funds, leaving about $7,000 unallocated for other initiatives.
Commissioners and staff discussed whether DRD already offers fee‑based yoga programs in surrounding communities and whether a weekend class would better serve residents who cannot attend weekday sessions. DRD staff said weekend programming is possible but fee‑based across DRD facilities (typical monthly cost cited as $45–$50), and that financial‑aid through the Desert Recreation Foundation can help qualifying households apply funding toward programs.
Public commenters urged inclusion of Century Park and programming for elders (for example, tai chi) and raised budget‑equity concerns about duplicating DRD offerings. Commissioners noted the program's role as a community brand for the amphitheatre and expected a vote at the next meeting to maintain continuity with instructors and momentum.
Ending: The item was informational; the commission scheduled the budget vote for the next meeting and requested staff provide a detailed breakdown of prior spending and guidance on how unallocated funds have been used.
