Keizer councilors on Feb. 24 discussed multiple parks projects they want completed in the city’s two‑year short‑term work plan, focusing on safety repairs at the High School-area “Big Toy,” plans for a new pavilion concept to vet at public events, and the parks master plan revision.

Councilor Parsons, Parks Board members and staff outlined a volunteer-driven proposal to repair and refresh the Big Toy playground in time for a re‑opening and 10th‑anniversary celebration. City staff said the most urgent work is repairing the playground surfacing in high‑use areas — notably near the merry‑go‑round — and that repairs must occur before cosmetic repainting. The city attorney estimated surfacing repairs could cost in the low tens of thousands of dollars (he cited a rough figure of about $20,000–$25,000), and staff said some capital funds currently earmarked for Bob Newton Park may be reallocated if the council prioritizes the Big Toy tune‑up.

On larger planning matters, staff described the parks master plan revision as already underway and recommended using summer events such as Kaiserfest and the Kaiser Art Fair to collect “intercept” public feedback (outreach that asks eventgoers quick questions on their way out) about pavilion size and amenities. Staff suggested presenting upper and lower concept boundaries — for example, a large multipurpose pavilion (roughly 250-by-100 feet) and a smaller tent-sized option — to get consistent public data.

Councilors asked parks staff to coordinate with the Parks Board and volunteer groups before the council adds projects to the formal short‑term goals. Staff said the pavilion discussion and intercept data collection could be ready for council consideration this summer, and that specifics about contractor schedules, surfacing products and volunteer timelines would be returned to the council. Staff said they have identified a higher-density surfacing material used in heavy‑use playgrounds and plan to test that product in repairs to prolong life in high‑wear spots.

Councilors also discussed the Gold Star Memorial project (continuing fundraising and the potential state grant), and staff said the memorial project remains a council priority though fundraising is ongoing. The council agreed that park safety repairs should be prioritized even if cosmetic work or celebratory events are scheduled later.

Staff said they will return with refined cost estimates, a feasible schedule for work and Parks Board recommendations.