Parks staff report: retirements, seasonal hires, campground access and several park projects

Parks staff updated the Mitchell Parks and Recreation Board on staffing changes, facility projects and seasonal operations.

Jeremy, a parks staff member, told the board that Kevin is finishing his last full week of employment and that his last day is next Wednesday. "If you have an opportunity to take time to go out during his work day next week and thank him for his 31 plus years of work in the city of Mitchell, I'm sure he'd very much appreciate it," Jeremy said.

Jeremy said Thomas will step into Kevin's role on June 1 and was present at the meeting as an observer. The board also noted the hire of a seasonal sports coordinator, Ethan McCune, who will move into a staff role when Jeremy assumes Kevin's position.

On facilities, Jeremy reported the campground remains accessible despite nearby road construction and that "our first campground hosts are on-site. It's manageable." He said pickleball-court contractors installed rebar and the underlying plastic and that a concrete pour was expected within days. Steve, another parks employee, outlined maintenance work: restrooms and irrigation systems being turned on, mowing, and efforts to remove or treat graffiti at the skate park.

Arbor Day activities were described: nine trees were planted with help from Kiwanis Club, Atria and volunteers including John and Linda McLeod; staff crews and volunteers will handle watering. Jeremy said the city submitted a matching-fund grant application for Genawain Park and will include a stainless-steel countertop in next year's budget for the Mitchell Soccer concession stand, an item estimated at roughly $8,000–$9,000.

No formal board action was taken on these routine department reports; they were presented for information and future budgeting.