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Parks department updates: splash pad operations, historic downtown tree removal and consideration of fireworks move to Cook Park
Summary
Parks staff reported recurring splash-pad lightning shutdowns, planned removal of a large downtown pine tree, purchase of an auto striper for field maintenance, and raised the possibility of moving city fireworks from Discovery Park to Cook Park; staff also summarized arts- and library-related programming.
Parks staff provided several operational updates at the Aug. 5 work session.
Dion said the splash pad at Cook Park has experienced multiple lightning-related shutdowns this season and a “poop scare” and that peak midday hours are very busy. Staff said the splash pad must be shut down when nearby lightning is detected and reopening follows a standard safety interval.
Dion reported the large pine tree in the downtown park is dead and scheduled for removal next week; staff said the tree was likely more than 100 years old and that selection of a replacement species and location will be evaluated later. The parks department recently purchased an auto striper (field painter) to reduce labor time on field markings and beginning Saturday will use it for routine field painting.
Dion also raised the idea of relocating the city’s fireworks display from Discovery Park to Cook Park and said he would prepare plans and fallout-area diagrams and coordinate with the pyrotechnics company and other departments if council wants the department to pursue that option. Council members said it was worth investigating and asked Dion to develop a plan.
Arts and library updates included the return of concerts in the park, a small inaugural film festival and a September 8 heritage festival organized by the arts and historic commissions. Staff said the city was participating in the Main Street America program (tier 1) and will form a community committee later in the year to pursue next steps and potential grant opportunities.
No formal actions were taken on parks items at the Aug. 5 work session; staff will bring plans and cost information back to the council as needed.
