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Council discusses parks vision plan and potential Emerson Park splash pad; staff to consider survey
Summary
Councilors reviewed a parks vision plan that prioritized a splash pad at Emerson Park and other restroom/landscaping improvements; staff offered to pursue fundraising or conduct a broader resident survey to refine priorities and placement.
The council discussed the parks vision plan the city accepted July 1, 2024, which was developed in partnership with Mahaska County Conservation and Iowa State University's Community Design Lab. The community input component of the plan collected priorities from roughly 74 participants during the outreach process, and splash-pad improvements at Emerson Park emerged as the most requested amenity.
City staff said a splash pad would likely be pursued through fundraising and community partnerships rather than by placing the full capital cost solely on the city budget. City Manager Sean said the intent would be to "raise more than" construction costs so that ongoing maintenance could be covered; staff estimated a conceptual figure during discussion.
Councilors suggested additional outreach to broaden input beyond the initial 74 respondents, including targeted outreach to younger residents and school groups. Several members supported conducting a targeted resident survey to determine preferred park investments, likely locations, and fundraising interest.
Council discussed existing funding sources that support parks and recreation, including hotel/motel tax allocations (some of which are set aside for foundations and parks), and noted ongoing repairs to the outdoor pool house would use existing park funds. Staff will return with options for a survey and a fundraising plan if council elects to proceed.
