Parks master‑plan work pushed to 2027; commissioners set RFP timeline and outreach priorities
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Summary
Staff recommended postponing a 10‑year parks and recreation master plan until 2027 to allow staff bandwidth after the pool opens; commissioners reviewed an RFP schedule (RFP produced mid‑August, release in October, 9–12 month delivery) and emphasized inclusive outreach methods, including statistically valid surveys and school/youth engagement.
Town staff told the Parks and Recreation Commission on Nov. 12 that, because pool operations will require staff time next year, the department proposes beginning a 10‑year master plan in 2027 with an RFP ready Jan. 1, 2027. The recommended schedule calls for producing the RFP by mid‑August, releasing it in October, allowing roughly 4–6 weeks for responses, and conducting interviews and selections so consulting work could begin Jan. 2027 with an expected 9–12 month project timeline.
Commissioners gave detailed feedback on timeline and outreach. Several members recommended a month to six weeks for proposal responses and a short (2–3 week) interview window to avoid long delays. Commissioners also stressed outreach quality: while open houses and online surveys are useful, they advised that consultants build statistically valid sampling and targeted outreach (including school‑based outreach and youth committee involvement) so the plan reflects current demographics rather than only engaged stakeholders.
Staff said they will build on prior master‑plan examples and provide RFP templates and sample scopes to inform the commission. The commission requested that the RFP and scope account for the Nature Park's specific needs and the town's timeline for incorporating plan recommendations into the 2028 budget cycle.
Next steps: staff will refine the RFP timeline, circulate example scopes, and present a draft scope for commission review ahead of formal release.