Yukon council keeps parks improvements in consent; $400,000 cap for new fields and playgrounds

The Yukon City Council on Nov. 18 retained a set of parks and recreation projects on its consent agenda and approved the consent docket that includes up to $400,000 in capital spending for two additional soccer fields at Taylor Park, renovations of softball fields at Sunrise Park, and new playground equipment at several neighborhood parks.

Mayor (unnamed) said the work builds neighborhood access to parks and emphasized youth participation in organized athletics, noting, "We have 1,200 kids playing soccer in Yukon," about 750 of whom are Yukon residents. Councilmembers and staff described the recent phase of park work as completed on schedule and generally on budget.

Members of the public voiced support during the meeting. Stephanie Bardine (515 Maple) told the council, "The parks are very nice," and said she regularly uses Kimball Park. Jenny Penner, speaking on behalf of the Yukon Soccer Club, said the club was "thrilled to partner" with the city and described the fields as opportunities for youth development beyond sport.

Mayor and staff said funding will come from identified surplus capital expenditure funds; the finance director will provide more detail in the financial update. Council chose not to pull the parks item from consent and the consent docket passed in the subsequent votation.

The council’s action leaves detailed oversight, permitting and installation schedules to staff; the projects are expected to move forward as described in the parks and recreation master plan and within the $400,000 cap.