At the Dec. 1 meeting of the Parks & Recreation Forestry Commission, Katie moved and the commission approved the 2026 seasonal wage scale, which takes effect Jan. 1 for the fiscal year.

Kylie (Parks & Recreation staff) described the proposal: a $1/hour increase for many seasonal positions, forestry and parks starting pay increased toward $18/hour in some roles, and parks ranger pay remaining at $20/hour. She explained a new “crew member seasonal 2” tier would offer higher starting pay to those with certifications such as CDL, wildland firefighter, or arborist credentials to attract more qualified seasonal staff.

“Kylie said the starting wage we're looking at going up a dollar for a seasonal position... and then forestry conservancy up to 18,” staff reported. Katie moved to approve the wage scale “as presented with the minor edit for the accompaniment,” the motion was seconded and the commission voted in favor (motion carries).