Council leans toward public survey and fundraising for potential splash pad in parks vision plan

City staff asked the Oskaloosa City Council on Oct. 6 for direction on implementing elements of the Parks Vision Plan adopted July 1, 2024. The plan, developed with Iowa State University’s Community Design Lab, identified community‑preferred updates such as splash pads, restroom improvements and expanded natural habitat.

Staff told the council the initial community engagement included about 74 participants and that, while not a large sample, the design lab considered it strong for similar communities. City Manager Sean said the city could pursue fundraising and community‑led projects for a splash pad rather than adding the full cost to the capital improvement program; staff used $500,000 as an illustrative figure during the discussion.

Council members suggested two survey approaches: a targeted survey asking where a splash pad should be placed if the council wanted to pursue that amenity, or a broader community survey asking what parks improvements residents would prioritize. Several councilors urged getting input from younger residents and canvassing a broader cross‑section of the community before committing significant funds. Staff said some park ideas were excluded from the city‑led list because they are not on city‑owned property.

Council consensus was to proceed with further community outreach — including a survey — and to explore fundraising options if the splash pad remained a top priority. Staff will propose survey language and outreach methods and return with recommendations.

Next steps: staff to develop a survey, refine cost estimates and report back with recommended next steps for fundraising or capital budgeting.