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Parks and Recreation reports staffing shortfalls, event prep and tournament growth
Summary
Staff reported roughly 9–10 open positions, preparations for LilyFest and Riverfest, increased youth flag-football participation and potential to host larger tournaments; splash-pad usage patterns and ongoing capital tasks were also discussed.
Parks and Recreation staff told the board they remain short-staffed (about nine to ten open positions) but are preparing for fall events including LilyFest on Sept. 20 and Riverfest on Sept. 27. Staff said tree work, stump grinding and mowing are ongoing and that some projects — a storage building and pavilion foundation at the sports complex — are competing for limited staff capacity.
Recreation staff reported increased participation in youth programs: a preseason flag-football tournament had 47 teams and the fall season registration rose to about 112 teams. Staff said they are in talks to host larger tournaments, and a potential state flag-football tournament looks likely pending final confirmation.
On splash pads, staff said weekday foot traffic is light and after-school use is higher; they plan one last splash-pad weekend event before the season ends. Staff also described internal promotions to cover vacancies rather than immediate external hires.
Board members asked how parks and event promotion connects to city marketing and whether the board’s role should include more coordination with the DMO and chamber. Staff suggested scheduling a separate discussion about priorities and marketing strategies for events and park programs.
