Parks commission highlights volunteer surge, capital projects and long‑term pavilion funding challenges

Mountlake Terrace — The Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission and Neighborhood Parks Improvement Subcommittee reported expanded volunteer engagement, event growth, and a slate of park improvement projects for 2026 during the Feb. 19 council meeting.

Selena Williams, the city’s park supervisor, and RPAC Chair Forrest Bridal highlighted 2025 accomplishments and 2026 priorities. Presenters said volunteer hours rose sharply year over year and that more than 580 volunteers contributed service across adopt‑a‑park, scouts, and community groups; Eagle Scouts alone logged 402 volunteer hours on projects. Commissioner George Stanton called the increase “remarkable,” and cited new events such as bubble play day and luminaria.

Project highlights included improvements at the Evergreen Playfield Complex (new path and surfacing), ongoing Lake Ballinger improvements and signage, a heritage tree recognition program, and planned work on the Firefighters Memorial Playground and transit connection corridor through Veterans Park. Commissioners also previewed Ballenger plaza naming, public‑art installation near light rail, and outreach for a Ballenger organic garden club and food‑forest concepts.

Councilmembers emphasized that the city faces budget constraints and that the rec pavilion — long discussed as aging and in need of replacement or major rehabilitation — will require significant funding decisions. Mayor Pro Tem Wall invited the parks commission to help shape outreach and community conversations about fee schedules, grant opportunities and whether to pursue a bond measure or a Metropolitan Park District to fund large projects.

What happens next: Staff and commissions will continue grant work and outreach; council and staff expect to bring funding options for major pavilion work and fee‑schedule adjustments to the public for deliberation.