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Metro District reviews 2026 manager goals and a proposed Plaza Drive Park, hears Senior Center complaint
Summary
General Manager Stephanie Stanley outlined 2026 priorities including quarterly budget-to-actual reporting, Historic Park engagement and the Fly’n B concept plan; she also described a proposed 2-acre Plaza Drive Park with estimated annual O&M of $22,000–$24,000. Public commenters raised concerns about Senior Center membership policy and water use for the park.
General Manager Stephanie Stanley presented proposed 2026 goals to the Highlands Ranch Metropolitan District board, emphasizing improved board support through a quarterly budget‑to‑actual report for major capital, stormwater and repair projects, a strategic communications plan by year‑end, continued leadership training in response to employee‑engagement feedback, and greater board involvement in upcoming Historic Park public meetings.
Stanley said organizational priorities include planning and public engagement for Historic Park, completion of the Fly’n B concept plan by late spring and evaluation of alternative IT support models later in the year.
On the proposed Plaza Drive Park, Stanley described a roughly 2‑acre neighborhood park that would include community garden beds, potential outdoor fitness equipment, and a connection to the Highline Canal trail. She said the park is expected to primarily serve nearby affordable senior housing and apartments and could provide overflow parking for the Fly’n B park. Estimated annual operations and maintenance costs were presented as $22,000 to $24,000; Stanley said that estimate excludes major repairs or infrastructure replacement and that no additional full‑time staff is currently anticipated.
Stanley said raised garden beds would be prepared by District staff and maintained by individual users, and that the design would favor low‑water landscaping and avoid junipers to reduce fire risk. She said staff was directed to continue working with Shea and engage legal counsel to develop a formal agreement before finalizing design or appropriating funds.
During public comment, Kurt Huffman of 3977 Mallard Street asked the board to review Senior Center membership policies and customer‑service handling after describing confusing eligibility guidance and interactions he characterized as disrespectful toward his elderly mother. Laura Eicher of 2105 Ashwood Place spoke in support of the Senior Center and suggested staff consult Colorado State University Extension Master Gardener program for drought‑tolerant plantings and water‑efficient garden design for the Plaza Drive Park.
The board approved routine meeting minutes, a study session filing and consent items (HRMD‑26‑106 through HRMD‑26‑110) by 7–0 votes. No funding appropriation or final design approval for Plaza Drive Park was made; staff were directed to continue planning and return with formal agreements and design proposals.
