Board reviews parks fee analysis and next steps for the comprehensive plan

Agency official presented an updated assessment of park and recreation fees in lieu of parkland and said the report supports the village's current fee schedule while noting the actual cost to acquire or develop new parkland is substantially higher. "You'll see that it actually costs, like, at least 2 to 3 times more, to develop new parkland in per person in that same ratio than you are charging on your current fees," the official said.

The briefing explained the state statute requires municipalities to analyze present and projected parkland needs before setting a fee in lieu of parkland; funds collected are placed in a special purpose fund for recreation projects, property acquisition or facility enhancements. Board members asked about fund balances and whether fees apply to ADUs, and staff noted planning board discretion is limited once a fee is set, though the board can discuss modifications to fee structure.

On the comprehensive plan, the official said the comprehensive plan committee has completed public workshops and staff will circulate a draft to the board for review; the board anticipated a public presentation and forum in June followed by a public hearing on the final plan and subsequent zoning updates. "Once you find it acceptable to go out for public review, it will be posted on the comprehensive plan website, and then we will be having... a public meeting or hearing," the official said.

Next steps: staff will circulate the draft comprehensive plan to the board, schedule a public presentation and forum (anticipated in June), and return with zoning implementation options. No vote on the plan or fee changes was taken at the meeting.