Haslet park board urges council to prioritize walking trails, indoor rec center and athletic fields

The Haslet Park Board on March 18 voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council develop a master park plan that prioritizes walking trails, an indoor recreation center and improved athletic fields.

Board members said the survey — roughly 100 responses from an estimated 5,000 residents — showed walking trails and an indoor rec center among the top priorities. Members debated ranking methodology but agreed the top three priorities should guide the council’s planning: walking trails (natural-surface preferred), an indoor recreation facility and expanded or improved athletic fields, including soccer and baseball.

A board member moved to recommend that list to council; the motion passed unanimously. Speakers noted the survey turnout was small and urged council to combine the board’s recommendation with other planning work and grant-seeking efforts. Board members flagged two budgeted near-term items: a permanent restroom and a storage building for fertilizer and sports equipment at the site behind the fire station.

Members discussed grants and the need for a park master plan to strengthen grant applications, and suggested the new city administrator be asked to help identify grant opportunities. The board also instructed staff to circulate earlier master-plan materials and follow up with the council’s council member who has been drafting a plan.

The board’s recommendation will be transmitted to City Council for consideration in the master planning process; no ordinance or appropriation was adopted during the meeting.