Lake Stevens parks staff preview self-serve kiosk, North Cove Marina concepts and summer events

Parks staff told the board the department issued a request for proposals for a self-serve kiosk at Lending Park that would rent paddleboards and kayaks. Staff described the kiosk as a locked rack system: patrons reserve and pay, receive a Bluetooth code to unlock equipment, and life jackets and whistles will be provided.

"It's going to be in a rack, and they're locked up in the rack," staff said. "Once you reserve them and pay, you get the code to the Bluetooth lock, and then you're able to take your equipment. They do come with the personal flotation devices and the whistles as well."

Staff also reviewed conceptual designs for new docks at the North Cove Marina and said the design consultants have presented concepts and held open houses. The board was told a survey about the conceptual designs is open until May 17 and staff will use public feedback to refine concepts before advancing to 30% and 60% engineering submittals.

Staff listed upcoming community events: the Lake Stevens Chamber will host a farmers market beginning June 2 (Tuesdays, 3–7 p.m., through August), a community garage sale in June, and AquaFest from July 9–12 with a carnival. Staff reported the mill (facility) is now available for public rentals on Thursdays and noted the recreation plan was adopted by council in April.

On operations, staff said portable-toilet service at some parks has been increased to weekly or biweekly during busier months, and the CitizenView app remains the primary tool for residents to report maintenance issues, which converts reports into staff work orders.

Next steps: staff encouraged the board to complete the North Cove Marina survey before May 17, continue public outreach on marina concepts, and finalize vendor selection for the Lending Park kiosk RFP.