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Council hears plans for parks grants role and $75,000 shelter turf replacement
Summary
Parks Director Morris Heidi described a new GAPS (Grants, Alliances, Partnerships, Sponsorships) position designed to bring in grants and sponsorships; Health and Animal Services Director Christina Heinen requested $75,000 to replace deteriorated AstroTurf at the animal shelter to address sanitation and safety.
Councilors heard a proposal to add a parks position aimed at increasing external funding and partnerships, and received a request to replace the animal shelter’s worn AstroTurf.
"We're very excited about the GAPS position — that's an acronym for grants, alliances, partnerships, and sponsorships," Morris Heidi, director of parks and recreation, said. She described the role as a "beta test" intended to both fund the position and generate additional revenue for programs and events, noting similar cities often have two or three specialists in this area.
Heidi and City Manager Troy Anderson said the position will focus on applying for grants and pursuing partnerships and sponsorships that could offset program costs and, if successful, be replicated in other departments.
Animal Services Director Christina Heinen asked the council to approve $75,000 to replace worn AstroTurf at the city shelter. "This turf was installed back in 2012 and hasn't been replaced at all," Heinen said, adding that torn turf hinders sanitation and increases the risk of diseases such as parvovirus, and that replacement is necessary to keep animals and visitors safe.
Council members also discussed accessibility and inclusive play at parks, with staff noting McCoy Park already hosts an inclusive playground and that many older playground sites lack ADA parking or sidewalks; full inclusivity often requires site‑specific improvements beyond playground equipment.
The council asked for more details on scope and funding for park and shelter investments; staff indicated the park grants position and the shelter request are included in the proposed FY 2627 package and will be refined in follow‑up materials.
