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Brainerd Public Schools briefs park board on joint parks and rec programming and budget request
Summary
Anne Marie Locker, community education director for Brainerd Public Schools, updated the park board on parks and rec participation trends, staffing and shared programming under a joint powers agreement with Baxter, and requested $15,000 from Brainerd (Baxter contributes $23,000) to support current season programming.
Anne Marie Locker, community education director for Brainerd Public Schools, presented participation data and program updates for parks and recreation services delivered under a joint powers agreement that covers Brainerd and Baxter.
Locker said 2026 participation numbers remain fluid as registrations continue; spring tennis and youth soccer concluded and several programs are starting. She reported the district runs baseball, Miracle League, youth softball and tennis programs for Brainerd and Baxter and asked the park board to provide the same contribution as last year—$15,000 from Brainerd while Baxter contributes $23,000—so programming remains staffed and affordable. Locker said staff are trying to right‑size salaries and staffing to avoid increasing costs while serving demand and that late registrations for Miracle League are common.
Board members asked about salaries and benefits, staffing plans and potential new programs such as a youth pickleball league. Locker said the district is considering program adjustments and expects a new coordinator (Josh Fordyce) will assist with planning next year; she also noted joint powers and financial reviews will go to the school board and Baxter city council for final approvals.
Members expressed general support and emphasized the value of bringing kids into city parks through varied programming.
