Parks staff report surging youth sports registrations, drought plan and near-complete reservoir project

Chair Cory Moul told the board that youth baseball and softball registrations continue to grow and are expected to exceed 1,300 participants this year, increasing demand for fields, staffing and trash management.

Travis Haines reported the city is in active discussions with the railroad about lease terms and maintenance responsibilities as a lease nears expiration; staff said they aim for more reasonable terms while avoiding unnecessary environmental impacts. Budget planning for 2027–2028 is also underway.

Kyle Sylvester outlined a drought management plan being finalized with Utilities that uses tiers from normal operations up to 50% watering reductions; the plan prioritizes irrigation for high‑use areas such as the recreation center and sports fields and could impose further restrictions if conditions warrant. Kyle also reported landscaping projects tied to the Rec Center shutdown, and that Lutz Reservoir is nearing completion with final pump-house inspections; a soft public opening is expected around May but fishing will be delayed until fish populations are established through phased stocking.

Ryan Smith reported Golden Eagle playground replacement parts have been ordered with installation expected in late May or early June; the Rec-plex project continues; and Erger’s Dog Park is about 60 days from completion, with stormwater and pathway improvements underway. Carleen Watts said the Rec Center expansion will require a three-week closure April 5–26 to finish construction ahead of a mid‑May target completion. Staff also reported use of two goat grazing programs planned later this summer to manage noxious weeds and a third-party contract for dog-waste pickup on an as-needed basis.