Far West accepts $61,000 state grant to fund citywide parks master plan

The Far West City Council approved an agreement March 19 with Landmark Design to prepare a citywide parks master plan funded by a $61,000 recreation planning grant from the State Department of Outdoor Recreation.

Councilwoman Katie described the work as a parks‑focused equivalent of a general plan, saying the consultant will conduct needs assessments, propose park concepts and help the city plan for maintenance and staffing. Katie said the award is fully grant funded: "There is zero taxpayer Far West dollars going tow- towards this. There is not even a match for this grant. It is just $61,000 from the State Outdoor Recreation Department."

Council members asked about the plan's scope. Katie and staff said Landmark Design will include water‑conservation recommendations, analysis of trail connectivity and active transportation, draft park concepts tied to the city's general plan map, a steering committee composed of public and council representatives, community engagement events and a community survey. The team also includes an architect who will assess the rec center and examine financial viability and potential revenue options.

Council approved the agreement by voice vote (motion by Jason; second by Tim). Members emphasized that any recommendations requiring city funding would follow the usual budget approval processes.

The plan is expected to inform where future parks and trail connections should be sited and how maintenance and staffing needs should be budgeted as Far West grows.