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Parks Commission backs an 'adopt‑a‑park' volunteer program and will ask council to adopt it
Summary
After reviewing edits and supervisory provisions, the Gig Harbor Parks Commission voted to recommend that city council adopt a new park volunteer program (name subject to change) to expand community participation, using QR signups, calendars and periodic events.
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission on May 6 reviewed a draft volunteer program intended to expand regular community stewardship of parks and recommended that city council adopt the program.
Parks Manager Jennifer Harrow told commissioners the program would formalize recurring volunteer activities and training, with options to use QR codes and a calendar so residents can sign up for scheduled refresh work. Commissioners discussed safety and supervision: one commissioner asked that supervisory language avoid implying minors could serve as supervisors and suggested an adult ratio (for example, one adult per eight minors) for clarity.
Commissioners debated program branding and timing, suggesting names such as Harbor Hands, Park Partners and Park Refresh; they agreed the final name could change. The commission also discussed how recurring smaller events could complement or replace a single annual Parks Appreciation Day to provide steadier maintenance impact.
After a motion to recommend that staff bring the program to city council for formal adoption (subject to edits and the final name), the commission approved the recommendation by voice vote. The recommendation directs staff to prepare the program and associated marketing and training steps for council consideration.
Next steps: staff will prepare a council package and clarify supervision, training, and communications tools (QR signups, email/newsflash) before returning to the commission and then to council.
