Subcommittee recommends formal stewardship partnerships rather than a simple volunteer registry

A parks subcommittee reported research favoring stewardship partnerships—organized groups that adopt specific parks—over a stand-alone volunteer registry. The presenter said models in Portland and Troutdale rely on organized community groups that provide continuity, fundraising and grant writing, and that those models may be a better fit for Fairview’s long-term maintenance needs.

"A volunteer registry may help connect individual volunteers to opportunities, but it doesn't really create the organizational capacity needed to recruit volunteers, secure grants, coordinate projects, attract donations, build partnerships, provide long-term stewardship," the presenter said, citing Portland’s volunteer stewardship program as an example.

Staff welcomed volunteer help but said the city must set a structure that addresses insurance, DEQ regulations and oversight, and that some activities (mowing, tree trimming or work that would supplant represented labor) raise union and liability issues. Staff asked that groups with insurance and formal structure (for example, a "Friends of" group) be prioritized for more involved stewardship roles.

Representatives from Friends of Derby Woods were reported to be meeting with city staff later in the week to discuss partnership possibilities that could inform a citywide stewardship program. Committee members agreed to explore stewardship models that pair the city’s oversight with durable community organizations.