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East Ridge parks staff outline programs, Camp Jordan award and equipment purchases including electric Gator
Summary
Parks and Recreation staff reported current signups for youth sports, a fall festival vendor count and sponsorships, and said Camp Jordan received a 2026 hospitality award; council approved moving forward on equipment purchases including an electric John Deere Gator and upcoming field supply bids.
Parks and Recreation staff updated the East Ridge City Council on programs and purchases at the June 25 meeting.
Programs and events: Director Shauna Skyles said signups are open for youth recreational programs (softball, flag football, cheer, soccer, baseball and T‑ball) through early August. She reported 73 vendors already signed for the September fall festival at Camp Jordan and said the department has secured about $20,000 in sponsorships so far.
Recognition: The city was recognized by the Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association with a 2026 Community Service Award for Tourism Attraction, noting Camp Jordan’s role in sports tourism and community programming. Council congratulated Parks & Rec staff for the work.
Equipment and operations: Parks staff presented planned FY27 equipment purchases: replacement of an aging Ferris mower and purchase of a 2026 electric John Deere Gator (roughly a $2,000 premium over a gas model). Staff said the electric Gator uses a standard outlet for charging and will be stored/charged in the arena; the electric model is expected to reduce emissions, lower maintenance costs and operate more quietly during field activities. Council discussed lifecycle and maintenance expectations and staff said longstanding in‑house mechanics will support equipment maintenance.
Field supplies and procurement: Parks staff said they consolidated annual bids for field maintenance (drags, chalk, bases, fertilizers and chemicals) to streamline purchasing and ensure quick delivery from local vendors when needed. Staff said topdressing of fields with masonry sand is scheduled for early July.
Why it matters: The equipment and supply purchases support year‑round field operations at Camp Jordan and reflect a shift toward lower‑emission equipment and more consolidated procurement practices. The park‑event sponsorships and recognition underscore the department’s role in local economic activity and tourism.
Next steps: Staff will execute procurement under the approved FY27 appropriations and schedule deliveries and maintenance as planned.
