Little Canada commission moves to modernize donation form, reviews Art in the Park and summer events

The Parks & Recreation Commission discussed modernizing the city’s donation form and expanding park-program offerings at the June 4 meeting. Commissioners recommended combining existing donation forms into a single, digitized form that lists more parks and item options (including benches, trees and one-off items such as swings), provides multiple price ranges, and includes a free-text field for other donation ideas. Commissioner Owens raised the potential additional staff work needed to cost out nonstandard items; Director Steve Anderson said the city arborist would provide specific tree options and staff believe the suggested changes are feasible in the coming months.

Commissioner Hipp reported on the third year of the Art in the Park program, noting improved print quality, a range of ages among submitters, and a recent reveal event; she urged strategies to boost child participation next year including pop-up activities (chalk art, rock painting) and expanded marketing. Recreation Coordinator Gina Brady said a theme could be restrictive but would allow staff to encourage park-related pieces and confirmed submissions are archived on the city website.

Brady also updated the commission on upcoming summer events: the farmers market has filled vendor spots, one market each month will include live music, and food trucks will be introduced. Commissioners suggested promotional outreach—social media, on-site volunteers at events, and trail signage—and requested staff verify whether the Veterans Park water feature had been advertised.

No formal motion tied to the donation-form discussion passed tonight; staff were directed to explore digitization and consolidation options and return with drafts.