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PRFC approves standardized 'celebration bench' sponsorship policy with review period and maintenance terms
Summary
The committee approved a standardized bench program that sets bench types, plaque dimensions, a once‑a‑year review window (Aug 1–Sept 30) and 10 years of city maintenance; staff said the program uses recycled‑plastic benches and set initial fee increases based on costs.
The Middleton Parks, Recreation & Forestry Committee approved a draft "celebration bench" policy that standardizes bench models, plaque design and application timing for donor sponsorships.
Kylie, who presented the policy, said the city has worked for three years to create a template and a program that will make applications digital and easier for staff to manage. "We've been working on this for over 3 years. The celebration bench program is the title," Kylie said, adding the program will use two standard bench types and provide a digital map with Bench ID numbers so applicants can select locations.
The policy sets a review period (Aug. 1–Sept. 30) for applications to be installed the following spring; staff said they would provide maintenance for 10 years following installation and suggested a 20‑year maximum lifespan for benches in the system. Staff described materials as recycled‑plastic slats with powder‑coated stainless‑steel frames and said fees were set based on material, labor and shipping with a 20% inflation factor; Kylie said the standard bench fee would increase by about $300 under the proposed pricing.
Committee members asked for clearer messaging to donors about sponsorship duration and discussed whether reviews should be semiannual to reduce wait times for applicants. Staff said operational efficiency favored a single annual review but expressed openness to revising the schedule after the program launches. The motion to approve the draft policy passed with no recorded opposition.
