Parks and Recreation Board 9/19/23

Detailed briefing

Parks and Recreation Board — September 19, 2023 • Fall Fest remains scheduled for October 7. Organizers reported that the Sunshine String Band, fire department, hot dog wagon, straw bales, pumpkins, corn stalks, apples, donuts, signs, smocks and DPW support are being lined up. Harbor Market is again donating apples, and Bill’s Farm Market contacted the city about supplying pumpkins and corn stalks. • The planned tractor for the Fall Fest photo area may not be available because it is leaking oil and should not be moved into the park. Board members discussed finding an alternative tractor, hay wagon or other display. Staff will look for options, and members said they would also ask local contacts. A replacement scarecrow volunteer was identified. • The board discussed vegetation below Shea Scenic Park, where a resident group has historically trimmed vegetation to preserve views, including Fourth of July fireworks viewing. Staff said the area is now overgrown and contains invasive species. Members generally supported investigating whether the city should manage the area, while noting that the spillway may fall outside the board’s direct responsibility. • Staff outlined changes to the capital-improvement list. The amphitheater proposal would be replaced by a Harborview Park upgrade involving a walking loop and picnic pavilion. Tennis courts and the Tourist Park overlook would be removed from the current list. Possible additions include pickleball courts and Kiwanis disc-golf tee pads and trail signage. The proposed Zorn Beach fence was described as a high-priority, safety-related 2024 project. • Eastern boardwalk fundraising will begin, with a possible fundraiser at New York on December 22. The date is not final. Staff said the fundraising target is believed to be about $450,000 and that a matching donation is ready to help launch the effort. Board members volunteered to assist with planning and a possible silent auction. • The Zorn Playground donor agreement has been approved and signed by City Council; staff expects the donation check in October and will continue reviewing equipment colors and designs. The skate park remodel was reported on schedule, with concrete work anticipated in late September or early October. Worth watching: • Whether the city determines it will take responsibility for vegetation management below Shea Scenic Park. • Whether a suitable Fall Fest tractor or photo-area replacement is secured. • Grant supplemental materials are due October 1; final scoring is expected in November for at least one grant. Upcoming: Harbor Stars is October 3; Fall Fest is October 7; beach and Ford Park restrooms are expected to close October 23, weather permitting. Why it matters: The board is balancing immediate community events and seasonal operations with safety, park-access, fundraising and long-range recreation investments.

No open public follow-ups are linked to this meeting yet.