12-15-2021 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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PARKS & RECREATION/COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT Department Overview The Parks & Recreation/Community Services Department promotes community engagement, wellness, and pride by providing exceptional public recreation services, activities, and facilities to the Little Canada community. Mission Statement Our mission is to promote community engagement, wellness, and pride by providing exceptional public recreation services and facilities. Service Areas •Parks •Recreation •Facilities •Open Space •Natural Resources •Horticulture 2020/2021 Departmental Accomplishments •Continued to clear buckthorn and invasive plants at Spooner Park to provide additional park space and created a nature play area •Completed the Phase I Pioneer Park Master Plan that included many areas of engagement opportunities to get valuable feedback on park amenities •Completed a restructure of the Parks & Recreation Department to include maintenance under the direction of the Parks & Recreation/Community Services Manager •Successfully obtained a grant from the MnDNR for the Gervais Mill project •Offered virtual programs and self-guided outdoor activities to keep residents engaged during the pandemic •Implementated CivicRec for online facility reservations and program registration 2022 Departmental Goals •Initiate projects scheduled in the 2022 Capital Improvement Plan and begin improvements to Pioneer Park •Continue to utilize the Parks Master Plan as a guide for the parks system •Add bike racks in City Parks and City Hall to promote a bike-friendly community •Continue to offer safe, creative, and engaging programming and events during and after the pandemic •Continue to seek sponsorships for various programs and events, specifically Movies in the Park, 5K Sap Run, and Cookies with Santa Budgetary Commentary There is an increase in this department of 4.59%. Personnel services includes the market rate adjustment and step merit increases for employees in this department. There are also additional wages for an increase in the hourly rate for seasonal employees. There is a 3.75% increase in the commodities sections to match the average amount spent for parks and recreation supplies the past several years. To offset the increase in commodities, there are small decreases in contractual services. 68