12-14-2022 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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PARKS & RECREATI ON/COMMUNITY SERVICE S 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 Services • Facilities • Open Space • City Events • Natural Resources • Trails • Horticulture • Website/Social Media/Newsletter 2021/2022 Departmental Accomplishments • Continued to clear buckthorn and invasive plants at Spooner Park to provide additional park space. • Continued to enhance the nature play area in Spooner Park • Utilizing the Pioneer Park Phase I Master Plan, complete construction documentation for a new play node • Completed a restructure of the Parks & Recreation Department to include maintenance under the direction of the Parks & Recreation/Community Services Director • Successfully obtained a grant from the MnDNR for the Gervais Mill project and • Increased recreational activity offerings with virtual programming, alternative youth and adult non-sport activities • Implementated CivicRec for online facility reservations and program registration • Increased hours of Recreation Coordinator to a full-time employee • Added bike rack in City Parks and at City Hall to promote a bike-friendly community • Created an event sponsorship catalog for local businesses 2023 Departmental Goals • Initiate projects scheduled in the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan and begin Pioneer Park play node improvements • Continue to utilize the Parks Master Plan as a guide for the parks system • Continue to offer safe, creative, and engaging programming and events for the community • Continue to seek sponsorships for various programs and events, specifically Movies in the Park, 5K Sap Run, and Cookies with Santa • Create individual park signage to enhance identiy and wayfinding throughout the city Budgetary Commentary There is an increase in this department of 9.50%. Personnel services includes the market rate adjustment and step merit increases for employees in this department. There is a 5.24% increase in the commodities sections to match the average amount spent for parks and recreation supplies the past several years and a 6.91% in contractual services, primarily relating to increases in utilities costs. 70