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STAFF REPORT <br />DATE:09/09/2025 <br />Discussion <br />TO: CITY COUNCIL <br />FROM: Assistant Public Works Director – Adam Swanepoel <br />AGENDA ITEM: Workshop -Parks Service Level <br />CORE STRATEGIES: <br />☒ Vibrant, inclusive, connected community ☐ Efficient, reliable, innovative services <br />☒ Responsive, transparent, adaptive governance ☐ Balanced Finances now and future <br />☒ Managed Growth ☐ Resilient Infrastructure <br />BACKGROUND: <br />The parks master plan was completed in 2024 with the first priority being, add a Parks Director <br />Position. As part of the 2025 work plan, the Parks Commission added it as an item to review and <br />implement in 2025. This workplan was presented and reviewed with City Council at a joint <br />workshop and was approved in February 2025. <br />In June 2025, staff asked the Park Commission to discuss the service level and staffing needs <br />currently being provided. Commissioners were asked to submit items they feel the park system is <br />lacking, in addition to any services that are not being fulfilled. <br />ISSUE BEFORE COUNCIL: <br />Does the City Council support the need for a Parks Director for the City of Lake Elmo. <br />SUMMARY: <br />The commission reviewed the service level needs at its August meeting and summarized them <br />into six categories. <br />Recreational Programming – Develop community, recreational and education <br />programming for kids, adults and seniors. Promote outdoor activities and use of park <br />system. <br />Increase Community Engagement – Create Park/trail through website or social sites, <br />promoting ways to donate, community events and volunteer opportunities.