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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025/10/22 - ADMIN - Minutes - Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission - Regular Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 6 p.m. Official minutes Parks & recreation advisory commission Members present: Amy Brandli, Bruce Cantor, Jay Jaffee, Adrienne Krill, Sonya Rippe and David Yakes Members absent: Staff present: Jason West, Parks and Recreation Director, Nikki Friederich, Recreation Superintendent, Mikayla Beuch, Recreation Supervisor, Lisa Abernathy Recreation Supervisor, Carrie Mandler, Recording Secretary 1. Call to order Commissioner Yakes, chair, called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. 2. Introductions / roll call Commissioners and staff introduced themselves. 3. Approval of minutes – September 17, 2025 It was moved by Commissioner Rippe, seconded by Commissioner Brandli, to approve the meeting minutes of September 17, 2025, as presented. The motion passed 6 – 0. 4. Presentations a. Program Update (Lisa Abernathy) Lisa Abernathy, Recreation Supervisor, provided slides that highlighted the summer playground and camp programs. She advised that 43 summer playground staff and 46 volunteer Junior leaders led the program. In response to a question from Commissioner Brandli, Ms. Abernathy added that the Junior Leader program is comprised of youth ages 12 – 15. She mentioned that it is a good feeder program for future paid staff. She noted that the Oak Hill Park Splash Pad required three staff. This summer, Ms. Abernathy advised that there were half day and full day playground programs. Full day was first implemented during the COVID 19 pandemic. She advised that it is extremely popular and filled within seconds of registration opening this year. She noted that there were half-day programs at Oak Hill, Nelson, Browndale and Fern Hill Parks. The full day programs were held at Wolfe Park and Louisiana Oaks Park. The preschool camp was held at Oak Hill Park. The programs served 1601 participants. She noted that the full day Wolfe Park program, Wolfe’s Den, was more popular than the full day program at Louisiana Oaks, most likely due to the added amenities like the Aquatic Park and skating rinks. However, she noted that children at Louisiana Oaks Park could bowl Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 2 at Park Tavern and walk to the library. In addition, they were shuttled weekly to the Aquatic Park. Ms. Abernathy advised that the current chess camp rental contract will not be renewed in 2026 to create more space in the Rec Center banquet room for the full day Wolfe’s Den camp. With that change, the city will be able to accommodate 100 children rather than the previous 35. In response to a question from Commissioner Jaffee, Ms. Abernathy advised that registration is per week and the camp runs for eight weeks in the summer. Mr. West, Parks and Recreation Director, added that this is an example of one of the ways in which the city will work to find a balance between rentals and our own programming. Ms. Abernathy advised that the Wolfe’s Den camp is for ages six to 12. She noted that the Wolfe Park building could be used for a preschool camp next summer. She added that Oak Hill Park was this summer’s location for the new full day Mini Adventure preschool camp which will run again next summer. Ms. Abernathy provided another slide to highlight the Park N’ Play Van, which visited seven park sites weekly throughout the summer. Over 180 children attended the site visits from mid-June to mid-August. Some additional event visits included the Skateapalooza, Fire Department Open House, National Night Out and the popular weekly Basketball in the Park program at Ainsworth Park. She noted that Ainsworth also received an additional weekly visit which provided two visits to that park per week. Commissioner Yakes inquired what the target age for the Park N’ Play Van participants is, to which Ms. Abernathy advised ages five and up. She added that a family from another city saw the post and joined the Park N’ Play Van activities this summer. Mr. West noted that this is a free recreation program lead by a coordinator and three additional staff. In response to a question from Commissioner Jaffee, Ms. Abernathy advised that the van usually visits a location for approximately two hours. In response to a question from Commissioner Yakes, Ms. Abernathy advised that there is a QR code on the van, as well as signs in the parks with QR codes for visitors to note the changing schedule of the van times and locations. Commissioner Brandli inquired about how the van will be used for the rest of the year. Ms. Abernathy advised that the van is outside the library following their story times in the fall, however, October 24 is the last one. Ms. Beuch, Recreation Supervisor, added that the van will visit school events. Ms. Friederich, Recreation Superintendent, noted that tomorrow the van will be at Aquila Elementary School. There are also promotional cards with a QR code to keep the times and locations up to date. In response to a question from Commissioner Brandl, Ms. Abernathy advised that this is the Park N’ Play Van’s second summer. Commissioner Jaffee suggested staff consider using the van for winter events. Ms. Friederich indicated that perhaps it could be brought out for the “Bundled Up” event. She advised that after this week it will be parked at the Municipal Service Center. This summer it was parked at Wolfe Park and used to provide activities during the concerts. Commissioners viewed a slide of the splash pad and the attendance totals. There were 5,215 individual visits and 661 group participants from eight different organizations. Ms. Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 3 Abernathy advised that the pad is open from the second week in June through mid-August. There are three attendants who rotate monitoring the pad from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. She advised that it is gated and there is a charge of $1 for non-residents while residents are free. Groups are allowed to schedule visits on Monday, Wednesday or Friday and are charged $2 per person. Ms. Friederich noted that the attendance numbers are only counted when there is an attendant present. Ms. Abernathy provided highlights of the Summer Concert Series which included 29 performances in the Wolfe Park Amphitheater. The series included Wednesday morning and evening concerts, Thursday “Open Mic” night and some selected Saturday evening concerts with larger headline bands. In response to a question from Commissioner Brandli as to how groups are chosen, Ms. Abernathy advised that there are some crowd favorite regular bands that perform every summer. In addition, she will communicate with other cities to find groups that are well received and investigate suggestions from the community. Commissioner Yakes inquired if performing groups are allowed to have merchandise tables. Ms. Abernathy indicated that they are allowed to promote and sell their own products. She added that the only additional promotion given is for Rotary who sponsors the series. Ms. Abernathy advised that in addition to the concerts, there were some theater performances like the Friday Classical Actors Ensemble show and a new Fox & Beggar Theater with a unique performance troupe and stage. She added that Park Theater holds auditions and provides a community talent show with a variety of acts. In response to a question from Commissioner Krill, Ms. Abernathy mentioned that currently there are not many young performers. She mentioned that for “Open Mic” there was a Bach to Rock night that appealed to younger bands. Commissioner Brandli noted that she attended the Fox & Beggar Theater performance. She mentioned that they included audience participation and original music. Mr. West added that approximately 350 people attended the show. In response to a question from Commissioner Brandli, Ms. Abernathy advised that Park Theater is a separate company and is not funded by the city. Ms. Abernathy highlighted the upcoming “U.G.L.Y. Sweater Dash” in its 11th year at Louisiana Oaks Park. She advised that Park Tavern allows the city to use the 11th Frame for the post event party. There are several other sponsors. Anderson Race Management coordinates the event. Ms. Abernathy indicated this event is a tradition for many. There are a variety of participants from hard core runners to casual families who walk the trail. Participants all receive a gift bag and a finishers medal. Ms. Abernathy advised that the city is in the midst of preparing for the upcoming outdoor winter season. She is currently in the process of hiring warming house attendants for five warming houses. She was thanked for her time. There were no further questions or comments. Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 4 b. Program Update (Mikayla Beuch) Ms. Beuch presented Commissioners with an Aquatic Park update. She advised that the 2025 season was June 4 through August 24. She added that of the 82 days the pool was open, it was only completely closed for two days due to weather conditions. She added that there were over 30,000 visitors to the pool this summer and that number does not include private events and rentals which could boost the number closer to 40,000. Ms. Beuch highlighted a new sensory hour, one hour prior to the pool opening, for those who wanted to swim without loud music and other distractions. She advised that she found a qualified water aerobics instructor who was able to provide classes for those who were interested. This was added after the catalog was printed so she implemented social media to advertise. Participants could register ahead or drop in to the program which was well received. She added that those who obtained a seasonal pool pass would not have to pay an additional fee for the program. Ms. Beuch advised that “Fat Splash” event was a new and inclusive rental group who offered the use of the pool for individuals with larger body sizes, who may feel uncomfortable wearing swimsuits. She advised that this event was well received. Ms. Beuch highlighted a lifeguard competition that was hosted by St. Louis Park this year. She added that the Aquatic Park also held a Flick and Float night, to watch the movie “Finding Nemo” while floating in the pool. She noted that this event was rescheduled to August due to very cold weather on the original night of the event. Commissioner Yakes inquired about emergency procedures, to which Ms. Beuch advised that guests are directed to the locker rooms. She added that guests also have the choice to leave. She noted that there are weather devices in the offices. Staff are given notification when nearby lightning is detected. She noted that the staff working at the top of the water slide is on weather watch as well. There were 56 Aquatic Park staff returning and 41 new this season advised Ms. Beuch. Aquatic Park staff levels are usually around 100 people, and it is good to have many return staff. She added there will be concessions and front desk positions that carry over from summer into fall and winter. Ms. Beuch noted that St. Louis Park participated in a “Jobs in the Park” program this summer to connect at-risk students. Six students finished the season and two moved to part-time, year-round positions. Ms. Beuch advised that St. Louis Park provided education and continuing education for lifeguard and lifeguard instructor training. Ms. Beuch highlighted additional media coverage for the Aquatic Park. She noted that Cake Plus-Size sponsored the Fat Splash which hosted 500 attendees. She added that the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) fall catalog issue covered the lifeguard competition which included 18 teams. The teams were given emergencies and judged by Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 5 how they responded. She noted that this competition grew from 10 teams last year to 18 in 2025. Commissioners viewed the “Is the pool ready yet?” social media video which received approximately 500,000 views and 25,000 likes with comments from as far away as Sacramento California. Ms. Beuch mentioned she looks forward to the soon to be released “Is the rink ready yet?” social media video. Mr. West mentioned that Ms. Beuch and Savannah Byers, Social Media Specialist, will be at the MRPA conference to discuss the impact of social media. Commissioners viewed a slide which showed the top selling concession stand items. Ms. Beuch noted that Airheads, Snickers, ice cream bars and cheese cups rounded out the top of the list. Ms. Beuch advised that new this year, the concession window was opened to both indoor hockey and outdoor Aquatic Park venues. The inside window created more opportunities for concession staff hours. In response to a question from Commissioner Yakes, Ms. Beuch confirmed that hockey volunteers will no longer be selling concessions. Mr. West added that when the Hockey Association terminated the concession contract, the city used the opportunity to create a stand they are proud of along with more winter employment opportunities for part-time staff. Ms. Beuch advised that the Aquatic Park season had a cold and wet start and finish in 2025. There were 17 cool weather days, some with rain in June. She would like to consider shifting the pool dates, however, most of the staff have college commitments and cannot work earlier or later in the season. Ms. Beuch indicated that pool closures in other communities affect attendance numbers in St. Louis Park. She noted that Juneteenth weekend was the busiest. At times the Aquatic Park was at full capacity and the city had to limit the number of admittees. Ms. Beuch advised that monitoring rescue and injury data can help determine better procedures. Commissioners viewed a slide showing that rescues dropped from 91 in 2024 to 74 in 2025. She determined that 50% were under the age of 12 and 55% occurred in the drop slide area. She is considering ways to reduce the number if incidences in 2026. Ms. Beuch advised that the city utilized $10,000 this past summer as part of a larger grant that is ending in 2025. These funds were used for lifeguard certifications, recertifications, swimsuit uniforms, in-service training, rescue equipment and further education. Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Ms. Beuch advised that St. Louis Park will host the Aquatic Manager Bootcamp. She added there will be additional e-mail and newsletter communication for season passholders. St. Louis Park will not host the lifeguard competition in 2026 but do anticipate sending a team to the event. She also introduced a little toy whale to be used for implementation of a new daily scavenger hunt to win a daily pool pass in 2026. Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 6 Ms. Beuch noted that the Aquatic Park is scheduled to open to the public June 3, 2026. Commissioner Yakes mentioned that Pentair, a pool equipment manufacturing company, is nearby in Golden Valley. He suggested that it might be worth reaching out to establish some kind of partnership with them. Ms. Beuch was thanked for her time. There were no further questions or comments. c. Program update (Nikki Friderich) Ms. Friederich advised that the city applied for a 2026 Hennepin County Play Area Grant to fund the installation of an all-inclusive playground near the splash pad at Oak Hill Park. She noted that the grant awards will be announced in December. Commissioners viewed slides of the new playground equipment at Bronx and Ainsworth Parks. The equipment was installed in 2025. Ms. Friederich also noted the new shade structure at Ainsworth Park. Ms. Friederich provided a “Share Your Story!” slide for Commissioners to view. The MRPA award winning program will be presented by Ms. Friedrich and Mr. West at the next MRPA Conference. She advised that there have been 27 submissions to date. The program was initiated to give community members a platform to share their positive parks and recreation experiences. She noted that there is a link on the city’s website, a QR code in the catalog and Ms. Byers adds it to social media posts. In response to a question from Commissioner Yakes regarding permission to share the story, Ms. Friederich indicated there is a waiver on the form. Ms. Friederich noted stories such as a daughter and father who used the GRIT wheelchair, a marriage proposal at the Westwood Hills Nature Center overlook deck and lots of wildlife stories and pictures at Westwood Hills Nature Center. Ms. Friederich highlighted the “Walk the Park” program held on the second Saturday of each month. Community members walk for one or two miles at a different location every month. She mentioned that if the temperature is below 40 degrees or it is raining, the walk is moved indoors at the St. Louis Park Middle School. Commissioners viewed a slide which showed some of the Parktacular weekend festivities. Ms. Friederich noted the Friday Splash into Summer, parade, food trucks, business expo, Kidtacular, fishing and Rock the Park were all included in the event. She added that the Park N’ Play van and Zamboni were in the parade. Ms. Friederich advised that the Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration was changed to July 3 this year. She noted that there were approximately 12,000 attendees. Along with the fireworks, other event festivities included the Park N’ Play van, food trucks and face painting. She advised that the celebration will be on July 3 again next year. Commissioners viewed more pictures of the Park N’ Play van with staff and activities. She advised the van received more exposure this summer. Some of the event appearances Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 7 included the library, National Night Out, Aquila Electric Vehicle Showcase and back to school events. Two MRPA Awards of Excellence were received by Parks and Recreation staff advised Ms. Friederich. One was for the Trail of Small Wonders, and another was for the Share Your Story initiative. Ms. Friederich advised that Access to Fun, fee assistance program, applications rose 39% in 2024. There were 103 applicants who were allocated a total of $20,584. Also, 330 individuals donated a total of $3,455 by clicking on the donation button on the registration website. There are several upcoming events worth noting, Ms. Friederich advised, including Turkey Bingo, Turkey Skate, Bundled Up and Disco Ball. Mr. West thanked the Parks and Recreation staff for their presentations. 5. Business a. Finalize 2026 workplan (Jason West) The 2026 workplan was briefly reviewed. It was moved by Commissioner Cantor, seconded by Commissioner Rippe to accept the 2026 Commission work plan and initiatives as amended and presented. The motion passed 6 - 0. b. Discuss elected officials for 2026 (Commission) Mr. West advised that commissioners need to elect a new chair and vice-chair of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission (PRAC) for the one-year term which will begin in January of 2026. Commissioners considered the positions and those who might be ready and willing to lead the commission. There was a discussion regarding commission terms that do not coincide with the calendar year for elected leadership positions. These terms could affect who is elected. Commissioner Rippe looked up terms of commissioners. She advised that Commissioner Yakes, Commissioner Cantor and Commissioner Jaffee terms end on May 31, 2026. Commissioner Krill’s term ends on August 31, 2026. Mr. West indicated that commissioners who are still interested in serving would be given an opportunity to reapply for their positions on the commission if their term is coming to an end. Commissioner Rippe advised that the person who is nominated should have a desire to hold the position. In the past, the vice-chair would follow in secession to assume the role of chair the following year, however, secession is not required. Mr. West indicated that he would like to know who is interested. Commissioner Jaffee expressed interest in finding more information and continuing the discussion. Mr. West advised that the officer term is one year. In response to a question from Commissioner Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 8 Brandli, Mr. West advised that an officer could serve back-to-back terms. Commissioner Yakes recommended that commissioners begin to consider if they are interested in serving as officers. Commissioner Brandli indicated there might be a limit in the number of terms a commissioner can serve. Mr. West inquired as to which commissioners are interested at this time. Commissioner Yakes advised that the chair position is not one that requires a considerable amount of time. Mr. West added there is a council presentation that the chair must give, however, staff will assist with the presentation. He noted that the vice chair will run meetings that the chair is unable to attend. Commissioner Rippe graciously declined interest due to other leadership obligations. Commissioner Jaffee expressed interest, however, he would like more information before proceeding. Commissioner Yakes noted that he would consider another year. c. Discuss staff appreciation event (Commission) Commissioners viewed the attached 2025 PRAC appreciation breakfast notes. Commissioner Brandli advised staff should turn on coffee as soon as possible in the morning. In response to a question from Mr. West, commissioners approved the notes and supply list. Commissioner Rippe mentioned that there seemed to be a better turnout at the Recreation Outdoor Center (ROC). d. Recap Minnehaha Creek cleanup (Commission) Commissioner Krill, Commissioner Brandli and Commissioner Jaffee all attended the Minnehaha Creek cleanup. They agreed that the weather was exceptionally hot this year, and the water was higher than expected for fall. Mr. West noted that 39 people attended. This was the highest attendance for a creek cleanup event. He noted that six Environmental and Sustainability Commission (ESC) members attended along with many other volunteers. He inquired if the group should be separated for future events to which Commissioner Jaffee advised that with very clear communication, splitting the group would help make the cleanup efficient. Commissioner Brandli mentioned some of the items found including a canoe, a tire and a target cart. She added that the area was very overgrown and hard to walk through. Commissioner Yakes suggested a banner to promote and provide information to passersby in the future. Commissioner Jaffee suggested that the group picture be put in next year’s catalog. Commissioner Jaffee would like to ensure that the ESC members are mentioned along with the PRAC members. Commission Yakes commented that this could be an opportunity for an appearance by the Park N’ Play van. Commissioner Jaffee suggested discussing a change in season for the cleanup, indicating there are advantages to spring verses fall. Mr. West advised that the discussion should take place in December if a change is to be considered. Parks & recreation advisory commission meeting October 22, 2025 9 6. Staff Communication Mr. West advised that the Youth Association President Summit is November 19 at the St. Louis Park High School, room B136. He added that commissioners should have already received an e-mail with the tentative agenda and previous minutes. He indicated that there seems to be a larger turnout in the fall. Commissioner Krill suggested that staff and meeting attendees use the driveway closest to McDonald’s. Mr. West will talk to Andy Ewald, St. Louis Park Public Schools Athletic Director, to provide signage to the meeting room. Mr. West notified commissioners that the new Parks and Recreation Activity Catalog will be available in mid-December. 7. Member communication Clarification was given concerning the culvert in Willow Park. The area is going to be rebuilt and have a solid ballfield. This work is not part of the Louisiana Avenue roundabout. In response to a question from Commissioner Yakes, Mr. West indicated that Willow Park drains to the Bassett Creek watershed. 8. Adjournment It was moved by Commissioner Rippe, seconded by Commissioner Jaffee, to adjourn the meeting at 8:33 p.m. The motion passed 6 – 0. Respectfully Submitted, Carrie Mandler Recording Secretary