Laserfiche WebLink
o Possible Nature Playground <br />o Owasso Ballfields <br />The Commission discussed the possibility of reallocating funds to avoid limiting the scope of <br />future projects. Members acknowledged the challenge of balancing all needs within the system, <br />ensuring that ideas can be explored without compromising equitable investment across projects. <br />Chair Matts-Benson asked whether park buildings would continue to use the same color scheme. <br />Staff confirmed that the existing color theme will remain in place and has now been extended to <br />the amphitheater and the nature center. <br />The Commission discussed the concept of a nature-themed playground at HANC and suggested <br />exploring a potential partnership with the school to support and enhance the project. They also <br />talked about the community outreach and email communication that occur throughout CIP <br />projects to keep residents informed and engaged. <br /> <br />Chair Matts-Benson expressed her appreciation for the thoughtful and deliberate approach staff <br />takes when assessing projects and determining priorities. She thanked staff for their careful <br />planning and for being strong stewards of the City’s resources. <br /> <br />b) PARKS AND RECREATION 2026 OPERATING BUDGET REQUEST OVERVIEW <br />At the Joint Meeting with the City Council on September 15, 2025, a Council Member suggested <br />that the Parks and Recreation Commission discuss the department’s budget and its relationship to <br />the City’s overall tax levy. <br /> <br />Staff provided a high-level overview of the proposed 2026 Parks and Recreation budget, <br />including: <br /> Operating Budget Overview <br />o 27.75 Full Time Equivalent Staff (.75 increase since 2018) <br />o $6.60 million expenses, $2.96 million non-tax revenue, $3.68 million levy support <br /> 11% on the City’s Levy Dollars <br />o Expenses vs. Levy Impact <br /> 44% cost recovery <br /> All post-Covid years have been around 50% <br /> Sufficient Reserves <br /> Drivers of Changed from 2025-2026 <br />o Recreation Management System (savings) <br />o Loss of Americorps Support (cost) <br />o Standard Steps and COLA (cost) <br /> PT positions also receive COLA <br />4 <br /> <br /> <br />