Ann Haxby

The committee meeting focused on reviewing the proposed budget document and process for the upcoming fiscal year. Key agenda items included the election of a chairperson and secretary, a public hearing on the possible uses of state shared revenue, and a detailed review of requested budgets across various city departments and programs. The committee also discussed property tax levies, general obligation bonds, capital projects such as the wastewater treatment plant expansion and the Bolton Hill Sports Complex, and established the budget process for committee members.

The Park Board discussed the recognition of a new member and evaluated a Yankee Doodle grant application for a local celebration, focusing on reimbursement policies and the exclusion of alcohol-related expenses. The meeting included a detailed discussion on the selection of design elements for the Bolton Hill Playground, specifically aiming to incorporate inclusive, safe, and sports-themed features. Furthermore, the board reviewed the progress of the sponsorship subcommittee, planned future community events, addressed maintenance issues such as poison oak in local parks, and discussed potential revenue-generating projects like a custom board game.

The meeting concluded with the formal adjournment by the Mayor.

The committee meeting agenda packet outlines key topics including the potential development of a mixed-use project on three city-owned vacant lots on West Broadway in partnership with Homes for Good, including an overview of the site history and downtown planning vision. Additionally, the packet provides an update on the 2026 Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) survey, detailing the methodology, interview committee structure, survey components, and the planned timeline for data collection and reporting.

The meeting agenda includes discussions on the Bolton Hill Playground equipment selection and an update on the 2025-2026 budget to date. Key action items involve the appointment of a new board member and various board reports concerning community events such as the Easter Egg Hunt, Arbor Day, and Earth Day. The board also plans to discuss the sponsorship subcommittee updates and park board questions for staff.