Elly DesLauriers

The meeting included an update on ongoing park construction projects, specifically regarding flood wall progress and paving operations. Department reports covered the commissioning of the new scoreboard and pool filtration system, tree planting initiatives, zoo attendance growth, and the hiring of new staff. The board discussed staffing concerns for cleaning services and issued an RFP for those needs. Additional topics included approval of surplus equipment, adjustments to rate schedules, an update on pickleball facility planning, and an informational session regarding upcoming local votes and project funding.

The board discussed the MI6 and MI7 updates and explored the feasibility and operational costs of a proposed pickleball facility. The board also approved a bid from Northwest Projector for an auditorium sound system upgrade, excluding the subwoofer package. Additionally, the board approved payment of outstanding bills.

The board discussed several operational and project updates, including a community-led 'Yes for Minot Parks' initiative, asbestos abatement at the Corbett property, progress on the video scoreboard installation, and marketing and golf course management updates. A presentation was provided regarding the Discovery Center's 2025 performance, current projects including the development of a shared city pass for various regional attractions, and long-term plans such as building expansion and adding a café.

Key discussions centered on updates for the flood protection project, specifically Phases MI6 and MI7. Phase MI7 contractors are on winter suspension, while Phase MI6 contractors are focusing on vertical construction elements like gate wells and the pump station lid. The expected start date for backfill in Phase MI6 is April, aiming for pool opening in late May or early June. Central Avenue is temporarily surfaced with milled asphalt to allow for blading access for residents. For Phase MI7, heavy civil construction is largely complete, with staining and finishes scheduled for spring. Bids were received for the giraffe feeding platform and a restroom replacement at the zoo, with the low bid being about 6% over estimate, and Rolak Contracting is expected to be awarded the contract in February. Department reports covered the demolition process starting for the Corbett rental properties, the pre-bid meeting for the Souris Valley Golf Course re-roofing, and updates on various open staff positions across athletic fields, program events, maintenance, and forestry. Interviews are underway for most roles. The Community Relations position interviews concluded, but the role may be readvertised. Maintenance reported that door rinks are operating smoothly, and the northern bathrooms at the Pepsi rink at the Mesa require pipe repair quotes. The dedication for the W links is tentatively scheduled for September 19th.

The meeting featured a presentation from the Minot Junior Golf Association requesting permission to solicit bids for a new shelter at the Wheel Links facility. The proposed shelter aims to provide shade, inclement weather protection, and a gathering space, and the Association will cover all costs. The discussion also included a comprehensive presentation by Canopy Strategic Partners detailing the Roosevelt Park Zoo's new 5-year strategic plan, 'Wild Growth: Rooted in Community, Growing for Generations.' This plan addresses four key challenges: physical campus transformation post-flood, maintaining community support during construction, completing a capital campaign, and achieving long-term financial sustainability. The strategic plan is structured around four focus areas: Engage, Inspire, Partner, and Give. Data analysis regarding visitor origins and visitation trends over the past five years was presented to support these objectives.