Elly DesLauriers

The board meeting covered several key operational and financial topics, including board reorganization and the election of officers. Significant updates were provided regarding the status of ongoing flood protection construction, such as pump stations and levee improvements, as well as the scheduling for future construction projects. The board discussed safety concerns and closure status regarding the local skate park. Additionally, members debated and approved the logistics for an upcoming annual charity golf tournament, ultimately requesting the organizers select a weekday rather than a weekend for the event. The agenda also included approvals for bills, salaries, and status updates on an external audit and the bidding process for the court liner project. Reports were provided regarding golf course maintenance and future plans for facility improvements, including a new putting green.

The meeting included a public appearance regarding safety concerns at Oak Park, specifically regarding the need for a painted lane for bikers and walkers and requests for speed limit adjustments and improved signage. Construction updates were provided for the Roosevelt Park area, including floodwall progress and plans for site access and traffic shifts. The board discussed the potential reopening schedule for the skate park. Additional reports were presented on the successful pool opening, app user growth, golf course operations, and zoo attendance. Operational plans for upcoming ice installation and maintenance tasks, such as sidewalk repairs, were also reviewed.

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.