John F. Kelly

The board conducted annual elections for president, vice president, executive director, secretary, and treasurer. They appointed liaisons to various foundation boards. Additionally, the board approved a finance policy, the disposal and sale of personal property, the renovation concept for the Cosley Zoo exhibit, and shoreline stabilization projects at Aten Park. Contracts were awarded for North Side Park lagoon sediment dredging and fleet vehicle purchases. Staff presented the annual report for the zoo and provided metrics on seasonal employment and facility utilization.

The Board of Commissioners discussed several agenda items, including the election of officers and liaison appointments, as well as new business involving finance policies, the disposal of personal property, exhibit renovations at the Cosley Zoo, and various infrastructure projects such as streambank stabilization and lagoon sediment dredging. The Board also reviewed proposals for fleet vehicle purchases, pool chemical procurement, and alcohol service permissions for zoo and museum events. Additionally, staff reports were presented on operational areas and closed session items were addressed.

The board discussed and took action on several items including a fixed price transaction for electricity supply, approval to fill a full-time vacancy, and bid approvals for athletic equipment and synthetic turf at Graf Park. Additionally, the board approved a professional services agreement, amended personnel and conduct policies, tabled a donation and reimbursement agreement, and authorized the disposal and sale of personal property. Staff reports covered Arrowhead wedding site earnings, potential collaboration with high schools, snow removal efforts, golf cart replacement considerations, and revenue from museum events.

The meeting agenda includes the issuance of General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds, the adoption of the annual budget and appropriation ordinance, and the tax levy assessment for the upcoming year. The board will also review employee insurance benefit renewals, approve various equipment purchases for the Cosley Zoo and Arrowhead Golf Club, authorize a contract for civil engineering services, and approve a unit cost bid for portable restroom services. Additionally, the board will consider increasing fees for the commemorative program and adjusting 2022 golf rates and pool season passes. Items regarding personnel, real estate, and potential litigation will be addressed during a closed session.

The agenda includes several business items, such as the approval of a policy amendment for Arrowhead Golf Club, staff recommendations for an information technology service agreement extension, and property damage releases. Unfinished business covers the review of financial policies, the budget development schedule, and the acceptance of the comprehensive annual financial report. New business items involve bid awards for linen supplies, trash and recycling removal services, tree removal, and a sports field lighting project. Additional topics include the adoption of prevailing wage rates, a park naming proposal, and feedback on a tax increment finance district extension. The meeting concludes with staff reports, subcommittee reports, and a closed session to discuss personnel, property, and litigation matters.