Shawn Gateman

The meeting included a follow-up on public comment regarding lighthouse tours. A significant portion of the discussion involved a detailed review of the year-end financial report, covering the A/P Aging Summary, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow analysis across various cost centers, noting variances in levy collections, maintenance expenses, and revenues for Commons, Programs (Ski School), and Pool operations. Major topics included the carry-over of Pool CIP expenses into 2018 and updates on the associated reimbursement process. The Board heavily discussed the critical issue of lifeguard staffing shortages, including potential solutions such as increased hourly wages, staff getting certified, and implementing a new benefit policy allowing staff and immediate family free use of VPD-owned programs and pool facilities, with an added provision for reimbursing lifeguard certification fees for long-term staff. The commissioners also addressed maintenance standards and approved a resolution for PERS participation. Finally, the Board discussed forming a new recreation programming subcommittee to focus on underserved populations and debated the process and level of consensus required for approving the Strategic Priorities and Goals versus the Strategic Plan Schedule, ultimately deciding to accept the Priorities and Goals list without the schedule.

The agenda for discussion and action included the review of the current agenda, new board positions, and several board votes. Key votes involved supporting the development of a dog park, considering a motion to table a resolution regarding the stewardship of lighthouse structures unless a sustainable partnership lease is established by June 30, 2024, and approving an exception to the Alcohol Policy for the Chamber of Commerce to move the Beverage Garden to Ober Park for the Strawberry Festival. Further discussions and actions covered the Strategic Plan (Comprehensive Plan) and the Electronic Funds Transfer Policy. Staff reports were provided on the Sheep Dog Trials and the Dog Park at Wax Orchard Property.

The meeting featured extensive discussion regarding the structure and fairness of public comments during board sessions, referencing Robert's Rules of Order. Key agenda items involved policy updates, including a review of policies for fundraising/grant applications by outside parties, tree disposal (specifically concerning wood ownership after removal), program co-sponsorship thresholds, and reduced fee awards, which were noted as needing subcommittee review. The Board also discussed increasing user fees by 5% effective January 1, 2016, with subsequent increases tied to CPI or every three years. A motion was passed to charge only for material costs related to field lining and dragging, excluding labor, contrary to practices at neighboring districts. Significant time was spent discussing deferred maintenance, specifically regarding Tramp Harbor, where the Board decided to initiate fundraising efforts and apply for a state lease despite potential liabilities, and the evaluation of the pool facility.

This document details strategic opportunities by theme, focusing on enhancing parks and facilities, diversifying recreation programs, improving public and community engagement, strengthening staff and administrative functions, ensuring robust financial stewardship, and advancing environmental responsibility.

This document outlines a capital improvement plan detailing various projects across different park sites. The plan includes investments in irrigation, power infrastructure, invasives remediation, building renovations, security, outdoor lighting, facility repairs (roofs, foundations), equipment acquisition (mowers, trucks, aerators), and the development of new recreational areas such as pickleball courts and dog parks. The projects span a timeframe from 2024 to 2029, with detailed costs and funding considerations.