9.0 PRSR 11-8-2023 Memorandum
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Manager
Date: November 8, 2023
Subject: Parks and Recreation Manager’s Report
This report is a monthly highlight of department activities related to recent collaborations, strategic planning,
staff changes/developments, and park operations.
Athletic Facilities Master Plans
HKGi met with city staff October 30 to present the latest athletic field layouts for Oak Knoll (OKAC), Dave
Anderson Athletic Complex (DAAC) and the Plants and Things Recreation Complex (PT Complex). We were
satisfied with the concepts presented for DAAC and PT Complex. OKAC concept needed additional design
work. It will have an elevated central plaza design to overlook all the ballfields, including the premier baseball
field. This is similar in design to the athletic complexes staff visited in North Mankato and Maple Grove.
ISD 728 Administration recently informed city staff that the school facilities on School Street adjacent to OKAC
will be moved/demolished soon. This will allow for additional parking and a safer primary entry into OKAC.
HKGi will incorporate these recent changes into the next design concepts.
An updated timeline includes presenting the latest concepts to the Project Advisory Group in late November.
Finalized plans and cost estimates will be presented to the Commission and City Council in early 2024.
Orono Park Solar Picnic Table
The solar picnic table at Orono Park will be delivered/installed in the coming week. EnerFusion will provide an
educational component for the boy scouts and any other participants. Staff will coordinate a ribbon cutting
event.
Neighborhood Park Playground Replacements
Staff presented to the Commission at the July 2023 meeting the need to replace twelve playgrounds between
2024 and 2033. This might seem like a daunting task considering one playground replacement will cost over
$125,000. So, instead of just doing a survey, staff are working on a comprehensive playground project to
determine priorities for parks and playgrounds. We are planning to use the latest evaluation techniques and
engagement practices to effectively assess and address the community needs of our parks and playground. This
would include recreational courts, playgrounds, and other park amenities. The plan is to make final
Item: 9
recommendations to the Commission in early 2025.
York/Zumbro Grass Trail Update
Staff sent a letter (attached) to 75-resdients near the York/Zumbro Grass Trail updating them on the Grass Trail
Boy Scout project. The trail is nearly complete. A huge thank you to Tristan, the Boy Scout, and all the
volunteers who make this trail a reality.