During a recent council meeting, Parks Director Ken Trebonne presented key projects outlined in the proposed 2025 budget, emphasizing the need for turf removal and park renovations to enhance community spaces.

Trebonne highlighted the ongoing initiative to convert non-activated turf areas into more sustainable landscapes, particularly at Lilac Park, which is set for further development in 2025. This project aims to reduce water usage and improve the ecological footprint of the parks.

Another significant project discussed was the renovation of Littman Park, which has been in the planning stages for over a year. The council is expected to continue funding this project, with the majority of the budget sourced from Parkland funds dedicated to parks and recreation.

The community recreation center project was also a focal point, with a substantial budget of $56 million allocated for construction in 2025. Trebonne noted that construction activities would ramp up significantly in the coming year, following initial groundwork. Additionally, plans for outdoor facilities, including a synthetic turf field, are in motion, with potential grant funding being pursued to support these developments.

Trebonne addressed questions regarding self-performance tasks that could be managed in-house to optimize budget efficiency, including demolition and landscaping work. He also provided insights into the long-term capital plan for parks and recreation, estimating a total of $175 million needed over the next decade, primarily funded through dedicated revenue sources.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing local parks and recreational facilities, aiming to create more vibrant and sustainable community spaces for residents.