West Bend Council approves fee schedule and celebrates community donations

In a vibrant gathering at West Bend City Hall, the Parks & Recreation Commission convened on June 27, 2024, to discuss key developments and initiatives that promise to enhance community engagement and recreational opportunities. The meeting, marked by a spirit of collaboration and gratitude, highlighted significant updates on program fees, generous donations, and a proclamation celebrating Parks and Recreation Month.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the adjustment of fees for various youth sports programs. The West Bend Judo Club announced an increase in their program fee from $69 to $79, reflecting a broader effort to standardize pricing across different sports. This move aims to create consistency, as some programs had previously varied significantly in cost. The commission expressed hope that these adjustments would help fill additional spots in the programs, ultimately benefiting the community's youth.

The meeting also showcased the community's generosity, with several notable donations being recognized. Fox Brothers Piggly Wiggly contributed $4,048.99 from their charity of the month initiative, benefiting Special Olympics. Other significant donations included $5,000 from Bank 5 9 for the upcoming Dirty Ninja Mud Run for Kids and another $5,000 from Westbury Bank for the Beach House renovation. The West Bend Friends of Parks and Recreation also contributed $2,742.50 for youth program t-shirts, underscoring the community's commitment to supporting local recreational activities.

In a heartfelt acknowledgment, the commission expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from local businesses and organizations, emphasizing the importance of these contributions in enhancing the community's recreational landscape. The Friends of Lac La Grande Conservancy also made impactful donations for various projects, including solar lighting and ramp installations, further demonstrating the collaborative spirit of West Bend.

As the meeting progressed, the commission proclaimed July 2024 as Parks and Recreation Month, recognizing the vital role that parks and recreational activities play in promoting health, community desirability, and economic development. The proclamation emphasized inclusivity, stating that everyone, regardless of background, should have access to parks and recreation programs.

With a sense of accomplishment and community spirit, the commission wrapped up the meeting, leaving attendees with a renewed appreciation for the importance of parks and recreation in fostering a vibrant and connected community. As the summer approaches, the initiatives discussed promise to enrich the lives of West Bend residents, inviting them to engage more deeply with their local parks and recreational offerings.