Wellington board kicks off Parks Master Plan and community center feasibility study

A significant step towards enhancing community resources was taken at the Larimer County Board of Trustees meeting on May 13, 2025, as the board kicked off the Prost Master Plan and Community Center feasibility study. Parks and Recreation Manager Billy Cooksey introduced Ryan Hegerna, a senior consultant from Berry Dunn, who outlined the comprehensive initiative aimed at shaping the future of parks and recreation in Wellington.

Hegerna emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, which will span approximately one year and involve extensive community engagement. "We want this to be our process," he stated, highlighting the importance of tailoring their approach to meet the specific needs of the community. The project will include a needs assessment, gap analysis, and a feasibility study for a new community center, which many trustees expressed excitement about.

Trustee Moyer noted the pressing need for meeting spaces in the town, stating, "This town is in dire need of... space to come together." Other trustees echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for the community center to accommodate various amenities and serve as a hub for local events.

The meeting also featured discussions on utilizing data from Placer AI, a tool that will provide insights into park usage and community engagement. This data will be crucial in identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that the master plan aligns with community desires.

As the board moves forward with this initiative, they are encouraging residents to participate actively in the upcoming surveys and community events. "We definitely want every resident's feedback," urged one trustee, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of Wellington's parks and recreation resources.