The City of Waukesha's Parks, Recreation and Forestry Board made significant strides during their meeting on June 16, 2025, with key decisions aimed at enhancing community events and park services.

One of the most impactful resolutions was the unanimous approval to extend park hours to 11 PM on July 3 and September 19, accommodating the upcoming Independence Day celebration and Oktoberfest events. This extension allows for a safe and orderly disbandment of attendees after the events conclude at 10 PM. The board also agreed to include provisions for rain dates, ensuring flexibility in case of inclement weather.

In addition to the extended hours, the board welcomed Mark Thompson as the new Recreation Services Manager, who expressed enthusiasm for his role and outlined various summer activities. Both the Horpe Spring Aquatic Center and Buckner Pool have opened for the season, with a successful kickoff for the tenth anniversary of Tribute Tuesdays, drawing 1,900 attendees. Youth sports programs are thriving, with over 900 players participating in soccer leagues and numerous teams engaged in baseball and softball.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts in park maintenance and improvements. The forestry crew is completing spring tree plantings, particularly on Magnolia Drive, to replace trees lost during construction. The board discussed upcoming capital improvement projects, including playground renovations and preparations for the next budget cycle, which is set to begin soon.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities and maintaining the city's parks, ensuring that Waukesha remains a vibrant community for residents and visitors alike. As the summer progresses, the board looks forward to implementing these initiatives and continuing to engage the community in outdoor activities.