Concerns over the Galveston Park Board's leadership and budget were front and center during the special council meeting on June 23, 2025. Mayor Keith highlighted the pressing issues facing the board, emphasizing the urgent need for appointing a permanent CEO. This leadership gap has been a significant concern, with the interim CEO search being labeled as the top priority.

The council also discussed the importance of finalizing an interlocal agreement, which is currently in draft form. Mayor Keith noted that this agreement is crucial for moving forward once a permanent CEO is appointed. Additionally, the budget for the park board is in its second draft and is expected to be presented to the city council by mid-July.

Another key topic was the transition of revenue parks back to the city, with a target date of October 1. Mayor Keith acknowledged the challenges involved in this transition, including human resources and technology considerations, and stressed the need for a contingency plan if the deadline is not met.

Lastly, the discussion touched on the organizational resiliency of the park board, which has faced significant changes in recent months, including leadership losses. With the summer months bringing in a surge of tourists—over 8.9 million visitors annually—Mayor Keith underscored the importance of maintaining focus on both tourism and the board's internal challenges.

As the council moves forward, the decisions made in the coming months will be pivotal for the future of Galveston's parks and tourism-driven economy.