Parks and Recreation staff briefed PRAB on the department’s contract-service model, the community access framework work intended to incent provider behavior, and a pending short-term concessions arrangement at Boulder Reservoir.

Staff told the board the city cannot set private providers’ retail pricing but does ask contract partners to provide scholarships and align programming with city goals. Staff described three parallel projects that will inform future contracts: partnership strategy, programming, and a community access framework intended to prioritize space allocation and fee incentives for providers whose programs align with department goals.

“We do ask that they provide scholarships for those in need. I think we cannot mandate their pricing structure,” staff said during discussion; the board was told staff will “revamp” contracts to add clearer financial and reporting expectations for providers.

Reservoir concessions and restaurant partner: Scott Schuttenberg, deputy director, told the board the department is working with Rocky Mountain Paddleboard to provide concessions and some restaurant services at the reservoir. “They've stepped up and said they want to help us with concessions. They see the gap, they see the need and they see the opportunity,” Schuttenberg said. He added the company has indicated it will apply for a liquor license and that the liquor-license process typically takes three to four months, so permitting could affect whether alcohol service is possible in time for the coming summer season.

On operations and neighbors: board members asked whether reservoir entrance fees would apply to guests who only visit the restaurant. Schuttenberg said staff have discussed vouchers and other arrangements to allow patrons to access the restaurant without paying the full reservoir user fee and that staff will pilot and test access options over the summer.

What it means: staff said the community access framework will create incentives (for example, preferred space allocation or subsidized rates) for third-party providers who support city equity and access goals. Contract renewals are at different stages; staff said they will bring revised contract language, reporting requirements and program-alignment criteria back to the board when ready.

Ending: PRAB members encouraged staff to design contracts and access incentives that preserve affordability for youth and families and to return with specifics on contract changes and the reservoir pilot as the season progresses.