Shrewsbury proclaims July Parks and Recreation Month; officials discuss storm tree loss, pool pump and aquatics tours
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Summary
Mayor Mike Travalli read a proclamation declaring July as Parks and Recreation Month. Parks staff and committee members reported storm damage to trees and ballfield fences, removal of diseased ash trees with fall replanting planned, a failed lazy‑river pump, and ongoing aquatic center tours and grant work for sports courts.
Mayor Mike Travalli read a proclamation at the board meeting declaring July as Parks and Recreation Month in Shrewsbury and highlighted parks’ role in public health and community life.
Parks staff reported significant storm damage from the June 27 storm that downed several trees and damaged two ballfield fences; crews cleared debris and made the parks safe. Staff said several ash trees that were dead or diseased were removed and that replacements will be planted in the fall. “We did lose several trees in the storm that we had on June 27,” a parks representative said.
Parks staff also reported an equipment issue at the municipal pool: one of two pumps serving the lazy river failed. Staff said they are gathering cost information and do not intend to recommend a replacement during the current season. “Even when we get that price, I will not be making a recommendation to replace that this year,” a parks representative told the board.
The Aquatic Exploration Committee reported it toured Webster Groves’ new aquatic center and plans another tour July 16 in Washington, Missouri, at 3 p.m. Committee members said gathered information will be shared with the board after tours are complete. Separately, staff said there is “still no word from MSD” on the submitted proposal for sports‑court work; the grant must be completed within two years and staff expects the work will likely be pushed to next spring.
Several residents during public comment urged the city to continue outreach and transparency on parks matters. One resident praised the city’s tree pickup after the storm and another requested that Parks and Recreation meetings be made available via Zoom.
Staff noted the department will plan fall plantings to replace trees removed for safety and disease, and will report back with cost estimates on pool repairs and timeline changes for the MSD grant if and when MSD responds.