Salina reports strong summer program participation despite weather disruptions

Parks staff told the advisory board on June 17 that summer programs are drawing high participation, though weather has affected some activities.

Staff said seasonal staffing is stable at about 120–130 seasonal employees for pools and park programs since part‑time wage increases, and that summer camp enrollment is full for the remainder of the season with camps operating roughly 80 children per session. Outdoor leagues and tournaments are strong: staff reported 84 teams started a Bill Burke league and that Dean Evans and Pestinger family stadiums hosted a total of about 150 tournament teams in May, including JUCO Region 6 and 4A state baseball events.

Staff and board discussed weather impacts: cooler springs and severe weather forced at least one pool closure and led staff to cancel games when lightning alerts persisted for multiple hours. Staff emphasized the department follows the lightning alarm procedure and said turf improvements have allowed play in conditions that previously would have caused cancellations, though severe weather still prompts safety cancellations.

Staff also recapped new and one‑time events: the department hosted its first outdoor movie at Dean Evans Stadium (a showing of Sandlot) that drew a large crowd and generated public interest; the department ran a first‑annual bike rodeo in partnership with OCCK Transportation; and the River Festival was called a success with improvements including digital payment options for entry. Staff said these events and sustained league activity show high public engagement this season.