Residents press for action on Robert & Mary Kane Park; commissioners say parks director hire and an adopt-a-park framework are next steps

Multiple residents and community organizations used the town-hall to press the commission for clearer plans and maintenance for Robert & Mary Kane Park and other neighborhood parks. The Saint Andrews soccer club said it is not seeking exclusive use but wants a safer, better-maintained field and proposed a partnership to help with maintenance, sodding and leveling.

A resident asked why prior partial land acquisitions and development efforts did not result in a completed park; staff said past surveys by the city engineer identified wetlands on portions of the site, which limited expansion and development. The city manager said staff will reexamine the project history and funding breakdown and noted prior funding cobbled together for lighting and irrigation but that additional work remains.

City staff reported the parks director recruitment has attracted nearly 80 applicants; the field will be narrowed to roughly 15 candidates for interviews and then to 4 or 5 finalists for a mayor-level second round. Commissioners and residents said they want a long-term director who will stay and help implement a comprehensive parks plan.

Several speakers asked the city to develop a formal adopt-a-park program that would allow community groups to demonstrate stewardship before entering into longer-term partnerships. Commissioners said they support the adopt-a-park concept but prefer to finalize the parks director hire and to develop a standardized program and agreements so volunteers and clubs can participate consistently across wards.