Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board Meeting Recap: Rebuilding and Planning for the Future

On May 13, 2025, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board convened to discuss the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and outline future plans for our park system. The meeting, temporarily led by Alice Dapain of First Foundation following the departure of former chair Keeperson, provided a comprehensive update on park conditions and set several key priorities for the coming months.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on assessing the damage caused by Hurricane Helene and charting a course for rebuilding. Director Liz Hookwater presented detailed information on the extensive assessments conducted across all parks, revealing that many remain in a “response” phase with ongoing debris removal and tree risk mitigation. Notably, Owen Park and the Carbon Soccer Fields suffered significant damage due to flooding, requiring extensive redevelopment. The Board approved moving forward with a Request for Proposals (RFP) to secure engineering/design services specifically for Hominy River Park, a critical step in addressing the damage and planning its future. The Sports Park turf and lighting project remains on track for a spring opening, demonstrating progress despite the broader challenges. Discussions also highlighted the temporary suspension and subsequent resumption of state greenway projects, with adjusted scopes to account for hurricane-related damage.

Beyond immediate recovery, the Board initiated a crucial discussion about the future of our parks. The system-wide Parks and Recreation Master Plan, previously paused, has been restarted with a revised scope that incorporates post-hurricane community needs and considers properties identified through the Hazard Mitigation Program (HMP). This expanded planning process will extend over 9-12 months, ensuring that the updated plan reflects community priorities and addresses long-term resilience. Director Hookwater emphasized a commitment to rebuilding impacted parks "better than before" and ensuring their long-term sustainability, aligning with a vision of creating even stronger community assets.

The Board also addressed several administrative matters, approving the minutes from a previous meeting and acknowledging vacancies within Districts 1, 2, and 3 of the Advisory Board. A committee will be formed to review applications for these positions, with a focus on recruiting individuals with diverse recreational expertise. The Board also approved a motion to adjourn, marking the end of the formal proceedings.

While there were no direct public comments during this meeting, discussions underscored a strong desire to engage with the Swananoa community regarding redevelopment plans for Owen Park. This commitment signals a focus on incorporating resident input into the planning process, ensuring that future park designs reflect community needs and desires.

What's Next? Here’s what you can expect:

• Election for Permanent Board Chair: The process to elect a permanent chair will be initiated soon.
• Advisory Board Recruitment: Applications are being accepted for the vacant Advisory Board positions – a great opportunity to contribute your expertise!
• Owen Park Community Engagement: Be on the lookout for opportunities to share your vision for Owen Park’s future.
• Hominy River Park Design Services: The RFP will be released, marking a significant step in the park’s recovery.
• Continued Park System Evaluation: The Parks and Recreation Department will continue evaluating HMP properties for potential parkland acquisition.
• Advisory Board Retreat: A retreat will be scheduled to discuss goals, priorities, and alignment with the department’s strategic plan.

This meeting highlighted a period of significant transition and rebuilding for our Parks and Recreation system, demonstrating the Board's commitment to ensuring that our parks continue to thrive as vital community resources. Stay informed about these ongoing efforts and future engagement opportunities by visiting the city's website or contacting the Parks and Recreation Department directly.