Board of Park Commissioners Brief for July 16, 2020

Meeting Recap for July 16, 2020

This was the first full meeting of the Board of Park Commissioners since the June primary election.

Kathy Feist, Bismarck Parks and Recreation District (BPRD) Finance Director presented the proposed 2021 budget. The proposed budget is a balanced budget with no increase in mills. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for 5:15pm pm Thursday, Sept. 17 during the regular monthly meeting. After the public hearing and consideration of any adjustments, adoption of the 2021 budget is proposed to also occur on Sept. 17. The proposed budget can be reviewed here: https://www.bisparks.org/wp-content/uploads/2021-BPRD-Budget-Introduction-July-16-as-REVISED.pdf

The Board directed staff to continue discussions with the Burleigh County 4-H Foundation regarding the possible transfer of ownership of the Joann Hetzel Memorial 4-H Building to BPRD. This building is located at the Missouri Valley Complex.

Dave Mayer, Operations Director, gave a report on a group that is meeting to discuss Custer Park and its history. In February, the Board authorized staff to work with appropriate entities to create educational panels to be placed in Custer Park. The volunteer group was not able to meet right away due to COVID concerns and has since met twice to discuss the process and next steps.

The Board authorized staff to call for bids to expand the Pioneer Park parking lot.

The Board of Park Commissioners heard a report from Bismarck Larks General Manager John Bollinger on how their season is going thus far at the Bismarck Municipal Ballpark.

BPRD Recreation Specialist Ethan Eberle presented plans for the ND Senior Babe Ruth AA State Tournament, scheduled for August 4-8 in Bismarck. A tournament schedule can be found at https://www.bisparks.org/babe-ruth-senior-class-aa-state-tournament/