This presentation shows an option for funding park maintenance differently than the methods we have been using. The staff are looking for direction as we enter preparation for the FY26 budget.

The 2017 Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan identified deficiencies in maintenance funding totaling $2.8 million. Since 2017, there have been increased demands placed on Park maintenance and our aging infrastructure: new park land added, monuments and art installations and more users as, Billings has increased in population. Efficiencies have been added, like automated irrigation systems replacing manual systems, a true centralized irrigation control system in some parks, and efficient pump station upgrades. Since 2017, the Department has focused on the repair and replacement of amenities and relied solely on the budget process to address the maintenance shortage. The maintenance level has not progressed, and some issues need to be addressed.

This plan redirects the focus to "Maintain What We Have" and would slow the redevelopment of amenities to better fund "Maintaining What We Have". The presentation shows the progress that has been made with playgrounds, irrigation systems and shelters, and also shows some of the maintenance issues that are causing concerns. The plan doesn't show any increase in funding, but shows how existing funding could be redirected to increase maintenance in parks and start to address some of the maintenance concerns.

The staff is requesting direction and guidance from the City Council to proceed on this matter.

The plan does not increase funding levels, funds would be redirected from amenity replacement to maintenance. The change would be to slow the replacement of amenities to provide funding to increase maintenance activities.

The Parks and Recreation Department would like to share with the City Council our plan to move forward with "Maintain What We Have". The included plan shows the maintenance concerns and a potential solution.