4 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS 0 Park maintenance and operation are critical to the success of the parks and recreation program. Just as a master plan for park development is important for the orderly development of each individual park, so to is it important to develop a master plan for maintenance and operation. A maintenance and operation plan does not have to be extensive, but it should address the following issues: 1. The level of maintenance for grass mowing should be defined for each park. A common mistake is mowing too much area. Many of the parks will have areas that require weekly mowing, areas that only need occasional mowing and areas that are best left natural. 2. Maintenance of trees and shrubs often are neglected in park systems. The plan should include a schedule for mulching, fertilizing, wrapping, trimming and replacements. 3. The plan should include a schedule for inspection and repair of playground equipment,park furnishings, lighting, fencing, trails, parking areas and other facilities. 111 4. Expectations for winter maintenance should be clearly defined, particularly regarding snowplowing of parking areas and trails, maintenance of cross-country ski trails and maintenance of ice skating areas. 5. Expectations regarding policing and law enforcement policies and procedures should be clearly defined. 6. The plan should address the maintenance and operation budget and funding. 7. Maintenance and operation policies should be described in a written document. STAFFING The implementation of the recommendations contained in the Master Park and Recreation Plan will require additional staff time and commitment. The City of Elk River would benefit from the establishment of a parks and recreation staff position that would be responsible for carrying out the recommendations of the Plan, preparing ordinances and policies, coordination with the Park and Recreation Commission, and many other 6 responsibilities. 117