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Memorandum <br /> <br />To: Parks and Recreation Commission <br /> <br />From: Parks and Recreation Manager Jeff Shelby <br /> <br />Date: June 12, 2024 <br /> <br />Subject: Parks and Recreation Staff Report <br /> <br />This report is a monthly highlight of department activities related to recent collaborations, strategic planning, <br />staff changes/developments, and park operations. <br /> <br />July 4 Fireworks Show <br />The forecast for Independence Day predicted rain and thunderstorms in the evening. As a result, staff decided to <br />postpone our planned fireworks display to July 27 for Elk RiverFest. More details about the fireworks display will <br />be provided closer to Elk RiverFest! <br /> <br />The city postponed the July 4 fireworks show, prior to their scheduled delivery. The city incurs significant <br />rescheduling expenses when the fireworks are delivered and unable to be launched as planned. The city would be <br />required to provide 24-hour police coverage by guarding these explosives until they can be safely launched or <br />picked up over the weekend. Those expenses can quickly climb to $10,000 with no guarantees of a successful <br />launch due to weather. <br /> <br />Alternatively, the city will incur a few hundred dollars in fees by postponing the fireworks to Elk River Fest prior <br />to our receipt of these fireworks. The city recognizes the significance of Independence Day, but staff postponed <br />these fireworks as responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. <br /> <br />Lion John Weicht Park Playground <br />The ribbon cutting for the new playground at Lion John Weicht Park was held on Wednesday, June 26. We are <br />all so grateful to the vision and leadership of Mayors Dietz and Council, Parks and Recreation Commissioners <br />along with the city staff that executed their shared mission of providing an opportunity to live, work, and play. <br /> <br />Park and Recreation Commissioner Vacancy Filled <br />Welcome Melissa Fremoyle to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Melissa is a current volunteer with Special <br />Olympics, Allina Hospice and serves as the Board Chair of the ERACC. She works here in Elk River as the <br />Director of Human Resources for Metal Craft. <br /> <br />Summer Programing <br />Fall Breakaway Registration is now open, and Sunshine Explorers Summer Day Camp is currently at capacity. All <br />70 spots are full, and we began a wait list. <br /> <br />Item: 8 <br />Page 91 of 92