Laserfiche WebLink
The Elk River Vision <br />A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community <br />engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity <br /> <br /> <br />Request for Action <br /> <br />To <br />Parks and Recreation Commission <br />Item Number <br />7.3 <br /> <br />Meeting Date <br />April 9, 2025 <br />Prepared By <br />Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager <br /> <br />Item Description <br />Field Trip/Large Group Park Rental Reservation <br />Reviewed by <br />Jeff Shelby <br />Joe Stremcha <br /> <br />Action Requested <br />Recommend, by motion, revisions to the existing Organization/Business Large Group Policy as presented, <br />including changing the title of the policy to Field Trip/Large Group Park Rental Reservation. <br /> <br /> <br />Background/Discussion <br />Following the improvements made at Orono Park, Lion John Weicht Park, and Woodland Trails Regional Park <br />in 2020-2021, staff have seen a significant increase in usage of the playgrounds and water features by schools, <br />day cares, churches, and other outside recreational services. <br /> <br />In 2023, staff recommended a policy be put in place to manage usage with the goal of spreading out group <br />reservations to avoid capacity issues. This policy was approved by both the Parks and Recreation Commission <br />as well as the City Council. <br /> <br />After 2 years of being in place, staff have collaborated with many local and non-local organizations for field <br />trips, ensuring a much smoother and satisfactory experience for everyone. Staff ensure that reservations are <br />spread out so multiple groups do not show up on the same days. Staff are suggesting the following changes to <br />the existing policy to match the needs of the many groups that are utilizing our services. <br /> <br />Elk River parks and amenities have become a premier destination for summer fun for kids in Minnesota. We <br />are proud to provide a place for summer memories to be made. <br /> <br />Some of the groups we already have multiple bookings with for 2025 include Big Lake Independence <br />Elementary, Elk River Meadowvale Elementary, Eastview Magic Adventures from Monticello, and St. Francis <br />Kid Connection. <br /> <br />Financial Impact <br />As more organizations become aware of our well-managed park reservation system, they are eager to book <br />their activities with us, potentially increasing shelter and pavilion rental revenue. <br /> <br />Page 34 of 54