HomeMy WebLinkAboutTree/Park Board Minutes 03.05.2026 Laurel Park-Tree Board Minutes for March 5, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 5:31 by Tom Canape in Council Chambers.
In attendance were Iry Wilke, Brent Edgmond, Renee Studiner, Paul Kober, Tom Canape, Richard
Klose, Joe Holzwarth, and Jon Rutt.
Guests—Shannon Curry, Shane Dunn, and Cara Blaylock from Leadership Laurel
Public input—None
General Items
1. LPB Minutes for February 5, 2026— Iry Wilke moved to approve and Renee Studiner 2"d the
motion. Approved
New Business
2. Other Parks—Sprinkler done at Nutting Park. Paved loose gravel at Splash Park. Lions Park
is a possible location for a Floating Island. Tree removed at Library because of wind
damage. Possibly replace it with a memorial bench for Elsie Johnson.
3. Leadership Laurel wants to improve the Billie Riddle Splash Park with shade and benches.
See attached proposal. Some ideas for the cemetery were referred to the Cemetery Board.
Old Business
4. Renting Riverside Park in August 2026—Cancelled for this year.
5. Billie Riddle Splash Park Toilets—The Splash Park bathrooms are up in the air for now.
6. Park Board Budgets -$50,000 Park Development. See attached sheet.
7. Riverside Park Campground/Other items—Not renewing Greg Lapp's job.
8. American Legion Building at Riverside Park—Nothing new
9. Riverside Hall/Lions Club—Drywall is up and the wiring is roughed in, paint done, and clean
up next week. Payment discussed the city share and the Lion's share.
10. Laurel Rod and Gun Club Building—Nothing new
11. Tree Board Business—Joe reported that the grant department has been gutted and being
rebuilt. October 6 is this year and the Foundation has $2041.48.
Other Items
Discussion on using Exxon money for improving camp sites with power and water. Camp host
ideas were discussed.
Next month's meeting will be on April 2, 2026.
Adjourn 6:42
Submitted Jon Rutt
Leadership Laurel Parks Proposal Handout
Leadership Laurel Community Improvement
Proposal Shannon curry
Project Overview O,am -B�4ccK
Leadership Laurel is seeking to partner with the City Parks Committee to enhance two important
community spaces:
1. Splash Park Area—Shade Structures &Benches
2. East Side of Cemetery—Tree Planting Initiative
Our goal is to collaborate with the City to ensure any improvements align with existing
standards,long-term planning, and maintenance capacity.
1. Splash Park: Shade Structures & Benches
Identified Need
• High summer usage by families
• Limited shaded seating for caregivers
• Heat exposure concerns during peak temperatures
• Limited accessibility seating for elderly and mobility-limited visitors
Community Benefits
• Increased comfort and safety
• Encourages longer park use
• Supports community events and gatherings
• Improves ADA accessibility and inclusivity
Proposal Considerations
• Installation of permanent,commercial-grade shade structure(s)
• Addition of durable park benches
• Placement based on city standards and utility mapping
• Compliance with all safety and design requirements
Funding & Partnership
• Leadership Laurel prepared to assist with fundraising efforts
• Open to cost-sharing discussion
Seeking guidance on approved vendors,permitting,and installation requirements
• Committed to aligning with city maintenance standards
2. East Cemetery Tree Planting Initiative
Purpose
• Increase natural beauty and long-term landscape value
• Provide shade and wind protection for visitors
Enhance the overall experience for families
Planning Considerations
• Confirmation of irrigation lines and burial plot planning
• Approved or preferred tree species list
Drought-resistant and native tree options
• Ongoing maintenance and watering plan
Potential Future Opportunity
• Exploration of a memorial tree program for community involvement
Our Request
We respectfully seek:
• Guidance on feasibility
• City standards and requirements
• Recommended next steps
• Committee support to move forward in partnership
Leadership Laurel is committed to collaboration, responsible planning,and contributing
positively to our community's public spaces.
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