HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-12-2023 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda PacketIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate in this program/event, please contact Gabe
Gotera, Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department at 319-356-5210 or ggotera@iowa-city.org.
Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
Public Comment for each item will be limited to 3 minutes for each person and a total for no more than 30
minutes per item. Written comments submitted to parksandrecreation@iowa-city.org, prior to 5 p.m. on
Monday, April 10, 2023 will be distributed to the Commission via email in advance of the meeting. Written
Comments submitted at meeting will be included in following month’s packet.
AGENDA
ITEM 1 CALL TO ORDER
ITEM 2 APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 08, 2023 MINUTES
ITEM 3 PUBLIC COMMENT ON ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
ITEM 4 PRESENTATION OF IOWA CITY STRATEGIC PLAN – Megan Alter; At-Large,
Mayor Pro Tem
ITEM 5 RECREATION DIVISION GOALS – Matt Eidahl; Assistant Superintendent of
Recreation
ITEM 6 MERCER PARK ATHLETIC FIELDS PROJECT – Eric Hornig; Hitchcock Design
ITEM 7 CONSIDER RECOMMEDATION TO REMOVE PARKS & RECREATION
COMMISSIONER MEMBER DUE TO UNEXPLAINED ABSENCES – Parks and
Recreation Commission Chair
ITEM 8 ELECTION OF COMMISSION VICE CHAIR – Parks and Recreation Commission
Chair
ITEM 9 REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
a) Recreation Division Assistant Superintendent – Matt Eidahl
b) Parks Division Superintendent – Tyler Baird
ITEM 9 CHAIRS REPORT
ITEM 10 COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
ITEM 11 ADJOURN
Iowa City
Parks and Recreation Commission
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
5:00 p.m.
Robert A. Lee Recreation Center – Meeting Room B
220 S Gilbert Street, Iowa City, IA 52240
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION PRELIMINARY
MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 08, 2023
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER – MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Alex Hachtman, Brian Morelli, Melissa Serenda, Connie Moore, Rachel
McPherson, Doloris Mixon
Members Absent: Boniface Penandjo Lemoupa, Missie Forbes, Chris Odinet
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Brad Barker, Kumi Morris, Malory Smysor, Gabe Gotera
Others Present: Justin Fishbaugh, Jill Fishbaugh, Carin Crain, Tommy Gianola, Billy Gianola,
Mitzi Read, Mark Cannon
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action):
Moved by Mixon, seconded by Serenda to recommend moving forward with the Mercer Park
Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym Exterior Accessibility and Lighting Improvement Project as
proposed. Motion passed 6-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa, Forbes, & Odinet absent).
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Morelli, seconded by Moore, to approve the February 8, 2023 minutes as written. Motion
passed 6-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa, Forbes, & Odinet absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Justin Fishbaugh gives out a handout showing a comparison of pool use data. Fishbaugh asks if the
handout will be included in the meeting minutes, to which Director Juli Seydell Johnson says that
handouts sent to the commission prior to the meeting will be included in the correspondence sent out to
Commission members, but that since this was included during the meeting, it would have to be included
as correspondence with the April meeting packet. Fishbaugh prepared the handout to help with the review
of pool use data that is provided by the Parks and Recreation Department each month. Fishbaugh
describes his goal as finding accurate pool use counts so that informed decisions can be made about the
future of the aquatic’s centers. Fishbaugh details that pool users are not counted multiple times, as the
provided data is not cumulative but is just a count of the pool every 30 minutes. Fishbaugh found there to
be gross errors at time in the counts reported from the department. Fishbaugh refers to Dec 9, in which
there were 0 reported scans from 11am to 1pm, when citizens counted 13 pool users. Using his handout,
Fishbaugh says that when equivalent pool hours are compared between Robert A Lee and Mercer pools
and normalized with a large difference in size between the two pools so that there is an apples-to-apples
comparison, RAL pool use is 1.5x more than Mercer pool for the fourth quarter of 2022.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 2 of 8
Carin Crain gives a handout of emails from Coralville Recreation. Crain suggest that to boost RAL pool
use, staff should use marketing to advertise the pool. Crain says she gets emails from Coralville
advertising aquacise and swimming lessons, with information provided showing when where and how
much the class is. Crain says that she has never received promotional material for RAL pool and details
that people can’t come to the pool when they don’t know it’s around. Crain says that on Sundays, there
are frequently families that aren’t strong swimmers, but that to find out about swimming lessons you have
to go online as there is no indication of swim lessons offered at RAL pool. Crain says that the process to
register needs to be less cumbersome to allow a more accessible route into swim lessons.
MERCER PARK AQUATIC CENTER/SCANLON GYM ADA ENTRYWAY & LED LIGHTS –
Facility Manager Kumi Morris:
Facility Manager Kumi Morris presents the attached PowerPoint presentation. Morris shows that this
project would focus on making the pavement and sidewalk, especially around the entryway to have a
consistently higher quality existence that follows ADA guidelines to a greater extent. Morris explains that
the project would also have some of the bike racks and all the outdoor lighting removed. Replacement
LED lamps would be installed that would be vandal resistant while also being made of replaceable
aluminum parts for ease of maintenance by staff. Morris details how the concrete plaza outside the front
entrance will be replaced with green space and the current crosswalk will be moved further down the
street closer to the parking lot. Morris notes the importance of better sightlines for cars leading up to the
cross walk.
Chairman Hachtman asks how tall the proposed lighting options would be. Facility Manager Kumi Morris
says that the LED bollard lights would be approximately 4 ft tall while the larger LED Radean Post Top
would be approximately 10 ft tall.
Commissioner Morelli asks if the traffic flow around the bend outside MPAC was inspected at all,
describing the area as a bottle neck during some parts of the day. Director Juli Seydell Johnson explains
that in the last year, the 1-way street through Mercer Park has been converted into a 2-way street, which
helped to decongest the area. Facility Manager Kumi Morris confirms that civil engineer did look over the
area and explains how there is still a lot of activity happening on the corner outside of MPAC, of which
can include loading from staff, parking for patrons, and junior high students. Kumi says that to help
reduce the amount things happening all at once, the crosswalk was moved down the street, to be
perpendicular to the street. This puts the crosswalk in a much safer for people to use.
Commissioner Serenda asks about the removal of the bike racks in the plan. Facility Manager Kumi
Morris explains that there is still the PLAY bike rack just to the east of the facility that the public is
encouraged to use. Morris said that most of the time, when bikes were left at the northern bike rack, they
would just be left there and in the way of travel paths. The removal of the bike racks was to allow an
increase in allowed movement towards ADA compliance.
Director Juli Seydell Johnson makes the distinction that due to this project; Mercer Park Aquatic Center
& Scanlon Gymnasium will be likely be closed to the public for the first few weeks of September 2023.
Seydell Johnson explains that this timeframe was chosen due to the low use trend seen from past years
during September. Seydell Johnson details discussion with the school district to allow swim teams to still
use the pool, via a different entrance. Seydell Johnson adds that staff will take the opportunity to also
resurface the gym flooring.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 3 of 8
Moved by Mixon, seconded by Serenda to recommend moving forward with the Mercer Park
Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym Exterior Accessibility and Lighting Improvement Project as
proposed. Motion passed 6-0 (Penandjo Lemoupa, Forbes, & Odinet absent).
ADAPTIVE AND INCLUSIVE PROGRAMMING AND OUTREACH – Recreation Program
Supervisor Malory Smysor:
Recreation Program Supervisor Malory Smysor speaks about her work overseeing the Adaptive and
Inclusive Recreation (AIR) programing and how youth in AIR can be better served in the community.
Smysor talks about current youth programs for children with disabilities of which include new Cooking
Classes, one-time events for crafts/fitness, and trying to build on family opportunities. Smysor
Explains that the difficulty with youth participants that have disabilities is that it can require a lot more
staffing dependent on the needs of the participant. Smysor continues, that as staff get to know the
population, then programming can become more specified towards the children, but that until then, family
programming is offered that would allow the option for participants to bring their family and can get more
comfortable with staff in a safe environment. Smysor describes a recent event, for participants to build
junk robots out of recyclable material. The event was very well received and the parents of participated
chose to stay and help.
Malory Smysor is looking at summer camp opportunities in the area for youth with disabilities. Smysor is
working with the school district to see what is being offered as education and how staff can compliment
that. As an example, Smysor describes how if a school chooses to have a half-day education event, then
AIR staff would want to use the other half of the day for camp opportunities.
Malory Smysor talks about the effort to create achievable goals for partisans to work towards during
programming. Smysor refers to the Cooking Classes, and how the activity description shows that the
program will work on cooking skills, fine motor skills, social skills, and leisure skills. Smysor is
hopefully that people will find interesting in the programs where they really want to focus on achieving
said goals.
Malory Smysor talks about wanting to provide more small one-time events. These events could focus on
culturally holidays. Smysor describes the upcoming ‘Quilts of the Underground Railroad’ event that
would be hosted for Black History Month and would show what secrets were hidden in the quilt designs.
Smysor mentions that there will be an event for Woman’s History Month, Therapeutic Recreation Month,
and an event focused on the history of disability civil rights.
Commissioner Moore asks what Smysor means when saying “Inclusive”. Malory Smysor says that staff
are working to create more of an inclusive environment as Smysor recognized that there were no 1-on-1
opportunities provided to assist in other “typical” programs, such as Summer Camps. Smysor refers to the
last released Program Activity Guide that included blurbs in each section that talks about inclusion and
how patrons can reach out for modifications or adaptions to participate in activities. Smysor lists
examples of modifications/adaptations of which include, larger print activity guides, providing an actual
human to help the patron through the activity 1-on-1, or adaptive equipment. Smysor states that if this
kind of inclusion is provided, then programs would be able to reach more families that are not getting
services yet. Moore appreciates the effort to bring rec leisure to the kids involved, and stresses how
important it can be for the kids to make friends in a community.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 4 of 8
Commissioner Moore asks what the target age demographic is for the cooking classes. Malory Smysor
responds that the youth cooking classes range from 6-16 years old. Moore follows up, asking if any
disability is allowed, to which Smysor responds yes.
Commissioner McPherson says that it would be a great opportunity for the Quilting Underground
Railroad activities to include some of the stops that were part of the railroad that are in Iowa City,
specifically a house on Dubuque Street. Malory Smysor responds that the idea sounds good, and more
research will be done on it.
Chairman Hachtman asks if there are other things that the Commission, as community members can do to
help Malory Smysor and her programs. Smysor responds that the best way to help would be marketing,
elaborating that there are not a lot of similar programming in surrounding cities, meaning that area could
be a hub for such programs. Smysor says that word of mouth is always a great resource for getting the
word out of there.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Parks & Recreation Director – Juli Seydell Johnson
Topics from Last Meeting: Director Seydell Johnson answers several questions asked at the previous, Feb
8 Meeting. Seydell Johnson explains that the house by Happy Hollow Park has been checked by
Neighborhood Services staff. Seydell Johnson points out where in the agenda packet, the commissioners
can find both the contract amount for the Rec Masterplan and the list of parks still left to be renovated.
Seydell Johnson adds that the commission will take a tour around some of the parks in a future meeting to
see what is still to be renovated in person.
Swim Counts: Director Seydell Johnson explains that whenever the Save RAL Pool group brings forward
to staff a time where their accounts don’t match with the departments’, staff are taking it seriously,
looking back, verifying and correcting the count, if needed. Seydell Johnson clarifies that not every
difference is found to be an error. Seydell Johnson says that now that the swim counts have been
underway for 6 months, trends will soon start to appear to show which direction the pool will move in.
Commissioner McPherson asks how staff correct a count. Director Seydell Johnson explains how the
11am – 1pm counts were sometimes off by 1 or 2 people, which led staff to find that counters were
counting exactly from 11 am – 1pm but that some patrons would check into the pool as early as 10:45pm.
Seydell Johnson adds that the data is still in the ActiveNet system, it just wasn’t being pulled at the time,
which would allow staff to go back and retroactively add the 10:30am – 11am time slot to past monthly
pool counts. Seydell Johnson says that sometimes camera videos are used to verify counts, but that the
videos can only be looked back 14 days and that it does not show the entirety of the pool. McPherson
brings up just seeing a member of customer service staff miss counting 2 people who were entering the
pool, asking if the young staff are taking the number recording accurate. Seydell Johnson explains that at
if this happened just before the meeting, then it was likely for swim lessons which are counted separately
from the daily admissions at the front desk. Seydell Johnson adds that there have been additional staff
assigned at the back hallway, with spot checks to double check that everyone entering the locker rooms
are checked in, instead of going down the stairs and past the staff desk. Seydell Johnson says that staff
have found the different in pool counts to not be significantly different, but that if something is found to
be missed, it will be corrected. Seydell Johnson notes the overall trends of the counts should be similar
and will show how pool use data has moved one way or another.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 5 of 8
Commissioner McPherson asks about the possibility of extending pool hours at RAL pool. Director
Seydell Johnson responds that current attendance numbers don’t support extending the pool hours.
McPherson asks for clarification that if more people were to swim in the mornings, then there would be a
reason to expand hours in the afternoon. Seydell Johnson confirms this.
Commissioner Morelli asks for comment on email marketing and what can be done for further outreach.
Director Seydell Johnson responds that this will be discussed during the Recreation Staff Report.
Commissioner Moore asks if when the Commission tours the remaining parks to be renovated, if there
will be an opportunity to make suggestions on design, such as focusing on inclusion and accessibility.
Director Seydell Johnson confirms this thought, saying that it would be an appropriate time to make such
suggestions. Seydell Johnson adds that there are parks throughout the city that have wheel-chair
accessible playground equipment and structures.
Items for Next Meeting: Director Seydell Johnson says that staff are waiting to hear back from proposals
on Happy Hollow Park, with data and options being prepared for the March 8 Commission meeting.
Seydell Johnson adds that the Mercer Park Athletic Fields project presentation will also be during the
March 8 Commission meeting.
State Budget: Director Seydell Johnson talks about recent state legislature that will affect City budgets,
which has been rolled back due to an accounting error last fall which resulted in several million dollars
less in revenue for Iowa City operating budgets. Seydell Johnsons clarifies that this affects not only Parks
& Rec but the entire city. Johnson says that because the budget had already been approved, staff may
have to go back to determine how costs can be trimmed to save money.
Future Meeting Focuses: Director Seydell Johnson says that the next Commission meeting will likely
have a Recreation focus, looking over staff goals from the Masterplan process. Director Johnson adds
that, later in the spring, Commissioners will be invited to attend and take part in a tree planting at
McPherson Park. This meeting will have a forestry focus, with attention on the division’s new trucks and
equipment.
Parks: In the absence of Parks Division Superintendent Tyler Baird, Director Seydell Johnson announces
that the Chadek Green Park Playground Equipment is expected to arrive in the next few days. Seydell
Johnson says that that this will be one of the first installs of year once weather conditions improve.
Recreation Division Superintendent – Brad Barker 5:49
Superintendent Barker addresses the earlier question regarding communications for different programs
and events. Barker explains how in recent years, staff had created an event classification guide with the
goal to streamline how the Recreation division would promote programing in a consistent manner. Barker
says that events are typically advertised through social media, while programming such as water fitness or
youth sports can’t all be promoted in social media the same way. Barker explains that Program
Supervisors try to use social media with intention so as to not fill the feed with every program available.
Barker continues, that due to this reason, there’s more responsibility for program supervisors to utilize
ActiveNet, the recreation registration software system. Barker explains that over almost 10 years, a robust
database of patron ages and contact information have been collected, with patrons’ specific program
history helping to filter who should be targeted for specific program marketing.
Commissioner Serenda refers to the ActiveNet database of patron info, asking what outreach is being
done to bring in new people who might be interested in swim lessons. Superintendent Barker responds
that primarily, new names are from people that are signing up for the programs. Barker says that
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 6 of 8
recreation program supervisors are discussing on Recreation goals for the Rec Masterplan and that a
common talking point, is how to extend the sphere of engagement and accessibility to those who are not
already involved with programming. Barker explains that this is done by hiring multilingual staff that can
be welcoming to more people, or through more traditional communications, like mid-season newsletters
or focused emails. Barker adds that this will be gone into more detail at a future meeting when Recreation
goals are discussed.
Director Seydell Johnson adds that there might not be much advertising seen for swimming lessons,
because Swimming lessons are already filling to capacity and have waiting list within days of opening for
registration. Seydell Johnson continues that advertising for programs are typically used for newer
programs that are trying to grow, but also to avoid frustration of patrons that would see marketing for
such programs before finding that it is already full.
Superintendent Barker adds that one of the biggest problems facing the RecAssist, ,Rec-and-Ride, and
Swim Scholarship programs is that people don’t know that they exist. To combat this, Recreation has
worked with the Communication department to create a video showing how the public can utilize such
programs. Barker explains that this video would be shared on social media to not only promote the
programs but also to show how it can be used.
Commissioner McPherson asks about the considering of posters that could be shown in high traffic areas
such as Prairie Lights, Oasis, or the Public Library. McPherson say that while posters may be considered
old-fashioned, these areas see lots of people coming through that could bring increased attendance to
programming and events such as roller skating.
Commissioner Morelli refers to the City’s larger use of ‘Next Door’ to bring information to specific
neighborhoods and asks if Recreation could make use of Next Door to help with spreading awareness for
programming. Barker explains that staff try to use Next Door sparingly to not overwhelm. Barker says
that events typically advertised using Next Door are Party in the Park during the summer, to let
neighborhoods know when Party in the Park will be in their neighborhood.
Event Turnout: Superintendent Barker details several events that have taken place since the last
Commission meeting. Barker says that the MLK Day Service Event had great turn out, with many people
attending the march or working on craftsman service projects. Barker brings up that Commissioner Mixon
gave a wonderful presentation for the attendees. Barker talks about the STEAM and Technology Open
House which showed off robotics, microscopes, drones, among other equipment. Barker talks about the
recent Freeze Fest that had smores, hot chocolates, and speakers from the Raptor Center and the Iowa
AmeriCorps. Barker says that in the future, Freeze Fest would be a target for program growth and
marketing.
CHAIRS REPORT:
None
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Mixon asks if there is any kind of team sport such as softball, baseball, or football that are
played between different recreation centers in the area. Director Seydell Johnson says that youth baseball
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 7 of 8
and softball teams are provided locally by the Youth Sports Association, who provide teachers, while the
Recreation Division provides the fields. Mixon asks specifically about adult sports provided. Johnson
responds that adult softball is no longer offered. Johnson explains that in the past, the department would
rent fields from the University of Iowa for adult softball, but player attendance dwindled to the extent that
there were not enough teams to even have a real season. Johnson continues that Coralville would typically
have enough players to reach maximum capacity, which is where teams that still wanted to play would
go.
Commissioner Morris asks if the local soccer league is provided through the City? Director Johnson
explains that while Iowa City Kickers is supported and associated with the Recreation Division, it is its
own separate entity.
ADJOURNMENT: Chairman Hachtman adjourns the meeting at 6:03 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
February 8, 2023
Page 8 of 8
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
NAME
TERM
EXPIRES 02
/
0
9
/
2
2
03
/
0
9
/
2
2
04
/
1
3
/
2
2
05
/
2
3
/
2
2
07
/
1
3
/
2
2
08
/
1
0
/
2
2
09
/
1
4
/
2
2
10
/
1
2
/
2
2
11
/
0
9
/
2
2
12
/
1
4
/
2
2
01
/
1
1
/
2
3
02
/
0
8
/
2
3
Missie
Forbes
12/31/25 NM X X O/E X X X X X NM X O/E
Alex
Hachtman
12/31/24 NM X X X X X X X X NM X X
Rachel
McPherson
12/31/26 * * * * * * * * * * X X
Doloris
Mixon
12/31/26 * * * * * * * * * * X X
Connie
Moore
12/31/25 * * * * * X X X X NM X X
Brian
Morelli
12/31/25 NM O/E X X X O/E X X X NM X X
Christopher
Odinet
12/31/24 NM X O/E X O/E X O/E O/E O/E NM X O/E
Boniface
Penandjo
Lemoupa
12/31/23 NM X O O/E O O/E O/E O O NM O O
Melissa
Serenda
12/31/23 NM X X X X X X X X NM X X
3/3/2023
1
Mercer Aquatic Center &
Scanlon Gym
Exterior Accessibility and
Lighting Improvements Project
PROJECT REVIEW WITH THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 8, 2023
EXISTING
SITE
Google
map view
1
2
3/3/2023
2
ADA paths
Paved area and sidewalks
considered for
replacement and repairs
Overlay on sitemap
Red line on left signifies SEJH property line
Cracks
and
tripping
hazards
that
resurface
with
heave
and thaw
3
4
3/3/2023
3
Areas of spall
in
sidewalks and
cracks, chips
between the
paved panels.
Panels have
been ground
down in the
past to
extend life of
the paving.
Damaged
sidewalks and
original 1988
exterior building
in ground
Halide lighting
need replacing,
ballasts no longer
available
5
6
3/3/2023
4
Replacing
exterior
building
lights and
lamp
posts
with LED
lighting
Bike racks
will be
removed
KM1
7
8
Slide 8
KM1 Kumi Morris, 2/6/2023
3/3/2023
5
View of
sloped paved
area in front
of building
Present path
and paving is
not ADA
compliant
View of
Parking area
in front of
building,
slopes and
present
spaces do
not meet
ADA for
parking.
9
10
3/3/2023
6
Parking does not meet ADA requirements for van spaces,
curb cuts, aisle widths, paving markings and signage
Road condition‐view from southwest approach.
11
12
3/3/2023
7
Present paved area in front of entrance
Existing paved areas and
sidewalks.
13
14
3/3/2023
8
Creating
more green
space around
entrance.
Dotted area
signifies sod
The crossing
at the
corner will
be removed.
Southwest sidewalk to be
removed from Mercer Park.
15
16
3/3/2023
9
A new crossing will be installed closer
the south parking lot.
The change is to instigate a safer
crossing with better sightlines for both
drivers and pedestrians, with ADA
accessible curb cuts and markings.
Updated and
compliant
ADA parking,
neighboring
building and
in south lot
will be
installed.
17
18
3/3/2023
10
New lighting plan
New fixtures will be
neighboring walking paths
•LED fixtures
•Design Lighting Consortium
(DLC) verified high level of energy
efficiency
•Meets local lighting codes
•MidAmerican Energy rebate req
•5‐year warranty
•Vandal resistant
•Quality cast fixtures
•Ease of maintenance
•Finish‐aluminum
•Parts easily available
Replacing exterior building lights with LED
vandal resistant bollards
19
20
3/3/2023
11
Replacing exterior lamp posts with LED lamps
Project Schedule
Bidding schedule
•February 10‐Final plans
•March 1‐start Council approval process
•March 7‐Council sets public hearing
•March 21‐Public hearing, approve
plans
•TBA‐Pre‐bid meeting
•April 12‐Take bids/bid letting
•April 18‐Council action on bids
Construction Plan schedule
•Late May –Phase 1 & 2
•September 1‐15th – Final phase
21
22
Items Submitted during
Public Comment at the
February 8, 2023 Parks and
Recreation Commission
Meeting.
2023
Recreation Division Goal Setting and
Performance Measurement Planning
Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department 220 South Gilbert Street, Iowa City, Iowa 52241
Iowa City Parks and
Recreation Department
Recreation
Program Plan
PAGE 2
Introduction
This report on Goal Setting and Performance Measurement Planning stems from the 2022 Iowa
City Parks and Recreation Department’s (ICPRD) Comprehensive Recreation Master Plan. This
master plan project engaged with the community, staff and other stakeholders through a
variety of methods in order to gather feedback on perspectives towards recreation. Expert
analysis of existing recreation programs and facilities was also collected. The project’s primary
objective was to assess the department’s standing in the community, identify barriers to
recreation and to ascertain where stakeholders would like to see recreation move over the next
ten years. This programming and facilities roadmap helped identify program lifecycle
considerations, those who the programs intend to serve and where the programs will take
place.
By linking the findings and recommendations articulated in ICPRD’s Recreation Master Plan,
Recreation Division staff coordinated to establish a formal performance measurement
framework. This framework includes themes and goals that most critically drive the master plan
forward as well as the data-driven, quantifiable measures that will be used to monitor progress
along the way and adapt if needed. The intent is to create actionable goals and measures that
we believe are reasonably attainable and can be directly influenced through the internal work
of the Recreation Division. External constraints and long-term, capital-intensive facility and
amenity projects were not included in these measurements since they are beyond the scope
and direct influence of the Recreation Division team’s general responsibilities.
Why Measure Performance?
Performance measures can serve as a valuable tool to assess whether staff and program efforts
are achieving the expected results. Useful measures have a known purpose, provide
information of value to identified users, and focus primarily on measurable data such as
outputs and outcomes. Staff are then empowered to use this data to make decisions and to
ensure that programs, facilities and amenities are meeting the needs of the community. Data
framed in this manner communicates the division’s successes in meeting performance
measures and allows an immediate response to any deficiencies, opportunities and visible
trends.
Recreation Division staff will meet on a seasonal basis to discuss results and a plan to identify
opportunities and address areas that are of concern or need extra attention. The Recreation
Division team will communicate progress on these goals through annual performance
measurement reporting each Spring for the previous year and will compare results to prior
years.
Overall, this performance measurement plan allows us to:
▪ Make decisions and early adjustments by using outcome-based, data-driven measures.
▪ Offer transparency and accountability through regularly reported results.
▪ Communicate priorities internally amongst employees as well as externally to the
Commission, Council and community.
▪ Demonstrate progress towards meeting the community’s vision of recreation through
data showing present state, past performance and future direction.
Recreation
Program Plan
PAGE 3
Strategic Themes
The information in this report is organized under five strategic themes.
▪ Community Connections
▪ Recreation Programming
▪ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
▪ Partnerships and Outreach
▪ Team Development
Seasons Defined
Annual measurement will coincide with the calendar year, January 1 through December 31.
Seasonal measurement will coincide with the posted dates for the division’s programming. This
can vary slightly from year-to-year but generally adheres to the following timeframes:
▪ Winter-Spring: Approximately January 1 through May 31
▪ Summer: Approximately June 1 through August 31
▪ Fall: Approximately September 1 through December 31
Strategic Theme A: Community Connections
Connect with new audiences and enhance public awareness of the department’s programs,
facilities and amenities through strategic communication methods.
Goal A1 Utilize translation through staff and technology to provide welcoming
facilities and programs that reach a broader community base. Target Period
Measure Number of programs offered in a language alternative to English 2 Seasonal
Measure Number of Recreation Division staff that are capable of speaking more than one language 5 Seasonal
Measure Number of social media posts created in multiple languages 4 Seasonal
Measure Number of translation interactions at the customer service desk that utilize bilingual staff or
technology (tablet translation, LanguageLine phone call) 12 Seasonal
Goal A2 Provide equitable access to information through various channels that engage
the community in fresh and innovate ways. Target Period
Measure Release a mid-season promotional bulletin that highlights upcoming programs and events Y or N Seasonal
Measure Collaborate with the communications office on at least one project for the release of video
content for divisional initiatives, programs and/or events Y or N Seasonal
Measure Number of PeachJar promotions released to ICCSD students and staff regarding upcoming
programs and events (Summer season exempt) 3 Seasonal
Measure Number of television, radio or newspaper ads created with the intent to broaden communication
reach to those underserved in the community 3 Seasonal
Recreation
Program Plan
PAGE 4
Strategic Theme B: Recreation Programming
Engage with the community through programming, activities and events that are
intentionally designed to best align with their needs.
Goal B1 Consistently deliver high-quality programs and services that are in-touch with
the needs of the community. Target Period
Measure Percent of classes that reach at least 75% enrollment of advertised capacity 70% Seasonal
Measure Percent of classes that are implemented as scheduled (i.e. not cancelled) 90% Seasonal
Measure Percent of programs and events with completed qualitative, post-program reflection and
evaluation conducted by leading supervisor 90% Seasonal
Measure Number of unique individuals who registered for at least one organized recreation program or
purchased a recreation amenity pass (Dog Park, Potters Studio, Swimming Pool)* 1,300 Seasonal
Measure Unique registrant distribution is heat mapped Y or N Seasonal
Measure Update and review the Lifecycle Distribution of Programs to assess their balance between unique
offerings and core offerings Y or N Annual
Measure Percent of programs and events successfully implemented that focus on basic recreation skill
development 80% Annual
*These numbers do not include drop-in, single admission visits, rental user groups, special events and
other activities that do not require individuals to register.
Goal B2 Grow participation in and access to learn-to-swim opportunities. Target Period
Measure Number of unique swim lesson participants on roster 450 Seasonal
Measure Number of swim lesson registrants left on waiting lists 5% Seasonal
Measure Number of water safety education classes and outreach sessions provided (i.e. BASP outreach,
Swimtroduction programs) 3 Seasonal
Goal B3 Develop educational and skill-development programming that focuses on the
lifelong benefits of outdoor exploration, bicycle safety and STEAM. Target Period
Measure Number of outdoor explorations and nature learning programs and events successfully
implemented 5 Seasonal
Measure Number of bicycle safety programs and events successfully implemented 2 Seasonal
Measure Number of STEAM programs and events successfully implemented 5 Seasonal
Goal B4 Provide adults the resources, program opportunities and equipment access that
promotes active living, lifelong fitness and healthy lifestyles. Target Period
Measure Number of adult programs facilitated through division staff that are successfully implemented
(includes drop-in programs) 10 Seasonal
Measure Number of adult programs successfully implemented that operate through independent contractor
agreements or collaborative partnerships 6 Seasonal
Recreation
Program Plan
PAGE 5
Goal B5 Provide satisfying, positive experiences through quality recreation programs
and services that meet or exceed customer expectations. Target Period
Measure Percent of programs surveyed following the conclusion of programming 95% Seasonal
Measure Percent of program participants surveyed that would recommend an ICPRD program to others 75% Seasonal
Measure Percent of program participants surveyed that rate their experience in ICPRD programs as
“Satisfied” or “Very Satisfied” 75% Seasonal
Measure Percent of program participants surveyed that plan to register for an ICPRD program again in the
future 75% Seasonal
Strategic Theme C: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Promote community well-being through facilities, programs and services that instill a sense of
belonging, inclusion and are accessible to all. Connect residents to the community and
expand program choice for those who otherwise have limited opportunities for recreation.
Goal C1
Provide ongoing training and tools to increase employee skill and ability in
applying equity best practices and to provide culturally responsive services to
the public.
Target Period
Measure Percent of employees that received onboarding or ongoing training within the year regarding equity,
diversity and how to provide culturally responsive services 90% Annual
Measure Update and review the DEI Outcomes and Conditions matrix for identify improvement opportunities Y or N Annual
Measure Update and review the Equity Analysis Spectrum to identify improvement opportunities Y or N Annual
Goal C2 Deliver recreation experiences that are accessible to various neighborhoods
throughout Iowa City and help to reduce the need for transportation. Target Period
Measure Number of unique Iowa City parks utilized for successfully implemented programs 5 Annual
Measure Number of unique Iowa City parks utilized for successfully implemented events 20 Annual
Measure Number of programs implemented in locations external to Iowa City facilities, parks and amenities 8 Annual
Goal C3
Ensure that needs-based financial support for programs and services is readily
available, promoted and utilized. This includes initiatives such as RecAssist,
outreach swim lessons and Rec & Ride.
Target Period
Measure Percent increase year-over-year in the amount of RecAssist financial support provided 15% Annual
Measure Number of unique applicants approved for RecAssist 325 Annual
Measure Number of participants that received a Swim Lesson scholarship 35 Seasonal
Measure Percent increase year-over-year in the ridership for Rec & Ride 100% Annual
Recreation
Program Plan
PAGE 6
Strategic Theme D: Partnerships and Outreach
Strengthen community relationships through the strategic building of collaborative
partnerships. Work closely with groups and organizations that represent and serve our
diverse community.
Goal D1
Strengthen outreach and engagement relationships with community-based
organizations, particularly those that have a proven ability to reach
underserved constituents and those not reached through current
programming.
Target Period
Measure Create, maintain, and update a database of contacts at community recreation providers, partner
organizations, affiliate groups and non-profit services Y or N Seasonal
Measure
Number of partnership programs and events where the division and assisting organization(s)
and/or entities are mutually involved with its success. Must have at least two components where
planning, implementation and/or staffing are shared.
4 Seasonal
Strategic Theme E: Team Development
Maintain a high-performing, well-trained and cross-capable divisional team to support
recreation programming efforts.
Goal E1
Ensure that staff have the opportunity to learn through continued education
and training, are provided resources to grow their skills in a myriad of
department-related interests, and are able to help shape the culture of their
workplace.
Target Period
Measure Percent of hourly staff that successfully completed training requirements by their deadline 90% Annual
Measure Develop an hourly staff advisory board and maintain a standard that at least one meeting occurs
during each season Y or N Seasonal
Measure Number of programs and events collaboratively planned, staffed and implemented with the
involvement of at least two program supervisors 5 Seasonal
TO: Parks & Recreation Commission
FROM: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation
DATE: April 05, 2023
RE: Agenda Item 6 Mercer Park Athletic Fields, Mercer Park Tennis/Pickleball Courts and City Park
Tennis Court Renovation Project.
This item asks the Commission to review concept plans for this summer/fall 2023 project. Due to the
lack of quorum at the March 8, 2023 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, Eric Hornig from
Hitchcock Design will present concept designs via a pre-recorded video. His presentation is included in
the packet for review.
The project includes renovations to the Mercer Baseball Complex, replacement of the Mercer
Pickleball/Tennis Courts, and renovations of the City Park Tennis Courts. Renovations focus on
increasing ADA access and safety in common areas, new energy efficient lighting on baseball field #1,
drainage improvements to fields #1 and #4, replacement/renovations of the court areas.
Staff from the Iowa City Community School District as well as representatives from baseball and
pickleball groups have been involved in the project design meetings.
H ITCHCOCK DESIGN GRO UP
Mercer Park / City Park
IOWA CIT Y
Mercer Park
•3 Tennis
•8 Pick leball
•(1) High School
Baseball
•(2) 90/315 Baseball
•(3) 80/300 Baseball
•(4) 80/250 Baseball
•Restroom/Concession
Mercer Park –Existing Conditions
•6 Tennis
•Half Cour t Basketball
City Park
City Park –Existing Conditions
•PICKLEBALL/TENNIS
•Individual cour ts w/ spec tator
aisles
•Shade
•Windscreen
•Seating
•The more the better
•Tennis still needed but only 2 at
Mercer
Key Stakeholder Takeaways
•BASEBALL
•Lighting
•Grading/Drainage
•Ball Control
•Memorial
•More U10-U14 fields in
community for continued
program growth
•High School will not utilize
tennis
Safety (Field 1
Lighting / ball
control)
ADA (core area)
Field 4
(Renovation)
Mercer Park
Pickleball (9)
Mercer Park
Tennis (2)
City Park Tennis (6)
Top Priorities
•Entr y plaza
•Field 4
•Fence/backstop
•Dugouts w/ covers
•Bleachers
•Concrete spectator areas
•Improved grading & drainage
•Field 1
•Lighting
•Bleachers
•Shade over main bleachers
•Concrete spectator areas
•Drainage at edges
•Grading (potential)
Mercer Park Proposed E lements
•Tennis (2)
•Nets/Posts
•Fencing /Windscreen
•Asphalt sur face
•Color coat
•Striping (including single pick leball overlay per cour t)
•Backboard
•Pickleball (9)
•Nets/Posts
•Fencing / Windscreen
•Asphalt surface
•Color coat
•Striping (single pickleball overlay per court)
•Backboard
•Core Area
•Ramp/Stairs
•Concrete core
•Memorial Area
Mercer
Park Plan
Mercer
Park Plan
Mercer
Park Plan
•Tennis Cour ts (6)
•Nets/Posts
•Fencing
•Asphalt sur face
•Color coat
•Striping (including single pick leball overlay per cour t)
•Back board
•Basketball (1/2)
•Basketball sur face
•Basketball standard
•Minor walkway adjustments
City Park Proposed E lements
City Park Plan
S chedule
DD / Stakeholder
Input
•OCT-FEB
CD
•FEB-APR
BID
•APR-JUN
CPS
•JUL-NOV
H ITCHCOCK DESIGN GRO UP
Mercer Park / City Park
IOWA CIT Y
TO: Parks & Recreation Commission
FROM: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation
DATE: March 3, 2023
RE: Agenda Item 7 Consider Recommendation to Remove Parks & Recreation Commission Member
Due to Unexplained Absences
This item is for the Commission to consider making a recommendation to the City Council to remove
Boniface Penandjo Lemoupa from the Parks and Recreation Commission. He has not attended a
Commission meeting in the past year, with unexplained absences for the last three meetings. City staff
has not received email or phone responses from Penandjo Lemoupa since September 2022. His term is
through December 31, 2023.
Article III, Section 3 of the Parks & Recreation Commission bylaws provides that three consecutive
unexplained absences of a member may result in the Commission’s recommendation to Council to
remove the member. This recommendation would require a motion, second and a vote.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
NAME
TERM
EXPIRES 02
/
0
9
/
2
2
03
/
0
9
/
2
2
04
/
1
3
/
2
2
05
/
2
3
/
2
2
07
/
1
3
/
2
2
08
/
1
0
/
2
2
09
/
1
4
/
2
2
10
/
1
2
/
2
2
11
/
0
9
/
2
2
12
/
1
4
/
2
2
01
/
1
1
/
2
3
02
/
0
8
/
2
3
Missie
Forbes
12/31/25 NM X X O/E X X X X X NM X O/E
Alex
Hachtman
12/31/24 NM X X X X X X X X NM X X
Rachel
McPherson
12/31/26 * * * * * * * * * * X X
Doloris
Mixon
12/31/26 * * * * * * * * * * X X
Connie
Moore
12/31/25 * * * * * X X X X NM X X
Brian
Morelli
12/31/25 NM O/E X X X O/E X X X NM X X
Christopher
Odinet
12/31/24 NM X O/E X O/E X O/E O/E O/E NM X O/E
Boniface
Penandjo
Lemoupa
12/31/23 NM X O O/E O O/E O/E O O NM O O
Melissa
Serenda
12/31/23 NM X X X X X X X X NM X X
TO: Parks & Recreation Commission
FROM: Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks & Recreation
DATE: March 3, 2023
RE: Agenda Item 8 Election of Commission Vice Chair
Commission Vice Chair, Chris Odinet, has submitted his resignation due to upcoming travel and a
temporary relocation out of state. This has been submitted to the City Clerk who will start the process
for new applications and eventual appointment of a new member by the City Council.
Since Chris was the Vice Chair, the Commission needs to elect a new Vice Chair.
Day Date 6-7a 7-8a 8-9a 9-10a 10-11a 11-12p 12-1p 1-2p 2-3p 3-4p 4-5p 5-6 p 6-7p 7-8p Daily Rec Totals Water Fitness Swim Lessons Event # Count Event Name
Wednesday 1-Mar 6 7 0 16 12 41 11 79
Thursday 2-Mar 6 6 1 18 4 35 79
Friday 3-Mar 7 3 2 14 2 28 16 8 $2 Swim
Saturday 4-Mar 3 5 5 3 7 17 7 5 4 56 8 24 Pool Party
Sunday 5-Mar 0 92 21 $2 Swim
Monday 6-Mar 7 3 0 11 5 26 22
Tuesday 7-Mar 4 6 3 16 4 33
Wednesday 8-Mar 9 5 2 17 4 37 14
Thursday 9-Mar 5 6 3 14 3 31
Friday 10-Mar 5 7 2 14 2 30 8 18 $2 Swim
Saturday 11-Mar 1 5 7 4 7 11 4 9 1 49 9
Sunday 12-Mar 0 34 $2 Swim
Monday 13-Mar 5 6 1 13 9 34 8
Tuesday 14-Mar 4 4 2 32 0 42
Wednesday 15-Mar 4 4 0 11 3 22 10
Thursday 16-Mar 5 2 4 18 7 36
Friday 17-Mar 4 4 2 20 5 35 10 32 Lucky Littles Swim Party
Saturday 18-Mar 3 1 4 2 2 7 3 4 5 31 3
Sunday 19-Mar 0 29 $2 Swim
Monday 20-Mar 5 6 3 16 2 32 18
Tuesday 21-Mar 5 3 0 15 3 26
Wednesday 22-Mar 7 4 1 14 5 31 8
Thursday 23-Mar 6 2 4 14 2 28
Friday 24-Mar 4 5 0 12 2 23 13 21 $2 Swim
Saturday 25-Mar 0 4 0 1 5 13 2 23 5 53 6
Sunday 26-Mar 0 109 26 $2 Swim
Monday 27-Mar 9 3 3 12 8 35 15.0 90.0
Tuesday 28-Mar 2 6 3 18 5 34 76
Wednesday 29-Mar 8 3 2 10 4 27 104
Thursday 30-Mar 7 5 3 10 3 28 84
Friday 31-Mar 7 5 2 9 5 28 4 GRAND TOTAL
911 183 713 213 1109
845 29.4 5.9 23.0 6.9 35.8
141
Totals:
Robert A Lee Recreation Center - Indoor Swimming Pool Totals March 2023
Total Scans:
Total Unique Scans:
Averages:Closed for Weather/Events
Day Date 6-7a 7-8a 8-9a 9-10a 10-11a 11-12p 12-1p 1-2p 2-3p 3-4p 4-5p 5-6 p 6-7p 7-8p Daily Rec Totals Water Fitness Swim Team Event # Count Event Name
Wednesday 1-Mar 12 9 10 13 8 4 0 6 18 6 8 6 6 2 108 106
Thursday 2-Mar 3 5 9 3 3 3 2 12 6 4 8 2 60 8 106 16 $2 Swim
Friday 3-Mar 9 11 12 8 11 15 4 0 9 12 10 2 3 2 108 106
Saturday 4-Mar 0 3 4 7 5 5 8 8 11 7 8 8 5 2 81 106 12 Paddleboarding & Snorkeling Class
Sunday 5-Mar 18 21 10 16 3 8 4 7 0 87
Monday 6-Mar 10 13 16 8 12 10 3 5 5 7 10 7 12 5 123 7 106 12 WSIT Training
Tuesday 7-Mar 5 7 9 10 5 3 7 3 5 5 3 2 64 16 106 41 WSIT Training/$2 Swim
Wednesday 8-Mar 11 6 9 10 6 10 1 9 4 5 2 4 2 6 85 106 12 WSIT Training
Thursday 9-Mar 7 7 10 6 2 1 3 1 5 7 9 5 63 5 106 23 WSIT Training/$2 Swim
Friday 10-Mar 7 7 6 5 10 8 5 5 7 4 4 3 2 4 77 106 12 WSIT Training
Saturday 11-Mar 5 8 5 7 9 10 6 13 14 9 3 5 0 2 96 106
Sunday 12-Mar 15 7 5 17 12 4 4 4 5 73
Monday 13-Mar 10 6 9 19 16 2 3 20 9 16 30 15 0 4 159 8
Tuesday 14-Mar 6 8 9 11 12 8 10 15 7 0 7 4 97 16 $2 Swim
Wednesday 15-Mar 9 10 18 10 27 8 8 10 17 15 12 14 2 2 162 8
Thursday 16-Mar 6 8 17 12 10 20 3 10 3 2 9 1 101 34 $2 Swim
Friday 17-Mar 5 4 12 7 18 13 22 14 6 16 1 5 21 1 145 15
Saturday 18-Mar 6 5 7 15 11 8 5 8 4 13 15 4 4 5 110
Sunday 19-Mar 10 20 4 5 22 4 4 3 1 73
Monday 20-Mar 7 8 16 11 10 10 7 15 5 9 9 2 3 5 117 3 106
Tuesday 21-Mar 10 5 6 8 9 4 6 8 8 13 7 0 84 106 35 LGIT Training/$2 Swim
Wednesday 22-Mar 12 9 8 9 14 12 11 7 12 7 11 7 1 5 125 15 106 12 LGIT Training
Thursday 23-Mar 10 5 13 9 4 7 3 8 18 6 3 0 86 14 106 29 LGIT Training/$2 Swim
Friday 24-Mar 9 6 11 9 18 7 9 4 11 14 1 7 4 0 110 106 17 LGIT Training & Lifeguard Class
Saturday 25-Mar 2 8 1 11 15 5 9 17 9 8 10 7 3 2 107 106 5 Lifeguard Class
Sunday 26-Mar 20 8 11 10 12 9 8 6 3 87 5 Lifeguard Class
Monday 27-Mar 9 7 9 17 15 9 4 6 12 3 8 8 10 3 120 6 106
Tuesday 28-Mar 8 7 10 4 8 9 7 5 6 4 2 2 72 106 21 $2 Swim
Wednesday 29-Mar 7 5 11 15 7 7 7 3 15 7 16 8 5 2 115 8 106
Thursday 30-Mar 6 7 9 9 6 5 7 8 6 9 1 3 76 12 106 13 $2 Swim
Friday 31-Mar 11 7 10 7 22 9 4 7 77 GRAND TOTAL
3048 125 2120 315 5608
98.3 4.0 68.4 10.2 180.9
1222
2534 39.4
425Total Unique Scans:
Average using Robert A. Lee Pool Open Hours
Closed for Weather/Events
Mercer Park Aquatic Center - Indoor Swimming Pool Totals March 2023
ICE = 106 (includes masters)
Totals:
Averages:
Total using Robert A. Lee Pool Open Hours
Total Scans:
1 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission Packet
April 2023
Upcoming Events
• Native Plant Symposium; April 29, 9 am – 3 pm, RALCRC; 125 spots sold out
• Supporting Birds Near and Far; April 30, 8 am – 11 am; TTRA;
• Display Gold Ribbons for Anti-Asian Bullying Month in May; gold ribbons can be picked up from RALCRC
beginning April 10
• Farmers Market; May 6 – October 28 (Saturdays only); 7:30 am – Noon Chauncey Swan Parking Ramp
• Repair Café; May 6; 9 am – 1 pm; RALCRC
• Pedal Power; May 21; 1 pm – 3 pm; RALCRC
• Roller-skating; Saturdays January 14 through May 20, RALCRC, Beginner – 2-4 pm, All ages – 5-7:30 pm
Notable from Parks & Recreation Staff
Parks:
• We have received $15k in grant funding for tree planting this spring and there were a couple nice recent
news articles in the Gazette and Daily Iowan about our urban forestry efforts.
• We have 3 tree plantings with volunteer groups this spring (Rotary, West Branch H.S., and City High
Inclusion Club).
• We had our most extensive tree damage since the derecho with the late season heavy snow a couple
weeks ago. Staff responded on an early Saturday morning to take care of over 15 trees, many blocking
roads.
• Seasonal staff have started to begin their seasons as we move into the busy season.
• Staff have been working on trail improvements by adding fresh gravel to our aggregate trails that were
in need or fresh surfacing.
• Perennial beds have been prepped for the new growing season and new plants are set to arrive at the
beginning of May.
• We are in the process of getting water turned on and restrooms open for the season.
• Athletic fields have already been busy with practices and early season games.
• Prescribed burns have been taking place in our prairie areas and will continue through April as weather
permits.
• We are reseeding the Rita’s Ranch Dog Park to fix damage done by heavy use this winter. There are also
improvements underway for sidewalks leading to the park and parking area improvements.
• Stats of Disc Golf usage at Peninsula Park are attached to this packet.
2 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
Recreation:
• Full-time staff have been using direction from the recreation master plan to strategize goals and
measurables for the division.
• Six staff attended the Iowa Parks and Recreation Association Conference on March 28—29. Two staff
presented on the topic of the Iowa City Farmers Market and one staff on best practices for aquatics staff
training.
• Summer registration begins on Tuesday, April 18 at 7 am for residents. Non-residents will be able to register
beginning Wednesday, April 19 at 7 am.
• Staff have been working closely with affiliate groups and other outside organizations to secure field and park
reservations for summer sports, concerts and live performances.
Facilities:
• Staff are continuing to work on procurement, bid documents and contracting work for both formal and
informal projects for the 2023 construction season.
• Staff are prepping spring/summer spaces for upcoming seasonal activities. Aquatics staff have purchased
paint for City Park pool tank, working on pumps and motors and gearing up to paint outdoor systems such
as pool pumps and motors.
• Staff are also working to bring systems online- such as outdoor water systems, sunshades for Backyard
Abundance and Discovery Garden.
Cemetery:
• The Memorial Day program will return to Oakland Cemetery this year.
• Working on interviews for seasonal hires.
• Staff detected a possible water line leak near the Columbarium and have shut down the water.
Top Staff Issues
Parks
• We are currently hiring an Athletics Maintenance Worker 1 and will be short staffed until the position is
filled. This comes at our busiest time for athletic fields.
Recreation
• Recreation Program Supervisors are currently hiring for most summer and year-round positions.
• Covid and other illness has impacted both full-time and hourly staff availability.
Facilities
• The snow events and recent cold temperatures through March and early April has continued to keep
staff on their toes with snow removal and continuing to address heating systems and working to adjust
to keep staff and patrons comfortable.
3 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
• Staff provided coverage for the Recreation facilities during the recent storm/tornado warnings, both
Recreation Centers were available for shelter.
• Covid and other illness continue to impact custodial and maintenance staff availability.
Cemetery:
• Staff will be spending time picking up fallen limbs and raking around the cemetery.
• Staff has been busy switching equipment over from winter to spring/summer.
• Staff will be picking up and disposing of old decorations around the cemetery.
4 Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission Packet | City of Iowa City
Oakland
Cemetery
FY 23 Revenue Report
** shaded areas represent previous 5yr average
Revenue from Lot Sales Lot Sale 5yr
Average
# of
Interments
Interments
5yr avg.
Revenue
from
Interments
5-year Avg.
on
Interments
Total
Revenue
5yr Avg. on
total
revenue
July $3,270.00 $4,456.00 5 6.4 $3,310.00 $3,342.00 $6,580.00 $7,798.00
August $13,782.50 $5,962.50 10 6.6 $5,877.50 $3,890.00 $19,660.00 $9,852.50
Sept $3,062.50 $10,001.75 7 8.0 $2,995.00 $4,867.25 $6,057.50 $14,869.00
Oct $3,822.50 $14,012.50 4 6.6 $1,472.50 $3,925.00 $5,295.00 $17,937.50
Nov $8,785.00 $4,620.50 7 6.6 $5,370.00 $3,760.50 $14,155.00 $8,381.00
Dec $1,312.50 $3,046.00 11 4.6 $6,665.00 $2,744.00 $7,977.50 $5,790.00
Jan $3,987.50 $4,108.00 7 4.0 $3,152.50 $2,894.50 $7,140.00 $7,002.50
Feb $7,530.00 $2,408.00 3 4.2 $3,197.50 $3,009.00 $10,727.50 $5,417.00
March $6,332.50 $4,601.50 8 4.0 $5,325.00 $3,041.50 $11,657.50 $7,643.00
April
May
June
Totals $51,885.00 $53,216.75 62 51 $37,365.00 $31,473.75 $89,250.00 $84,690.50
The following are statistics of those who tracked their disc golf rounds at Peninsula Park with the UDisc
platform in 2022. This only represents those who logged their rounds in this way but is an interesting
look at the popularity of the course.
How much disc golf did people play at Peninsula Park
in 2022? Check out your Course Replay and get a
glimpse at the action! 👇👇
Peninsula Park Course Replay
Rounds + Players
4,368 rounds scored on UDisc
907 UDisc players visited your course
6,531 hours were spent on your course with UDisc
474 players visited your course for the first time in
2022
30 disc golfers played their first UDisc round ever at
your course in 2022
0BTraffic + Tourism
June 18 was the busiest day of the year with 81 rounds
played
June was the busiest month with 532 rounds played
484 players visited your course from over 50km/30+
miles away
169 players visited your course from over 250km/150+
miles away
71 players visited your course from over 500km/300+
miles away
Players from 30 states visited your course, including
disc golfers from Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin,
Missouri, Colorado, Texas, California, Indiana,
Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Kansas, Nebraska,
New York, Oklahoma, Alabama, Montana, Nevada,
Oregon, Washington, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia,
Idaho, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, South Dakota,
Tennessee, and Virginia
Players from 2 countries visited your course, including
disc golfers from United States and Canada
More Course Stats
77 total aces were logged in 2022
Most aced hole
Hole 5 with 10 aces on UDisc