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Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 1 of 7 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES September 24, 2026 Regular Meeting The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Ludwig at 5:02 p.m. on September 24, 2026, in Government Center Room 204 & virtually via Microsoft Teams. 1. ROLL CALL Members Present: Ruth Ludwig, Elizabeth Norén, Gene Rosburg, David Kroll, Joe Radtke City Staff Present: Bridgit Maruksa, Kara Czapinski, Jodi Saylor, Ryan Wintlend, Caitlin Knoll Others Present: Shelley Nelson, Richard Kaufman, Henry Cambell, Dan Blank 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2.1. Parks & Recreation Commission (Meeting held May 28, 2026) MOTION by Rosburg, second by Norén, and carried to approve the minutes from May 28, 2026. 3. NEW BUSINESS 3.1. 2026 Summer Playground Program Recap. Caitlin Knoll provided an update on the Summer Playground Program, which operated Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., June 15 through August 14. The program partnered with the School District to provide lunch and snacks at all six sites. There were limited weather-related cancellations, with the program closed for three days due to smoke. Activities included field trips, paddleboarding, roller-skating, and twice- weekly visits to the YMCA, with grant funding covering the cost of paddleboarding. The six sites were Webster Park, Central Park, Billings Park, 18 Oaks Park, Hammond Park, and Wade Bowl Park. Webster, Central, and Billings continued to have the highest attendance, while registration increased at Wade Bowl and Webster. There were 352 total registrations, with approximately 170–187 program hours provided at each site. Final payroll and expenditure figures were not yet available, but expenses were generally consistent with prior years. In response to questions regarding next year, Knoll stated that no major program changes were currently needed but welcomed suggestions. Staffing levels would continue to be based on attendance, with efforts made to avoid having only one staff member at a site. Operations at Wade Bowl stabilized following the opening of the splash pad, with no reported accidents. 3.2. 2026 Bayside Sounds Recap. Jodi Saylor reported that the only cancellation was during the week affected by smoke, compared with approximately four cancellations the previous year. Average attendance increased to approximately 230, with some concerts reaching 300 attendees and total attendance of approximately 1,600. Hammond Park and the Old Firehouse and Police Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 2 of 7 Museum were added as concert locations, with attendees responding positively to the opportunity to enjoy music while touring the museum. The series continued to offer children’s bubble dances and added games, along with food and beverage options including a food truck, Earth Rider beer, and a coffee and ice cream truck. Saylor noted that vendors reported sufficient sales to make participation worthwhile. Saylor stated that the current locations appeared to be the best fit for the series as attendance at Kelly Park had declined the previous year. Maruska noted that the museum benefited from increased foot traffic, tours, and gift-shop sales during the concert. Museum staff are considering whether a more resident-oriented free admission model could be offered, sharing that Bayside Sounds offered a good lesson in this. Commissioner Norén recommended moving the audience from the street to the adjacent city-owned lot to provide shade for the band and audience while maintaining the safety benefits of closing the street. 3.3. Recommendation to approve the Ice Sculpture Agreement with Ice Guro Events for the 2027 Lake Superior Ice Festival in an amount not to exceed $42,060.00. Saylor explained that the previous ice sculpture provider, Crystal Clear, was no longer able to handle an event of this size. After issuing a direct request for proposals from six Midwest providers within a reasonable distance from Superior, the City received two responses and selected Ice Guru based on its 30-year history, references, and ability to create a variety of sculptures. The City plans to bring back the business sculpture program, with Ice Guru providing 20 sculptures and the capacity for up to 24. Saylor is pursuing Tourism Development Commission grant funding to help offset costs for businesses. Ice Guru would also provide live sculpting from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with up to four artists, as well as the traditional throne and larger sculptures at Festival Park. Business sculptures will cost $630 if ordered by November 13 and $735 afterward, with anticipated grant funding reducing the business cost to approximately $150 or $250. The City’s share of the business sculpture program was estimated at approximately $26,000, with the overall sculpture expense remaining consistent with the festival budget. MOTION by Radtke, second by Rosburg, and carried to approve the Ice Sculpture Agreement with Ice Guro Events for the 2027 Lake Superior Ice Festival in an amount not to exceed $42,060.00. Jodi Saylor left the meeting at 5:34 p.m. Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 3 of 7 3.4. Confirm 2027 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Dates. It was agreed to maintain quarterly meetings on the fourth Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m. with the March meetings designated for the review and approval of grants. The tentative dates for 2027 are as follows: • January 28, 2027 • March 11, 2027 • March 18, 2027 • May 27, 2027 • September 23, 2027 MOTION by Rosburg, second by Norén, and carried to approve the 2027 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Dates. Caitlin Knoll left the meeting at 5:37 p.m. 4. OLD BUSINESS 4.1. Faxon Creek Cross City Trail Presentation by COGGS. Richard Kaufman described the proposed durable-surface, multi-use trail system, which would begin near the Bong Museum and Harborview Park and connect gaps between existing trails, parks, and green spaces. The trail would support biking, walking, hiking, snowshoeing, running, and other recreational activities while reducing reliance on city streets. COGGS used grant funding to develop a phased conceptual plan with proposed general alignments and construction logistics, and an estimated five- to ten-year timeline. The proposed route would connect areas including Central Park, Heritage Park, the Superior High School, Wessman Arena, Northern Lights, the University of Wisconsin-Superior, and existing Osaugie and Millennium trails. Potential amenities and partnerships discussed included skills parks, running loops, bike-repair clinics, bike sharing, and partnerships with schools, the university, YMCA, and outdoor recreation groups. Commissioners discussed challenges with crossing Osaugie and other major streets, noting that a bridge would require substantial funding and that existing signalized crossings could be used in the short term. The City would coordinate permitting and internal project management, while COGGS would focus on fundraising, grants, and construction consultation. A special committee including Commission members, COGGS, Superior Trails, and City staff was proposed to review trail alignments and technical issues, with community engagement to follow once a preliminary budget is established and funding is available. COGGS would continue to use volunteers for routine trail maintenance, while City staff would handle larger trees, equipment, and work requiring municipal resources. Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 4 of 7 4.2. Recommendation to approve a Fundraising Memorandum of Understanding with COGGS for Trail Improvements and Future Connections. MOTION by Rosburg, second by Norén, and carried to approve a Fundraising Memorandum of Understanding with COGGS for Trail Improvements and Future Connections. 4.3. Recommendation to approve a Trail Maintenance Agreement with COGGS for Pokegama, Kelly Ravine and Senior Slide. MOTION by Rosburg, second by Knoll, and carried to approve a Trail Maintenance Agreement with COGGS for Pokegama, Kelly Ravine and Senior Slide. Richard Kaufman, Henry Campbell, and Dan Blank left the meeting at 6:19 p.m. 5. RECURRING BUSINESS 5.1. My Civic Reports Calls concerning overnight camping, tents, and encampments were reported weekly on average, with the situation becoming notably challenging during the summer months. The existing approach is led by PD and focused on relocating individuals and managing temporary setups, yet it lacks a permanent solution. Meanwhile, regular park reports continued to reflect standard issues, including overflowing trash cans and sporadic tree- related concerns. 5.2. Superintendent Update 5.2.1. Recent developments at Hammond Park, Benny Peterson Park, and 18 Oaks Playground have either been completed or are nearing completion. These projects encompassed the installation of new surfacing and playground equipment, the construction of a full-size basketball court along with fencing, as well as the addition of swings, benches, and garbage cans. Furthermore, kiosks have been established at the boat launch, trailheads, municipal forest, and dog park, while the Princess Theatre parking lot has been upgraded with new gravel and lighting. 5.2.2. Four infields at ball fields underwent renovation to eliminate crabgrass and address raised buildup that posed trip hazards and hindered ball movement. 5.2.3. At Billings Park, two rounds of goat grazing have been conducted, with an additional season anticipated before staff assess the remaining buckthorn, hillside stabilization, and the removal of dead ash trees, which is expected to occur around 2028.. 5.2.4. The roof at Red Barn has been replaced; however, an inspection revealed that the chimney/stove did not meet compliance standards. Consequently, staff obtained authorization to install a new UL-listed wood stove along with a Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 5 of 7 double-wall stainless chimney internally, which will help eliminate contractor expenses. This replacement aims to enhance efficiency and safety while preserving the wood-burning capability of the site. Additionally, a windstorm caused damage to the alley backstop, resulting in an unexpected expense for fencing repairs. 5.2.5. Repeated use of pea gravel in tree beds led to the accumulation of sediment and vegetation, which in turn diminished drainage efficiency. Consequently, staff recommended that gravel beds be entirely replaced every two years or that the number of trees planted be reduced. This year's planting efforts included replacements within the neighborhood and larger areas along major corridors. 5.2.6. Increased park usage necessitated daily bathroom cleaning rather than the previous schedule of three times a week. It was anticipated that running-water facilities would be winterized within two to three weeks, contingent upon weather conditions, while vault toilets would continue to be accessible throughout the year. Additionally, the splash pad had been winterized, and staff were in the process of preparing the hockey rink and ski trails. 5.2.7. The commission has reconsidered the option of paving a lesser-used hockey rink to enhance ice-making capabilities and facilitate summer roller hockey activities. Wintlend indicated that staff could provide an internal cost estimate; however, the paving process would necessitate the removal and reinstallation of boards, as well as regrading the surface. This initiative would demand prioritization within the capital budget or the acquisition of additional funding, making it unfeasible for the current year. Meanwhile, the rink will remain operational without paving, although fluctuations in the season length and ice quality may occur. 5.3. Director’s Update 5.3.1. A grant of $178,000 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in collaboration with the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Fire Department, will support the preparation for prescribed burns at Wisconsin Point and associated activities. The funding will cover project labor and pre- thinning efforts, thereby minimizing the financial burden on the city budget. Additionally, the Parks and Fire staff intend to release a RFP for the necessary tree work. 5.3.2. A cultural connections project, funded by a $100,000 EPA grant, aims to facilitate concept planning and the final design for a possible boardwalk or trail connection near Wisconsin Point. This initiative will also include the installation of interpretive signage that highlights the cultural importance of the area. An RFQ is expected to be released in the upcoming week, with bids anticipated to be submitted within roughly a month. 5.3.3. Staff members were engaged in the process of revising beach regulations and ordinance signage, substituting inadequately positioned large signs with more comprehensible road-style signs at access points. To enhance visitor experience, QR codes would be incorporated to link to the updated webpage. Additionally, the Fire Department intended to conduct training activities concerning Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 6 of 7 approximately 20 dead ash trees among an estimated 400 in the designated area. 5.3.4. An Eagle Scout project has successfully established a hammock station within the municipal forest at Dwight’s Point, complemented by the installation of a formal forest service-style pit toilet in a more secluded area. These enhancements are designed to promote increased recreational and camping activities, with a public announcement regarding the improvements forthcoming. 5.3.5. The proposed switchback trail at Shafers Beach has been postponed due to limited staff capacity. The project is anticipated to commence in early spring or early summer, contingent upon the thawing of the ground and staff capacity. 5.3.6. Gouge Park continues to be included in the 2027 planning schedule, awaiting the outcome of the budget process and an additional funding request informed by survey responses. Should sufficient funds be secured, the project may extend beyond merely replacing the playground to incorporate facilities such as restrooms and other desired amenities. Conversely, if funding proves to be constrained, the staff is contemplating the installation of equipment suitable for both older and younger children. 5.3.7. Staff collaborated with the Superior Pickleball and Tennis Association, which has been a strong advocate for enhancing court conditions. As a result of this partnership, a windscreen was installed at Central Park, and the association successfully raised funds for the installation of more windscreens in the upcoming season. With an increase in participation from younger users, the city anticipates that demand may surpass current capacity, prompting considerations for additional court locations and improvements in quality. SPATA’s desire for an indoor court was communicated. 5.3.8. A pilot winter fat-bike trail is under consideration at Nemadji Golf Course, utilizing cart paths instead of the greens. Staff members have addressed the potential interaction with the current snowmobile route and acknowledged that the golf course operator will need to figure out trail grooming. This pilot initiative aims to evaluate both the feasibility and the level of usage of a trail in this location. 5.3.9. A spring event is being organized at the newly established Benny Peterson Park to commemorate its opening and to distribute complimentary basketballs. The implementation of a take-a-ball, leave-a-ball rack at the park, which could serve as an additional resource, allowing children to access basketballs without the necessity of bringing their own. 5.3.10. Members were encouraged to provide information for the newly established kiosks located at the trailhead and boat launch, which offer available display space. Preparations for the Lake Superior Ice Festival are currently underway. The Parks & Recreation Division has launched a Facebook page that has garnered around 1,000 followers, with a goal of expanding this number to approximately 4,000 in the future. Furthermore, staff have requested an Parks & Rec Commission – 9/24/2026 Meeting (Meets quarterly on the 4th Thursday.) * Attended the meeting virtually Page 7 of 7 extension of Human Resources support for Denise McDonald’s temporary part- time role to improve assistance during major events. Ryan Wintlend left the meeting at 7:08 p.m. 5.4. Museum’s Director Update 5.4.1. Upcoming museum programming included Halloween activities and a pumpkin- patch event at Fairlawn. The group also discussed repairs and winter closures, completion of the Lois Patterson bedroom restoration targeted for December 1, and possible revival of a murder-mystery program. 5.4.2. The Historic Preservation Committee is evaluating the possibility of having museums report directly to them instead of the Parks and Recreation Commission, pending the establishment of bylaws and implementation specifics. The initial discussion regarding this museum-related matter is anticipated to take place during the committee's meeting in October. 5.5. Future Agenda Items 5.5.1 Parks CIP 5.6. Confirm the next meeting date as January 28, 2027, at 5:00 p.m. in Room 204 of the Government Center. 6. ADJOURNMENT Vice-Chair Ludwig announced the meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m. Respectfully submitted by Kara Czapinski