Astoria Parks Advisory Board Meeting - May 27, 2026

Note: The agenda and minutes indicate this meeting occurred on April 22, 2026, but the provided metadata states May 27, 2026. This summary uses the provided date as instructed.

The Astoria Parks Advisory Board convened to discuss park master plan updates, e-bike regulations on the Riverwalk, disc golf feasibility, budget adjustments, and facility improvements. The meeting included recognition of volunteers and staff, updates from the Astoria Community Foundation, and approval of minutes from the previous meeting.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes (March 25, 2026): Approved unanimously (motion by Nathan Pinkstaff, second by Britta Herwig).

Public Comments & Testimony

• None.

Discussion Items

• E-Bikes on Riverwalk: Board members discussed safety concerns regarding fast-moving e-bikes and conflicts with pedestrians. Staff reported that the police chief cited enforcement challenges and that the initial approach will focus on education and signage (reflective signs already installed). A future ban may be considered if issues persist.
• Disc Golf Course Feasibility at Shively Park: Staff presented a concept for a disc golf course using wooded city property. Board members expressed general support with caveats to minimize use near the middle school during school hours and ensure sustainable maintenance. A motion to support exploration and public engagement passed.
• Parks Master Plan Update: Staff and consultant Ian Sisson (McKenzie) presented the final draft of the master plan, highlighting community engagement (over 200 attendees, 500 written comments, 2,000 survey participants). The plan was presented to City Council the previous evening with positive reception. Board voted to recommend approval to City Council.
• Cemetery Fee Changes: Staff proposed a 3% increase (down from the planned 5%) and a reduction in concrete liner costs (from $1,700 to approximately $1,100) to keep prices affordable. Board motion to support the fee schedule passed.
• Evergreen Fields Grant Application: Staff outlined a grant application to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department for a second ball field, covered picnic area, play structure, site safety improvements, and restroom renovations. Letters of support from the school district were noted. Board motion to support the application passed.
• Staff Reports: Quarterly report highlighted revenue exceedances (aquatics on track for $550,000 vs. $450,000 goal; recreation on track for $400,000 vs. $300,000 goal), upcoming events (Splash-in movie on June 13, Run on the River on May 30 with 680 participants, Astoria Column centennial in July), and a new interpretive sign about York (enslaved explorer) to be unveiled at the Column.

Key Outcomes

• Minutes approved unanimously.
• Motion to recommend Parks Master Plan to City Council passed unanimously.
• Motion to support disc golf course exploration and public engagement passed unanimously.
• Motion to support cemetery fee changes (3% increase, liner reduction) passed unanimously.
• Motion to support Evergreen Fields grant application passed unanimously.
• Next meeting: May 27, 2026 (per the future meetings agenda); June 24, 2026 following that.