Fitchburg Parks Commission Regular Meeting - June 4, 2026

The Fitchburg Parks Commission met on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included public comments, approval of consent items, discussion and action on two resolutions, staff reports, and planning for future agenda items. The meeting adjourned at 6:57 PM.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Patrick Cheney (resident) addressed the commission during the call to order regarding the late posting of the agenda. He noted that the agenda was posted 36 hours before the meeting, violating the city's standard practice of posting by noon on the Friday prior. He warned that if not posted 24 hours in advance, the meeting would be illegal under state law. Staff responded that the delay was due to a direct referral item awaiting financial review.
• Patrick Cheney also spoke during the discussion of Resolution R 12626 (athletic court renovations). He questioned the funding source (property taxes), argued that the Swan Creek tennis court only needed crack filling rather than full replacement, and stated that the Wildwood South tennis court appeared nearly new and did not require resurfacing. He suggested instead resurfacing the Magaw tennis courts for pickleball use. He urged commissioners to inspect the courts in person before voting.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes – The minutes from the previous meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote.
• Approval of the Agenda – The agenda was approved as written by unanimous voice vote.

Discussion Items

• Ordinance 2026-017 (Clerical Correction to Park Closure Ordinance) – Eric (staff) explained that the amendment adds the word "pathways" to allow passage through parks during closing hours and standardizes time references to Central Standard/Daylight Time. The ordinance was approved unanimously.
• Resolution R 8926 (Rental Policy for Host Ahochi) – Eric presented the draft policy, noting that Host Ahochi is a unique facility (educational, multi-purpose, with a kitchen). The policy would initially limit rentals to civic organizations, excluding private parties, due to lack of an attendant. Commissioner Christopher Piguero proposed amendments including stronger non-endorsement language and a resident/taxpayer priority clause. Commissioner Heidi Reynolds raised concerns about excluding families. Staff recommended legal review of the proposed amendments before adoption. After discussion, a motion to table the resolution for legal and staff review was made and seconded, then passed unanimously. The item will return at the July meeting.
• Resolution R 12626 (Acceptance of Bids for Swan Creek and Wildwood South Athletic Court Renovations) – Eric presented the bid package: $300,000 total, funded from TID closure excess increment ($250,000) and capital property tax levy ($44,000). The work includes a full rebuild of Swan Creek tennis courts (mill, overlay, new fence) and resurfacing of Swan Creek basketball court and Wildwood South tennis court (crack filling, re-fiberglassing, repainting). A bid alternate for post-tension concrete at Swan Creek was not recommended due to excessive cost. Expected completion by October 15, 2026. Commissioners Sue and Chris noted water pooling and poor condition at Swan Creek and supported the maintenance. The resolution was approved unanimously.

Staff Reports & Updates

• Parks Maintenance: Staff repaired three leaks at McKee Park splash pad, which is now operational. Storm damage cleanup occurred May 18-19. Staff attended flagger safety training.
• Forestry: Spring planting of 263 trees completed on schedule; a forestry assistant is assisting with warranty work.
• Communications: A new "Park Spotlight" series will highlight features of individual parks, starting with McKee Park. Commissioners suggested adding user-generated content and Spanish translations.
• Budget Planning: Eric noted he is working on the 2027 operational budget and may propose funding for a summer intern and woodlot management implementation.

Key Outcomes

• Vote on Ordinance 2026-017: Approved unanimously.
• Vote to Table Resolution R 8926: Motion carried unanimously; staff to review proposed amendments and bring revised policy to July meeting.
• Vote on Resolution R 12626: Approved unanimously.
• Future Agenda Items:
  • Kids Crossing concept design: Staff to decide between a special public input meeting (PIM) in July or inclusion on the July 9 Parks Commission agenda. Commissioners requested outreach to school districts, the Community Equity Advisory Committee, and families to encourage youth input.
  • The revised Host Ahochi rental policy will be on the July 9 agenda.
• Announcements:
  • Pride flag raising at City Hall on June 5 at 12:00 PM.
  • Juneteenth flag raising on June 17 at 3:30 PM.
  • Popsicles in the Park event at Hegel Jamestown Park on June 11 from 4:30-6:00 PM.
• Next Regular Meeting: July 9, 2026 (second Thursday, to avoid the holiday).