Parks & Recreation Commission

City of East Grand Rapids Regular Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Agenda YouTube Livestream: https://bit.ly/3s8WgQY July 27 , 2026 – 6:00 p.m. (EGR Community Center – 750 Lakeside Drive) 1. Call to Order 2. Public Comment by persons in attendance. 3. Report of Commissioners. 4. Minutes of the regular meeting held June 22, 2026 (enclosed – approval requested). 5. Special Event Calendar (enclosed – information only) 6. Consider request to approve Special Event Permits (enclosed – action requested) a. 2026 EGR Crew Team Port & Pencil Event b. 2027 Corewell Health Irish Jig c. 2026 Resolution Run 7. 2026 Election of Parks and Recreation Commission Officers 8. East Basketball Club Registration Process (enclosed- feedback requested) 9. Waterfront Park Phase II Update (verbal- information only) 10. Report of Director 11. Communications * * * The City will provide reasonable auxiliary aids for individuals requiring them for effective communication in programs and services of the City. Notice must be made to the City five (5) days prior to the program or service requesting the specific auxiliary aid.  EAST GRAND RAPIDS PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING EGR COMMUNITY CENTER COMMISSION CHAMBERS 6:00 PM Monday, June 22, 2026 The regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was held in the City Commission Chambers in the East Grand Rapids Community Center. Michelle Brown called the meeting to order at 6:03 pm. Present in Person: Paul Bratt, Michelle Brown, Ryan Burdick, Larry Fisher, Lan Le, and Ben Smith Absent: Lauren Jacoby, Steve Krogman and Patrick Parkes Also Present: Parks and Recreation Director, Derek Melville and Sara Coffey Guests: None Public Comment: None Report of Commissioners: Larry Fisher – Congratulated the Parks and Recreation Department and Sara for the marketing of the Farmers Market. The improvement of the market is noticeable. The Trailblazer on July 4th needs participants and volunteers. Paul Bratt – Enjoying the summer programming, such as tennis and Safety Town, requested more detailed information regarding location for the first day. Ben Smith – Reported that the track is gone and that street hockey at the Middle School is fantastic. Lan Le – Appreciates the variety of our summer programming. Michelle Brown – Echo the summer programming. Son is enjoying the basketball skills camp. Heard from a bird watcher in the community that the west side of Waterfront Park has wild grass areas that should not be cut down in the winter. Requested some sustainable maintenance. Ryan Burdick – Nothing Parks and Recreation June 22, 2026, meeting – page 2 Review of minutes: Minutes of April 27, 2026, Parks and Recreation Commission meeting were presented for approval. A correction was received from Lauren Jacoby via email stating she is not on the Harvest Committee, and she is concerned about HS drop off for sports early in the morning, when there are road closures. MOTION to approve as amended: Bratt SUPPORT: Fisher YES: Bratt, Brown, Burdick, Fisher, Lan, and Smith (6) NO: (0) MINUTES APPROVED as amended Special Event Calendar – FYI Waterfront Park Phase II Update: Director Melville reviewed the 2024 Waterfront Park (WFP) Phase II process. A $500,000 grant was awarded by the DNR for the following items: • Wetland Restoration • Remove invasive species • Add native plants • Add additional parking The final site plan has been compiled by Abonmarche from the feedback and survey submissions obtained during the May and June community engagement sessions, each included 2 designated days for city staff and Abonmarche staff to meet with the community both at WFP and the Community Center. Approximately 120 people took the survey. Comments ranged from not wanting any changes to supporting all changes. Parking was noted as being a big topic. A toddler playground is not part of the grant project, but many community members have requested adding one. Adjustments made to the design: • Scaled down parking from the first design • Addition of a play element • Walkways to be a material like crushed limestone • Boardwalks • Leave vegetation buffer between Reeds Lake Blvd to help with noise blocking Fisher: Heard there are concerns from the community about the playground location. Safety is a concern if it is on the East side due to crossing the road and the disruption of the quieter nature of the West side. Parks and Recreation June 22, 2026, meeting – page 3 Bratt: As a parent of toddlers and a frequent user, can see the east side as being more heavily used. This side also has geese and water, which could cause safety concerns. Suggested the possibility of adding fencing. Le: Likes the nature play Wycoff Playground, it blends with nature as opposed to looking like a school playground. The East side is closer to the water. Wondered about added cost for benches and trashcans. Burdick: Asked if the play area wouldn’t be covered because WFP Phase I was being considered. Melville: The play area will not be funded by any part of the grant. It will need to be fully funded by the city. Brown: Likes the natural look. It is closer to the water but likes that the area is open and doesn’t have trees for kids to hide behind. Would like to see fencing added and suggest shorter play structures that would blend into nature. The open area with a breeze should help to keep mosquitoes away. Burdick: Suggested adding a watershed in this area, which will be an interactive way to show how water moves. Asked how many additional parking spots will be added to the lot and how many are there now? Will overnight parking be allowed? Melville: Possibly 20, there are currently 14. With a total of around 35. The preference from the community has been no overnight parking. Brown: Do we need to add parking to receive the DNR Funds? Melville: Additional parking was part of the grant, if no spots were added a petition would need to be made with the DNR. Burdick: Supports adding some spots but looks like the community would like less than 20 added. Smith: Feels it would be prudent to add spots. Brown: Supports adding parking now to prevent needing to add it later. Questioned if the parking lot would be one or two ways. Melville: That will be worked out once the number of spots is determined. Could see how the 4th of July could benefit greatly from a one-way parking lot. But the experts will determine what is best. Le: Are there concerns of people parking on Durant to access WFP? Is there a crosswalk? Melville: Currently there is not a crosswalk. There is a walkway and neighbors are concerned about people parking there. Burdick: Noted that runners frequently park at the Community Center or the Middle School. Le: Asked if the Reeds Lake Trailhead could be relocated to the Department of Public Works (DPW) building. Melville: This could be investigated more. Burdick and Brown: Supports the move. Bratt: Suggested looking closer to the road. Burdick: Along the riverbank, with a way to cross it. Parks and Recreation June 22, 2026, meeting – page 4 Melville: This has not been looked at. Brown: Asked if there was a target number of boat trailer parking spots? Melville: Not a targeted number, but some multi-use large spots, mostly regular spots. Fisher: Trails at Calvin don’t allow running. Could there be “no e-bike” signs? Supports one-way trails. Brown: Agrees. Larry: How can the trails be made ADA accessible? Burdick: Welcomes Commissioner Parkes input. Melville: Crushed limestone and paved trails would be universally accessible. There are no plans to use the same material that was used by the rock. Burdick: Is concerned that paving the area to Durant would welcome e-bikes to use as a cut through. Suggests all trails be covered limestone to prevent skateboards and bikes. Melville: Having bike racks and signage indicating no bikes should help. Requests feedback from Commission about having a straight out and back trail verses a loop trail. Bratt: Believes power lines go through that area. Melville: It is a right of way/utility corridor. Burdick: Suggested moving the trail closer to the road to have a little loop, which would be really cool without the invasive species. Le: Agrees. Smith: Noted that Rockford has out and back trails. Brown: Has concerns about trees, how many will be lost? Melville: Noted there is lots of vegetation and lots of invasive species. Once the final design is determined and Abonmarche has GPS located all the big trees that should be saved, then new native trees will be added that will support what the birds and bees want. Le: Likes the idea of an outdoor classroom, what would it be used for? Melville: It will be located in a central location, and it would be an area where education about birds, wetlands and wetland restoration can be provided. Water sampling could be conducted there as well. This area would support environmental education and would have signs to support learning. Burdick: History of the area and story of the restoration process is powerful. Bratt: Likes that the city will be bringing back the natural state. Smith: Supports using important dates such as filling in of the wetlands, the city purchase, restoration. This is a way to educate the community and students. Melville: Gave kudos to previous city staff for having a detailed history of the Waterfront Park land. Plans to summarize input from tonight and bring it to the City Commission. If approved, then information will be sent to the Abonmarche team. They will make final designs, and the bid package will be submitted for approval by the DNR. The final design will also be submitted for EGLE review and Parks and Recreation June 22, 2026, meeting – page 5 approval. A bid package can hopefully go out in December or January. The city will have 2 years to complete the project after approval by the DNR. Brown: Suggests that signage kiosks be muted and not so eye-catching to pull away from nature. Report of Director The Parks and Recreation Department is having a very busy summer. The team is highly engaged in all of the activities. Sara Coffey has taken the Farmers Market by the reins; there are more vendors spots than ever! We are getting positive feedback. The GVBA has mixed reviews about how the Art Fair went. The Guild reported that they had optimistic vendors. They did well and can see growth for the future. Parks and Recreation: • Concerts in the Park are taking place on Mondays in John Collins Park, more this year to help support the local community • Basketball skills drop-in has about 200 participants • Volleyball skills drop-in has approximately 80 participants • Manhattan Park Splash Pad has experienced some issues with the foot sensor. The contractor will be fixing it under warranty. Increased water usage has been a concern but since a temporary schedule has been implemented less water is being used. The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 pm Next Meeting: July 27, 2026  East Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation 2026 Special Event Calendar Date Event Time Participants Approval Closure Ins. 3/14/26 Corewell Health Irish Jig 6:00am-11:30am 2500 9/22/25 x 5/16/26 Revive & Thrive 5K 8:00am-12:00pm 400 1/26/26 x 5/23/26 2026 HS Grad Party 8:00am-4:00pm 450-500 3/23/26 6/5-6/7/2026 EGR Fine Art Fair* All weekend 4000 11/24/25 x 6/27/26 Reeds Lake Run 8:00am-11:30am 2500 2/23/26 x 7/4/26 Trailblazer Run/Walk* 8:30am-11:00am 500 3/23/26 x 8/19/26 Taste of East* 5:00pm - 8:30pm 2500 4/27/26 x 8/2/26 EGR Gaslight Criterium 9:00am-5:00pm 200 11/24/25 x 9/12/26 Reeds Lake Triathlon 7:30am - 12:45pm 900 2/23/26 x 9/25/26 East Grand Rapids MS Regatta 6:30am - 4:00pm 700 11/24/25 10/10/26 EGR Harvest & Beer Festival* 10am - 3pm 1000 4/27/26 x 10/25/26 Kisscross Cyclocross (Sunday) 8:00am-4:00pm 70 4/27/26 11/26/26 Gobble Wobble Run 8:00am - 11:00am 1400 1/26/26 x 11/27/26 GVBA Tree Lighting* 4pm-8:30pm 1500 x 12/31/26 BCBS Resolution Run 3:30-4:45pm 800 x * events denoted with a * do not count towards the 8 road closures allowed each year. Non-Special Event Permit Applications KDL Parties in the Park TIME TABLES* 9:30am-12:00pm 6/16 Park Party " 2 6/23 Park Party " 6 6/30 Park Party " 6 7/7 Park Party " 2 7/14 Park Party " 2 7/21 Park Party " 2 7/28 Park Party " 6 8/4 Park Party " 6 * Grounds crew provides tables F:\FILES\scoffey\Agenda and Minutes\2026-27 Agenda Materials\2026 Commission Special Event Calendar 7/23/20265:01 PM  Parks and Recreation Special Event Policy PURPOSE Interested individuals, groups, companies, firms, or organizations can apply for a permit to use public spaces in East Grand Rapids for the purpose of hosting an event that utilizes City parkland, right-of-way or property. Each event requires the organizer to complete an application which goes through a City review process. GUIDELINES Special Event Permit Guidelines 1. The attached Special Event Permit form must be completed in full and submitted at least 60 days prior to the event date. 2. Walking events will not exceed 1,000 participants. 3. Running events will not exceed 4,500 participants. 4. Running and other competitive events MUST have medical personnel onsite during the event. City staff may require other events to provide medical personnel if deemed necessary. 5. Special Event Permit applications will be accepted for first time events no earlier than 10 months before the date of the event. Returning events may submit Special Event Permit applications one year in advance if the event is in the same month. 6. The City will allow two Special Event Permits per month. 7. The City 4th of July events, Tree Lighting Ceremony, school homecoming parade and school events sanctioned by the East Grand Rapids school administration will not count towards the two events per month. 8. The City will allow eight Special Event Permits per year for events that require road closures. Events contained to the Gaslight Village Business District that require a road closure do not count towards the eight road closure events per year limit. All events must be reviewed and approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission. 9. Event may not start before 7:00 AM (set up for event can start earlier). 10. Weekend walking and running events should conclude by 12:00 PM. All participants must be off the roads and/or sidewalks unless otherwise stated on the Special Event Permit. 11. City and school properties (school grounds, parks, streets, sidewalks, etc.) shall be returned to their original condition and open for public use within 90 minutes of the event approved end time unless given an exception which will be designated on your permit when approved.  12. Special Event Permit applications must be completed online and submitted. The permit fee must be paid before your date will be secured and your request placed on the Parks & Recreation Commission agenda. 13. There will be no alcoholic beverages present or consumed while using City parkland or School property except for events within the approved Social District boundaries. If an event is within the Social District boundaries, all Social District guidelines must be followed. 14. Copy of appropriate insurance coverage must be submitted no later than 10 days prior to the event date. If a copy of the appropriate insurance is not filed with our department as requested your Special Event Permit may be revoked. 15. The sponsor of the event shall receive a written confirmation once the Special Event Permit has been approved or denied by the Parks & Recreation Commission. 16. Events requiring additional assistance from City personnel will be charged for the services utilized (Public Safety, Public Works or Parks and Recreation). 17. The sponsoring organization must inform the Parks and Recreation Department of their set up procedures and layout of the event. No tent stakes will be allowed on park or school property unless given specific permission by City staff and stated on your permit. The sponsoring organization will be responsible for damages and repairs to any facilities. 18. The City of East Grand Rapids reserves the right to cancel Special Events due to weather, unforeseen conditions or other valid reasons. Permit holders would be notified promptly if issues arise concerning the event. The City of East Grand Rapids reserves the right to change Special Event Policy without notice. Adopted by the East Grand Rapids City Commission _________________, 2023  CITY OF EAST GRAND RAPIDS 750 LAKESIDE DRIVE SE • EAST GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN 49506 (616) 949-2110 www.eastgrmi.gov DEREK MELVILLE PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR MEMORANDUM TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners FROM: Derek Melville, Parks and Recreation Director DATE: July 21, 2026 RE: EGR Crew Team Special Event The East Grand Rapids Crew team is requesting approval to host a small community fundraising event at John Collins Park near the boathouse. The event would be free and open to the public and is intended to raise funds in support of the EGR Crew program. The event would include light refreshments, music, and tours of the Crew team boathouse, with artwork available for purchase. Proceeds from artwork sales would directly benefit the EGR Crew team. No alcohol will be served by the event organizers, but attendees would be permitted to purchase beverages from participating Social District businesses and bring them into the park in accordance with Social District regulations. While two special event permits have already been issued for September, one of those events is organized and approved by East Grand Rapids Public Schools. Under the City's Special Event Policy, school-sponsored events do not count toward the limit of two special events per month. As a result, this request remains consistent with the City's policy. If inclement weather occurs, the event would be relocated to the EGR Crew boathouse to ensure the fundraiser can proceed as planned. Staff have reviewed the request and determined that it is consistent with the City's Special Event Policy and recommends approval of the special event permit. To: East Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation Commission Re: Event Proposal & Request Respectfully Submitted by: Brigid Avery, EGR Crew Parent Association Vice President Event Details Port & Pencil: A Fundraiser for the EGR Crew Team Sunday, September 27, 2026 5-7 pm John Collins Park, adjacent to the EGR Boathouse Sponsored by: The EGR Crew Parent Association The Event Experience "Port & Pencil" is designed to be a sophisticated yet casual evening of art and community. Guests will enjoy signature, themed drinks from Social District partners (for purchase) and charcuterie in a special event tent accompanied by live music near the boathouse. The highlight of the evening will be the unveiling of a commissioned art piece by famed local artist, Chris LaPorte. While the main sponsor of the event, a generous Crew Family, holds the original, limited edition prints and posters as well as additional paintings and drawings will be available for purchase by other guests to further support the team. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the boathouse and meet Chris LaPorte personally. The event is free and open to the entire community, and we anticipate that guests beyond the crew family will be interested in attending. Additional Information In the case of inclement weather, the art show will be moved into the Boathouse, but drinks will remain outside of the boathouse, in accordance with city and school policy. The Athletic Director and School Board have given the green light on the fundraiser and the event from the standpoint of the EGRHS. We are seeking the approval from the Commission for the event permit. 7/13/26, 3:26 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 Print Special Event Permit Application - Submission #17507 Date Submitted: 7/13/2026 Pemit Fee Applicant must call the Parks & Recreation Department at 616-949-1750 to pay the permit fee before the application will be processed. Your event date will not be secure until payment is received. We accept AMEX, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. Office hours are M-F 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. This permit must be completed and submitted at least 60 days before the scheduled event. The Parks and Recreation Commission will review permit applications and are responsible for final approval. Name of Event* Date of Event* 2027 Irish Jig 5K 3/20/2027 Organization Sponsoring Event* Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan Event Start & End Event Website Address Time* https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/IrishJig 08:00 AM — 11:00 AM Purpose and description of the event to be placed on City website for the general public to view.* The Irish Jig 5K run and walk is a more than 40 year St. Patrick's Day tradition. It represents the first major road race of the year, and supports health and wellness and is also a fundraiser for cancer health prevention and research. Event Contact Email Address* greg.workman@corewellhealth.org Representative First Name* Last Name* Greg Workman https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 1/5 7/13/26, 3:26 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 Address1* 25 Michigan, suite 4100 City* State* Zip* Grand Rapids MI 49503 Daytime Phone* Cell Phone* Email Address* 6163915409 6164660325 greg.workman@corewellhealth.org Alternative Representative First Name* Last Name* Alia Compton Daytime Phone* Cell Phone Email Address* 6163912000 111-222-3333 alia.compton@corewellhealth.org Will you have a Running and other competitive events MUST medical service have medical personnel onsite during the provider onsite?* event. Yes Corewell Health No Name of medical service provider? Estimated Number of Estimated Number of Number of staff Estimated Number of Participants* Spectators* onsite during the adult volunteers on event?* duty?* 3500 1500 25 75 Event Location* Would like to discuss options. attaching prior year route but believe given the track closure a route starting/ending in gaslight would be preferable Describe the location of the event and/or start and finish area if it is a race. https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 2/5 7/13/26, 3:26 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 Does this event Will you require require road Public Safety closures?* Officer involvement for Yes your event?* No Yes No Special Event Permit Guidelines Click Here 1. Map or layout of the event must be submitted before the application will be considered for approval. Highlight the course, route or location of the event on a map and upload using the link below. File Upload Choose File No file chosen 2. All runs must have a lead and trail vehicle. Lead vehicle must have roof top signal with lights and a trail vehicle behind last participant. 3. All events requiring road closures must alert residents along the route or race course at least one week in advance of the event. The information can be conveyed by going door to door, mailer, postcard, flier etc... The information should include name of event, contact person, date, start and end time, location, course map and a short description of the event. A copy of the information must be submitted to the Parks & Recreation Department for our records. 3. Applicant must submit proof of insurance in the following amounts at least 10 days prior to the event: Automobile public liability and property damage for owner and non-owner vehicles in the amount of ($300,000) per occurrence for personal injury and ($500,000) per occurrence for property damage. b. Public liability insurance with a minimum combined single limit of personal injury and property damage liability coverage: ($1,000,000). c. All insurance must name the City of East Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids Public Schools as an additional insured. 4. The permit holder shall agree to clean the route or event site of any litter and trash caused by the event. If the permit holder fails or refuses to properly clean the site or course, thus requiring City Staff to perform further clean up; additional charges will be billed to the permit holder for services. 5. If additional Public Safety or E-Unit personnel have to be called in to cover the event, charges will be billed to the permit holder for these services. 6. If additional equipment or services are requested from one of the City Departments, a separate charge will be billed to the organizer. Permit holder should contact the specific department for individual department charges. Items may include barricades, road closed signs, cones, etc... 7. When submitting a Special Event Permit application, a fee of $250 payable to the City of East Grand Rapids, must be paid before your date will be secured and your request placed on the Parks & Recreation Commission agenda. In the event this application is not approved the permit fee will NOT be refunded. https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 3/5 7/13/26, 3:26 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 8. A disclaimer statement is required on your registration/application form. Releasing the City of East Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids Public Schools from all liability. Either by special reference to the City of East Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids Public Schools or by a general disclaimer statement that would exclude the City as a host organization. A copy of your registration/application form, which contains the disclaimer statement, must be provided at least 10 days prior to your event. Agreement* Signature Box Permit applicant hereby releases the City of East Grand Rapids, its officers, agents, and employees from all liability and waives any and all rights and claims for any and all injuries or damage to person or property, possible exposure to and illness from infectious diseases including but not limited to MRSA, influenza, and COVID-19 and accidents which may occur as a result of the use of City facilities. While particular rules and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of injury, serious illness and death does exist. In addition, applicant agrees to indemnify the city, its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, judgments, losses, damages, demands, and legal proceedings arising out of or resulting from the use of City facilities. I understand that all information submitted to the City of East Grand Rapids is considered public information and subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. I, as the permit applicant, have read and agree to the above regulations and the Special Event Permit Guidelines. I understand that all information submitted to the City of East Grand Rapids is considered public information and subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. The City of East Grand Rapids reserves the right to cancel Special Events due to weather, unforeseen conditions or other valid reasons including COVID-19 Executive Order restrictions. Permit holders would be notified promptly if issues arise concerning the event. Date Application Received Reviewed By Date Reviewed mm/dd/yyyy Sara Coffey mm/dd/yyyy Permit Approval Approved By Date Action Taken Approved mm/dd/yyyy Denied Pending Reason Comments Copies sent to Items City Manager Permit Fee Paid Confirmation Public Safety Permit Fee Waived Letter Sent Insurance Map Submitted or Received Verified Calendar Listing https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 4/5 7/13/26, 3:26 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17507 5/5 7/23/26, 3:28 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 Print Special Event Permit Application - Submission #17133 Date Submitted: 4/27/2026 Pemit Fee Applicant must call the Parks & Recreation Department at 616-949-1750 to pay the permit fee before the application will be processed. Your event date will not be secure until payment is received. We accept AMEX, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. Office hours are M-F 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. This permit must be completed and submitted at least 60 days before the scheduled event. The Parks and Recreation Commission will review permit applications and are responsible for final approval. Name of Event* Date of Event* 44th Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run 12/31/2026 Organization Sponsoring Event* Flies For Good / Stelalfly Event Start & End Event Website Address Time* https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/ResolutionRunEGR 02:00 PM — 05:00 PM https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 1/6 7/23/26, 3:28 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 Purpose and description of the event to be placed on City website for the general public to view.* The Resolution Run: One Last Run December 31, 2026 marks the 44th Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run—a New Year’s Eve tradition in East Grand Rapids. This 4-mile course around Reeds Lake is USATF certified, giving runners and walkers a fast, accurate loop to close out 2026. The main race begins at 2:00 PM, starting near East Grand Rapids Middle School and finishing in front of Collins Park. The Kids Race returns at 1:30 PM for ages 12 and under, with their own course and disco-ball medals waiting at the finish. Since 1982, when Joe O’Brien first gathered runners for this end-of-year tradition, the Resolution Run has been more than a race. It’s a moment to show up, take stock, and head into a new year with intention. Year after year, runners and walkers come out—no matter the weather—to keep it going. We’ll do it again in 2026, and continue Joe’s legacy of giving back by supporting Guiding Light Works. The Details Date: Thursday, December 31, 2025 Start: 2:00 PM at East Grand Rapids Middle School Finish: John Collins Park Kids’ Race: 1:30 PM (12 & under) - 1/2 mile Course: 4-mile USATF certified loop around Reeds Lake Packet Pickup Early: December 30, 4–7 PM at Big Bob’s Pizza Race Day: 12 PM - 2 PM Post race after party and awards: Big Bob’s on Croswell The Goods Custom die-cast medals for the first 1,000 4-milers Disco Ball medals for kids Beanies for all participants Overall and age-group awards across all divisions Event Contact Email Address* laura@stellafly.com Representative First Name* Last Name* Laura Caprara Address1* 2756 abigail street se https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 2/6 7/23/26, 3:28 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 City* State* Zip* grand rapids MI 49506 Daytime Phone* Cell Phone* Email Address* 6164436906 616-443-6906 laura@stellafly.com Alternative Representative First Name* Last Name* Mark Mochel Daytime Phone* Cell Phone Email Address* (616) 914-2246 (616) 914-2246 mdmochel@gmail.com Will you have a Running and other competitive events MUST medical service have medical personnel onsite during the provider onsite?* event. University of Michigan Health West Yes No Name of medical service provider? Estimated Number of Estimated Number of Number of staff Estimated Number of Participants* Spectators* onsite during the adult volunteers on event?* duty?* 1000 250 5 30-50 Event Location* December 31, 2026 marks the 44th Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run—a New Year’s Eve tradition in East Grand Rapids. This 4-mile course around Reeds Lake is USATF certified, giving runners and walkers a fast, accurate loop to close out 2026. The main race begins at 2:00 PM, starting near East Grand Rapids Middle School and finishing in front of Collins Park. The Kids Race returns at 1:30 PM for ages 12 and under, with their own course and disco-ball medals waiting at the finish. Since 1982, when Joe O’Brien first gathered runners for this end-of-year tradition, the Resolution Run has been more than a race. It’s a moment to show up, take stock, and head into a new year with intention. Year after year, runners and walkers come out—no matter the weather—to keep it going. We’ll do it again in 2026, and continue Joe’s legacy of giving back by supporting Guiding Light Works. The Details Date: Thursday, December 31, 2025 Start: 2:00 PM at East Grand Rapids Middle School Finish: John Collins Park Kids’ Race: 1:30 PM (12 & under) - 1/2 mile Course: 4-mile USATF certified loop around Reeds Lake Packet Pickup Early: December 30, 4–7 PM at Big Bob’s Pizza Race Day: 12 PM - 2 PM Post race after party and awards: Big Bob’s on Croswell The Goods Custom die-cast medals for the first 1,000 4-milers Disco Ball medals for kids Beanies for all participants Overall and age-group awards across all divisions Describe the location of the event and/or start and finish area if it is a race. https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 3/6 7/23/26, 3:28 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 Does this event Will you require require road Public Safety closures?* Officer involvement for Yes your event?* No Yes No Special Event Permit Guidelines Click Here 1. Map or layout of the event must be submitted before the application will be considered for approval. Highlight the course, route or location of the event on a map and upload using the link below. File Upload race26018- customSectionAttachment66eaf567002f45.11713166.png 2. All runs must have a lead and trail vehicle. Lead vehicle must have roof top signal with lights and a trail vehicle behind last participant. 3. All events requiring road closures must alert residents along the route or race course at least one week in advance of the event. The information can be conveyed by going door to door, mailer, postcard, flier etc... The information should include name of event, contact person, date, start and end time, location, course map and a short description of the event. A copy of the information must be submitted to the Parks & Recreation Department for our records. 3. Applicant must submit proof of insurance in the following amounts at least 10 days prior to the event: Automobile public liability and property damage for owner and non-owner vehicles in the amount of ($300,000) per occurrence for personal injury and ($500,000) per occurrence for property damage. b. Public liability insurance with a minimum combined single limit of personal injury and property damage liability coverage: ($1,000,000). c. All insurance must name the City of East Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids Public Schools as an additional insured. 4. The permit holder shall agree to clean the route or event site of any litter and trash caused by the event. If the permit holder fails or refuses to properly clean the site or course, thus requiring City Staff to perform further clean up; additional charges will be billed to the permit holder for services. 5. If additional Public Safety or E-Unit personnel have to be called in to cover the event, charges will be billed to the permit holder for these services. 6. If additional equipment or services are requested from one of the City Departments, a separate charge will be billed to the organizer. Permit holder should contact the specific department for individual department charges. Items may include barricades, road closed signs, cones, etc... 7. When submitting a Special Event Permit application, a fee of $250 payable to the City of East Grand Rapids, must be paid before your date will be secured and your request placed on the Parks & Recreation Commission agenda. In the event this application is not approved the permit fee will NOT be refunded. https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 4/6 7/23/26, 3:28 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 8. A disclaimer statement is required on your registration/application form. Releasing the City of East Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids Public Schools from all liability. Either by special reference to the City of East Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids Public Schools or by a general disclaimer statement that would exclude the City as a host organization. A copy of your registration/application form, which contains the disclaimer statement, must be provided at least 10 days prior to your event. Agreement* Signature Box Permit applicant hereby releases the City of East Grand Rapids, its officers, agents, and employees from all liability and waives any and all rights and claims for any and all injuries or damage to person or property, possible exposure to and illness from infectious diseases including but not limited to MRSA, influenza, and COVID-19 and accidents which may occur as a result of the use of City facilities. While particular rules and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of injury, serious illness and death does exist. In addition, applicant agrees to indemnify the city, its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, judgments, losses, damages, demands, and legal proceedings arising out of or resulting from the use of City facilities. I understand that all information submitted to the City of East Grand Rapids is considered public information and subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. I, as the permit applicant, have read and agree to the above regulations and the Special Event Permit Guidelines. I understand that all information submitted to the City of East Grand Rapids is considered public information and subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. The City of East Grand Rapids reserves the right to cancel Special Events due to weather, unforeseen conditions or other valid reasons including COVID-19 Executive Order restrictions. Permit holders would be notified promptly if issues arise concerning the event. Date Application Received Reviewed By Date Reviewed 4/27/2026 Sara Coffey 4/27/2026 Permit Approval Approved By Date Action Taken Approved mm/dd/yyyy Denied Pending Reason Comments Copies sent to Items City Manager Permit Fee Paid Confirmation Public Safety Permit Fee Waived Letter Sent Insurance Map Submitted or Received Verified Calendar Listing https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 5/6 7/23/26, 3:28 PM eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 https://www.eastgrmi.gov/Admin/FormCenter/Submissions/Print/17133 6/6  CITY OF EAST GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT Derek Melville DIRECTOR MEMORANDUM To: Parks and Recreation Commission From: Derek Melville, Director of Parks and Recreation Date: July 23, 2026 RE: Election of Chair and Vice Chair ACTION REQUESTED: That the Parks and Recreation Commission elect a chairperson and vice chairperson for FY 2026-27. BACKGROUND: The City Charter requires that the Parks and Recreation Commission name a chairperson and vice chairperson to preside over meetings. At the July meeting, the Commission will need to nominate one member for chairperson and another member for vice chairperson for 2026-27. Following the nomination period for each position, the commission will vote on the nominations. F:\FILES\scoffey\Agenda and Minutes\2026-27 Agenda Materials\July\Chairperson Election Memo 26-27.doc 750 Lakeside Dr. SE • East Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506-3029 Telephone 616-949-1750 • Fax 616-831-6144 • e-mail egrrec@eastgr.org  CITY OF EAST GRAND RAPIDS 750 LAKESIDE DRIVE SE • EAST GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN 49506 (616) 949-2110 www.eastgrmi.gov DEREK MELVILLE PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR MEMORANDUM TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners FROM: Derek Melville, Parks and Recreation Director DATE: July 21, 2026 RE: East Basketball Club Registration Last fall the Parks and Recreation Department and the Vertical Alignment staff team for basketball (Josh Shattuck and EGRPS Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball Coaches) created a club level basketball program for 3rd-6th grade boys and girls athletes called “The East Basketball Club”. This new offering was in addition to the recreational basketball program the Parks and Recreation Department traditionally offers. The East Basketball Club program includes teams formed from competitive tryouts, a more intensive practice and game schedule, and a longer season that includes games at local basketball facilities and local tournaments. The East Basketball Club was established due to our recent Vertical Alignment initiative efforts with a purpose that differs from our traditional recreation programming. While most Parks & Recreation programs are designed to maximize community participation and provide recreational opportunities to a broad audience, the East Basketball Club was created to support the long-term development of East Grand Rapids student-athletes and strengthen the vertical alignment of basketball within the East Grand Rapids community. The primary objective of the club is to provide a consistent player development experience that aligns with the philosophies, terminology, and skill progression used throughout the East Grand Rapids basketball program. By creating a developmental pathway beginning at the youth level and extending through middle school and high school, the club seeks to better prepare student-athletes while fostering a stronger connection to East athletics. To accomplish this objective, staff recommends limiting participation in the East Basketball Club to East Grand Rapids residents and/or students currently enrolled in East Grand Rapids Public Schools that are either residents of the city, non-residents who live within EGRPS school boundaries, or school of choice attendees at EGRPS. This eligibility standard ensures that the program remains focused on serving the population for which it was created, EGRPS students. Restricting participation provides several benefits: • Supports Vertical Alignment: Coaches can implement a consistent curriculum and development model for athletes who are expected to progress through the East basketball program. • Maximizes Opportunities for East Athletes: Available roster spots remain dedicated to East students and residents, ensuring those the program is intended to serve have access to developmental opportunities.  • Strengthens Community Identity: Participating together throughout youth, middle school, and high school helps build relationships among players, families, and coaches while reinforcing pride in East athletics. • Improves Program Planning: A participant pool tied directly to the East community allows staff to better forecast participation, organize teams, and coordinate coaching resources. • Aligns with the Club's Mission: Unlike open recreation leagues, the East Basketball Club functions as a community-based development program designed to complement the East Grand Rapids basketball program rather than serve as a regional travel or club basketball organization. This recommendation does not represent a change in philosophy for Parks & Recreation's broader recreational offerings. The Department will continue to offer a wide variety of inclusive recreation programs that welcome participants from neighboring communities whenever appropriate, including the recreational basketball leagues still offered by our department. However, because the East Basketball Club was specifically created to enhance the development of East Grand Rapids student- athletes and strengthen the connection between youth basketball and the East Grand Rapids school athletic program, limiting participation to East Grand Rapids residents and East students is consistent with the program's intended purpose and provides the greatest benefit to the community it was established to serve. Staff recommend that the Parks & Recreation Commission approve participant eligibility for the East Basketball Club to include only East Grand Rapids residents and students currently enrolled in East Grand Rapids Public Schools. This registration protocol is supported by the EGRPS Varsity Basketball coaches. Staff is seeking feedback from the Parks and Recreation Commission related to this topic for the 2026-2027 East Basketball Club season that will begin tryouts later this fall, which will help guide policies for future club level sport offerings that may be developed through the vertical alignment imitative.  CITY OF EAST GRAND RAPIDS 750 LAKESIDE DRIVE SE • EAST GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN 49506 (616) 949-2110 www.eastgrmi.gov DEREK MELVILLE PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR MEMORANDUM TO: Parks and Recreation Commissioners FROM: Derek Melville, Parks and Recreation Director DATE: July 21, 2026 RE: Director’s Report Concerts & Movies in John Collins Park We’re halfway through the summer movies and concert series for 2026. We’ve had great attendance at the initial events and a good response from the community with our increased concert series, with a total of 10 concerts for the summer, only taking off the Monday following the 4th of July holiday. Movies remaining for the summer include Inside Out 2 on August 21st and Remember the Titans on September 19th. Remaining concerts include July 27th (Austin Benzing), August 3 (The Nuance), August 10 (Kyle Brown and Nina Sofia) and August 17 (LVNDR). Weather Policy This summer we’ve had to utilize our City weather policy to provide guidance for cacncellatiosn related to rain/lighting, heat, and air quality. The policy, also used by the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) provides guidance on when it is safe to practice and what modifications should be in place when heat index reaches certain levels. Fall Programs Registration opened early this month for fall programs with the opening of non-resident registration yesterday. In the first week program registration was available, we completed 719 registrations with a revenue total of $76,000. In the same period last year, 619 registrations were completed with a revenue total of $63,000. Reeds Lake Run The 47th annual Reeds Lake Run was a success on the last weekend in June with 815 racers participating. A special thank you goes out to the local Boy Scouts troop who were instrumental in setting up and cleanup, along with many other outstanding volunteers. The race was completed and roads reopened by 11:30am due to the quick work by EGR Public Safety and the Race Team. Reeds Lake/John Collins Park Historical Signage City staff have worked with Mary Dersch from the EGR History Room to develop signage related to steamboats on Reeds Lake and buildings that used to be along the shores of Reeds Lake in John Collins Park. The signage will be placed on a concrete pad adjacent to the sidewalk between the road and John Collins Park, and an event to unveil the signage is being planned for August sometime. Vertical Alignment Update The inaugural year of the Vertical Alignment initiative has completed and recently the City Commission authorized an agreement to extend the program for another year. Staff have recently added a webpage for Vertical Alignment (https://www.eastgrmi.gov/187/Vertical-Alignment ) which has some information about the initiative, and links to each of the “roadmaps) for the sports that were selected for priority attention last year. Each sport has its own unique roadmap with information about program leadership, program philosophies, youth participation opportunities, season information, community events and program support opportunities, etc.