Park & Recreation Commission

AGENDA Park & Recreation Commission Meeting 4:00 PM - Monday, September 8, 2025 City Hall Council Chambers Page 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1. Chairperson Welcome - I call to order the regular September 8, 2025, City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Commission meeting. 2. ROLL CALL 2.1. All Commissioners and staff attending, please state your name and your position. Chair welcomes guests. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3.1. Approval of Agenda - September 8, 2025 4 to approve or amend/approve the Agenda for the Regular Park and Recreation Commission meeting on September 8, 2025. Motion by _____________, seconded by _______________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.1. Approval of meeting minutes for Park and Recreation Commission Regular 5-8 Meeting on July 14, 2025. to approve or amend amend/approve the Park and Recreation Commission regular meeting minutes for July 14, 2025. Motion by ________, seconded by ___________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 5. CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECAP 5.1. CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECAP 9 to receive and order filed this City Council past action report. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 6. OLD BUSINESS 6.1. Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Update 10 - 24 to receive and order filed the Park and Recreation Master Plan update. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Page 1 of 35  Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 7. NEW BUSINESS 7.1. 2026 Park and Recreation Fee Schedule 25 - 29 to Recommend the City Council adopt the 2026 Park and Recreation Department proposed fees. or to Modify and recommend the City Council adopt the 2026 Park and Recreation Department proposed fees. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 7.2. Park and Recreation Donations 30 to recommend the City Council offer a resolution and waive the reading to accept the following donations offered to the City of New Ulm through the Park and Recreation Department for the identified purposes. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 8. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONER AND STAFF 8.1. Commissioner Reports 31 to receive and order filed the Commissioner Reports. Motion by _____________, and seconded by _____________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 8.2. Staff Report 32 to accept and file the Park and Recreation Department Staff Report. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 8.3. Department Activity Report 33 - 35 to accept and file the Park and Recreation Department Activity Report for July and August 2025. Motion by _______ seconded by _________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Sep 2025 - Pdf 9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING 9.1. Date of next meeting: October 13, 2025 at 4:00 pm (Second Monday of each month.) 10. ADJOURNMENT Page 2 of 35  10.1. With there being no further business, Chairperson declares the meeting adjourned. Please let Donitta Trebesch, Park and Recreation Department Administrative Assistant know if you plan to miss a meeting by calling 507-233-2121, ext 200 or emailing donittat@newulmmn.gov. Also, if you desire hard copies of materials please contact Donitta Trebesch. Meetings may be cancelled due to lack of items or quorum. Page 3 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: APPROVAL OF AGENDA Sep 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Donitta Trebesch Attachments: 0 Presented By: Carisa Buegler Item: Approval of Agenda - September 8, 2025 Proposed Action: to approve or amend/approve the Agenda for the Regular Park and Recreation Commission meeting on September 8, 2025. Motion by _____________, seconded by _______________ Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: N/A Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 4 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 08 APPROVAL OF Meeting: Agenda Section: Sep 2025 MINUTES Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Donitta Trebesch Attachments: 1 Presented By: Carisa Buegler Item: Approval of meeting minutes for Park and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting on July 14, 2025. Proposed Action: to approve or amend amend/approve the Park and Recreation Commission regular meeting minutes for July 14, 2025. Motion by ________, seconded by ___________ Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: N/A Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Attachments: Meeting Minutes 7-14-2025 Page 5 of 35  City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, July 14, 2025 4 p.m. City Council Chambers, City Hall, 100 N. Broadway, Main Floor 1. CALL TO ORDER – Councilor/Commissioner Christian called the July meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Carisa Buegler Chair Present Amy Johnson Vice Chair Present Jim Jensen Commissioner Present Bev Luneburg Commissioner Absent Dave Christian Council Rep/Commissioner Present Kurt Johnson Commissioner Present Jeff Gulden Commissioner Present Joey Schugel PR Director/Ex Officio Present Cheryl Kormann Assist PR Director/Ex Officio Present Clay Schuldt Journal/Press 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3.1 Motion was made by Christian and seconded by Gulden to approve the July 14, 2025 agenda. All voted in favor of the motion. Motion carried unanimously. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.1 Motion was made by Jensen and seconded K Johnson by to approve the June 9 meeting minutes. All voted in favor of the motion. Motion carried unanimously. 5. CITY COUNCIL MEETING(S) RECAP – Director Schugel summarized the past month’s City Council 5.1 Meetings and work sessions: June 17, 2025 Regular – Approved the Washington and Lincoln Park playground replacements; approved a canon shoot at Johnson Park for Military Appreciation Night on June 29 and accepted Park and Recreation donations. July 1, 2025 Regular – No Park and Recreation related business. Motion was made by K Johnson and seconded by A Johnson to receive and order filed this city council past action report. All voted in favor. Motion carried unanimously. 6. OLD BUSINESS – Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Update. 6.1 Director Schugel reported the Master Plan process continues to move forward. Consultants and staff doing work behind the scenes. A survey has been open for a month and consultants are happy with the responses. This will remain open for another month or two. Early feedback was provided in PR Commission packet. Survey promotion continues throughout the website, with parks, social media blasts and Community Affairs. Stakeholder meetings will start this week. We hope to get great feedback. ISG will attend New Ulm night out to gain additional feedback. This event takes place in German Park July 31. Commissioner Gulden made a motion to receive and order filed the Park and Recreation Master Plan update with a second by Christian. All voted in favor; motion carried unanimously. 6.2 BMX Track Redesign Project Update – The BMX is operating under a licensing agreement approved by the PR Commission and City Council since November 2024. This agreement includes the ability for River Valley BMX to operate the track for races and a loan agreement for large safety and track improvements of the current track. The Club is working on final plans and approvals with the goal to start this project in the fall of this year. Talon Wald, River Valley BMX board member gave an update on the BMX phases. Phase 1 will begin soon will include concession stand temp and bleacher Page 6 of 35  relocation. A retaining wall will be installed with concessions and bleacher relocated after. The starting hill will be relocated to where the concession stand currently sits. Phase 2 is starting in the full of this year. A storage shed will be relocated and the track will be more of a serpentine shape. Dirt work will follow in September/October. Full track re-build will begin late October. The dirt will settle over winter. The fence will be re-installed. Phase 3 will begin Spring 2026. Paving for starting hill will take place. Phase 4 will include lighting and construction of new concession stand. Their first ever new beginners’ league will be completed tonight! Director Schugel pointed out that with the landlocked area, the Club is doing a great job with use of space. Motion was made by Jensen and seconded by K Johnson to receive and order filed the BMX Track Redesign Project Update from the River Valley BMX Association. Motion carried unanimously. 7. NEW BUSINESS 7.1 The MN DNR is providing cost-share grants from the Heritage Enhancement account of the Game and Fish Fund to local recreational shooting clubs for up to 50 percent of the costs of developing or rehabilitating shooting sports facilities for public use. The large shooting grant funding would be used to replace the current Trap Range Building at 214 21st North Street. The current building was built in the late 1970’s, is aged beyond repair in many aspects and undersized for the growing use of the Trap and Skeet Range. The $100,000 grant request made by the Park and Rec Department and Sioux Valley Gun Club does require matching funds, but the Club is committing to the matching funds, if the grant is successful. Additional funding for the project is available and held in a restricted account with the City of New Ulm. If awarded, the project must be completed by June 30, 2026. After Commissioners asked questions about operating and funding, Gulden made a motion that was seconded by K Johnson to submit this grant application to the MN DNR. Motion carried unanimously. 7.2 Park and Recreation Donations – Gulden made a motion to recommend the City Council offer a resolution and waive the reading to accept the following donations offered to the City of New Ulm through the Park and Recreation Department for the identified purposes: 1. Hermann 5k Sponsorship Nuvera, Inc. $150.00 2. Hermann 5k Sponsorship MR Paving $150.00 3. Johnson/Mueller Restricted Fund New Ulm Baseball $2,000.00 Association Total $2,300.00 K Johnson seconded the motion. All voted in favor and motion was carried unanimously. 8. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONER AND STAFF 8.1 There were no Commissioner Reports 8.2 July Department Activity Report highlights • June was very busy, like usual. • Johnson/Mueller had many games played. • 1,300 admissions to Hermann the first two weeks of June. Wading pool and Rec Center were also used extensively. • AutoFest held a car show at the Civic Center. K Johnson thanked the department and staff for the wonderful recreational opportunities provided to the community! Christian made a motion seconded by A Johnson to receive and order filed the June activity report. All voted in favor. Motion carried unanimously. 8.3 Staff Report. Director Schugel highlighted additional items: • Park crews have been adding engineered wood fiber to top dress playgrounds and medians. Page 7 of 35  • Recreation software conversion to Xplor Recreation takes effect August 4. • New Ulm Night Out is Thursday, July 31 at German Park. • The department is offering a Hermann 5k during Hermannfest, September 6 K Johnson made a motion seconded by Jensen to receive and order filed the report. All voted in favor. Motion carried unanimously. 9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING: August 11, 2025 4:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers 100 North Broadway 10. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, declared adjournment at 4:28 p.m. Respectfully submitted by: Cheryl Kormann, Assistant Director Page 8 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 08 CITY COUNCIL Meeting: Agenda Section: Sep 2025 MEETING RECAP Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 0 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECAP Proposed Action: to receive and order filed this City Council past action report. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: July 15 Regular Meeting - No Park and Recreation related business. August 5 Regular Meeting - Large Shooting Range DNR Grant Approval. August 5 Regular Meeting - Park and Recreation Donations Accepted. August 19 Regular Meeting - Large Shooting Range DNR Grant Acceptance. September 2 Regular Meeting - Closed session item regarding Recreation Center Naming Rights. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 9 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: OLD BUSINESS Sep 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 2 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Update Proposed Action: to receive and order filed the Park and Recreation Master Plan update. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: 1. Survey is now closed. Participation was high with almost 500 submissions. 2. New Ulm Night Out Pop Up Event. 3. Phase 1, Asses is mostly complete. 4. Phase 2, Envision, will kick off with a Staff Workshop with ISG. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Attachments: 2025-9-2 Park and Rec Master Plan Survey Results Memo New Ulm Night Out Pop Up Event Findings Page 10 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 OVERVIEW To support the development of the New Ulm Parks and Recreation Master Plan, a community survey was conducted to gather input from residents and recreation system users. The survey was made available through the City website and promoted via local channels, including community events and social media. As of August 25, 2025, a total of 486 individuals participated in the survey, providing valuable feedback for the planning process. The following summary presents the key findings from the survey responses, organized by each survey question. Are you a City of New Ulm resident? 18% 82% Yes No How far away do you live from the nearest City park? Less than 0.25 Miles 150 0.25 - 0.5 Miles 99 0.5 - 1 Miles 68 1 - 2 Miles 26 2 - 5 Miles 40 5 - 10 Miles 29 More than 10 Miles 56 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 Number of Responses Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 11 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 Which local park do you vist most? German Park 123 Herman Heights Park 58 Harman Park 52 Lincoln Park 51 Nehls Park 40 North Park 30 Flandrau Park 28 Washington Park 23 Skate Park (BMX) 12 South Park 12 Riverside Park 7 Steinhauser Park and Recreation Center 7 Johnson Park 4 Mueller Park 4 Pfaender Park 3 Hans Joos Park 3 Junior Pioneer Park 3 Minnecon Park 3 Pollinator Park 2 South German Park 2 Highland Park 2 North Market Park 1 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 Number of Responses Page 2 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 12 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 How often do you or your family members use parks and trails in New Ulm for the following activites? Exercise (running, biking, walking…) 78 189 176 43 Connect with Nature 62 161 205 58 Activities for Children + Families 46 179 189 72 Relax + Hang Out 26 155 246 59 Play Sports 36 127 168 155 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Daily Weekly Seasonally Never ACTIVITY SCORE* EXERCISE (RUNNING, BIKING, WALKING…) 2.38 CONNECT WITH NATURE 2.53 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN + FAMILIES 2.59 RELAX + HANG OUT 2.70 PLAY SPORTS 2.91 * The higher the score, the lower the participation in the activity. Page 3 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 13 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 On average, how often do you visit a City park in one year? 0 - 10 Days 125 11 - 25 Days 85 26 - 50 Days 79 51 - 75 Days 72 76 - 100 Days 26 101 - 150 Days 19 151 - 200 Days 14 201 - 250 Days 8 251 - 300 Days 27 301 - 365 Days 4 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 Number of Responses Page 4 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 14 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 Please select your top three priorities for the Park and Recreation System Master Plan. Update Existing Facilities 285 Grow the Trail System 217 Expand Access to Flandrau State Park 172 Enhance Recreation Programming 129 Promote Physical Activity and Wellness 116 Manage and Preserve Natural Resources 108 Expand Community and Recreation Partnerships 103 Expand Access to the Rivers 102 Add New Parks in Underserved Areas 80 Increase Accessibility 59 Increase Diversity of Community Activities and Events 46 Sustainability and Resiliency Initiatives 41 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 Number of Responses Page 5 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 15 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 Please identify three park amenities that would most benefit the community if added or expanded. Community gathering areas (flexible open space for 208 farmers markets, art festivals, etc.) Permanent restrooms 204 Improved trail systems and connectivity 195 Unique play areas (nature play, thematic playgrounds) 184 Aquatic facilities (splash pad, wading pool) 173 Increased access to natural areas 113 Increased access to waterbodies (rivers) 101 Picnic areas 70 Pickleball courts 68 Recreational fields (e.g. soccer, football) 67 Exercise equipment 40 Disc golf 20 Ball diamonds 15 0 50 100 150 200 250 Number of Responses Page 6 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 16 of 35  Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate the following? Marketing and communication of programs and services 80 194 157 37 Park amenities are accessible for limited mobility patrons 56 220 166 40 Support from the community and user groups 24 233 188 38 Variety of recreational programs 52 180 198 53 Number and variety of community events in parks 56 151 226 52 Quality of recreational programs 32 186 208 58 Park amenities meet community needs 38 156 231 60 Park maintenance, cleanliness, and general upkeep 8 86 283 109 Park safety and security 11 83 272 120 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1 - Very Dissatisfied 2- Dissatisfied 3 - Neutral 4 - Satisfied 5 - Very Satisfied SCORE* MARKETING + COMMUNICATION OF PROGRAMS + SERVICES 3.24 PARK AMENITIES ARE ACCESSIBLE FOR LIMITED MOBILITY PATRONS 3.37 SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY + USER GROUPS 3.48 VARIETY OF RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS 3.51 NUMBER + VARIETY OF COMMUNITY EVENTS IN PARKS 3.56 QUALITY OF RECREATION PROGRAMS 3.59 PARK AMENITIES MEET COMMUNITY NEEDS 3.64 PARK MAINTENANCE, CLEANLINESS, + GENERAL UPKEEP 4.01 PARK SAFETY + SECURITY 4.03 *The higher the score, the increased satisfaction with the statement. Page 7 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 17 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 Does the City need a large community park to accomodate soccer and/or other field activities? 34% 66% Yes No What is something New Ulm Parks and Recreation does well? MAINTENANCE, CLEANLINESS, & SAFETY Many respondents praised the consistent upkeep of parks, noting that they are clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing. Comments highlighted regular mowing, weed control, and general tidiness. People appreciate that the parks are inviting and safe due to high attention to maintenance. PROGRAMMING + ACTIVITIES A large number of responses celebrated the wide variety of programs offered, especially for youth. These include sports leagues, swimming lessons, puppet wagon shows, Rec on the Go, and music events. Residents value the diversity and accessibility of these activities, which help keep families engaged year-round. PARK FACILITIES + COMMUNITY AMENITIES The sheer number and variety of parks in New Ulm were highlighted as a major asset. Many noted that parks are within walking or biking distance from most neighborhoods and offer a variety of valued features, from quiet green spaces to sports fields and water features. Respondents also frequently mentioned the quality and availability of facilities like the Recreation Center, sports fields, splashpads, and playgrounds, as well as natural areas and trails. Many noted that these spaces are well-equipped and well-maintained, making them enjoyable for all ages. Page 8 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 18 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 What improvements or future park development would you like to see in New Ulm’s Parks and Recreation system? BIKE + TRAIL SYSTEM Respondents strongly emphasized the need for better bike and walking trails, calling for smoother surfaces, safer routes away from traffic, and more scenic, nature-based paths. Many desire trails that connect neighborhoods and offer increased access to the rivers and other parks. RESTROOM ACCESS There is a strong desire for permanent restrooms at high-use parks like the BMX track, skate park, and North Park. Requests include year-round access, improved maintenance of portables, and more facilities that are accessible for families and seniors. RECREATION CENTER Specific recreation center feedback included expanding locker rooms, improving pool schedules, enhancing ADA accessibility, adding fitness equipment, and enhancing communication about programs. The Recreation Center is well-loved, but users want it to be more accessible and better equipped. BMX TRACK IMPROVEMENTS There’s a clear desire to invest in the BMX track, including requests for permanent bathrooms, shaded seating, improved signage + parking, and accessibility upgrades. Many see it as a valuable community asset that deserves more support. PROGRAMMING + EVENTS People support more City events and programs, especially those that are accessible to working families, older adults, and adults without children. Suggestions included more evening programs, expanded summer camps, and creative community events. NATURAL AREAS + GREEN SPACE People desire more native plantings, bird habitats, and nature-based play areas. There's a strong appreciation for preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of New Ulm’s parks. Page 9 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 19 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 What new recreation programs would you like to see in New Ulm? EXPANDED DIVERSITY OF YOUTH PROGRAMS There is a strong call for more varied and age-appropriate programming for children and teens. Respondents asked for structured summer and day camps, after-school activities, and drop-off programs that are affordable and engaging. Many emphasized the need for options for older kids (ages 9–16) who may not be involved in school sports. Ideas included nature- based camps, sports samplers, arts and crafts, STEM, and creative play-based programming. INCLUSIVE ALL-SEASON COMMUNITY EVENTS People would love to see more concerts, festivals, movie nights, and neighborhood gatherings that bring the community together, particularly those that are free or low-cost. Some respondents desired cold-season offerings and suggested sledding hills, snowshoeing, ice skating events, and other winter-friendly recreation to keep families active year-round. ADULT PROGRAMS + FITNESS Adults are looking for more social and recreational opportunities that aren’t centered around children. Requests included sports leagues, enrichment classes, social groups, and programming for seniors. Some asked for evening or weekend options to accommodate working adults. There were many requests for outdoor fitness classes like yoga, tai chi, walking clubs, and strength training. Respondents also asked for low-impact options for seniors and beginners, as well as more variety in indoor fitness offerings and leagues. ARTS + CRAFTS There is a large appetite for creative programming across all age groups. People desire more opportunities for pottery, painting, woodworking, sewing, and hands-on classes for both kids and adults. Several respondents also expressed interest in community-wide art projects and cultural programming like music, dance, and sculpture. ATHLETIC FACILITES AND PROGRAMMING Athletic field and court enhancements along with league programming were of high importance to residents. Pickleball continues to be of high demand, with respondents requesting more outdoor courts, leagues, lessons, and dedicated court time. Other popular suggestions included dodgeball, sand volleyball, adult kickball, and expanded recreational sports leagues for all ages and skill levels. There is also continued interest in BMX and biking, including pump tracks, bike clubs, and more structured programming for riders of all ages. AQUATICS Expanded aquatic programming, including additional swim lesson offerings and expanded lap swim hours were requested. There is a large community desire for an outdoor pool or water park. NATURE + OUTDOORS Residents are eager for more nature-based recreation. Suggestions included guided hikes, birdwatching, foraging, outdoor survival classes, and river-related activities like kayaking and canoeing. Geocaching, community nature scavenger hunts, and educational walks were also popular. Many want to see trails expanded and better connected, with additional seasonal outdoor experiences offered year-round. ADAPTIVE PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES There is a desire for more adaptive and inclusive programming for children and adults with disabilities. Suggestions included sensory-friendly classes, PCA-supported activities, and inclusive sports leagues. Page 10 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 20 of 35 Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 09.02.2025 Can you share your experiences with accessibility in City parks and recreational facilities? Please share specific experiences, suggestions, or improvements. MOBILITY TO AND AROUND PARKS Many respondents highlighted challenges in navigating parks due to uneven terrain, gravel, wood chips, and long distances from parking areas to amenities. These conditions make it difficult for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers, and limit participation for older adults and caregivers. There’s a strong desire for smoother, hard-surface paths, inclusive play structures, and more seating along walking routes to support mobility and rest. The BMX Park and German Park received the most comments regarding accessibility. PERMANENT + ACCESSIBLE RESTROOM FACILITIES Access to restrooms is a recurring concern, especially in high-use areas like thr BMX track, Skate Park, and ball fields. Many parks rely on seasonal or portable facilities that were noted as lacking basic hygiene amenities and difficult to reach for those with mobility limitations. Suggestions include expanding the number of permanent ADA-compliant restrooms and ensuring they are well-equipped and accessible year-round. TRAIL + PATHWAY ACCESSIBILITY Community feedback emphasized that some bike and walking paths are uneven, poorly maintained, or disconnected from key destinations. These conditions discourage use by some and pose safety risks, especially in high-traffic areas or where sidewalks are missing. Specific concerns included rough surfaces, lack of safe crossings, and limited north-south connectivity. Respondents called for smoother, wider, and continuous trails that better link neighborhoods, parks, and major roads, along with safer pedestrian infrastructure to support all users. INCLUSIVE DESIGN FOR ALL AGES + NEEDS Families with children who have disabilities, older adults, and caregivers emphasized the need for more inclusive features, such as fenced play areas, toddler-friendly equipment, ADA-accessible buildings, open play areas, and shaded seating. While some parks like German and Herman Heights were praised for their accessible elements, there’s a clear opportunity to expand these features citywide and involve diverse users in future design efforts. ADDITIONAL ACCESSIBILITY SUGGESTIONS • Increase safety around roads near parks and trails • Involve people with disabilities in the design process. • Add more braille signage, grab bars, and adult-only locker rooms at indoor facilities. • Improve access to drinking fountains • Provide seasonal shelters with roll-down sides to extend park usability. Page 11 of 11 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 21 of 35 Pop Up Engagement Event Summary City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan – New Ulm, MN To meet community members in an informal setting to spread awareness about the planning process and receive feedback, ISG set up booths at community events throughout the City. NEW ULM NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Occurred at the New National Night Out Community Event on 7/31/2025 at German Park located at 200 N German St, New Ulm, MN 56073 from 5 – 8pm. At the New Ulm National Night Out event, a project booth was set up. Community members were invited to review findings displayed on boards about current and projected demographics and recreational trends. A large aerial map of the City along with each City park was displayed on the table where community members were encouraged to find the park closest to their home, and share feedback with staff about the park and recreation system. A project survey QR code was displayed and handouts were provided encouraging attendees to take the online project survey. Event findings included: Remarks Number of remarks General Remarks Residents appreciate nearby playgrounds and overall park coverage, with one sharing that their family gave away their personal playset due to proximity to a local park. Emphasis on maintaining existing parks. Desire for a YMCA for casual fitness. Request to open middle school outdoor track for public use during non-school hours. Desired Park Amenities Maze Airplane-themed playground Zipline 3 Long swings Combined adult/kid swing set (e.g., Sibley Park in Mankato) Shoe cubbies Equipment for older kids Tire swings Upgraded basketball courts with basketballs provided Biking, BMX, and Skating Indoor BMX complex (only one in MN) Motorcross park Expansion of BMX park Hot wheel track Maintain current skate park location Pickleball North Highland Park suggested for future courts (near retiree communities) More shaded pickleball courts (suggested: Maplewood) Concern over tennis courts being converted to pickleball; limited tennis options Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 22 of 35 03 Summary of Engagement City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan – New Ulm, MN Pool + Aquatics Outdoor Pool 4 Extend wading pool season beyond early August Outdoor pool for bigger kids Park Specific Recommendations + Feedback German Park: play tower and more swings requested 3 Herman Park: swings requested Lakeside Park: climbing play equipment requested Lincoln Park: toddler play equipment requested Pollinator Park: additional structured seating requested Riverside Park: gravity rail for all ages requested South German Park: playground near dog park requested South Park: Benches appreciated. Safety signage for waterfall near South Park Connectivity Connect county and city bike trails Sidewalks needed on N. Garden Street and near the cemetery River Access+ Programming Learn-to-kayak programs Increase river access at more parks Page 2 of 3 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 23 of 35 03 Summary of Engagement City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan – New Ulm, MN Page 3 of 3 Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning | ISGInc.com Page 24 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: NEW BUSINESS Sep 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 2 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: 2026 Park and Recreation Fee Schedule Proposed Action: to Recommend the City Council adopt the 2026 Park and Recreation Department proposed fees. or to Modify and recommend the City Council adopt the 2026 Park and Recreation Department proposed fees. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: Park and Recreation Fee Philosophy 1. User-based, rather than subsidized by property taxpayers. 2. Recoup maintenance, operational, and development costs. 3. Consider partially subsidizing youth activities, rather than adult activities. 4. Comparable to like facilities in our peer market group of Minnesota municipalities, and not private sector facilities or organizations. 5. Adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), to keep up with inflation. 6. Regular smaller increases, rather than occasional larger increases. 7. Affordable and value based. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Attachments: Page 25 of 35 2026 Proposed fees. 2026 Notes - September Commission Meeting Page 26 of 35  City of New Ulm 2026 Proposed Park and Recreation Fee Schedule Please note: fees may be adjusted slightly due to sales tax rounding 2025 2026 Res w/o tax Res w/tax NR w/o tax NR w/tax Res w/o tax Res w/tax NR w/o tax NR w/tax Parks: Shelter Rentals Harman Park Shelter (rentable time slots: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 1-4 p.m., 4-7 p.m.) $ 76.94 $ 83.00 $ 84.63 $ 91.30 $ 80.65 $ 87.00 $ 88.71 $ 95.70 5% Harman Park Shelter (per day) $ 203.94 $ 220.00 $ 224.33 $ 242.00 $ 215.06 $ 232.00 $ 236.57 $ 255.20 5% Harman Park Damage & Key Deposit $ 100.00 $ 100.00 North Park Lions Shelter (rentable time slots: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 1-4 p.m., 4-7 p.m.) $ 42.64 $ 46.00 $ 46.91 $ 50.60 $ 44.50 $ 48.00 $ 48.95 $ 52.80 4% Hermann Heights, German Pavilion OR North Park Porch 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. OR 4-11 p.m. $ 60.25 $ 65.00 $ 66.28 $ 71.50 $ 64.89 $ 70.00 $ 71.38 $ 77.00 8% German Park Amphitheather & Bandstand 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. OR 4-11 p.m.** $ 120.51 $ 130.00 $ 132.56 $ 143.00 $ 120.51 $ 130.00 $ 132.56 $ 143.00 0% Monument charge (To enter gate) $ 2.78 $ 3.00 $ 3.71 $ 4.00 33% Park Key deposit $ 25.00 $ 25.00 0% ** Must rent both Amphitheater & Pavilion on Saturdays Ballfields Johnson Football Field (per day game) +$100 for 5 p.m. or later start time $ 637.00 $ 687.16 $ 700.70 $ 755.88 $ 650.00 $ 701.19 $ 715.00 $ 771.31 2% Soccer Field by Art Wall/Harman Football/Soccer Field (per game) $ 80.00 $ 86.30 $ 88.00 $ 94.93 $ 82.00 $ 88.46 $ 90.20 $ 97.30 3% Johnson & Mueller Park Baseball (per day game up to 24 scheduled games) +$100 games 6p.m. or later start time $ 92.00 $ 99.25 $ 101.20 $ 109.17 $ 95.00 $ 102.48 $ 104.50 $ 112.73 3% Johnson & Mueller Park Baseball (per day game) - 10% Discounted Fee (25-49 games) + $100 games for 6 p.m. or later start time $ 82.80 $ 89.32 $ 91.08 $ 98.25 $ 85.50 $ 92.23 $ 94.05 $ 101.46 3% Johnson & Mueller Park Baseball (per day game - 20% Discounted Fee (50+ games) + $100 games for 6 p.m. or later start time $ 73.60 $ 79.40 $ 80.96 $ 87.34 $ 76.00 $ 81.99 $ 83.60 $ 90.18 3% Tournament Fee for Johnson/Mueller (per game surcharge) $ 22.00 $ 23.73 $ 24.20 $ 26.11 $ 24.00 $ 25.89 $ 26.40 $ 28.48 9% Harman/North Park game (Reservation fee only - no prep) + $20 games starting 7 p.m. or later $ 42.00 $ 45.31 $ 46.20 $ 49.84 $ 43.25 $ 46.66 $ 47.58 $ 51.32 3% Harman/North Daily (Reservation fee only - no prep) $ 146.00 $ 157.50 $ 160.60 $ 173.25 $ 150.00 $ 161.81 $ 165.00 $ 177.99 3% based on 3 games + night game surcharge Field Preparation Fee (Includes basic drag, chalk lines and bases set) $ 22.00 $ 23.73 $ 24.20 $ 26.11 $ 24.00 $ 25.89 $ 26.40 $ 28.48 9% Civic Center Admissions Daily Admission - Skating/Hockey (age 6 and up/5 and under FREE with paid Adult) $ 4.63 $ 5.00 $ 4.63 $ 5.00 0% Daily Admission - Rock on Ice $ 5.10 $ 5.50 $ 5.10 $ 5.50 0% eliminate Skate Rentals $ 2.78 $ 3.00 $ 2.78 $ 3.00 0% Skate Sharpening $ 4.63 $ 5.00 $ 4.63 $ 5.00 0% Skating/Hockey Punch Card (12 punches) $ 41.71 $ 45.00 $ 41.71 $ 45.00 0% Rock on Ice Punch Card (12 punches) $ 45.89 $ 49.50 $ 45.89 $ 49.50 0% eliminate Ice Rental Fees: July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026 July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027 Non-Prime Ice time (Sept. 1-May 31 Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-3 p.m.) - Res/NR (per hour) $ 115.70 $ 124.81 $ 127.27 $ 137.29 $ 118.95 $ 128.32 $ 130.85 $ 141.15 3% Prime Ice time - Resident/Non-Resident (per hour) $ 178.00 $ 192.02 $ 195.80 $ 211.22 $ 183.00 $ 197.41 $ 201.30 $ 217.15 3% Ice time - 200-hour agreement - 4% volume discount (per hour) $ 170.88 $ 184.34 $ 187.97 $ 202.77 $ 175.68 $ 189.51 $ 193.25 $ 208.47 3% Ice time - 350-hour agreement - 6% volume Discount (per hour) $ 167.32 $ 180.50 $ 184.05 $ 198.55 $ 172.02 $ 185.57 $ 189.22 $ 204.12 3% Ice time - 600-hour agreement - 8% volume discount (per hour) $ 163.76 $ 176.66 $ 180.14 $ 194.32 $ 168.36 $ 181.62 $ 185.20 $ 199.78 3% High School/Amateur Single Games (per game) $ 620.00 $ 668.83 $ 682.00 $ 735.71 $ 640.00 $ 690.40 $ 704.00 $ 759.44 3% High School /Amateur Double Games (per double game) $ 930.00 $ 1,003.24 $ 1,023.00 $ 1,103.56 $ 960.00 $ 1,035.60 $ 1,056.00 $ 1,139.16 3% Dry Floor (Renter gate fees do not affect rental fees) Hourly Fee Resident/Non-Resident $ 100.12 $ 108.00 $ 110.13 $ 118.80 $ 103.82 $ 112.00 $ 114.21 $ 123.20 4% Single Day Resident/Non-Resident $100 discount 2-6 days, $200 discount 7+ days $ 800.93 $ 864.00 $ 881.02 $ 950.40 $ 830.59 $ 896.00 $ 913.65 $ 985.60 4% Team rooms per day (applies to dry floor users only) $ 39.86 $ 43.00 $ 43.85 $ 47.30 $ 40.79 $ 44.00 $ 44.87 $ 48.40 2% Damage Deposit $ 300.00 $ 300.00 Additional Equipment (upon request) Tables $ 0.93 $ 1.00 $ 0.93 $ 1.00 0% Chairs $ 0.23 $ 0.25 $ 0.23 $ 0.25 0% Other equipment per item (Staging, Dance Floor, up to 200' Pipe & Drape) $ 74.16 $ 80.00 $ 74.16 $ 80.00 0% Restroom Rent $ 115.87 $ 125.00 $ 127.46 $ 137.50 $ 120.51 $ 130.00 $ 132.56 $ 143.00 4% Page 27 of 35 Meeting Room Meeting room - Resident/Non-Resident $ 25.96 $ 28.00 $ 28.55 $ 30.80 $ 26.88 $ 29.00 $ 29.57 $ 31.90 4% Meeting room Single Day fee Resident/Non-Resident $ 203.94 $ 220.00 $ 224.33 $ 242.00 $ 215.06 $ 232.00 $ 236.57 $ 255.20 5% PR Commission July 14 2025  Community Center Meeting room Hourly Resident/Non-Resident $ 25.96 $ 28.00 $ 28.55 $ 30.80 $ 26.88 $ 29.00 $ 29.57 $ 31.90 4% Meeting room Single Day fee Resident/Non-Resident $ 203.94 $ 220.00 $ 224.33 $ 242.00 $ 215.06 $ 232.00 $ 236.57 $ 255.20 5% Stage Area for rehearsals per day $ 48.20 $ 52.00 $ 53.02 $ 57.20 eliminate Cafetorium Hourly Resident/Non-Resident $ 74.16 $ 80.00 $ 81.58 $ 88.00 $ 76.01 $ 82.00 $ 83.62 $ 90.20 3% Cafetorium Facility Daily Resident/Non-Resident $ 593.28 $ 640.00 $ 652.61 $ 704.00 $ 608.11 $ 656.00 $ 668.92 $ 721.60 3% Damage Deposit - Cafetorium $ 300.00 $ 300.00 Recreation Center Memberships Daily Admission (infants/toddlers 3 & under) FREE FREE Daily Admission Youth/Senior (age 4-11 & 65+) $ 6.49 $ 7.00 $ 6.49 $ 7.00 0% Daily Admission General (age 12-64) $ 8.34 $ 9.00 $ 8.34 $ 9.00 0% Daily Admission Playground (youth only) OR Daily Admission Walking Track $ 2.78 $ 3.00 $ 2.78 $ 3.00 0% 3-month Single Membership Resident/Non-Resident $ 125.14 $ 135.00 $ 137.66 $ 148.50 $ 128.91 $ 139.06 $ 141.80 $ 152.97 3% 3-month per additional Resident/Non-Resident $ 28.97 $ 31.25 $ 31.87 $ 34.38 $ 28.97 $ 31.25 $ 31.87 $ 34.38 0% Annual Single Youth Membership Resident/Non-Resident $ 200.23 $ 216.00 $ 220.25 $ 237.60 $ 206.26 $ 222.50 $ 226.88 $ 244.75 3% 50% regular membership Annual Single Senior Membership Resident/Non-Resident $ 347.62 $ 375.00 $ 382.39 $ 412.50 $ 358.75 $ 387.00 $ 394.62 $ 425.70 3% Annual Single Membership Resident/Non-Resident $ 400.46 $ 432.00 $ 440.51 $ 475.20 $ 412.51 $ 445.00 $ 453.77 $ 489.50 3% Annual per additional Resident/Non-Resident $ 92.70 $ 100.00 $ 101.97 $ 110.00 $ 92.70 $ 100.00 $ 101.97 $ 110.00 0% 24/7 Access Fee (annual members) $ 27.81 $ 30.00 $ 33.37 $ 36.00 $ 36.71 $ 39.60 20% Youth Rec Center Punch Card - 12 punches (Inc playground, open gym, swim, fitness center, track, racquetball) $ 58.40 $ 63.00 $ 58.40 $ 63.00 0% General Rec Center Punch Card - 12 punches (Inc open gym, swim, fitness center, track, racquetball) $ 75.09 $ 81.00 $ 75.09 $ 81.00 0% Walking Track Punch Card AND Indoor Playground Punch Card - 12 punches $ 25.03 $ 27.00 $ 25.03 $ 27.00 0% *** Large group, contracted memberships negotiated by department staff Rentals Individual Gym Courts: *Set up court Reservations per hour (volleyball/tennis/pickleball/soccer) (based on availability) $ 30.59 $ 33.00 $ 33.65 $ 36.30 eliminate $ - *Open Court Reservations per hour (based on availability) $ 23.17 $ 25.00 $ 25.49 $ 27.50 $ 25.03 $ 27.00 $ 27.53 $ 29.70 8% *Add'l flat set up fee (equipment or gym set up) $ 11.12 $ 12.00 $ 12.24 $ 13.20 $ 9.27 $ 10.00 $ 10.20 $ 11.00 restructured fee Racquetball/Wallyball Court Fee (per hour) $ 15.76 $ 17.00 $ 17.33 $ 18.70 $ 16.22 $ 17.50 $ 17.84 $ 19.25 3% Racquetball/Wallyball Court School Rental per day per court (school hours & after prom parties only) $ 30.00 $ 30.00 $ 32.00 0% Aquatic Center: Full Pool Rental Per Hour Resident/Non-Resident $ 92.70 $ 100.00 $ 101.97 $ 110.00 $ 92.70 $ 100.00 $ 101.97 $ 110.00 0% Section Pool Rental Per Hour Resident/Non-Resident $ 46.35 $ 50.00 $ 50.98 $ 55.00 $ 46.35 $ 50.00 $ 50.98 $ 55.00 0% Non Profit Rental Per Hour Resident/Non-Resident (per hour) 25% Discount $ 75.00 no tax $ 82.50 no tax $ 75.00 no tax $ 82.50 no tax 0% Pool Lifeguard fee per guard (number of guards dependent upon rental type) $ 23.00 $ 25.00 9% expecting increase in LG wages Entire Vogel Fieldhouse Hourly Fee Resident/Non-Resident $ 100.12 $ 108.00 $ 110.13 $ 118.80 $ 103.82 $ 112.00 $ 114.21 $ 123.20 4% Single Day Resident/Non-Resident ($100 discount days 2-6, $200 discount days 7+) $ 800.93 $ 864.00 $ 881.02 $ 950.40 $ 830.59 $ 896.00 $ 913.65 $ 985.60 4% Packages: A. Rec Center (includes 10 admissions + 1 1/2 hour party room) $ 97.33 $ 105.00 $ 107.07 $ 115.50 $ 97.33 $ 105.00 $ 107.07 $ 115.50 0% B. Civic Center (includes 10 admissions + 10 skate rentals + 1 1/2 hours party room) $ 97.33 $ 105.00 $ 107.07 $ 115.50 $ 97.33 $ 105.00 $ 107.07 $ 115.50 0% C. Outdoor Wading Pool Private Rentals per hour (1.5-hour tagged on to a shift) $ 74.16 $ 80.00 $ 81.58 $ 88.00 $ 115.41 $ 124.50 $ 126.95 $ 136.95 56% Other fees: refund/change processing fee (must be received 5 bus. days prior to program start or no refund) $ 5.00 $ 5.00 0% Rec Center Membership auto payment processing fee (per year) $ 18.00 $ 19.00 6% Food Vending Surcharge (food trucks, food stands, etc. Proof of MDH Food license/insurance required) $ 23.17 $ 25.00 $ 25.49 $ 27.50 $ 23.17 $ 25.00 $ 25.49 $ 27.50 0% Page 28 of 35 PR Commission July 14 2025 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Commission – 2025 Fees Discussion Parks updates 1. Shelter reservation increases between 4-8% based on amenities and increased maintenance and operational costs. 2. Field reservations show slight increases across the board. 3. Hermann Monument proposed first increase since 2018 from $3 to $4 for admission. Civic Center updates 1. Admissions & equipment rentals remained flat 2. Ice & dry floor increased 3-4% Community Center update 1. Increased meeting room and cafetorium 3% and rounded up to whole dollar, which ultimately ended up 4% higher. Meeting room fees match across facilities. Rec Center Updates 1. Admissions & equipment rentals remained flat 2. Memberships increased 3%. 3. Increased 24/7 access by $6 per year. 4. Youth (4-11) Membership is 50% of regular because they cannot use the fitness center or attend classes. 5. Increased court rentals to bring in line with market rate. 6. Took out hourly court set-up fee and restricted to flat fee for court set-ups. 7. Left pool rental flat in hopes of promoting water safety, but increased LG fee to anticipate a necessary increase in LG wage 8. Packages include wading pool rental and restructure from 1 hour to 1.5 hour flat rate. Other items to consider: 1. Staff continues to work to simplify the fee schedule while still offering a variety of different options for the diverse parks and recreation system. The approved 2025 Fee Schedule simplified many fees and the 2026 fee schedule again is in line with those changes. Page 29 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: NEW BUSINESS Sep 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Donitta Trebesch Attachments: 1 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: Park and Recreation Donations Proposed Action: to recommend the City Council offer a resolution and waive the reading to accept the following donations offered to the City of New Ulm through the Park and Recreation Department for the identified purposes. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: Liz Cooper honoring Leo 1. German Park Paver Stone $200.00 Berg TOTAL $200.00 Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 30 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action REPORTS FROM Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: COMMISSIONER AND Sep 2025 STAFF Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Donitta Trebesch Attachments: 0 Presented By: Carisa Buegler Item: Commissioner Reports Proposed Action: to receive and order filed the Commissioner Reports. Motion by _____________, and seconded by _____________ Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: N/A Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 31 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action REPORTS FROM Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: COMMISSIONER AND Sep 2025 STAFF Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 0 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: Staff Report Proposed Action: to accept and file the Park and Recreation Department Staff Report. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: 1. Seasonal summer staff completed their employment terms. 2. BMX Track project underway. 3. Trap Range Building planning continues. 4. The Hermann 5K Recap. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 32 of 35 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action REPORTS FROM Park & Recreation Commission - 08 Meeting: Agenda Section: COMMISSIONER AND Sep 2025 STAFF Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Donitta Trebesch Attachments: 1 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: Department Activity Report Proposed Action: to accept and file the Park and Recreation Department Activity Report for July and August 2025. Motion by _______ seconded by _________ Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: N/A Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Attachments: August 2025 Activity Report July 2025 Activity Report Page 33 of 35  PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES AUGUST 2025 REPORT Parks Crews performed routine maintenance and installed engineered wood fiber at the Washington Park playground, which is now open! New scoreboards were installed on all three fields at North Park. This project was funded by New Ulm Junior Baseball Association. Work began on installing permanent roof structures over the North Park dugouts. Mueller and Harman Parking lots were re-sealed and striped. Final prep and paint was done on Johnson for the first football game of the season on August 28. Johnson was the host site for the District 8B playoff for Amateur Baseball where the Brewers won and advanced to the State Tournament. Crews are now performing fall field maintenance. Roughly 1,562 people climbed Hermann Monument and approximately $4,686 in admissions were collected in August. Wading pools closed for the season. 1,038 kids visited Lincoln and Washington wading pools in August, along with 639 adults. Season totals: 2,629 visitors to Washington and 2,210 to Lincoln. Civic Center There was one hockey tournament at the Civic Center, along with the Brown County Fair and Holy Cross Area Faith Community’s Fall festival. Local hockey and figure skating happened and the Civic Center was generally busy most evenings Monday through Thursday until at least 9 p.m. and all day on Sundays. Recreation Center 122 S. Garden St. The indoor pool and locker rooms were closed August 24-30 for annual maintenance and deep cleaning. Admissions Report for August: 180 Youth 327 General 25 Senior 185 Playground & Walking Track Administration City Council; Department Heads After Council meetings; Department Management Team Monthly Meeting; Heart of New Ulm, KNUJ monthly radio show; MMUA monthly safety training; Hermann Monument Society; Emergency Management Committee; United Way Board, Community Education Advisory Board, HONU Committee and worksite wellness committee, MRPA Board Meeting; MRPA Programming Committee, CAST Board, CASHS/SRTS Action Team; NUCAT Park and Recreation Department update; Bi-Weekly Park and Recreation Master Plan Meetings; Park and Recreation Commission meeting was a work session lead by ISG, Master Plan Consultants. Staff offered a Rec Center tour to the City of Maple Grove Parks and Rec staff, as they are looking for ideas for their Recreation Center expansion; attended a Tech and Trends Workshop put on by ISG; met with potential partners and Front Burner Sports for Naming Rights on facilities; planning meeting with the Sioux Valley Gun Club for the new Trap Range Building; and a Hermannfest walkthrough with event organizers. Software migration is nearing completion and is now live. Fall online registration opened August 6 using the new software and summer programs officially concluded August 8. Rec on the Go was at Kids Day at the Brown County Free Fair. Staff attended the Martin Luther College Job Fair to recruit guards for the fall/winter/spring season. Page 34 of 35  PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES JULY 2025 REPORT Parks Crews performed routine maintenance; mowing, prepped stick ball fields for games, continued watering newly planted trees as needed, removed the playground at Washington Park in preparation of the professionally installed new playground coming in August as well as prepared Lincoln Park for its playground expansion. Johnson and Mueller Parks were host sites for the American Legion Sub State Tournament where Gold won and advanced to the State Tournament. There were 34 baseball games played at Johnson and Mueller. The two baseball fields had heavy use in July. Roughly 1,074 people climbed Hermann Monument and approximately $3,000 in admissions were collected in July. Just under 2,000 kids and 1,700 adults visited the wading pools at Washington and Lincoln Park. Civic Center There was a fair amount of hockey and figure skating in July as well as Public skate and hockey sessions offered. Ice was booked most evenings Monday through Thursday until at least 9 p.m. and all day on Sundays. There are 151 punch cards in circulation. Recreation Center 122 S. Garden St. (Data below through July 30) Type This Last Dif There are 294 members with 24/7 access. month month Insurance 1,235 1,201 +34 July Transaction Summary: $40,643.95 credit card transactions, $299.85 cash, $18,279.21checks and $109 in gift Annual 807 747 +60 cards. Members checked in 11,584 times and there were 3-month 144 126 +18 around 1,224 daily admissions. Monthly 773 392 +381 Punch cards 3,285 3,226 +59 Programs – Group and Private swimming lessons were Totals 6,244 5,692 +552 offered throughout the month of July. Concerts in the Park ran July 10, 17, 24 and 31. New Ulm Night was celebrated July 31 and had many community resources and entertainment, including music by the Schell’s Hobo Band. Day camps at Harman Park were offered weekly and many youth pottery classes were held at the Community Center. Tball, Soccer, Tennis, Agility & Games and Kickball concluded. Rec on the Go was offered throughout the month and partnered with other organizations for added fun! One Theater Camp was offered and partnered with State Street Theater. The Puppet Wagon wrapped up their season. Administration City Council; Department Heads After Council meetings; Park and Recreation Commission; Department Management Team Monthly Meeting; Heart of New Ulm, KNUJ monthly radio show; MMUA monthly safety training; Hermann Monument Society; Emergency Management Committee; United Way Board, Community Education Advisory Board, HONU Committee and worksite wellness committee, MRPA Board Meeting; MRPA Programming Committee, CAST Board, CASHS/SRTS Action Team; NUCAT Park and Recreation Department update; Bi-Weekly Park and Recreation Master Plan Meetings. Staff attended two Master Plan Stakeholder Group meetings conducted by ISG with representatives from different user and interest groups that partner with the department. Staff also attended the Greater Minnesota Parks and Trails / Greater Minnesota Regional Parts and Trails Commission Joint meeting workshop at Lake Washington Regional Park. The preliminary 2026 budget was submitted and software migration is nearing completion. Page 35 of 35