Park & Recreation Commission

AGENDA Park & Recreation Commission Meeting 4:00 PM - Monday, November 10, 2025 City Hall Council Chambers Page 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1. Chairperson Welcome - I call to order the regular November 10, 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 position. Chair welcomes guests. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3.1. Approval of Agenda - November 10, 2025 4 to approve or amend/approve the Agenda for the Regular Park and Recreation Commission meeting on November 10, 2025. Motion by _____________, seconded by _______________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.1. Approval of meeting minutes for Park and Recreation Commission Regular 5-7 Meeting on September 8, 2025. to approve or amend amend/approve the Park and Recreation Commission regular meeting minutes for September 8, 2025. Motion by ________, seconded by ___________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 5. CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECAP 5.1. CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECAP 8 to receive and order filed this City Council past action report. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 6. OLD BUSINESS 6.1. Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Update 9 - 47 to receive and order filed the Park and Recreation Master Plan update. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Page 1 of 60  Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 7. NEW BUSINESS 7.1. Career Expo Fee Request 48 - 50 to recommend the City Council offer a resolution and waive the rental fee and all associated fees to hold the Career Expo at the New Ulm Civic Center, South and North Arenas, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 7.2. Park and Recreation Donations 51 - 52 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 - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 7.3. Park and Recreation Department Vision Statement 53 - 54 Proposed Vision Statement: New Ulm's Park and Recreation Department is rooted in historic and collaborative efforts, fostering a vibrant, collaborative system that offers diverse, accessible facilities and activities to promote an active and engaged community. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. to adopt the proposed Park and Recreation Department Vision Statement. or to modify and adopt the Park and Recreation Department Vision Statement. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 8. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONER AND STAFF 8.1. Staff Report 55 to accept and file the Park and Recreation Department Staff Report. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 8.2. Department Activity Report 56 - 60 to accept and file the Park and Recreation Department Activity Report for September and October 2025. Page 2 of 60  Motion by _______ seconded by _________ Staff Report Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Nov 2025 - Pdf 9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING 9.1. Date of next meeting: December 8, 2025 4:00 pm, City Council Chambers. (Second Monday of each month.) 10. ADJOURNMENT 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 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: APPROVAL OF AGENDA Nov 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 - November 10, 2025 Proposed Action: to approve or amend/approve the Agenda for the Regular Park and Recreation Commission meeting on November 10, 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 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 APPROVAL OF Meeting: Agenda Section: Nov 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 September 8, 2025. Proposed Action: to approve or amend amend/approve the Park and Recreation Commission regular meeting minutes for 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 Attachments: Meeting Minutes 9-8-2025 Page 5 of 60  City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes Monday, September 8, 2025 4 p.m. City Council Chambers, City Hall, 100 N. Broadway, Main Floor 1. CALL TO ORDER – Chairperson Buegler called the September 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 Absent Jeff Gulden Commissioner Present Joey Schugel PR Director/Ex Officio Present Cheryl Kormann Assist PR Director/Ex Officio Present Clay Schuldt Journal/Press Absent 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3.1 Motion was made by Christian and seconded by Gulden to approve the September 8, 2025 agenda. All voted in favor of the motion. Motion carried unanimously. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.1 Motion was made by Gulden and seconded by A Johnson to approve the July 14 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: July 15, 2025 Regular – No Park and Recreation related business August 5, 2025 Regular – Approved Large Shooting Range DNR Grant application; donations accepted August 19, 2025 Regular – Large Shooting Range DNR Grant Acceptance and awarded to Park and Rec September 2, 2025 – Regular – Closed session item regarding Recreation Center Naming Rights contract details. Motion was made by Jensen and seconded by Christian 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 survey to gather input from residents and recreation system users is now closed. Participation was high with almost 500 submissions! This valuable feedback will be used for the planning process. A summary was provided to the Commission in the Agenda Packets. ISG Team members created a pop up event at New Ulm Night Out to provide information to the community and receive feedback. Phase 1 assessment is mostly complete. Phase 2, envisions, will kick off with Staff Workshop with ISG scheduled for September 19. Commissioner Gulden made a motion to receive and order filed the Park and Recreation Master Plan update with a second by A Johnson. All voted in favor; motion carried unanimously. 7. NEW BUSINESS 7.1 2026 Park and Recreation Fee Schedule. A work session was held in July to discuss the fees in detail. The Commission asked for time to review the fees. After a brief discussion and a few highlights, Gulden made a motion that was seconded by Jensen to recommend the City Council Page 6 of 60  adopt the 2026 Park and Recreation Department proposed fees as presented. Motion carried unanimously. 7.2 Park and Recreation Donations – Christian 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. German Park Paver Stone honoring Liz Cooper $200.00 Leo Berg Total $200.00 Gulden 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 Staff Report • Seasonal summer staff completed employment terms. We had great staff who performed well this summer! • BMX Track project is underway. Track build will begin this week. • Trap Range Building planning continues • Hermannfest recap; 5k kicked off event. We had great support from community and sponsors. There were many options for families. Our goal is to continue this event. Our Department helps with Hermannfest prep work. Gulden asked for an updated on Hermann Monument. Director Schugel will present at a future meeting. A proposal was received and is being reviewed by many different people, groups and branches of government for pricing options to re-build base. Christian made a motion that was seconded by A Johnson to accept and order filed the Park and Recreation Department Staff report. All voted in favor of the motion. Motion carried unanimously. 8.3 Department Activity Report highlights • Wading pools had around 5,000 visitors in 2025 • Indoor preventative maintenance for Indoor pool in late August • Rec Center reporting is different in August. Updated reports coming. • August was a busy construction time with updated playgrounds, North Park dugout and court resurfacing at Washington Park Gulden made a motion seconded by Jensen to receive and order filed the July and August activity reports. All voted in favor. Motion carried unanimously. 9. DATE OF NEXT MEETING: October 13, 2025 4:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers 100 North Broadway 10. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, declared adjournment at 4:22 p.m. Respectfully submitted by: Cheryl Kormann, Assistant Director Page 7 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 CITY COUNCIL Meeting: Agenda Section: Nov 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: September 16 Regular Meeting - Accepted Donations. October 7 Regular Meeting - Approved surplus item. (Fitness Equipment) October 21 Regular Meeting - No items. October 21 Work Session - Discussion on how staff should proceed relating to the restoration of the Hermann Monument base November 4 Regular Meeting - Approved a professional services contract to be signed by City Manager for Hermann Monument Reconstruction Cost Estimates. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 8 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: OLD BUSINESS Nov 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 1 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: Staff will provide a recap of the Master Plan Workshop and Visioning Activity held on October 3. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Attachments: 2025-10-03_NewUlmParks+RecBoardPresentation_NewUlmMN_ISG Page 9 of 60  Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Staff Workshop October 3, 2025 Page 10 of 60  Purpose Establish a 15-year vision for the City of New Ulm’s parks, recreation, open, and public spaces to meet current and future community needs and align with the City’s Comprehensive and Strategic Plans. Page 11 of 60  Planning Process Goals Establish Initiate Prepare a clear, 15-year Create an action plan for vision for New Ulm’s parks, achieving the plan vision recreation, and open spaces Evaluate Prioritize Assess existing park and Develop a strategy to recreation system features, guide decision-making and amenities, and services investment priorities Engage Identify Involve robust engagement and Select best practices to ensure find ways to include voices from the park system is managed underrepresented populations and maintained Page 12 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Schedule A M J J 2025 A S O N D J 2026 F M A Phase 1: Assess Phase 2: Envision 50% Plan Draft Phase 3: Implement Final Plan Draft Engagement Meeting Website, Survey, and Monthly Updates Virtual, 30-Minute Bi-Weekly Core Team Check-Ins (26) Stakeholder Task Force Meetings (2) Pop-Up Events (2) Staff Workshop (1) Public Open House (1) Park Commission Meetings + Presentations (2) Page 13 of 60 City Council Meeting + Presentation (1)  Previous Planning Efforts + 2015 Minnesota River Regional Parkway Master Plan + 2022 Comprehensive Housing Needs Analysis + 2023 Active Transportation Plan + 2024 New Ulm Comprehensive Plan - Four Small Area Plans + 2024 New Ulm Strategic Plan Page 14 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Demographics Population by Year Brown County New Ulm 27,500 25,000 22,500 Population 20,000 17,500 15,000 12,500 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 Page 15 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Demographics Population By Age Group 2010 2020 2025 2030 1,200 1,000 Population 800 600 400 200 5–9 30–34 0–4 10–14 15–19 20–24 25–29 35–39 40–44 45–49 50–54 55–59 60–64 65–69 70–74 75–79 80–84 85+ Page 16 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Demographics Racial + Ethnic Data Diversity Index By Year New Ulm Brown County Minnesota United States 70 60 Diversity Index 50 White 94% Asian 0.9% 40 American Indian + 30 Alaska Native 0.4% 20 Black or African American 1.4% Other Race 1.3% 10 2+ Races 1.8% 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 Page 17 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Demographics Median Household Income By Year New Ulm Brown County Minnesota United States $100,000 Median Household Income $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 2025 2030 Page 18 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Demographics Resident Education Levels Less Than High School 5% High School Graduates 58% Higher Education Degree 24% Other 13% Page 19 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Recreational Trends Evolving Needs Addressing evolving needs while managing resources will be essential for the growth and future of the park system. Rising Interest in Growing Popularity Splash Pads Demand of Pickleball + Water for Trails Amenities Page 20 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Engagement 4 Public Events City Project Website + + Meetings Meetings Digital Outreach 1 New Ulm 1 Kickoff Meeting 444 Survey National Night Out 3 Days of Consultant Responses 2 Community Site Visits + Park Tours 18 Feedback Map Group Meetings Twice Monthly Contributions 1 Parks Core Team 25 Yard Park Signs Commission Meeting Check-In Meetings Promoting Website Page 21 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Themes + Maintenance + Safety + Nature + River Access Parks are praised for cleanliness and Strong interest in nature-based safety with ongoing requests for recreation and better river consistent upkeep and smoother trails access through trails, landings, and scenic enhancements + Expanded Amenities Residents shared desire for more + Arts + Culture restrooms, better trail connectivity, Desire to enrich parks with enhanced aquatics, and diverse public art, cultural programming, recreational features and collaborations with local artists and organizations + Communication A desire for outreach through digital + Community Partnerships tools and local partnerships to raise Emphasis on resource-sharing awareness of park programs and events. and coordinated planning among schools, nonprofits, + Inclusive + Adaptive Programming and local groups to strengthen Advocacy for accessible design and park services inclusive activities that serve all ages and abilities. Page 22 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings Summary 1. Are you a City of New Ulm resident? 8 Questions 444 Survey Responses 18% No as of August 4 82% Yes Page 23 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings 2. How far away do you live from the nearest City park? Less than 0.25 Miles 27% 0.25–0.5 Miles 25% 0.5–1 Miles 17% 1–2 Miles 5% 2–5 Miles 9% 5–10 Miles 6% More than 10 Miles 12% Page 24 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings 3. Which local park do you visit most? Top Five Results German Park 24% Lincoln Park 13% Hermann Heights Park 12% Harman Park 10% Nehls Park 9% Page 25 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 07.16.2025 4. How often do you or your family members use parks and trails in New Ulm for the following activities? 4. How often do you or your family members use parks and trails in New Ulm for the following activites? Daily Exercise Exercise (running, biking, walking…) 70 176 157 41 Weekly Connect Connect with Nature Seasonally 53 151 186 54 with Nature Never Activities for Activities for Children + Families 39 167 171 67 Children + Families Relax + Relax + Hang Out 23 144 223 54 Hang Out Play Sports Play Sports 33 121 153 137 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Page 26 of 60 Daily Weekly Seasonally Never ISGInc.com ACTIVITY SCONew RE Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings 5. On average, how often do you visit a City park in one year? 0–10 Days 29% 11–25 Days 19% 26–50 Days 16% 51–75 Days 15% 76–100 Days 5% 101–150 Days 4% 151–200 Days 3% 201–250 Days 2% 251–300 Days 6% 301–365 Days 1% Page 27 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings 6. Please select your top three priorities for the Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan. Top Five Results Update Existing Facilities 259 Grow the Trail System 205 Expand Access to Flandrau State Park 153 Enhance Recreation Programming 122 Promote Physical Activity + Wellness 108 Page 28 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings 7. Please identify three park amenities that would most benefit the community if added or expanded. Top Five Results Community Gathering Areas 191 Permanent Restrooms 190 Improved Trail 183 Systems + Connectivity Unique Play Areas 164 Aquatic Facilities 154 Page 29 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Community Survey Findings Survey Results Summary 32616 City of New Ulm Park and Recreation Master Plan– New Ulm, MN 07.16.2025 8. On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate the following? 8. On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate the following? Marketing Marketing and of programs communication and and of programs services services 76 180 145 32 Parkaccessible Park amenities are amenities aremobility for limited accessible patrons 48 201 155 37 Support from the community Support from and and the communityuseruser groups groups 20 215 173 34 Variety of Variety of recreational programs recreational programs 43 164 186 48 Number and variety Numberof community and variety events of community in in events parks parks 50 136 211 46 Quality of Quality recreational programs of recreational programs 29 165 195 54 Park amenities Park meet community amenities meet needs community needs 34 138 214 57 Park maintenance, cleanliness, Park maintenance, and and general cleanliness, upkeep general upkeep 7 77 260 100 Park safety and and Park safety security security 11 78 246 109 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1 - Very Dissatisfied 2- Dissatisfied 3 - Neutral 4 - Satisfied 5 - Very Satisfied Very Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Neutral Satisfied Very Satisfied Page 30 of 60 SCORE MARKETING + COMMUNICATION OF PROGRAMS + SERVICES 3.25 PARK AMENITIES ARE ACCESSIBLE FOR LIMITED MOBILITY PATRONS 3.39 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY + USER GROUPS 3.49  City Park + Amenitiy Level of Service Legend Legend Bike Trail Playground New Ulm Bike Trail New Ulm Park Park 5 Minute Walk Time 1/4 Mile from Amenity 10 Minute Walk Time 1/2 Mile from Amenity Park Walk Times Distance to Playground Page 31 of 60 Monday, September 15, 2025 Friday, September 12, 2025 Park Walk Times Distance to Playground ¯ ¯ 0 2,600 5,200 New Ulm Parks and Source(s): 0 2,600 5,200 New Ulm Parks and Source(s): 1 inch = 5,200 feet ft Recreation Master Plan Parks (City of New Ulm, 2025) Water Features (DNR, 2022) 1 inch = 5,200 feet ft Recreation Master Plan Parks (City of New Ulm, 2025) Water Features (DNR, 2022) ISGInc.com New Ulm, Brown County, Minnesota New Ulm Park +NewRecreation Comprehensive Master Plan Ulm, Brown County, Minnesota  Visioning Purpose Creating a shared vision and vision statement provides an opportunity to identify differences in goals and desired outcomes for a planning process. By identifying these items early on, they can be discussed, and decisions about adjusting the vision can be made at the beginning of the process. This process also identifies consistency within goals and desired outcomes, bringing partners together with a unified focus for the planning process and future projects. Page 32 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Visioning Context City Vision New Ulm is a welcoming and adaptable community, growing What five words a resilient economy that fosters innovation and accountability describe your rooted in German heritage. vision for the parks and Parks + Recreation Vision recreation plan? It’s up to you! Page 33 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Visioning Are we making progress on the Goals 2024 goals? New Ulm 2024 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Recreation Goals: + Ensure parks and recreation are accessible and welcoming for everyone. + Protect and enhance natural resources Do any goals need and scenic areas. to be adjusted? + Connect the community with multi-use trails and greenways. + Offer fun, safe, and healthy recreation programs for all ages. How can we reach + Design parks for sustainability and low maintenance. our goals through + Support economic growth the parks plan? through parks and recreation. Page 34 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Next Steps A M J J 2025 A S O N D J 2026 F M A Phase 1: Assess Phase 2: Envision 50% Plan Draft Phase 3: Implement Final Plan Draft Engagement Meeting Website, Survey, and Monthly Updates Virtual, 30-Minute Bi-Weekly Core Team Check-Ins (26) Stakeholder Task Force Meetings (2) Pop-Up Events (2) Staff Workshop (1) Public Open House (1) Park Commission Meetings + Presentations (2) Page 35 of 60 City Council Meeting + Presentation (1)  Title Here Recreation Program Planning Parks and Recreation Staff Page 36 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Agenda 1 Introductions 2 Trends + Forecasting 3 Activity 4 Questions + Feedback Page 37 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Introductions What are What are you What your program most proud of challenges areas? in your are you facing? programs? Page 38 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Trends + Forecasting Mother Nature Technology + AI Demographics Healthcare + The Economy Government + Improvement Governance Page 39 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Mother Nature Weather Heat Indexes Air Quality Water Quality Page 40 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Technology + AI + Ever-evolving + Adapting from other fields and disciplines + Making parks, recreation, and human interaction important Page 41 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Demographics 13,993 16,461 41.9 Residents Daytime Population Median Age 3,450 2.85 Families Average Family Size $3,095 $233 Spent on Recreation + Entertainment Spent on Recreation + Health Club Per Average Household Memberships Per Average Household 3,696 963 506 407 324 309 Walkers Joggers + Basketball Frisbee Baseball Football Runners Players Players Players Players Page 42 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Healthcare + Improvement + Costs + Funding sources + Health trends + Medical breakthroughs Page 43 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  The Economy + National trends and impacts + Discretionary spending + Retirement + Haves and have nots Page 44 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  Government + Governance + Local, state, and federal support + Regulations + Harmony and disarray Page 45 of 60 ISGInc.com New Ulm Park + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan  ACTIVITY Trends, Drivers, and Impacts to Your Program Areas Overview the trends and drivers most impactful to your program areas. What have you done? What will you need to do to respond to these changes? Page 46 of 60  Thank you! Questions? Page 47 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: NEW BUSINESS Nov 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 1 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: Career Expo Fee Request Proposed Action: to recommend the City Council offer a resolution and waive the rental fee and all associated fees to hold the Career Expo at the New Ulm Civic Center, South and North Arenas, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. Board/Commission Recommendation: Overview: 1. The Career Expo is for area 8th and 10th graders to experience exposure to our local businesses on a personal level. 2. The Career Expo was held at the Civic Center in 2024 and 2025, since returning from the New Ulm High School for three years prior. 3. New Ulm High School has been convenient for local students but has hindered some of our hands-on vendors being able to bring in equipment. The Civic Center is better positioned to give vendors more flexibility to showcase their businesses and opportunities. 4. The Career Expo committee is asking that the rental fee for the Civic Center, as well as table and chair rental fees, be waved as they do not have a budget for this event. 5. Similar request in the past for this event have been approved. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: 1. If approved the 2026 Dry Land fee of $830.59 for each arena would be waived. Additional fees for tables and chairs would also be waived. 2. South and North Arenas are available on the date of the request, March 25, 2026. Attachments: Career Expo letter to Park and Rec Page 48 of 60  October 31, 2025 Dear Park and Recreation Commission, The New Ulm Area Career Expo is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2026. This annual event provides 8th- and 10th-grade students from across the region with the opportunity to explore local career paths and connect directly with area businesses. These students represent our future workforce, and the Expo helps them discover their interests while showcasing the wide variety of rewarding career opportunities available in New Ulm and surrounding communities. The event draws students from all public and parochial schools in New Ulm and Sleepy Eye, with additional invitations extended to Springfield, Comfrey, GFW, Sibley East, and Madelia. In past years, attendance has ranged between 650–850 students, and we expect similar or higher participation in 2026. The consistent turnout demonstrates both the value this event provides to students and the meaningful connections it creates for local employers. Thanks to your support last year, the South Arena of the Civic Center provided an excellent space for vendor booths and hands-on displays — including police vehicles, construction machinery, MnDOT equipment, and various simulators. The setup gave students a chance to see and experience careers in a hands-on way. In addition, the North Arena successfully hosted our new Game Show and Storytelling activities, which were a huge hit with students and exhibitors alike. We are excited to continue this format in 2026, with the South Arena once again serving as the primary space for booths and displays, and the North Arena dedicated to these interactive sessions that bring career exploration to life. To support this expanded format, we respectfully request that the Commission waive the rental fees for both arenas as well as the table and chair fees. As in past years, our volunteers are happy to handle table and chair setup and takedown to minimize staff burden. Sponsorships and vendor fees ($25/$50) will cover other event expenses such as prizes, exhibitor lunches, and student engagement activities. Your continued support ensures that the Expo remains accessible to all students and maximizes the benefit to our local workforce pipeline. We are deeply appreciative of the City of New Ulm and the Parks and Recreation Commission for your partnership in making this event possible. Together, we are helping students see a future for themselves here, while supporting the long-term vitality of our business community. Thank you for considering our request, and we look forward to working with you again to host another successful Career Expo in 2026. 1 North Minnesota ● Box 384 ● New Ulm, MN 56073 Phone: 507-233-4300 ● Fax: 507-354-1504 ● Email: chamber@newulm.com Page 49 of 60 Sincerely, New Ulm Career Expo Committee Co-chairs: Sara Bode, Citizens Bank Minnesota & Alicia Rahe, Nuvera Committee members: Nicole Blekestad, Oak Hills Living Center; Brittney Schmiesing, Chuck Spaeth Ford; Ashley Schiefert, MR Paving; Jeremy Vang & Rosanna Schrader, New Ulm Steel; Sarah Longtin, South Central WorkForce Council; Haley Geinnotta & Katie Mons, Junior Achievement; Natasha Bunn, MVAC; Sean Koster, Anita Longtin, & Alix Wenniger, NU Public Schools; Elise Cronin, River Bend Education District; Sarah Warmka & Sarah Sveine, New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce. 1 North Minnesota ● Box 384 ● New Ulm, MN 56073 Phone: 507-233-4300 ● Fax: 507-354-1504 ● Email: chamber@newulm.com Page 50 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: NEW BUSINESS Nov 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: Marcia Halvorson and Ken 1. Pollinator Park Lambrecht honoring Diana 250.00 Lambrecht Alaina Johnson honoring 2. German Park Paver Stone Michael and Carol 200.00 Goblirsch Kathy Kalz honoring Roger, 3. German Park Paver Stone 200.00 Maryann and Kathy Kalz Mary Ellen Domeier, 4. Pollinator Park honoring Robert “Butch” 250.00 Domeier Mary Ellen Domeier, 100.00 5. Riverside ELC honoring Robert “Butch” Domeier Stacey Kasper and Michelle 6. Bench-German Pk Martin, honoring Connie 1,750.00 Besemer Don Barstad, honoring 7. Memorial Tree-North Pk 181.00 Doug Grams 8. Memorial Tree-Civic Ctr Tim Macho, honoring Tom 290.00 Page 51 of 60  Macho Marge Miller, honoring DJ 9. Memorial Tree-Lincoln Pk 236.00 Leppla Marge Miller, honoring DJ 10. Parks 92.00 Leppla 11. German Park - Bench Lions Club 379.00 12. Hermann Run Sponsorship Square Konstruktion 150.00 New Ulm Baseball 13. Mueller Backstop 5,000.00 Association Lisa Besemer, honoring Dr. 14. German Park Paver Stone 200.00 Ashleigh Swearingen TOTAL $9,278.00 Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 52 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: NEW BUSINESS Nov 2025 Resolution: N/A Originating Department: Park & Rec Ordinance: N/A Prepared By: Joey Schugel Attachments: 0 Presented By: Joey Schugel Item: Park and Recreation Department Vision Statement Proposed Action: Proposed Vision Statement: New Ulm's Park and Recreation Department is rooted in historic and collaborative efforts, fostering a vibrant, collaborative system that offers diverse, accessible facilities and activities to promote an active and engaged community. Motion by __________ and seconded by __________. to adopt the proposed Park and Recreation Department Vision Statement. or to Modify and adopt the Park and Recreation Department Vision Statement. Board/Commission Recommendation: N/A Overview: 1. The Park and Recreation Master Plan will provide an overall vision of our parks and recreation system for the next 15 years. 2. Included in that is a department vision statement, which we do not currently have. 3. The goal of a department vision statement is to guide future planning and decisions, and provides direction and purpose for employees and stakeholders. 4. At the October 3 Master Planning Workshop staff participated in a vision statement activity that allowed staff to work together to organically build vision statements. 5. The two statements that came from that activity are:  New Ulm's Park System is rooted in historic and collaborative efforts, fostering diverse & accessible facilities and activities to promote active and engaging community. Page 53 of 60   In keeping with the Turner Philosophy, New Ulm Parks and Recreation is a vibrant and innovative system that focuses on community collaboration while providing fun and accessibility to everyone. 6. These two statements were then combined into the proposed department vision statement. Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 54 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action REPORTS FROM Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: COMMISSIONER AND Nov 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. Park have been winterized for the season. 2. North Park Dugout project is ongoing. 3. Mueller Park backstop project is underway. 4. Lincoln Park playground work continues. 5. Washington Park bathroom shelter is getting new siding. 6. Facilities Maintenance Supervisor - Weier Primary Issues/Alternatives to Consider: N/A Budgetary/Fiscal Issues: N/A Page 55 of 60 City of New Ulm Request for Park & Recreation Commission Action REPORTS FROM Park & Recreation Commission - 10 Meeting: Agenda Section: COMMISSIONER AND Nov 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 September and October 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: September 2025 Activity Report October 2025 Activity Report Page 56 of 60  PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES SEPTEMBER 2025 REPORT Parks Crews performed routine maintenance and continued mowing and trimming. Johnson and Mueller ballfields were aerated and seeded. Mueller bleacher canopies were taken down for the year. Crews installed engineered wood fiber for the new Lincoln play structure and around the existing swings. Benches were painted and mulch weeded at the Center Street mini park. The splash pad and wading pools were winterized. The Department offered a “Hermann Run” during Hermannfest this year. There were 75 participants in the 5k, 18 in the 1-mile fun run and 25 in the youth obstacle run. Youth Flag Football started September 7; there are 125 participants. Roughly $3,242 in Hermann Monument admissions were collected in September. Civic Center The South Arena rink boards were installed in preparation for flooding. New hockey nets and rink glass was purchased. A new drinking fountain was installed in the East lobby and new cooling tower chemical feed pumps were installed. The sold out fall garage sales were held in the South Arena, as well as the NUHS Homecoming Dance. 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. There are 73 punch cards in circulation. Approximately $1,810 was taken in for admissions, equipment rentals, programs and skate sharpening. There was approximately $12,984 in ice, dry floor and multi purpose space. Community Center Carpeting was replaced in one of the multipurpose rooms and new lighting installed. Fall adult pottery started; there are 6 participants. There were 2,571 meals distributed from the Center in August; 56% of those meals went out of town to other meal sites. Recreation Center 122 S. Garden St. September Membership Report: 24/7 Access 232 3-month memberships 83 Annuals paid in full 436 Insurance Memberships 1278 Ongoing 575 Rec Center General, youth & senior 950 Playground 201 Walking Track 376 Total 4,131 Herbie’s Hangout, an afterschool program started in September and has 19 participants. Youth Volleyball started September 10; there are 29 participants. A Community Recreation Day was held September 13 at the Rec Center offering visitors the opportunity to use the Rec Center for free, visit with 6 different community groups and try 3 different fitness classes. KNUJ broadcasted onsite for 2 hours during the event. This day was sponsored in part by Allina Health/New Ulm Medical Center. Page 57 of 60 Income report for September: Name Balance Misc RC Sales $252.16 RC Admissions $21,693.41 RC Equipment Rental $29.62 RC Memberships $22,973.47 RC Programs $3,938.01 RC Sales $3.70 Rent- RC Gym $247.72 Rent- RC Meeting Room $1,129.09 Swim Lessons $5,125.28 Total $55,392.46 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; Tree Advisory Commission Meeting. Staff presented at the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Conference held in New Ulm September 10- 12. The presentation was on Historic Preservation Tourism with other community partners. Staff also assisted the Hermann Monument Society with event logistics for Hermannfest held Saturday, September 6. The Department took part in the New Ulm Human Rights Commissions Welcome Week event on September 19 by bringing Rec on the Go to the event. A big monthly highlight was the official ribbon cutting for the Washington Park Playground which included Mayor Backer, and 80+ students and faculty from NUACS. Page 58 of 60  PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES OCTOBER 2025 REPORT Parks Crews performed routine maintenance and prepared parks for winter. At Johnson and Mueller parks, turf was aerated and seeded, mustard vines pulled from outfield fences, repair work in dugouts and removed wind screens, shade sails and drinking fountains. At other parks, crews watered newly planted trees, removed water from restrooms, shade structures were taken down and packed away, completed mulching Washington Playground, installed new lights in German Park band shell and storage area below and removed playground equipment from Lincoln Park’s tot area. Roughly $2,274 was collected in Hermann Monument admissions Civic Center The South Arena was flooded and ice painted. Both arenas are in full force for the season. Both arenas had the rink boards professionally cleaned. A new backflow was installed in the North Arena Zamboni room. A new drinking fountain was installed in the East lobby and colored lighting was installed for programs in the South Arena. Staff assisted with and charged the City of Windom and Sleepy Eye for ice painting. Monster Mash Family Skate and Fright Night Teen Skate were held October 25. Special themed skates will be offered at least once per month through March at the Civic Center. October Civic Center Sale Name Balance CC Admissions 50.98 RC Equipment Rental $11.12 CC Programs 143.00 Rent- CC Dry Floor 127.46 Rent- CC Ice 12,871.18 CC Meeting Room 203 897.38 Total $14,101.12 Recreation Center 122 S. Garden St. October Membership Report: This month 24/7 Access 333 3-month memberships 226 Annuals paid in full 569 Insurance Memberships 1,327 Ongoing 1,198 Rec Center General, youth & senior 1,076 Playground 219 Walking Track 418 Total 5,366 Fitness Instructors attended NETA classes November 4 and 5 for certifications and continuing education. Page 59 of 60 Herbie’s Hangout, an afterschool program is being offered. The Department offered a special Floating Pumpkin Patch in the pool October 26 as well as a Youth Basketball Camp. October Sales Name Balance Misc RC Sales $237.32 RC Admissions $10,551.73 RC Equipment Rental $51.87 RC Memberships $20,448.29 RC Programs $1,196.23 RC Sales $3.70 Rent- RC Gym $501.96 Rent- RC Meeting Room $593.72 Swim Lessons $4,608.80 Total $38,193.62 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. Staff attended the MN Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference in Brooklyn Center October 27-30. Master Plan Workshop was held with ISG, Park and Rec Staff, and Community Development Staff. Progress to date was reviewed and the group worked on visioning activities for the next step in plan. Staff participated in two Chamber of Commerce lead work groups, Holiday Market Event Planning and Events and Athletics Welcoming Committee. Staff also participated in an Emergency Management Exercise related to Cyber Attacks. The Department participated in two special events: downtown Oktoberfest with Rec on the Go and the ECFE Trunk or Treat. A Halloween Pottery class was offered at the Community Center. Page 60 of 60