Parks, Recreation & Forestry Advisory Board
Regular MeetingSpearfish, SD · October 20, 2022
Minutes
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – MINUTES
Thursday, October 20th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
The meeting was held in the Council Chambers and is available on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/cVqqbLTo7Dlw1pTmUnckw2CaQqC2DJ84is945ZeeKm3cxRgqUa
4qHuJHuOS6nO0J.uW3xjFK7NT3vmUo_?startTime=1666272679000
CALL TO ORDER 7:31 A.M.
ROLL CALL In attendance: Caldwell, Coburn, Dardis, Griffith, Holden, Neilson, Reth, Running, and
Weigel. Also in attendance were City Administrator McFarland, P&R Director Ehnes, SRAC Facility
Superintendent Rauterkus, Parks Maintenance Superintendent McDonald, City Attorney McDonald,
Recreation and Campground Coordinator Wetz, and Administrative Assistant Heiting. Absent: Clark.
DECLARATION OF ANY POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST No conflicts of interest were declared.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA Weigel moved, Dardis second, and all voted to approve the agenda.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Neilson moved, Reth second, and all voted to approve the minutes of the
September 15th, 2022, meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT Public comment was opened at 7:33 A.M. with no comments being received.
OLD BUSINESS
Board Items
Make a recommendation on the playground equipment at Evans Park.
o McFarland made an opening statement expressing his appreciation for the
involvement of the community as well as requesting that the community understands
that the end goal is to provide safe equipment for the children. McFarland encouraged
the community members wanting to stay involved to attend the city council meeting
where this topic will be discussed.
o Ehnes spoke about the history of the Rocketship as well as a summary of the
requirements to get the Rocketship compliant with the current safety standards. Ehnes
stated a law was passed in 2010 mandating that any playground equipment renovated
or refurbished after the year 2012 is required to meet the ADA standards.
o Ehnes explained that he met with Ainsworth-Benning as well as Mid-States Welding to
evaluate the repairs needed, as well as obtain quotes for renovations. Weigel
Next Meeting – November 17th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – MINUTES
Thursday, October 20th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
questioned when the information on the cost of renovation will be available. Ehnes
stated that quotes are expected to be available within the next couple of weeks.
o Ehnes showcased renderings of replacement equipment.
o A member of the audience questioned why the swings currently attached to the
Rocketship equipment need to be removed. Ehnes replied that according to the new
safety standards, swings cannot be attached to a composite structure; therefore, the
current swings no longer meet safety standards.
o Public Comment:
Lynn Ensor, 504 Fruitdale Dr, Spearfish expressed that she has two goals in
mind at the beginning of the discussion about the removal of the Rocketship
from Evans Park. The goals are to show appreciation to the Parker family for
the donation of the equipment and to bring awareness of how the removal of
the Rocketship will impact the surrounding neighborhood and the overall
community. Lynn stated that she has conducted in-depth research and has
talked to local individuals and businesses willing to assist in the renovations.
Lou Bell, 1521 Third Street, Spearfish expressed that she has made memories
playing at the Rocketship and feels that Evans Park is a safe park.
Rodney Ross, 2152 Tumble Weed Trail, Spearfish owner of Mid-States Welding
voiced that after placing the Rocketship removal project on social media,
interest in the project has received a significant amount of feedback and feels
as though there is enough community support to help get the Rocketship to
meet current safety standards.
Patricia Partridge 119 Yukon place, Spearfish expressed that she takes her
grandchildren to the park daily and believes nostalgia is very important. She
believes that the longevity of the metal playground will outlast a plastic
variation, as our harsh weather conditions age materials at a faster rate.
Kerri Gray-Wood, 114 Vermont Street, Spearfish spoke about the uniqueness
that the Rocketship offers and what the structure means to the community.
Ms. Gray-Wood believes the Rocketship is a cultural landmark and would like it
to be taken into consideration that removing the equipment is a serious
matter. Ms. Gray-Wood questioned if there is a possibility to renovate the
Rocketship and further develop new opportunities surrounding Evans Park.
She feels that the community is working hard on finding clever and creative
ways to keep the existing park equipment. However, if there is no solution and
Next Meeting – November 17th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – MINUTES
Thursday, October 20th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
the Rocketship must be taken down, she requests that the new equipment be
purchased locally.
Jeff Parker,19941 Crow Peak Road, Spearfish expressed that the potential
removal of the Rocketship has created emotional distress for his family as the
Rocketship was donated as a memorial for his son who passed away at an early
age. Dr. Parker expressed appreciation for all the support and has requested
that if the removal is necessary, the family would like the structure returned.
Randy Diebert, 1715 Scott Ave, Spearfish shared that Spearfish has a history of
family and community involvement with the donation of property. Mr. Diebert
requested more time to explore further options and potentially see if any
charitable groups would provide monetary donations to this project to fund the
necessary upgrades to the Rocketship, create pods, and provide new
equipment in the park.
Joe Powell, 111 DuBois Lane, Spearfish stated that she is very pleased with our
parks and what Spearfish has to offer. As a former art teacher, Powell
expressed that by keeping the Rocketship we value our sense of community.
She thanked Dr. Parker for sharing his son’s sense of joy with our city.
Amber Ginter, 106 West Main, Chambers, NE attended via zoom. She is a
former resident of Spearfish and she felt that the Rocketship is a staple of
Spearfish. When she returns to visit family, Ginter makes it a point to take
loved ones to Evans Park to play on the Rocketship.
Elizabeth Mattson, 159 Aurora Street, Spearfish attended via zoom and shared
that she would like to see the repairs be done due to the sustainability and the
nostalgia that the park provides to local community members.
A member of the audience questioned the cost of repairs for the Rocketship in
Spencer, Iowa. Ms. Ensor replied that she was not able to receive that
information.
Griffth expressed that at this time we are not aware of the renovation cost.
Once the cost is determined the board will be able to determine the following
steps.
Reth expressed appreciation for the comments from the community members.
Weigel expressed her appreciation for the community feedback as well as the
suggestion to utilize local contractors.
Dardis reassured the community members that all ideas will be researched and
considered before making a recommendation.
Next Meeting – November 17th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – MINUTES
Thursday, October 20th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
o Reth moved, Caldwell second, and all voted to postpone the recommendation on the
playground equipment at Evans Park.
Question and answer session on the September staff update.
o No questions were received on the staff update.
NEW BUSINESS
Rec and Aquatics Center
Adjust the 2023 fees at the Spearfish Rec and Aquatics Center.
o Recreation Facility Superintendent Brett Rauterkus presented the new proposed
indoor recreation fees for the year 2023.
o Caldwell questioned the price increase for Senior Games participants. Rauterkus
explained that due to a lack of volunteers the Rec Center employees have been
responsible to plan and operate this event. The fee also helps offset payroll and
provides shirts and medals.
o Neilson questioned how the scholarship process works. Rauterkus explained the
process and expressed his appreciation for the community’s assistance in funding.
o Rauterkus presented the idea of hosting a one-time event (day or weekend) during the
open house to purchase indoor memberships at a discount.
o Neilson questioned how long the new fee structure will be in effect. Rauterkus replied
that the Rec Center will be operating on a 2-year rotation where the indoor facility and
the outdoor waterpark will be on alternating years.
o Weigel moved, Running seconded, and all voted to recommend the fees as presented
to the full city council.
FYI ITEMS
No FYI items.
ADJOURNMENT Reth moved, Weigel seconded, and all voted to adjourn at 8:42 A.M.
Next Meeting – November 17th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Agenda
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – AGENDA
Thursday, October 20th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
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Topic: Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board
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CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
Next Meeting – November 17th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – AGENDA
Thursday, October 20th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
DECLARATION OF ANY POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
PUBLIC COMMENT
OLD BUSINESS
Board Items
• Make a recommendation on the playground equipment at Evans Park.
• Question and answer session on the September staff update.
NEW BUSINESS
Rec and Aquatics Center
• Adjust the 2023 fees at the Spearfish Rec and Aquatics Center.
FYI ITEMS
• None
ADJOURNMENT
Next Meeting – November 17th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – Minutes
Thursday, September 15th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
The meeting was held in the Council Chambers and is available on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/xKlu3ozUyEdtLWSzWR4hZeoWR6NsiPaYmwAnHY5BuX1-HaPk4-
lKTPw-bmUiwtWu.4ACGbtDz-tvW6ehO
CALL TO ORDER 7:30 A.M.
ROLL CALL In attendance were Caldwell, Coburn, Dardis, Griffith, Holden, Neilson, Reth, Running,
Weigel, and Clark. P & R Director Ehnes, SRAC Facility Superintendent Rauterkus, Parks Maintenance
Superintendent McDonald, City Administrator McFarland, Public Safety Director Rotert, and
Administrative Assistant Heiting.
DECLARATION OF ANY POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST No conflicts of interest were declared.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA Caldwell moved, Dardis seconded, and all voted to approve the agenda as
presented.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Coburn moved, Reth seconded, and all voted to approve the minutes of the
August 18th, 2022, meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT Public comment was open at 7:34 A.M with no public comments received.
OLD BUSINESS
Board Items
• Recommend approval of the plan for the funding and construction of a new skate park.
o Tom Deis who resides at 425 East Elgin St. in Spearfish presented his concern about
the proposed location of the potential skate park. Mr. Deis expressed that he is
concerned about the distance between the skate park and his house. He also
expressed he would like clarification on if the skatepark would be lit at night, and if
there would be a curfew due to the noise. Mr. Deis stated that he is in favor of the
skate park but expressed that he would like to see the park relocated to a different
area and has requested that the board table the approval until more information can
be obtained.
o Griffith questioned if the approval that is being requested today was for the park
location, or if the vote was for the exact location for the skate park to be placed.
Next Meeting – October 20th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – Minutes
Thursday, September 15th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
o Ehnes stated that the vote at this meeting would be to approve the timeline, general
location, and funding to start the grant process. The exact location of the skate park
can be decided later.
o Dardis stated that before the meeting, he went and looked at the proposed location
and stated that it is very close to Mr. Deis’ residence. He questioned if it would be
possible to move the location back to avoid being so close to the residences. Ehnes
stated that the location was agreed upon due to the architectural design and the need
for stormwater drainage, moving the proposed location of the park would just place it
closer to another citizen’s residence.
o Griffith stated that the committee has spent a lot of time finding and analyzing
locations, and a lot of research and consideration has been done prior to proposing
this location.
o Mr. Deis questioned if the park would need to be exactly square or could the park be
reconfigured so that there is more space between the park and homes, as well as
during the design stage if a tree line could be planted to form a sound barrier. Ehnes
stated that the design presented is not the exact dimensions of the skatepark.
o Rotert explained that he has had all these concerns in the past with the current skate
park and there have been very limited issues.
o Dardis questioned the next step in the approval process, Ehnes stated that this is part
of the first step in the approval process which will allow the City to apply for the
grants.
o Caldwell asked if this approval is for location and not design and that the board would
be allowed feedback for design.
o Ehnes said that this is the initial approval to get the process started and there would
be future conversations about the final design.
Wegiel moved, Neilson seconded, and all voted to recommend to City Council
the approval of the skate park plan as presented.
• Question and answer session on the September staff update.
o Neilson questioned the response from Spread the Tunes regarding the bandshell
commitment being postponed to the year 2024. Ehnes stated that Zac was
understanding of why it has been delayed.
o Neilson questioned if there was a way to avoid disrupting the current events that
happen in the summer while events are going on. Ehnes explained that while the
future bandshell will be replacing the current bandshell, the locations will slightly
Next Meeting – October 20th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – Minutes
Thursday, September 15th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
differ. Therefore, the current events may continue to go on, and that area of the park
will be considered an active construction site.
o Caldwell questioned the financial commitment from Spread the Tunes, Ehnes stated
that $100,00.00, was the initial proposal.
o Ehnes explained that Phase 1 of the Rec Path is scheduled to be completed in late
September, or early October.
o Clark questioned when the art walk would be completed. Ehnes stated that the art
walk project will be completed after the construction is finished. The Matthews Opera
house is leading the art project.
o Weigel questioned the location of the rec path and if it branches off. Ehnes stated that
it does branch off into the baseball complex.
o Ehnes advised the board that indoor fees at the rec center will be under review for this
next year.
o Rex discussed the Rec Path project and working with the AARP. There will be a kiosk
located at Brady Park along the rec path that will display a map to allow an easy view
of the rec path system.
o Clark questioned if the Adopt-A-Park program was still active. McDonald stated that
the program is still active. There has been one additional adopter this year, Beautify
Spearfish.
o Caldwell questioned if the rec path maps are up to date. McDonald explained that at
this point the maps are out of date, when more of the rec path gets completed, a new
path map will be designed.
o Griffith questioned if the signage near the creek could be improved due to confusion
on that area of the path. McDonald stated that yes, the plan is to add more signs as
part of this project to help clarify the route.
o Neilson questioned the bathroom vandalism and time restrictions that are in place.
Rex stated that due to vandalism, the restrooms are on a timer to be locked at
8:00 P.M. unless a special event is scheduled.
Neilson questioned when the restrooms would be closed for the season.
McDonald explained that the weather plays a role in when the restrooms will
close for the season. There is no exact time of closure as they will stay open if
possible. The restroom located near the Fish Hatchery on the south end of the
City Park is open year-round.
NEW BUSINESS
• No new business.
Next Meeting – October 20th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Advisory Board – Minutes
Thursday, September 15th, 2022, Council Chambers 7:30 A.M.
FYI ITEMS
• Rec Center parking lot construction
o Rauterkus discussed the SRAC parking lot is actively under construction. Ehnes stated
the parking lot will be under construction for 3-6 weeks.
ADJOURNMENT
• Caldwell moved, Coburn seconded, and all voted to adjourn at 8:11 A.M.
Next Meeting – October 20th, 2022, 7:30 A.M. Council Chambers
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
Board Items-Old Business
DEPARTMENT: ___________________________________________________________
REQUEST:
Make a recommendation on the playground equipment at Evans Park.
JUSTIFICATION: (attach any additional justification and/or documentation)
Staff have requested and been approved for $350,000 in the 2023 budget to make
improvements to the playground equipment at Evans Park. Local citizens and staff have been
gathering information for the board to consider and the staff have came up with two options for
the board to consider. Evans Park has another playground structure that is scheduled for
replacement in 2023. That equipment is not part of this discussion and its replacement will
occur regardless of the decision made about the rocketship.
The two options regarding the rocketship are:
1. Renovate the current rocketship.
2. Remove the current equipment and replace it with new equipment.
See attached staff report for more detailed information.
General Fund 2023
FUNDING:___________________________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends option 2
________________________________________________________
MEETING DATE
PRFAB:_________________________
10/20/22
Deadline: Friday 12:00 PM prior to board meeting, send electronically to the SRAC Admin Assistant.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND FORESTRY ADVISORY BOARD
To: Spearfish PRF Advisory Board
From: Spearfish Parks and Recreation Director
Date: 20 October 2022
RE: Staff Report for Rocketship Playground at Evans Park
Staff, along with several members of the PRF Advisory Board, have met several times to discuss
potential options for the rocketship playground equipment located in Evans Park. The equipment
was donated thirty years ago by the Parker family in memory of their son. Because of the
circumstances around its donation and the amount of time it has been in our community, we all
understand it is a fixture that holds meaning and significance.
Like all infrastructure, playground equipment has a life span. Over time, constant exposure to the
elements and evolving safety standards render playground equipment unsafe. On average,
playground equipment lasts twenty to thirty years depending on material quality, maintenance,
weather exposure, and other factors. The Rocketship is 30 years old. The equipment is showing its
age with rust, cracked pipes, dented slides, and a general overall deteriorating condition. In addition
to its physical state, the equipment does not meet current playground safety standards under the U.S.
Consumer Product Safety Commission Public Playground Safety Handbook.
Due to these issues, staff found it prudent to budget for replacement equipment in 2023. The City
Council has authorized $350,000 in 2023 to replace the playground equipment in Evans Park with
new, updated equipment.
Some citizens approached the staff with the idea of renovating and refurbishing the Rocketship
rather than replacing it with new equipment. These citizens have done the research and found that
other communities have renovated playground equipment.
Please note, Evans Park has another playground structure that is scheduled for replacement in 2023.
That equipment is not part of this discussion and its replacement will occur regardless of the
decision made about the Rocketship.
This report aims to lay out the options before the Board so it can make a recommendation to the
City Council.
Option 1: Renovate and refurbish
An inspection on October 18th, 2022 conducted by Safety Benefits Inc. a third-party company
representing the City’s insurance company revealed the following issues. This is not a
comprehensive list of the findings. A detailed report will be provided to the City, but will not be
available by the time of the October PRF Advisory Board meeting.
• Remove the swings.
o Page 39 of the handbook states, “swings should not be attached to a composite
structure.” A “composite structure” is defined as two or more play structures
attached or functionally linked, to create one integral unit that provides more than
one play activity. The Rocketship is a composite structure.
o Page 40 of the handbook states that there needs to be a minimum clearance of six
lateral feet between use zones. The swings do not meet that minimum clearance
requirement.
o Swings must also be 30” from an existing structure, the swings are currently at 20”
o Swing bracket bolts are upside down.
• Issues with the large slide.
o A hood or other means needs to be placed over the slide to channel users into the
sitting position.
o There is too large of a gap on the rails that connect to the large slide.
o There is a space at the front end of the slide where users would enter. This gap
needs to be closed up.
o The discharge angle of the slide is currently at 20 degrees. The discharge angle
cannot be more than 4 degrees. The discharge must be 11” long and the discharge
may only be 7”- 15” above the ground.
o Reset the slide in concrete and replace and seal metal posts. The slide is not set
straight in the concrete so there are 3 metal posts with small splits.
• Issues with the small slide.
o A smooth transition must be created. Currently, the transition is elevated and must
be flush with the surface.
o A hood or other means needs to be placed over the slide to channel the users into
the sitting position.
o There are sharp edges underneath the slide caused by a protruding mounting bracket.
o The discharge angle of the slide is currently at 20 degrees. The discharge angle
cannot be more than 4 degrees and the discharge may only be 7”- 15” above the
ground.
o Install a shade structure over the small slide.
• Nearly all bolts on the structure will need to be replaced so no more than two threads are
showing.
• Entrapment Issues.
o The vertical bars need to be extended so there isn’t a gap greater than 3.5” as this is
an entrapment danger.
o Multiple entrapment issues on the structure would allow a child to get their body
through the opening, but not the head resulting in an entrapment issue.
• The main center post that supports the structure is loose and needs to be resecured.
• Cosmetic touchups.
o Painting and fiberglass repair.
• Install signage indicating the appropriate age for users of the structure.
• Replace rusted structural sections.
o It is unknown whether this is possible and, if so, the cost or utility of such
replacement.
In addition, the ADA requires that any playground equipment that is altered must comply with the
then-current guidelines. The Rocketship does not currently comply with ADA standards. Thus, if
the Rocketship is renovated or altered, it would need to meet ADA standards. According to the
ADA, an accessible playground is one that offers a range of play experiences to children of varying
abilities. There must be:
• Once a child is in the play area, they must be able to access the play equipment by either
moving out of their mobility device onto the playground structure (such as a transfer station)
or by direct play structure access in their mobility device (such as a ramp).
• The number of accessible play features would need to be upgraded to meet the ratio set by
the ADA.
• There are additional requirements, but a consultant would be required to ensure compliance.
Option 2: Remove current equipment and replace it with new equipment.
New equipment purchased from a commercial playground company would be designed and
constructed to meet all handbook and ADA requirements. The end product would be brand-new
equipment guaranteed to meet standards and last another 20-plus years. See attached renderings of
conceptual playgrounds.
Conclusion and Recommendation
While the staff certainly understands the community’s attachment to the current equipment, it is the
responsibility of the staff to ensure the safety of the public and children that are using the
equipment. The staff also have the responsibility of ensuring that the City is following all guidelines,
rules, regulations, laws, etc. Therefore, staff recommends option 2 as the best path forward for
Evans Park. In the event this is the chosen option, the current equipment could be surplused and
returned to the Parker Family, or a small portion of the Rocketship could be kept and maintained
for its historical value. Whichever option is chosen, staff would like to ensure the Parker family is
still recognized for their donation to the City by erecting a plaque or informational signage detailing
the history of the park.
Regards,
Tyler Ehnes
Parks and Recreation Director
City of Spearfish
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
DEPAR TMENT: Board Items-Old Business
REQUEST:
Question and answer session on the October staff update.
JUSTIFICATION: (attach anv additional justification and/or documentation)
This is our standing Q & A session for board members to have their questions answered
regarding the monthly staff update and any other questions they may have for the staff.
'---/-'-A=-----------------------
FUNDING:--'N
RECOMMENDATION: -'-N"-/A
:..:____________________
MEETING DATE
PRFAB: 10/20/22
Deadline: Friday 12:00 PM prior to board meeting, send electronically to the SRAC Admin Assistant.
October Park, Rec, and Forestry
Advisory Board Update
Director Update:
Exit 8 Rec Path Expansion:
Construction of Phase 1 is nearly complete. There is some fencing and seeding left to do, but the
majority of the project is complete. The City hosted a grand opening and naming ceremony on
Friday, October 14th at 1:00 PM to commemorate the opening of the path and thank those who
helped make the new path possible The low bid for Phase 2 came in over 30% higher than the
engineer’s estimate. Due to that cost, the City Council along with the SDDOT rejected the bid.
This project will be rebid next year. The cost estimate for that phase is expected to be over
$800,000 and includes the work on the Exit 8 underpass. We are requesting $600,000 in grants for
this phase. The grant application requesting $600,000 for Phase 3 has been submitted and accepted.
I must present to the selection committee in November as a final step in the grant process. We
should find out around the end of January if we are selected for the grant. Phases 2 and 3 will then
be bid out next spring/summer and hopefully, the project will be complete by the fall of 2023 or
spring of 2024.
Sports Complex
Phase 1 of the sports complex is wrapping up. The seeding has been done on some of the fields
and the turf has begun to establish. Buildings are being erected and the final completion has been
set for November We put out a bid for Phase 2 and received no bids for the project. We are now
able to negotiate with a contractor to try and get Phase 2 complete. We have received a proposal
from a contractor that the staff are reviewing. If the proposal is accepted, this phase would be
completed around the end of next summer. Phase 2 of the sports complex will include a
playground, a small restroom, wayfinding, shade structures, and an additional picnic shelter. We
anticipate the complex will be open for play in the spring of 2024.
Bandshell
The bandshell preliminary design has been completed and an initial cost estimate of $648,065.29. I
have met with Zach Eixenberger with Spread the Tunes to discuss the path forward. This project
will be a partnership between STT and the City, and I plan on applying for grant funds to help fund
the project. Zach presented last month to the PRF Board and presented to the City Council. He
would like it to be put in the 2023 budget. After working through the budgeting process, it was
decided to leave this out of the 2023 budget due to the large number of capital projects already
taking place in the department in 2023. I will apply for grants next year and place it in the 2024
budget.
October Park, Rec, and Forestry
Advisory Board Update
Skate Park
With the PRF Board approving the recommendation brought forth by the skate park committee, the
recommendation will be presented to City Council for a final decision on October 17th. If City
Council approves the recommendation, I will begin working with the American Ramp Company on
an initial concept design and cost estimate that will allow the committee to apply for grants in the
spring of 2023. If we are not selected in 2023 for grants, we would then reapply in 2024 for funding.
If we are not selected in 2024, we would then need to figure out another funding source for the
project. If we are selected for funding in 2023 or 2024, the construction design would be complete
in 2024 and the construction of the park would take place in 2025.
Rocketship Park
Staff and citizens are still researching and compiling information on options for the board to
consider for the rocketship playground feature. I have a meeting scheduled for October 18th with
Safety Benefits Inc. to inspect the playground and get their recommendations on improvements for
compliance. There is $350,000 budgeted in next year’s budget to replace/refurbish the playground
equipment at Evans Park. Staff will need a recommendation from the board at the October meeting
so we can move forward with plans for the playground. Time is of the essence as playground
pricing is scheduled to go up at the end of November and if staff can get an order placed before
then, we will save funds on a new playground if that is the direction that the board wants to go. I
have included a full staff report on this issue in this packet.
AARP Grant
This project is nearly complete. The Parks staff have been busy installing the signage, while our
contractors have completed the necessary curb and concrete work. Due to the success of this grant,
the Spearfish Community Foundation donated $10,319 to the City to complete the rest of the
project. The signs have been ordered and constructed and if weather permits, the rest of the project
should be finished by winter. I will need to send in an after-action report to AARP that shows the
results of the project and prove we spent the money on the project we applied for.
2023 Projects
The department has a great deal of projects in the 2023 budget that were approved by the City
Council. I, along with my staff are already busy lining up the 2023 projects. Projects to note are
new fitness equipment at the rec center, new sod in the water park phases 2 and 3 of the rec path,
phase 2 of the sports complex, recreation path repairs, a new gate configuration on Lookout
Mountain, landscaping at the pickleball court, playground improvements at Evans Park, a new
October Park, Rec, and Forestry
Advisory Board Update
playground at Sky Ridge, tennis court resurfacing, new office at the campground as well as many
other smaller projects.
Parks Maintenance Superintendent Update
1. Rec Path Wayfinding project
a. AARP Grant funding
i. New sidewalk and curb poured at Rotary Park
ii. New ADA curb ramp installed at Brady Park
iii. New “yield to pedestrian” signs put in at Nash Street bridge and Grant Street
bridge
iv. New informational kiosk installed at Brady Park
v. New Rec Path signs are being installed between the south end of City Park
and the corner of 3rd Street and Rushmore Street by November 1, 2022
b. Spearfish Community Foundation Grant funding
i. 31 Rec Path signs assembled during a community volunteer event in
September
ii. New Rec Path signs will be installed between Spearfish City Campground to
the Canyon parking lot, along Colorado Boulevard to Exit 14, along
Sandstone Hills Drive, and from Lookout Park north to Evans Park before
December 1
2. Campground update
a. Off-season rates began on October 1, 2022
b. All campsites will be closed from November 1, 2022 – January 1, 2022, for Winter
Wonderland
3. New bench was installed at the Pollinator Habitat at Sue Bertsch Memorial Gardens
4. Winterizing in Parks began on October 1, 2022
a. All park restrooms are currently open and will remain open as the weather allows
b. The restroom in City Park nearest to the fish hatchery parking lot will remain open
year-round
5. Community Gardens clean-up day set for October 15
a. Organized by the Northern Hills Master Gardeners
6. Thoen Stone monument field trip with BHSU General Biology II class
a. Parks staff were invited to attend a field trip by Dr. Tara Ramsey that highlighted the
biodiversity of plant species around the Theon Stone monument
b. A partnership between the Parks Department and BHSU was discussed that to
implement land management practices that would preserve and protect the
biodiversity in that area including informational signage and prescribed burns to
control undesirable vegetation
October Park, Rec, and Forestry
Advisory Board Update
Rec Center Facility Superintendent Update
Indoor Memberships:
• Our membership on 10-11-22 was 2,075. This is an increase of 34 members since the last
report.
• Our membership for the October board report in 2021 was 1,782. We have increased 293
members in one year. that is a 16% increase.
• We have 137 24-hour memberships. This number is not included in the above number since
you must have an active regular membership to be eligible for the 24-hour membership.
This is an increase of 13 since the last report.
Indoor Day Passes:
• Between September 9th, and Oct 11th we sold 250 adult day passes, 368 youth day passes, and
5 walking day passes. Averaging 19 per day, this is a decrease of 2.5 per day since the last
report.
• Year to date we have sold 2,841 adult day passes, 4,576 youth day passes, and 400 walking
passes totaling 7,817 day passes for an average of 27.70 passes a day. Last year at this time
we had sold 2,865 adult passes, 3,119 youth passes, and 295 walking passes totaling 6,279 for
an average of 22.25 passes a day. We have sold 1,538 more day passes in 2022.
Waterpark:
• Most of the waterpark is winterized. We have drained all the pools, blown out the lines,
capped off the pipes, and refilled the pools.
• The covers have been installed and all shade structures have been removed. We will
continue to work on some things in the pump house throughout the winter.
• We have been working to locate a leak in one of the pools.
Staffing:
• Our part-time Maintenance position is open. We have interviewed a few candidates and are
hoping to have the position filled in the next few weeks.
October Park, Rec, and Forestry
Advisory Board Update
Programming
• Youth football:
o There are 24 kids registered for Flag Football. Their last game was on October 11th.
We will be having a pizza party for them next week.
• 5 on 5 Adult basketball League:
o We have 7 teams. The season will be from September 22nd through November 15th.
Most games are played on Thursdays.
• Date Night Daycare:
o We provide daycare from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on select nights so parents can plan a
date night. The event scheduled for October 15th is full.
o This is limited to 9 kids.
o The dates for this event are October 15th, November 12th, December 10th, January
14th, and February 11th.
• Skate Nights:
o The first several dates are October 7th, November 4th, December 2nd, January 6th, and
February 3rd.
o We had 134 skaters on October 7th.
• Holiday events:
o Our holiday light contest is from November 26th -December 17th. Community
members that decorate their homes or business for the holidays can register for the
contest. This puts their address on our map, and community members can then go
to each location and vote on their favorites.
o Craft fair and Santa and the Rec Center. On December 10th Santa will be at the Rec
Center during our Craft Fair. Spaces for the Craft Fair are limited to 35 and they are
$25 per space. We will also have a professional photographer here that day to take
photos with Santa.
o We have filled 24 of the 35 available spaces.
October Park, Rec, and Forestry
Advisory Board Update
• Daycare/Preschool PE classes
o We offer PE classes to many daycares and preschools in spearfish. We are teaching
3 classes a week for October and November and will be teaching 4 classes a week in
December.
Maintenance:
• The contractor is estimating at least 3 more weeks before the parking lot is complete.
• We added additional power outlets in the current training room in anticipation of moving
the cardio equipment into that room and moving the weights into the Lookout room.
Fitness
• We are waiting for 3 new pieces of fitness equipment to be delivered. Once those are in
place we will work to finish the transition for the cardio equipment into the current training
room.
• We are offering Silver Sneakers classes Monday through Friday at 9:00 am.
• We offer a HITT class Monday Wednesday Friday at 12:15 pm.
• We will be adding a youth fitness class starting in November.
Recommendations from the Recreation Committee
Memberships Comparisons
Sturgis (24‐hour BHSU Young Spearfish
Gillette (one‐month
Last included for a one‐ Deadwood Belle Center DT gym Anytime Crossfit Strength
Sale)
time fee of $15) (Combo) and Fitness
Type Current Recommendation Changed
Annual adult
$330 $147 $318 $347 / $408 $315 / $405
membership $228 increase 20% $274 3/26/2021 $600 $600 $1,260 $588
Annual couple
$432 $404 $525 / $611
membership $336 increase 20% $403 3/26/2021 $1,068
Annual family
membership (up $504 $270 $462 $693 / $815 $495 / $585
to 5) $552 do not adjust $552 3/26/2021 $1,200 $1,788
Annual senior All Senior over 62 are
$230 $100 $202 $225 / $315
membership $180 increase 10% $198 3/26/2021 free $900
Annual senior All Senior over 62 are
$318 $260
Couple $264 increase 10% $291 3/26/2021 free
youth = $192 / $226,
$230 $100 $145 Jr./Sr. High = $252 / $225 / $315
Annual Youth $180 increase 20% $216 3/26/2021 $296 $900
Annual Youth
$318 $260
Couple $264 increase 20% $317 3/26/2021
24‐hour add‐on
per month $12 do not adjust $12 3/26/2021
an extra child
with a family
membership $132 do not adjust $132 12/4/2019
Monthly
Walking $10 $12
membership $27 do not adjust $27 4/15/2015
membership
cancelation fee
before the end
of the first year $30 increase $50 4/15/2015
BHSU Young
Day Passes Sturgis Deadwood Belle Gillette
Center
Adult $5 increase $6 4/15/2015 $5 $8 $5 $6 $5
Youth $3 increase $4 4/15/2015 $3 $4 $3.25 $4 $5
Walking $3 increase $4 4/15/2015 $3.25
Activity and
programs
Last
Type Current Recommendation Changed
Senior Games $25 increase $75 2/4/2016
Baby Sitting
Class $60 increase $70 3/12/2020
Event
Table/Table
Rental $25 increase $35 1/3/2019
3‐on‐3
basketball $150 do not adjust $150 12/4/2019
5‐on‐5
basketball $250 do not adjust $250 12/4/2019
5‐week league $120 do not adjust $120 12/4/2019
youth flag
football $25 do not adjust $25 1/1/2015
youth tackle
football $50 do not adjust $50 1/1/2015
Skate Night increase ( Fall of
Admission $8 2023) $10 9/20/2018
Skills Camp $12 increase $15 12/4/2019
change to $25
$1 per After 30 minutes
Late Pick up min late $25 1/1/2015
Summer Rec
field trips $25 increase $35 3/26/2021
Daycare/Presch $4 per
ool PE classes child do not adjust $4 1/1/2015
Equipment
Rental
Last
Type Current Recommendation Changed
Movie inflatable
screen $150 increase $200 2/4/2016
portable
speaker $25 increase $30 4/15/2015
$5 per $5 per
Short Locker month do not adjust month 4/15/2015
$10 per $10 per
Tall Locker month do not adjust month 4/15/2015
Room Rentals
Last
Type Current Recommendation Changed
skate party up
to 25 people ‐ 2
hours $150 increase $175 12/4/2019
Skate Party 26‐
75 people ‐ 2
hours New increase $300
Large Skate
Party 76‐250 ‐ 2
hours $400 increase $425 12/4/2019
Large Skate
Party non‐profit ‐
2 hours $350 increase $375 12/4/2019
Lookout Room
full ‐ 8 hours $400 increase $450 3/26/2021
Lookout Room
full ‐ 8 hours
(Non‐Profit) $387 increase $425 12/4/2019
Lookout Room
full ‐ 4 hours $200 increase $250 3/26/2021
Lookout Room
full ‐ 4 hours
(Non‐Profit) $193 increase $225 12/4/2019
Lookout Room
1/4 ‐ per hour
one court $50 do not adjust $50 3/26/2021
Lookout Room
1/4 ‐ per hour
(Non‐Profit) $48 do not adjust $48 12/4/2019
Batting Cage =
Sturgis Deadwood Belle Gillette Studio 621
per hour $25 do not adjust $25 12/4/2019
Gym = both $160 up
courts per hour to 2
(Non‐Profit) $50 do not adjust $50 4/15/2015 hours
Gym = south $80 up
court per hour to 2
(Non‐Profit) $25 increase $30 4/15/2015 hours
$225 up
Gym = both $200 up to 4 hours to 2
courts per hour $60 increase $75 4/15/2015 hours
$112.50
Gym = south $100 4 hours up to 2
hours
court per hour $30 increase $35 4/15/2015
Multipurpose $200 up to 5
room all ‐ per $50 $80 per hour hours, $300 all‐
hour $50 increase $70 3/26/2021 day
Multipurpose
room 1/2 ‐ per $40
hour $30 increase $40 3/26/2021
Party Room ‐
$40
per hour $30 increase $40 3/26/2021
Party Room ‐
per hour (Non‐ $30
Profit) $25 increase $35 1/1/2015
Group Fitness $50 per $40
Room ‐ per hour $30 increase $40 3/23/2021
Group Fitness
Room ‐ per hour $30
(non Profit) $25 increase $35 1/1/2015
Fitness
Type Current Recommendation
Class Pass
member $3 increase $4 4/15/2015
Class Pass non‐
member $6 increase $8 4/15/2015
5K Series $70 increase $120 4/15/2015
5K individual
Race $15 increase $25 4/15/2015
Personal
Training 30
minutes $25 increase $30 4/15/2015
personal
training 60
minutes $50 increase $55 4/15/2015
Kids Triathlon $25 do not adjust $25 2/4/2016
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