The Urban Parks and Forestry Board unanimously approved its 2026-27 work plan at its April 23rd meeting, aligning proposed projects with five focus areas established in the board's founding resolution. Director Mitch Overton presented work items under each focus area, including organizing Arbor Day, updating the Urban Forest Management Plan, implementing equity-focused trail and park initiatives, adopting code changes from the Park Recreation and Active Transportation Plan, and providing recommendations on Sunset Hills Cemetery. The plan prioritizes two major projects: the Cattail Creek corridor anchor route and continuation of the cash-in-lieu grant program for parks and trails improvements.
Board members raised questions about managing the scope of code updates and expanding community garden programs like the one at Story Mill. Overton clarified that the code work would focus only on parkland sections and build on public engagement already completed during the PRAT plan process. He also noted the board had previously awarded grant funds to HRDC for community garden management at Story Mill and confirmed HRDC intends to continue that work. Board Member Matthew Kortan expressed interest in exploring ways to strengthen collaborative garden models as part of the board's equity focus.
Following the vote, the board held a work session on the Urban Forest Management Plan update led by Forestry Division Manager Alex Nordquist and consultants from PlanetGeo. Preliminary findings show ash trees have declined from 47 percent to 22 percent of public trees since 2016. The consultants are conducting vulnerability assessments for drought, fire, and pests, with implementation expected within this fiscal year. The board's next work session is scheduled for June 25th, with a public meeting on the plan set for April 28th at noon via virtual meeting.