StorySummer Youth & Special Event Programming

Edina Parks Commission redefines its role in city governance

The Edina Parks & Recreation Commission discussed proposed changes to its governing rules that would shift its focus from running programs to advising the city on parks and recreation policy. The changes reflect a broader effort to clarify the commission's advisory role and align it with current practices.

Meeting date: Oct 14, 2025
Published Jun 14, 2026

At its October 14 meeting, the Parks & Recreation Commission reviewed updates to the city code that would reshape how the commission operates. The proposed changes, outlined in a memo from Special Projects & Engagement Manager MJ Lamon, would broaden the commission's stated purpose from a narrow focus to "a vision of enhancing quality of life and community wellbeing."

The most significant change clarifies that the commission should serve as "an advocate for parks and recreation, not an implementer of programs." This distinction matters because it removes references to the commission developing or recommending specific recreation programs—work that city staff will handle instead. The updates aim to enhance consistency and clarity across all city boards and commissions.

Beyond the code changes, the commission heard updates on several ongoing initiatives. The Edina Aquatic Center wrapped up its 2025 season with highlights in staffing and attendance, though season pass sales lagged. Looking ahead, the city plans a filter room replacement project at the aquatic center in 2026 and will review pricing strategies. The commission also discussed a 2026 strategic plan update, building on the 2016 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan, and reviewed concerns about off-leash dogs on Braemar Golf Course trails—a safety issue the city committed to addressing with additional signage.

The commission also learned about a new remote meeting participation policy approved by the City Council on October 7. Starting January 1, 2026, commission members will be able to attend meetings virtually using audio and video technology, pending completion of technology upgrades. The policy aligns with recent changes to Minnesota's Open Meeting Law.

The commission's next meeting is scheduled for November 12, 2025, when it will receive an update on alternative funding strategies for parks and recreation—a presentation moved from October due to a full agenda.

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Full analysis

Broader framing of purpose: Updated from a narrow focus to a vision of enhancing quality of life and community wellbeing.

MJ Lamon, Special Projects & Engagement Manager [October 14, 2025 Agenda Item 7.3 Memo]
Initiative 1.5.6. City Code Update—Article III. Boards, Committees and Commissions, Division 7. Parks and Recreation Commission

Clarified advisory/advocacy role: The commission is described as an advocate for parks and recreation, not an implementer of programs.

MJ Lamon, Special Projects & Engagement Manager [October 14, 2025 Agenda Item 7.3 Memo]
Initiative 1.5.6. City Code Update—Article III. Boards, Committees and Commissions, Division 7. Parks and Recreation Commission

Removed staff functions: References to developing or recommending specific recreation programs were removed, as this is a staff responsibility.

MJ Lamon, Special Projects & Engagement Manager [October 14, 2025 Agenda Item 7.3 Memo]
Initiative 1.5.6. City Code Update—Article III. Boards, Committees and Commissions, Division 7. Parks and Recreation Commission

That allows members of City boards and commissions to attend meetings using interactive technology (audio and video) in accordance with changes to Minnesota's Open Meeting Law.

Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director [October 14, 2025 Agenda Item 9.2]
Remote Meeting Participation Policy

The City is currently completing technology upgrades needed to support this new policy. Boards and Commissions will be able to begin using remote participation starting January 1, 2026.

Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director [October 14, 2025 Agenda Item 9.2]
Remote Meeting Participation Policy
Source document

Meeting location:

Braemar Golf Course

6364 John Harris Dr.

Edina, MN

Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting Agenda

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

7:00 PM

Accessibility Support:

The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing amplification,

an interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting.

1. Call to Order

2. Roll Call

3. Approval of Meeting Agenda

4. Approval of Meeting Minutes

4.1. Minutes:Parks & Recreation Commission Sept. 9, 2025

5. Special Recognitions and Presentations

6. Community Comment

During "Community Comment," the Board/Commission will invite residents to share

issues or concerns that are not scheduled for a future public hearing. Items that are on

tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment. Individuals must

limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the number of speakers on

the same issue in the interest of time and topic. Individuals should not expect the Chair or

Board/Commission Members to respond to their comments tonight. Instead, the

Board/Commission might refer the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting.

7. Reports/Recommendations

7.1. Summer Youth & Special Event Programming Update

7.2. Edina Aquatic Center Update

7.3. Initiative 1.5.6. City Code Update—Article III. Boards, Committees and Commissions,

Division 7. Parks and Recreation Commission

8. Chair and Member Comments

Page 1 of 17

9. Staff Comments

9.1. Upcoming Meetings & Events

9.2. Remote Meeting Participation Policy

10. Adjournment

Page 2 of 17

d

ITEM REPORT

Date: October 14, 2025

Meeting: Parks & Recreation Commission

Agenda Number: 4.1

Item Type: Minutes

Item Activity: Approve

Prepared By: Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation

Director

Department: Parks & Recreation

Item Title:

Minutes:Parks & Recreation Commission Sept. 9, 2025

Action Requested:

Approve minutes from the Sept. 9, 2025 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting.

Information/Background:

See attached minutes.

Supporting Documentation:

PARC Minutes 9-9-2025

1.

Page 3 of 17

Draft Minutes☒

Approved Minutes☐

Approved Date: XX/XX/2024

Minutes

City of Edina, Minnesota

Edina Parks & Recreation Commission

Braemar Golf Course

Sept. 9, 2025

7 p.m.

1. Call to Order

Chair Pfuhl called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.

2. Roll Call

Answering roll call were Commissioners Bye, Garazatua, Hulbert, Wick, Kane, Pfuhl, and Student

Commissioners Harrington and Syed

Commissioner Welsh arrived at 7:04 p.m.

Commissioner(s) Absent: Spaulding

Staff Present: Staff Liaison Perry Vetter and Administrative Coordinator Janet Canton

Chair Pfuhl noted that an amendment needs to be made to the agenda. Item 7.1 is going to be

removed from the agenda; General Manager Patty McGrath is unable to attend tonight’s meeting. She

will give her presentation at the October Parks & Recreation Commission meeting

3. Approval of Meeting Agenda

Motion made by Kane to approve the amended meeting agenda. Motion seconded by

Garazatua.

Motion carried.

4. Approval of Meeting Minutes

4.1 Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission Aug. 12, 2025

Motion made by Hulbert to approve Aug. 12, 2025 minutes. Motion seconded by Kane.

Motion carried.

5. Special Recognitions and Presentations

5.1 Welcome Student Commissioner Anna Harrington

Staff Liaison Vetter introduced new Student Commissioner Anna Harrington and each

commissioner introduced themselves to Student Commissioner Harrington.

6. Community Comment

None

7. Reports/Recommendations

7.1 Edina Aquatic Center Update

.

Page 4 of 17

Draft Minutes☒

Approved Minutes☐

Approved Date: XX/XX/2024

7.2 Initiative 1.5.3: Review 2016 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan content, identify key

study areas to include in upcoming 2026 update for topics, research and potential

data collection.

Vice chair Kane informed the commission he is the lead on this initiative along with Chair Pfuhl

and Commissioner Welsh. Vice chair Kane gave a presentation on where the working group is

currently at with this initiative. There was a discussion, and commissioners asked questions. He

asked the commission to look it over and if anyone wanted to add something to reach out to the

working group and they will alter the document and will provide updates on the initiative at the

October meeting.

7.3 2025 Parks & Recreation Commission Work Plan Updates

Initiative 1.5.1 – Review and comment on Braemar Arena Implementation. Staff Liaison

Vetter informed the Commission he will send out a doodler poll in the next couple of days to

this initiative’s group to go over the presentations. They are also going to be scheduling with all

of the stakeholders to review the plans for the arena. This will eventually be brought to the

commission.

Initiative 1.5.2 – Review and compare park shelter building amenities and function.

Nothing to update

Initiative 1.5.3 – Review 2016 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan content, identify key

study areas to include in upcoming 2026 update for topics, research and potential data

collection. Already discussed.

Initiative 1.5.4 – Research and if feasible, develop action plan or further research of no

more than two Alternative Funding Strategies (2023 Work Plan Item) to progress that

initiative. Chair Pfuhl informed the commission there is nothing to update but they will be giving

a presentation at the October meeting.

Initiative 1.5.5 – Review Climate Action Plan priorities and conduct research on external

park agencies that are implementing projects that would be beneficial to the Edina Park

system. Commissioner Wick informed the commission there is no update to give but is

currently doing some research.

Initiative 1.5.6 – City Code Update – Article III. Boards, Committees and Commissions,

Division 7. Parks & Recreation Commission. Staff Liaison Vetter informed the Commission he

will probably bring this initiative to the October meeting. He indicated he was briefly able to

glance at it and it’s pretty comprehensive. He noted he will send this to the commission as soon

as possible for everyone to review. Chair Pfuhl asked the commission to look at it so they are

prepared to move on it at the October meeting.

It was decided to move Initiative 1.5.4, Alternate Funding Strategies to the November meeting

because there are already quite a few items set for the October meeting.

Page 5 of 17

Draft Minutes☒

Approved Minutes☐

Approved Date: XX/XX/2024

8 Chair and Member Comments

 Commissioner Bye asked what the official use policy is for the Braemar Golf Course after the

course closes. Staff Liaison Vetter replied usually around Nov. 1 is the last day the golf course

is open. After that the course is open to walkers and if they get snow they will start to

groom for cross country and Nordic skiing. People also walk their dogs, but they are not

deputized to do enforcement, and it can an issue with off leashed dogs. Commissioner Bye

indicated that he loves running the trails at Braemar and also runs the course because the

golf cart path is amazing. He noted that he has been attacked by off-leash dogs more times

than he would like to count. He stated there are two signs that state dogs must be on a leash

and licensed with the city. He asked if it would be possible to get more signage on the

trailheads and perhaps the course entry. He commented that people should be using the

trails and thinks off-leash dogs are the reason some people don’t use them. Staff Liaison

Vetter replied that it is not an unreasonable request, and they can do that.

9

Staff Comments

9.1. Upcoming 2025 Meetings and Events

Staff Liaison Vetter gave the following updates:

 The November Parks & Recreation Commission meeting will be held on Wednesday,

Nov. 12

 The Braemar dome will be installed at Braemar Field in early October.

 The Aquatic Center project kicked off for the pump and filter room and is already

underway. They have been told it will be ready for the 2026 aquatic center season.

10 Adjournment

Motion made by Wick to adjourn Sept. 9, 2025, meeting at 7:52 p.m. Motion seconded by

Garazatua.

Motion carried.

Page 6 of 17

BOARD & COMMISSION

ITEM REPORT

Date: October 14, 2025

Meeting: Parks & Recreation Commission

Agenda Number: 7.1

Item Type: Report & Recommendation

Item Activity: Information

Prepared By:

Department: Parks & Recreation

Item Title:

Summer Youth & Special Event Programming Update

Action Requested:

None, informational only.

Information/Background:

Amanda Clarke, Recreation Supervisor, will provide a recap on summer youth & special event

programming.

Supporting Documentation:

None

Page 7 of 17

BOARD & COMMISSION

ITEM REPORT

Date: October 14, 2025

Meeting: Parks & Recreation Commission

Agenda Number: 7.2

Item Type: Report & Recommendation

Item Activity: Information

Prepared By:

Department: Parks & Recreation

Item Title:

Edina Aquatic Center Update

Action Requested:

None, informational only.

Information/Background:

Patty McGrath, General Manager, will provide a recap of the 2025 Edina Aquatic Center season.

Supporting Documentation:

1.

2025 Season Highlights Aquatic Center

Page 8 of 17

2025 Season Highlights

 Safe, fun summer!

 Staffing

 Statistics – see below

 Hosted three Member Only After Hours Swim events

 Member Only nights and Birthday Budge

 Facility improvements

 Renewed Edina Kids Club relationship

 Expanded Concession Hours

Member

Check-in

Daily

Admission

5

Pass

Adm.

10

Pass

Adm.

Total

Attendance

Season

Pass

Packages

Sold

Multi

5

Passes

Sold

Multi

10

Passes

Sold

Total LG

Rescues

Concession

Revenue

2021

44,002

2022

37,507

2023

32,585

2024

2025

28,204

24,883

44,215

44,349

47,460

42,482

41,567

3,590 5,139

88,217

81,184

80,225

70,686

75,179

1,929

4,874

4,148

3,414

3,111

278

782

342

599

132

100

118

78

100

$157,395

$167,539

$162,632

$152,767

$171,095

* Civic Rec counts each individual season pass holder, not packages sold.

2025 Season Challenges

 Season Pass Sales

 Variable weather

Looking Ahead to 2026

 Filter room replacement project

 Review pricing strategies and establish Fees and Charges for 2026

 Extend the season by one week from June 4 – August 23

Page 9 of 17

BOARD & COMMISSION

ITEM REPORT

Date: October 14, 2025

Meeting: Parks & Recreation Commission

Agenda Number: 7.3

Item Type: Report & Recommendation

Item Activity: Discussion

Prepared By: MJ Lamon, Special Projects & Engagement

Manager

Department: Parks & Recreation

Item Title:

Initiative 1.5.6. City Code Update—Article III. Boards, Committees and

Commissions, Division 7. Parks and Recreation Commission

Action Requested:

This initiative is on the commission's 2025 work plan as a Review and Comment. No motion

required.

Information/Background:

The City of Edina is updating all sections of Chapter 2 – Administration, Article III – Boards,

Committees and Commissions to improve consistency, clarity, and alignment with current practices.

Each commission’s section is being reviewed to ensure it accurately reflects its purpose, duties, and

advisory role. Provided with this agenda item is a staff memo providing rationale for changes, a clean

version with the proposed changes and the old version of city code for comparison.

Supporting Documentation:

1.

2.

3.

Division 7 Parks and Recreation Commission Memo

Division 7 Clean Version Parks and Recreation Commission

Division 7 Old Version Parks and Recreation Commission

Page 10 of 17

Administration Department

EdinaMN.gov

Date:

September 3, 2025

To:

cc:

From:

Parks & Recreation Commission

Parks & Recreation Direction, Perry Vetter

City Management Fellow, Zoe Johnson and Special Projects & Engagement Manager, MJ

Lamon

Subject: Update: Chapter 2 – Administration, Article III. Boards, Committees and Commissions

Code, Division 7

Project Overview:

The City of Edina is updating all sections of Chapter 2 – Administration, Article III – Boards,

Committees and Commissions to improve consistency, clarity, and alignment with current practices.

Each commission’s section is being reviewed to ensure it accurately reflects its purpose, duties, and

advisory role.

• Timeline

o Member Survey: May

o Draft Updates: June-August

o Commission Review and Comment: September – October

o Council Approval: November

o Final Implementation: December

• Key Tasks

o Review existing BC city code sections for inconsistencies and inaccuracies.

o Draft revised sections incorporating member feedback.

o Distribute revised sections to each commission for review and comment.

o Consolidate feedback and prepare a final draft for legal review.

o Present final draft to the council for approval.

o

Implement approved updates and inform relevant parties.

• Responsible Parties

o Administration: Ensure all initial inconsistencies are identified, review feedback, work

with liaisons on drafting updates

o Liaisons: Review draft prior to commission consumption

o Commission: Provide review and comment

o Legal Team: Review updates for legal accuracy.

Highlighted Changes:

Establishment and Purpose (Sec. 2-255)

• Broader framing of purpose: Updated from a narrow focus to a vision of enhancing quality of life and

community wellbeing.

City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424Page 11 of 17

• Community identity emphasized: New language reflects how parks and recreation strengthen Edina’s

sense of place and belonging.

• Clarified advisory/advocacy role: The commission is described as an advocate for parks and

recreation, not an implementer of programs.

Inclusivity and sustainability added: Explicit mention of accessibility, inclusion, and sustainability aligns

with city values.

• Human-centered connection: Language now emphasizes how parks and recreation connect residents

“to nature, play, and each other.”

Duties (Sec. 2-256)

• Condensed list: Reduced from a long descriptive paragraph to a clear five-item numbered list.

• Advisory focus: Duties emphasize advising the City Council rather than managing or operating

programs.

• Removed staff functions: References to developing or recommending specific recreation programs

were removed, as this is a staff responsibility.

• Long-term perspective added: Duties highlight input on long-term planning for the park and

recreation system, ensuring future focus.

City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424Page 12 of 17

DIVISION 7. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION1

Sec. 2-255. Establishment and Purpose.

The City Council establishes the Parks and Recreation Commission to promote and support a vibrant parks,

open spaces, and recreation in enhancing the quality of life, fostering community wellbeing, and strengthening

Edina’s identity. The commission serves as an advocate for accessible, inclusive, and sustainable parks and

recreation opportunities that connect residents to nature, play, and each other now and for future generations.

Sec. 2-256. Duties.

The commission shall:

1. Advise the City Council on the planning, development, and use of parks, open spaces, and recreation

facilities.

2. Review and comment on policies, priorities, and community needs related to recreation services and

activities

3. Recommend recreation programs and activities that meet the needs of the community.

4. Review and advise on issues related to natural resources, wildlife management, and preservation of

natural areas.

5. Contribute to long-term planning efforts for maintaining and improving the city’s park and recreation

systems.

Sec. 2-257. Membership.

The parks and recreation commission shall consist of nine regular and two student members.

Secs. 2-258—2-277. Reserved.

Page 13 of 17

Subpart A - CODE OF ORDINANCES

Chapter 2 - ADMINISTRATION

ARTICLE III. - BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

DIVISION 7. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION

DIVISION 7. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION1

Sec. 2-255. Establishment.

To provide for a city park and open space system and a city recreation program, a parks and recreation

commission is established.

(Ord. No. 2017-01, § 5, 3-7-2017)

State law reference(s)—Appointed by the mayor with consent of the city council, Minn. Stats. § 412.501.

Sec. 2-256. Duties.

The parks and recreation commission shall develop and review plans and advise the council on the

acquisition and development of parks and recreation facilities, and plan and make recommendations to the council

concerning park activities and recreation programs. The parks and recreation commission shall advise the council

on natural resource, wildlife management, and natural area preservation issues. The parks and recreation

commission shall make and furnish studies, reports and recommendations as the council may request.

(Ord. No. 2017-01, § 5, 3-7-2017)

Sec. 2-257. Membership.

The parks and recreation commission shall consist of nine regular and two student members and one

commission position that will be an ex officio, non-voting member that is nominated by the Edina School Board

and confirmed by the city council. With the exception of voting, the position will be charged with all the same

rights, privileges and responsibilities as the other members of the commission. The school district's nominee will

comply with the city's rules regarding advisory commission members, except that the nominee need not be a

resident of the city. The term of this position is subject to nomination and confirmation on an annual basis.

(Ord. No. 2017-01, § 5, 3-7-2017)

State law reference(s)—Membership, Minn. Stats. § 412.501.

Secs. 2-258—2-277. Reserved.

1Ord. No. 2017-01, § 5, adopted March 7, 2017, amended div. 7 in its entirety to read as herein set out. Former div.

7, §§ 2-255—2-257 pertained to the park board, and derived from the Code 1992, §§ 1507.01—1507.03;

Ord. No. 1221; Ord. No. 2001-9, adopted Nov. 5, 2001; Ord. No. 2007-05, adopted April 3, 2007; Ord. No.

2010-04, adopted March 2, 2010; and Ord. No. 2011-02.

State law reference(s)—Park boards, Minn. Stats. § 412.491 et seq.

Edina, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances

(Supp. No. 15 Upd 1)

Created: 2025-06-30 12:06:53 [EST]

Page 1 of 1

Page 14 of 17

BOARD & COMMISSION

ITEM REPORT

Date: October 14, 2025

Meeting: Parks & Recreation Commission

Agenda Number: 9.1

Item Type: Other

Item Activity: Information

Prepared By: Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation

Director

Department: Parks & Recreation

Item Title:

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Action Requested:

None, informational only.

Information/Background:

Attached are the upcoming meetings and events for 2025 and unofficial projected dates for the 2026

year.

Supporting Documentation:

1.

2025 Upcoming Meetings and Events

Page 15 of 17

October 14, 2025

Park and Recreation Commission

Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director

Upcoming 2025 Meetings and Events

Date

Oct. 14

Wed. Nov. 12**

2025 Meeting Dates

Regular Meeting

• Aquatic Center and Edinborough update

• Summer Youth & Special Event Update

Initiative 1.5.6 – Code Update

Wednesday Regular Meeting

• 2026 Fees and Charges

• Centennial Lakes Park update

Initiative 1.5.4 – Alternate Funding Strategies

Time

Location*

7:00 pm

Braemar Golf Course

7:00 pm

Braemar Golf Course

Dec. 9

Regular Meeting

7:00 pm

Braemar Golf Course

* Regular Commission meetings will be held in the Hoyt and Blanchard Room, lower level of Braemar Golf

Course, 6364 John Harris Drive, Edina.

** Date Adjustments – In accordance with the 2025 Observed City Calendar.

2026 PROJECTED Meeting Dates

(Unofficial)

Tuesday January 13

Tuesday February 10

Tuesday March 10

Tuesday April 14

Tuesday May 12

Tuesday June 9

Tuesday July 9

MONDAY August 10**

Tuesday September 8

Tuesday October 13

MONDAY November 9**

Tuesday December 8

Page 16 of 17

BOARD & COMMISSION

ITEM REPORT

Date: October 14, 2025

Meeting: Parks & Recreation Commission

Agenda Number: 9.2

Item Type: Other

Item Activity: Information

Prepared By: Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation

Director

Department: Parks & Recreation

Item Title:

Remote Meeting Participation Policy

Action Requested:

None, informational only.

Information/Background:

At the October 7, 2025, City Council meeting, a Remote Meeting Participation Policy was

approved by the Council. That allows members of City boards and commissions to attend meetings

using interactive technology (audio and video) in accordance with changes to Minnesota's Open

Meeting Law.

Key points to know:

• Members may participate remotely when they are physically unable to attend in person (for

example, due to medical recovery, travel, or work obligations).

• Members must notify their staff liaison at least two business days before the meeting if they

plan to attend virtually.

• At least one member must be physically present at the official meeting location for the

meeting to proceed.

• Members must attend the full meeting and have both audio and video active throughout.

The City is currently completing technology upgrades needed to support this new policy. Boards and

Commissions will be able to begin using remote participation starting January 1, 2026.

This policy is designed to make participation more accessible while maintaining transparency and

compliance with state law. The full policy will be shared with commission members by MJ Lamon.

Supporting Documentation:

None

Page 17 of 17

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Other Topics from This Document

  • Edina Aquatic Center Operations and Future Planning

  • City Code Update for Parks and Recreation Commission

  • 2026 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan Update Initiative

  • Braemar Arena Implementation Review Initiative

  • Alternative Funding Strategies for Parks & Recreation Initiative

  • Climate Action Plan Priorities and Park System Integration Initiative

  • Braemar Golf Course Off-Leash Dog Policy

  • Upcoming Parks & Recreation Meetings and Events

  • Remote Meeting Participation Policy for Boards and Commissions

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