The Oakdale Parks and Recreation Commission elected Steve Meyer as chair and Glenn Jackalto as vice chair during their Feb. 18 meeting, while also welcoming new commissioner Mike Preer to the five-member board.

Parks staff reported exceptional ice conditions at city skating rinks this winter, with some of the best ice quality seen in eight to 10 years. The hockey rinks have experienced increased usage during non-traditional hours, though extremely cold temperatures may have limited overall participation, according to staff reports.

The commission heard updates on the completion of LED lighting installation at sports fields one through four, a capital improvement project finished last week after three weeks of work by Kilmer Electric. The new smart lighting system can be controlled remotely by phone, and parks staff will receive training on the technology in March.

Recreation staff announced spring programming partnerships with School District 622, including youth tennis, pickleball, self-defense classes and babysitter certification. The indoor farmers market continues through three more weeks with several new vendors added this season.

The parks department is preparing for a summer move to a new facility on 32nd Street in Granada, with staff currently sorting through decades of equipment and supplies. The department is also hiring eight to 10 summer recreation program instructors, with applications accepted through March and interviews scheduled for April.