Agenda · Woodbury City Council
Woodbury City CouncilAgendaTuesday, June 2, 2026
Analysis complete
Topics, quotes, key people, and more have been extracted from this document.
Agenda Text
---
## author: Beck, Megan
date: D:20260529142042-05'00'
---
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Agenda
June 2, 2026 | 7 p.m.
## Health East Sports Center, Upper-Level Conference Room
## 4125 Radio Drive, Woodbury, Minnesota 55129
The City of Woodbury is subject to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination because of disability by
public entities. The City is committed to full implementation of the Act to our services, programs, and activities. Information regarding the
provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the City Administrator's office at 651-714-3500. Auxiliary aids for
disabled persons are available upon request at least 72 hours in advance of an event. Please call the ADA Coordinator, at 651-714-3500
(TDD 651-714-3568) to plan.
The June 2, 2026, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting is taking place in-person only
at M Health Fairview Sports Center, Upper-Level Conference Room. Members of the public may
attend the meeting in-person. Public comments will be accepted during the Open Forum.
Questions regarding the meeting will also be taken between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at
651-714-3583 or at RecOnline@woodburymn.gov. Questions received after 4:30 p.m. will be
responded to in the next three to seven business days.
6:00 p.m. - Optional Tour: Woodbury Community Garden 11664 Dale Rd, Woodbury, MN 55129
*Please note that all agenda times are estimates.
7:00 p.m.*
7:05 p.m.
1.
2.
## Call to Order
## Open Forum
7:10 p.m. 3. Approval of Minutes – May 5, 2026
7:15 p.m. 4. Creek to Croix Regional Trail – Memorandum 26 - 07
7:35 p.m. 5. NPDEs Annual Report - Memorandum 26 – 08
7:55 p.m. 6. Review and Recommendation for Approval - Woodbury Heritage Society Post
Office Replica Project at Heritage House Grounds, Marsh Creek Park –
Memorandum 26 - 09
8:15 p.m. 7. Preliminary Financial Update through April 2026 - Memorandum 26 - 10
8:30 p.m. 8. Playground Replacement Community Engagement, Powers Lake East Park
Playground - Memorandum 26 - 11
8:45 p.m. 9. Discussion Items
1
## a. Park Project Updates
## b. Parks and Facilities Long Range Plan Update
8:55 p.m.
9:00 p.m.
9:05 p.m.
9:10 p.m.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Monthly Update – Memorandum 26 - 12
## Council Update – Council Member Wilson
## Announcements/Miscellaneous
2
## Adjourn
If a Commission member cannot attend this meeting, please contact Christine Thueson at
651-714-3584 or christine.thueson@woodburymn.gov at your earliest convenience. Thank you.
1
Discussion and status updates are intended to be informational or of brief inquiry. More substantial
discussion of matters under status updates and miscellaneous should be scheduled for a future agenda.
## City of Woodbury
## Central Park – Prairie Room
## 8595 Central Park Place
## Woodbury, MN 55125
651-714-3583
Minutes of
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
## Commission Members Present: Emily Bernstein-Hanlon, Sarah Branion, Anna Doherty
## (Chair), Andy Evenson, Richard Freese, Mary Schaffer,
## Brian Trusinsky, Nash DeLawyer (Student), Foster
Sprunger (Student)
## Commission Member(s) Absent: None
## Council Member Present: Kim Wilson
## Staff and Guest Presenters: Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation Director
## Jennifer McLoughlin, Environmental Resources Manager
## Jodi Sauro, Parks and Recreation Coordinator
## Reed Smidt, Recreation Operations Manager
## Josh Kinney, Parks Planner
## Christine Thueson, Recording Secretary
1. Call to Order
Chair Doherty called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
## 2. Open Forum
## None
## 3. Action Items
A. March 3, 2026, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
Chair Doherty asked for the approval of the Minutes from the March 3, 2026, meeting of the Parks
and Natural Resources Commission.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Schaffer, seconded by Commissioner Freese, to approve the
March 3, 2026, Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes.
## Vote: In favor: All
## Against: None
## Absent: None
## 4. PNRC Commissioner Introductions
Commissioners briefly introduced themselves, including their background and why they chose to
serve with the PNRC.
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
May 5, 2026
Page 2
5. Environmental Stewardship Update – Memorandum 26 - 03
Jennifer McLoughlin, Environmental Resources Manager, provided an update on the City’s
Environmental Stewardship Plan (ESP). Ms. McLoughlin reviewed the development of the ESP, noting
the success of Woodbury Green Talks programming, the Native Plant Tool Shed for residents, and
progress in renewable energy efforts at City facilities among other actions and programs in progress.
An online dashboard will be rolled out soon to residents with a review of the actions hosted within
the plan so residents can follow the progress and gain insight into each action.
Commissioner discussion included questions about the city’s tree replacement programs, solar
energy opportunities such as panels or canopies in the city, efforts to help control invasive species in
yards, and considerations regarding availability of city programs for Homeowner Associations (HOAs).
6. Parks and Recreation Annual Report – Memorandum 26 - 04
Jodi Sauro, Parks and Recreation Coordinator, reviewed the 2025 Annual Report highlighting key
items and statistics for each division within the department. Commissioner questions centered
around participation numbers for youth activities; program and facility funding, revenue and fees;
programming ideas for teens, and how private recreational facilities in the community impact the use
of city facilities.
7. Parks and Facilities Long-Range Plan Update – Memorandum 26 - 05
Ms. Okada provided an update on recent progress and key steps of the Parks and Facilities Long-
Range Plan (PFLRP). ISG, Inc. was engaged as the project consultant, who helped facilitate the initial
kickoff meeting with the PFLRP Focus Group, the focus group is made up of 27 community members
representing various organizations and 10 members appointed by City Council. During that meeting,
a list was developed identifying additional groups and organizations to be included in the Plan’s
outreach and engagement process to help ensure diverse and inclusive community representation.
Ms. Okada shared the list with Commissioners, who provided feedback and suggested additional
groups to consider. Ms. Okada also reviewed future events and phases of the PFLRP process.
## 8. Discussion Items
1
Mr. Reed Smidt, Recreation Operations Manager, provided an update on the E-transportation
ordinance recommendation requiring helmet use for E-Bike users under 18 years of age. Mr. Smidt
said City Council had an in-depth conversation regarding the recommendation and enforcement
considerations at their April 22 Workshop meeting. Council requested staff work with Public Safety
and community groups such as the Youth Service Bureau to discuss collaboration opportunities. Mr.
Smidt said the city will continue its education campaign regarding use of e-transportation, including
placement of signs in parks and high-use areas, communication to parents at the middle and high
school ages through the school district, directed engagement by public safety staff, as well as social
media campaigns. A Commissioner complemented staff on their knowledge of and ability to
communicate the nuances of the E-Transportation issue, which was helpful during attendance at
recent state hearings on the topic. In addition to the city level initiatives, staff continue to monitor
the potential of bills passing at the state level.
1
Discussion and updates are intended to be informational or of brief inquiry. More substantial discussion of matter under
status updates and miscellaneous should be scheduled for a future agenda.
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Minutes
May 5, 2026
Page 3
Josh Kinney, Parks Planner, presented an update of current park projects including south La Lake
Trail, the M Health Fairview Sports Center Irrigation Project, and improvements at Edgewater Park,
Interlachen parking lot, various trail and court replacements throughout the city, the stairs by Nature
Path, and the volleyball courts at Ojibway Park.
9. Monthly Update - Memorandum 26 - 06
Ms. Okada noted the Monthly Update Memorandum, highlighting current events and activities in
each division of the Parks and Recreation Department.
## 10. Council Report – Council Member Wilson
Council Member Wilson provided an update on recent City Council topics, noting continued progress
on the Water Treatment Pipeline and road construction, the groundbreaking of the Public Safety
building on May 8, an open house event at Afton Road Fire Station, and the next City Council meeting
May 14.
A Commissioner asked if Council was pleased with contractor bids for the Public Safety building
remodeling project. Council Member Wilson affirmed, adding the award was less than originally
expected.
11. Announcements/Miscellaneous
Ms. Okada inquired if there was interest in a tour of any parks or facilities prior to the June meeting.
Commissioners requested a tour of the Community Garden in June, and a tour of La Lake Park in
September.
12. Adjournment
Commissioner Bernstein-Hanlon moved, Commissioner Branion seconded to adjourn the meeting at
9:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
________________________________
## Christine Thueson
## Administrative Technician I
## City of Woodbury
## Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 26 – 07 June 2, 2026
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members:
## Subject: Creek to Croix Regional Trail
## Summary
Washington County is currently developing a long-range planning document for the future Creek to
Croix Regional Trail, formerly referred to as the Battle Creek–St. Croix River Regional Trail. This
regional trail planning effort will help guide the future development of a paved east-west multiuse
trail connection through east Maplewood, Woodbury, and Afton. Washington County staff will present
the current trail draft for PNRC awareness.
Once fully developed, the regional trail is intended to connect users to several major regional
destinations and trail systems throughout Washington County, including the Central Greenway
Regional Trail, St. Croix Valley Regional Trail, Battle Creek Regional Park, and the St. Croix River. The
planning process has been evaluating potential alignments, identifying land needs, considering
future trail amenities and features, and establishing long-term maintenance and operational
expectations and agreements between agencies.
Washington County has indicated that the long-range trail planning process is intended to create a
practical framework that will guide future funding opportunities, design efforts, and eventual
construction phases. The process has included collaboration with local communities, agency
partners, and the public to develop a shared vision for the corridor.
The planning timeline included the following phases:
## • Winter – Spring 2025: Visioning and Site Analysis
## • Spring – Summer 2025: Engagement and Data Collection
• Summer 2025 – Spring 2026: Route Development and Plan Drafting
## • Summer 2026: Final Draft and Approval Process
Additional project information and public engagement opportunities are available through
Washington County’s project webpage, including opportunities for residents to subscribe to project
updates and notifications.
City s taff will continue to coordinate with Washington County throughout the planning process and
provide updates to the Commission as additional information becomes available.
## Respectfully Submitted,
/ s /
## Reed Smidt
## Recreation Operations Manager
## City of Woodbury
## Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 26 – 08 June 2, 2026
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members:
## Subject: NPDES Annual Report and Water Efficiency Incentive Program
## NPDES Annual Report
The city’s stormwater system is regulated through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit. In Minnesota, the Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is responsible for
administering the permit. The main component is the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program
(SWPPP). The SWPPP is comprised of six “minimum control measures” that are expected to result in
reductions of pollutants discharged to receiving waters. The minimum control measures are:
## 1. Public Education and Outreach
## 2. Public Participation/Involvement
## 3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
## 4. Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control
## 5. Post-Construction Stormwater Management
## 6. Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping
For each of the six minimum control measures, various best management practices are established
along with an implementation schedule. The city is required to submit an annual report to the MPCA
that summarizes the accomplishments related to the city’s NPDES stormwater permit under the six
measures during the previous year. Annual reports typically need to be submitted to the MPCA by
June 30
th
of the following year. The MPCA is currently updating its reporting software, so the 2025
annual reporting will be due when the new reporting software is implemented. The MPCA estimates
the timeline for implementation to be sometime in late 2026.
The city must also hold a public meeting to accept comments on the city’s permit and related
documents. The June 2, 2026, PNRC meeting will serve as this annual public meeting and will
highlight accomplishments in 2025.
## Water Efficiency Incentive Program
## 10 Years of Water Wise Initiative Programming
For more than 20 years, the City of Woodbury has been a leader in water efficiency, recognizing that
protecting natural resources is essential to maintaining a high quality of life for residents. Because
Woodbury relies exclusively on groundwater for its drinking water supply, protecting and using this
resource wisely is a top priority.
In 2016, the City Council adopted a water conservation directive and launched its first pilot
Residential Irrigation Controller Program. Building on that foundation, the Woodbury Water Wise
Implementation Plan (WWWIP) was drafted in 2023, identifying eight water efficiency programs for
Council consideration through 2030.
The City offers the following water efficiency programs. Community members can learn more and
sign-up to participate at woodburymn.gov/waterwise
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 26 - 08
June 2, 2026
## Residential Smart Irrigation Controller Program
Each year since 2016 the City, in partnership with the South Washington Watershed District (SWWD),
has offered WaterSense Certified irrigation controllers to residents at a discounted price of $35. In
2025, 127 residents purchased controllers through the program. This results in an estimated water
savings of over 4.8 million gallons per year (30,000 per controller). Since the program started, over
4,000 controllers have been purchased, saving more than 125 million gallons of water annually. The
program is available through October 30th, 2026.
## 2026 HOA and Commercial Water Efficiency Cost Share Program
The City accepted applications from Homeowner Association (HOA) and commercial properties for
water efficiency improvements to existing irrigation systems through May 15, 2026. Applications are
being reviewed by staff for preliminary approval. This program was available 2017-2021 and re-
established in 2024. Over the first five years, over 60 properties participated and 30 properties
participated 2024-2025, saving an estimated average of 22% on their water bills per year.
## Toilet Replacement Rebate Program
The City has received a grant from the Metropolitan Council and the SWWD to offer the Toilet
Replacement Rebate Pilot Program through 2026. This program allows residents to receive a $100
rebate for purchasing EPA WaterSense-certified low-flow toilets, encouraging the replacement of
older, less-efficient models. Each household can claim rebates for up to two toilets.
Since 2022, the program has successfully facilitated the replacement of over 1,000 toilets with EPA
WaterSense-certified low flow toilets in the community. These updates are estimated to save over 15
million gallons of water annually, which averages to about 13,000 gallons per toilet.
## Coming Summer 2026
The City has received a grant from Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund to pilot a Water
Softener Optimization & Replacement Program and a Pressure Regulated Sprinkler Head Program.
Staff are working on selecting a contractor to implement the pilot programs June-October 2026.
After the pilots are implemented, staff will evaluate the programs and make recommendations to the
Council.
At the May 13
th
meeting, City Council approved a Native Plant Rebate Pilot Program as part of the
WWWIP. The program is designed to encourage residents to install water-efficient landscapes by
offering rebates of up to $500 for eligible expenses, including native plants, materials, labor, and
equipment.
The program includes a pre-approval site visit by the Washington Conservation District (WCD) to
assess existing conditions and make recommendations, followed by a post-installation inspection to
verify compliance with program requirements. Upon verification, the WCD will issue rebates up to
$500 to eligible residents.
Respectfully submitted,
/ s /
## Benjamin Guell
## Environmental Resources Specialist
## City of Woodbury
## Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 26 – 09 June 2, 2026
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members:
Subject: Review and Recommendation for Approval - Woodbury Heritage Society Post
## Office Replica Project at Heritage House Grounds, Marsh Creek Park
## Background
The Woodbury Heritage Society (WHS) is proposing the construction and installation of a replica
historic post office structure at the Heritage House grounds within Marsh Creek Park. The proposed
structure will serve as a historically inspired educational and support facility intended to enhance
community programming, improve operational storage needs, and strengthen the overall visitor
experience at the Heritage House site.
The proposed building is approximately 10 feet by 14 feet in size and is designed in a false-front
western architectural style consistent with the historical character and interpretive goals of the site.
Interior improvements are anticipated to include shiplap wall finishes and historically appropriate
detailing. Exterior materials are proposed to consist of cedar siding or similarly durable alternative
materials intended to provide long-term resiliency and minimize maintenance needs.
The project is intended to contribute to the Heritage House, supporting hands-on educational
programming, seasonal events, historical interpretation opportunities, and increased community
engagement. Upon completion, the structure will be donated to the City of Woodbury.
## Project Considerations
City staff and representatives from the Woodbury Heritage Society met on March 30 and April 7,
2026, to discuss project scope, design expectations, operational considerations, and site-related
requirements. Key discussion topics included:
• Final site placement and trail access considerations.
• Accessibility requirements and compliance with applicable codes and standards.
• Construction methods, including potential prefabrication to reduce on-site impacts.
• Volunteer and contractor safety expectations during construction activities.
• Utility, maintenance, and long-term operational responsibilities.
• Integration of the structure within the existing Heritage House grounds and park setting.
Construction is tentatively anticipated to occur in fall 2026, with an estimated installation duration of
approximately thirty days.
The project will be required to comply with all applicable City standards, contractor requirements,
permitting processes, technical specifications, and inspection requirements.
## Agreements and Operational Responsibilities
An addendum to the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will be required to formally
incorporate the structure and define ongoing responsibilities between the City and the Woodbury
Heritage Society.
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 26 – 09
June 2, 2026
The Woodbury Heritage Society is anticipated to assume all construction costs and ongoing financial
responsibility for repair, replacement, maintenance, and upkeep of the structure and its immediate
surrounding area. The City would retain responsibility for routine park-wide maintenance, including
mowing, parking lot maintenance, and other general park services. Specific responsibilities will be
outlined and mutually agreed upon in an addendum, including:
• Maintenance, inspection, and reporting requirements.
• Insurance and repair/replacement responsibilities.
• Event operations and parking considerations.
• Permitted and prohibited uses of the structure and grounds.
• Agreement renewal terms.
• Operational restrictions, as applicable.
## Recommendation
## Staff recommend the Parks and Natural Resources Commission:
1. Review the proposed Woodbury Heritage Society Post Office Replica Project at the Heritage House
grounds within Marsh Creek Park.
3. Recommend to the City Council for final approval and authorization to proceed with
associated agreements and project implementation.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
## Josh Kinney
## Parks Planner
## City of Woodbury
## Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 26 – 10 June 2, 2026
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members:
## Subject: Preliminary Financial Update through April 2026
As we have moved into Q2 of the year, staff are monitoring each division’s financial progress. Staff
will be present at the upcoming meeting, to provide a preliminary financial update for each division,
with data through April 2026.
## Respectfully Submitted,
/ s /
## Jodi Sauro
## Parks and Recreation Coordinator
## City of Woodbury
## Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 26 – 11 June 2, 2026
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission Members:
## Subject: Playground Replacement Community Engagement,
## Powers Lake East Park Playground
## Summary
As the City continues to invest in the replacement and improvement of aging playground
infrastructure, the need for a more consistent and clearly defined approach to community
engagement for playground replacement projects has been identified. The following update provides
an overview of the proposed engagement process intended to guide future playground replacement
efforts, and specifically outline the timeline for the pending Powers Lake East Park playground
replacement in 2027.
The proposed process is intended to balance meaningful community input with project constraints
such as budget, playground container size, equipment availability, accessibility requirements, safety
standards, and overall systemwide park planning goals. In general, larger playground replacement
projects may allow for additional community input opportunities, while medium sized replacement
projects will have more limited engagement focused on specific neighborhood areas and realistic
project elements.
Playgrounds designated as small within the City's playground system may be replaced through an
informational notification process rather than the full community engagement process. These
playgrounds typically provide limited play opportunities and are generally replaced with equipment of
similar size, function, and play value.
This process does not apply to playgrounds constructed as part of new park developments or within
developing neighborhoods. New playgrounds are planned as part of the overall park development
process and are designed to complement the citywide playground system, private neighborhood
amenities, and the intended size, function, and recreational opportunities of the park.
The proposed process also includes earlier Parks and Natural Resources Commission review and
input prior to implementation. This additional step would provide an opportunity for public discussion
and formal review of the engagement approach for applicable projects.
The proposed process generally includes the following steps:
• Staff review of project scope, budget, timeline, audience, and determine the appropriate level
of engagement
• Development of a project webpage to provide project information, timeline, and engagement
opportunities. Include specific play elements that will be included, if appropriate.
• Identification of playground options for larger replacement projects where greater public input
opportunities are appropriate (i.e. Ojibway Park, Valley Creek Park, Madisons Place
## Playground, Carver Lake Park (upper playground)
• Creation of focused questionnaires seeking feedback on specific and achievable project
elements.
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 26 - 11
June 2, 2026
• Targeted community outreach and engagement will be directed toward playground users for
medium sized playgrounds or those in parks considered.
• Updates provided via the project webpage sharing how public feedback informed the process,
final project decisions, outcomes, and implementation timelines
Most engagement for playground replacement projects will focus on the neighborhood within
approximately 1,500 feet of the playground, as well as reaching current playground users by placing
a project sign at the playground with link to the engagement. Outreach will include mailing letters to
nearby homes and placing a project sign at the location to be improved. This approach allows for
more directed feedback from those living in close proximity to the playground, rather than
announcing the project to the broader community. It also informs users that may not live nearby but
regularly use the playground.
In 2027, the Powers Lake East Park playground is scheduled for replacement. The project will
replace the existing playground with updated equipment that provides similar play opportunities
while meeting current safety and accessibility standards.
As part of the replacement, staff is also evaluating the installation of a synthetic turf safety surface in
lieu of the traditional engineered wood fiber surface. If selected, this would be the first playground
within the City's park system to feature a turf safety surface. Powers Lake East Park has been
identified as a location to pilot this approach.
The following steps are proposed for the Powers Lake East playground replacement project and
community engagement process starting summer of 2026:
## June–July: Project Development & Community Questionnaire
• Develop and distribute an online community questionnaire to gather input on the playground
replacement project.
• Letter and Questionnaire will include:
o Project goals and objectives
o Questions regarding:
Ages of playground users
Preferred play features and amenities
Other community priorities and feedback
• Mailer will include:
o Project overview and timeline
o Link to the project website and online questionnaire
o Option for residents to provide an email address to receive notification when
playground options are available for review
## July: Community Engagement Launch
• Begin public engagement efforts, including:
o Distribution of project mailers
o Installation of on-site “Future Park Project” signage directing users to the project
website and questionnaire
## October: PNRC Review of Community Feedback and Playground Options
• Staff will compile and summarize community engagement results
• Based on feedback, staff will identify playground design options for consideration
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 26 - 11
June 2, 2026
• Present community feedback and proposed playground options to PNRC
• PNRC will review the engagement results and approve the options to advance for community
review
## October–November: Community Review of Playground Options
• Following PNRC approval, the two playground options will be posted on the project website
• Playground selection opportunity will be communicated with residents who requested email
notification
## December: Final Recommendation and Approval
• Staff will summarize community feedback on the playground options presented and present
findings to PNRC
• PNRC will review the results and select the preferred playground design
• PNRC approval will serve as the final recommendation for playground replacement
• Once approved by PNRC, the final playground will be posted on the project website
## Recommendation
Staff recommend the Parks and Natural Resources Commission approve the general public
engagement process and the specific outline for the replacement of Powers Lake East playground,
as presented.
## Respectfully Submitted,
/ s /
## Reed Smidt
## Recreation Operations Manager
## City of Woodbury
## Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Natural Resources Commission Memorandum 26 – 12 June 2, 2026
## Recreation Division – Reed Smidt
Winter adaptive programs included basketball camps, sports sampler, bowling, and new programs
including Storytime with Santa, Cheerleading, and baseball clinic. We had many children participate
in these programs this winter, providing inclusive opportunities for recreation, skill development, and
social engagement.
The Youth Volleyball League season has officially come to an end. This year, more than 260
participants formed teams, attended weekly practices, and competed in games against other teams
throughout the program. Over the course of the two 8-week sessions, participants developed their
volleyball skills, strengthened teamwork, and built enthusiasm for the game.
## Central Park – Reed Smidt
Central Park is buzzing with excitement as we kick off a
vibrant summer rental season! On May 15th, we celebrated
a special milestone by hosting our first post-renovation
outdoor wedding—a beautiful start to what’s shaping up to
be a memorable season.
## Parks and Natural Resources Commission
Memorandum 26 – 12
June 2, 2026
We’re also thrilled to introduce new Recreation Division programs, including
Kung Fu and Minds in Motion, bringing even more energy and activity to the
facility.
Chandreyee Basu Thakur performed at Central Park on May 21. Nearly 75
people attended the educational and fun evening, learning about traditional
Indian dance and culture while enjoying a beautiful performance in the park.
The American Dream Machine food truck provided tasty bites for those in
attendance.
## M Health Fairview Sports Center – Katie Ryden
The Just Between Friends (JBF) sale filled all 90,000
square feet of the field house with children’s toys,
games, books, clothing, cribs and furniture. It took 3
days to set up for the event, which brought in 5,700
visits to the sports center. 700 families sold items
and 4,000 families purchased items from the sale.
Over $84,000 in donations were contributed to two
local non-profit partners of the Woodbury JBF
franchise and 17 foster families were able to shop
at the event at no charge. This event has a large
community reach and is often the first-time people
have been to the facility!
The AAA hockey tournament in early May hosted 22 teams playing in a total of 44 games to battle it
out for the championship. Teams traveled from North Dakota, Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin, as well as
outstate Minnesota and the metro area. Ice on the west rink will be removed for maintenance and
reinstalled to be ready for summer hockey camps starting in early June.
## Eagle Valley Golf Course – Dan Moris
Most of May continued the trend of fluctuating
temperatures. After more than a week of below-
average conditions, Eagle Valley finally experienced a
brief stretch of warmer weather. As the month came to
a close, however, temperatures once again dipped well
below average before another warm-up followed. We’re
keeping our fingers crossed for more consistent
warmth as we head into June.
Our first session of adult lessons wrapped up at the end of May, and we’re excited to kick off our
junior programs in June. The Junior League, First Tee programs, and Women’s Open Golf will all
begin in early June, and we’re looking forward to another great season of instruction and
participation.
Meanwhile, our maintenance staff have been working hard at addressing areas of the golf course
affected by winter turf damage. We remain optimistic that warmer temperatures will help accelerate
recovery and restore course conditions our customers have come to expect and enjoy.