Bismarck Board of Park Commissioners Brief for Sept. 16, 2021


Meeting Recap for Sept. 16, 2021

Kathy Feist, Bismarck Parks and Recreation District (BPRD) finance director, reviewed the 2022 Operating Budget.  The Bismarck Board of Park Commissioners held its public hearing on the budget, but no public comment was provided.  The Board approved the second reading of the budget resolution and mill levy and adopted the 2022 Operating Budget.

Executive Director Beth Demke shared information about North Dakota’s Gateway to Science as a BPRD featured partner.  She anticipates moving into their new building in December 2022.

The Board awarded the bid for construction of Hidden Star Neighborhood Park to Earthwork Services.  The final completion date is Oct. 14, 2022.

The Board awarded the bid for construction of Promontory Point Neighborhood Park to Northwest Contracting Inc.  The final completion date is Sept. 1, 2022.

Jason Petryszyn with Swenson Hagen discussed the Bowden Addition in the Boulder Ridge area.  The Board directed staff to seek public input on a potential new neighborhood park in Boulder Ridge and the previously approved neighborhood park.

Jeff Ubl with Ubl Design presented the draft concept for potential renovation/expansion of the VFW Sports Complex.  The Board directed staff to select a consultant to further develop a concept and cost estimates for the potential addition of a third rink at VFW Sports Complex in partnership with the Bismarck Public School District and others, after which the Board will determine whether or not to proceed with the project.

Recipients of 2021 North Dakota Recreation & Park Association awards were recognized:

  • The Cottonwood Park Expansion received the Golden Egg Award, which recognizes outstanding and innovative park projects in North Dakota.
  • Dr. Steve Chuppe, co-chair of Bismarck Recreation Council capital campaigns for the Bismarck Municipal Ballpark and Cottonwood Park Expansion, received the Citizen Advocacy Award.
  • Mike Wald, facilities manager for ice arenas and outdoor pools, received the Distinguished Professional Award.
  • Two former Bismarck Parks and Recreation District employees were inducted into the NDRPA Hall of Fame, the association’s highest honor – Tim Kuntz and Dennis Nybo.

The Board viewed the Bismarck Recreation Council Endowment Fund video.

The Board authorized staff to apply for grants from the Land and Water Conservation Fund for a new neighborhood park and trailhead at Hay Creek Park and two new playgrounds and from the Transportation Alternatives program for an extension of the South Washington Trail and rehabilitation of a portion of the Hay Creek Trail.

The Board approved amendments to agreements with NDSU Burleigh County Extension Service, Dakota Zoo, Bismarck Sports Group and Bismarck Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie No. 2237.

The Board authorized staff to call for bids for operations and golf equipment for 2022.

The Board designated incoming Executive Director Kevin Klipfel as the clerk of the park district effective Oct. 2, 2021.

The Board recognized retiring Executive Director Randy Bina with a proclamation for his outstanding leadership and distinguished service.

The next Board meeting is Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021, at 5:15 p.m. in the Tom Baker Meeting Room.