The Park Board Meeting held on September 10, 2024, featured several key updates worth noting.
First, the board unanimously voted to award a contract to American Security & Gate Company for the replacement of the fencing at Rheault Farm Park. The selected bid amounts to $61,450 and was the lowest of two proposals reviewed, adhering to all specifications and remaining within the allocated budget of $116,500. The project will replace the north and east fence lines with brown vinyl coated chain-link fencing, including slates, and is slated to begin in mid-October and run through the end of the month, though these dates may be adjusted.
Additionally, the Commissioners approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Fargo that allows for the construction of segments along two shared use paths as part of the city’s pedestrian transportation plan for 2025. The segments will cover part of the Red River Trail and the Drain 27 Trail Crossing. Costs will be shared between the City and the Fargo Park District, with the latter’s portions estimated at $143,122 and $151,558 for each project, respectively. These funds have been budgeted for in the 2025 concrete improvement budget, while federal grants will cover the remaining expenses.
The board also gave staff the go-ahead to apply for two grants: the Garrison Diversion Conservancy District Recreation Grant and the Outdoor Heritage Fund Grant. The former can be utilized for new recreational facilities or improvements to existing ones, while the latter supports conservation projects. If awarded, the Fargo Park District plans to use the Garrison grant for upgrading dugouts at Fields #3 and #4 and adding a picnic shelter at the Anderson Softball Complex. For the Outdoor Heritage Fund, enhancements at the Southwest Regional Pond Recreation Area will be proposed.
Moreover, the Commissioners passed an ordinance on camping on public property, effectively prohibiting it across the City of Fargo. This new policy aligns with regulations already set by the City and aims to ensure consistent enforcement on park lands. The ordinance will take effect on September 11, 2024.
Finally, a public budget hearing was held but went unattended, concluding shortly after it began.