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HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Parks & Recreation Commission Agenda March 26, 2026AGENDA REGULAR MEETING OF THE AMES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION COUNCIL CHAMBERS – CITY HALL – 515 CLARK AVENUE THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2026 NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: The Parks and Recreation Commission welcomes public comment during discussion. The Standards of Decorum, posted at the door and available on the City website, define respectful conduct for public participation. Comments should be limited to items within the jurisdiction of the Commission, and the Commission will not engage in dialogue during public comment. If you wish to speak, please complete a green card and hand it to City staff prior to the meeting. When your name is called, please step to the microphone, state your name and address for the record, and limit the time used to present your remarks to three minutes so others may speak. Time limits will be enforced. Applause, shouting, or other disruptive behavior is not permitted. The normal process on an agenda item is as follows: staff may first give a report on the item, Commissioners may ask questions for clarification, public input is received, a motion is placed on the floor, the Commission discusses the issue or responds to audience concerns, and a vote is taken. Individuals requiring special accommodation should contact City staff prior to the meeting. In consideration of all, if you have a cell phone, please turn it off or place it on silent mode. This meeting may be recorded. 1. Call to Order: 4:00 PM 2. Approval of February 19, 2026, Meeting Minutes 3. Public Forum (For topics other than those listed on this agenda.) 4. Jaycees Ames on the Half Shell 5. Ames Youth Baseball 2026 Agreement 6. Expanding Park Boundaries Update 7. Project Updates a. Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center b. Steven L. Schainker Plaza c. Ada Hayden Heritage Park Trail Replacement d. Park Maintenance Facility Expansion 8. Monthly Report 9. Outgoing Commission Member Recognition 10. Commission Member Comments 11. Next Meeting: April 16, 2026, 4:00 PM (Regular Meeting) 12. Adjournment CITY OF AMES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES DATE February 19, 2026 COMMISSION PRESENT ABSENT Jeff Iles STAFF Keith Abraham, Joshua Thompson 1. CALL TO ORDER: 4:00 PM 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION: (Reeves/White) to approve the January 15, 2026, meeting minutes. MOTION PASSED: (6-0) 3. PUBLIC FORUM None 4. ADDITIONAL ADA HAYDEN HERITAGE PARK HERITAGE STONES When Ada Hayden Heritage Park (AHHP) opened, Abraham explained, a priority of the Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park (FAHHP) was to recognize conservation movement pioneers by placing heritage stones throughout the park – ten are currently placed. The Memorandum of Understanding between the City and FAHHP delegates the task of recommending heritage stone honorees to the Friends group. FAHHP now recommends two additional stones, one for Dr. Lois Tiffany and another for Mr. Paul Johnson. Jim Pease, FAAHP President, and the Board of FAAHP, provided a memo outlining the request and offering supporting biographies and achievements. Staff recommend adding heritage stones to honor both nominees. Jim Pease, 3840 Stagecoach Road, spoke about citizens’ prominent role in developing AHHP and, given its origin, the appropriateness of understanding “rock stars,” ordinary people who made significant contributions to conservation. Pease note all expenses associated with the heritage stones are paid by FAHHP. Rathe inquired about the stone selection process. Pease indicated the first nine honorees were featured in a publication entitled Important Iowa Conservationists published by the Iowa Association of Naturalists. The tenth rock, honoring Erwin Klaas, was an exception as it was, when added in 2022, the only heritage rock not honoring an individual posthumously. FAHHP considers how to honor others and accepts nominations. Tiffany and Johnson, both recently deceased, were selected based on particularly noteworthy contributions. Shimanek thanked Pease and FAHHP for their ongoing work and park stewardship. 2 MOTION: (Sappenfield/Rathe) to recommend Alternative 1, which states: Approve the addition of an eleventh and twelfth stone at Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the likenesses and titles to be that of Dr. Lois Tiffany and Mr. Paul Johnson and placed along the trail. MOTION PASSED: (6-0) 5. EXPANDING PARK BOUNDARIES AND/OR ESTABLISHING GREENWAYS Abraham explained that numerous public properties are adjacent parks or greenways. Some of these areas are already maintained by the City, e.g., mowing, tree trimming, and snow removal. Even though these public properties are maintained by Parks and Recreation, they are neither designated as parks or greenways nor governed by ordinances or park rules. Staff is proposing expanding or establishing boundaries so enforceable park rules and ordinances would apply to all of these public spaces. Abraham reviewed maps of existing park boundaries and proposed expansion areas, including: South River Valley Park, Stuart Smith Park, Delaware Gardens, Delaware Avenue and North Dakota Avenue, Ioway Creek Park, and Ioway Creek Greenbelt. Abraham reviewed site locations, features, current uses, maintenance activities, and unique aspects or issues at locations (e.g., increased camping in the Ioway Creek area). With most of the proposed areas, staff are not looking to add a lot of amenities or maintenance. Staff asked for feedback and direction from the Commission regarding the proposed expansion areas. Abraham suggested possibilities for motions and reminded the Commission the City Council would make a final decision on park boundary expansion and greenway development. White asked if the Delaware Avenue/North Dakota Avenue area already had community garden areas. Abraham said no, but the area could be used for gardens in the future. He noted the area has a (not insurmountable) slope, and sometimes vehicles leave the road when slick. Reeves observed the north area, the former water tower location, is used a lot as a park, and adding the community gardens increased usage of that area. The south portion has potential for usage, in his view, but is a horrible corner as currently configured. Shimanek expressed appreciation for the item appearing on a meeting agenda. He uses South River Valley Park regularly and regards it as a priceless buffer zone with beautiful flora and fauna. For that reason, and because ordinance enforcement ability is meaningful for unsavory and unsafe things that may happen, he strongly supported expanding park boundaries. Reeves asked if the naming convention matters, i.e, calling an area a park or a greenway or a greenbelt. Abraham indicated most of the proposed park expansion areas would likely be referred to as ‘park’ except for along the Ioway Creek area, which is more ‘greenbelt.’ Sappenfield asked about development plans, other implications of expanded boundaries, and if there may be additional pieces beyond continuing maintenance work in the proposed expansion areas. Abraham indicated the immediate goal is to give the areas a designation that would bring a set of enforceable rules. There are no development plans, he said, but staff have discussed improvement opportunities like trails, benches, public artwork, and offroad biking. In some cases, neighbors already treat an area like a park. Delaware Gardens, for instance, could be a good location for adding a playground location. South Stuart Smith Park, in contrast, is limited by a no development/build restriction in place for the flood buyout area. 3 White spoke about his participation in cleanup efforts and supported incorporating the proposed areas into the park system, which would allow for better regular cleaning and upkeep. He noted some areas are notorious for homeless camps – he has mixed feelings about those. Overall, White is glad to see park boundary expansion come up and sees it as a good step for better care of public properties, and not necessarily a move toward enabling further development. Jim Pease, 3840 Stagecoach Road, recently retired Story County Conservation Board member, said he is always happy to see forward-looking commissions. He spoke about potential damage to natural areas from developers and the need to act proactively to create or sustain areas. In his view, the proposed expanded park boundaries would help protect Ioway Creek, improve water quality, and improve recreation for the City. MOTION: (Rathe/White) to recommend City Council expand park boundaries as described. MOTION PASSED: (6-0) 6. VINTAGE COOPERATIVE OF AMES FITNESS AGREEMENT Parks and Recreation (P&R) and Vintage Cooperative of Ames (VCA) wish to continue a partnership to offer fitness classes onsite at VCA. Abraham indicated the 2026 agreement is unchanged from previous years – VCA provides class space, and P&R provides an instructor, conducts registration, and collects and retains 100 percent of program fees. MOTION: (Sappenfield/White) to recommend Alternative 1, which states: Approve the Vintage Cooperative of Ames Fitness Agreement through December 31, 2026. MOTION PASSED: (6-0) Shimanek expressed appreciation for public/private partnerships. 7. CITY COUNCIL GOALS DISCUSSION Abraham provided an overview of City Council values, goals, and tasks reviewed at the City Council’s retreat workshop. Abraham spoke about the impact of City Council priorities on Parks and Recreation and highlighted two Council values: communication and engagement with the public; and valuing a fun, vibrant and healthy community that attracts and retains people. Abraham cited City Council priorities aligned with these values, such as Steven L. Schainker Plaza, an indoor multipurpose recreation center, Ontario Park, and additional scholarships. White commented that it would be hard to argue with any of it. Abraham noted department leadership always examines how to manage operations. If budget constraints tighten, challenges become greater. There would also be a need for additional staff if all prioritized projects came to fruition. 8. PROJECT UPDATES a. Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center Abraham reported most construction work will be done by February 27. Staff hopes to obtain a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy on that date, allowing staff to begin setup and training tasks. State of Iowa inspection is scheduled for March 3. A donor recognition event featuring donors, the Commission, City Council, and the Story County Board of Supervisors, will be planned for the end of March, followed by opening the facility to the public in April. A ribbon cutting and grand opening will also be scheduled. 4 Reeves and Abraham discussed inspections and certifications for each pool basin and for the facility overall. Rathe asked for an update on the building exterior. Abraham explained staff sent a Notice to Cure letter to the contractor regarding fixing the appearance of the precast concrete panels. Stain options are being considered and will be tested on a precast panel mockup. City Council will provide direction on next steps in March. Another option, if stain is not applied, is credit to the City from the contractor. Rathe inquired about pool pass sales. Staff hopes to begin on March 1, Abraham said. b. Steven L. Schainker Plaza At the March meeting, staff will provide an update on the plaza. Abraham shared that if the ice ribbon is not finalized, there is interest in opening the rest of facility this summer. c. Ada Hayden Heritage Park Trail Replacement This project is done, Abraham said, except for areas needing attention due to concrete cracking or observed problems with water ponding. Users shared positive comments about the trail and concrete surface. Staff hope to get information out about the new rules in the upcoming weeks before warmer weather brings more people to the park. d. Daley Park Splash Pad Thompson reported TK Concrete is the project general contractor responsible for utility installation, grading, and concrete. Commercial Recreation Specialists will install equipment. Staff is working through plans for the mechanical building to be constructed by department staff. Thompson is optimistic the project will be finished by June 1, giving residents another option for outdoor water recreation. Abraham offered a reminder that the splash pad will be available for use at no charge. e. Homewood Golf Course Hole #9 Crossing Abraham stated the project is progressing well – the culvert is in and dirt is being brought in to fill in the ravine – but the warmer weather did not help the entry road. Heavy truck traffic on the asphalt road – without added support from frozen ground underneath – led to damage to a portion of the road. Staff prefer not to spend additional money for a temporary fix given plans to expand the parking area and funds already programmed in the Capital Improvement Plan. Both the Park Development Fund and the Homewood Golf Course Operational Fund Balance could be tapped to get everything done at once. City staff may design the project internally, otherwise it would go out to bid for a consultant. Staff wish to avoid interrupting golf course operations. Thompson added the crossing will be a nice addition to the golf course. Staff knew the asphalt would have to be replaced at some point – it has been in place for perhaps more than 30 years – but hoped it would not be so soon. Abraham said a concrete drive would resolve current issues and allow for more parking. 5 9. MONTHLY REPORT Thompson noted: • Warmer weather helped with tree maintenance and brush mowing work along trails and within parks but also meant the larger South River Valley Park ice rink would close for the season. The small rink was already drained and closed due to a torn liner. • The Parks Maintenance Facility expansion/renovation project is nearly done, with some electric and HVAC subcontractor work remaining. Abraham reported: • The summer brochure will be available online as of March 1 and will include expanded camp programming, Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center (FFIAC) programming, additional programming at Sixty Forward, and more. • Staff continue to interview and hire various seasonal staff positions as well as three full- time positions (Public Wellness Manager, Ice Arena Manager, Ice Arena Coordinator). Rathe asked if FFIAC will have a full-time manager – it will not, Abraham said. Management will be divided among supervisory and maintenance staff, the same model used at Furman Aquatic Center. Two full-time positions (Aquatics Coordinator, Principal Clerk) were added to support FFIAC operations. 10. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS During recent visits to Ada Hayden Heritage Park, White observed a full parking lot and many park visitors, although not many bicyclists, along with individuals whose presence on thin ice was worrisome given their apparent inexperience with frozen water. Park users universally ignored posted directions to cycle on the outside and walk on the inside of the trail. White found the new, wider trail surface to be smooth and easier to traverse. Bicyclists seemed to go slower, with more consideration of pedestrians – a good start, overall. 11. NEXT MEETING: Thursday, March 26, 2026, 4:00 PM (Regular Meeting) Abraham noted: (1) the Boards and Commissions Appreciation Annual Luncheon is March 26 at 11:30 AM at Gateway Hotel & Conference Center; and (2) the March 26 Commission meeting will be the last for Shimanek and Reeves, whose terms and eligibility expire on March 31, 2026. 12. ADJOURNMENT MOTION (Rathe) to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 5:13 PM. ITEM #: ___4____ DATE: 03-27-2025 COMMISSION ACTION FORM SUBJECT: AMES JAYCEES REQUEST TO UTILIZE BANDSHELL PARK FOR “AMES ON THE HALF SHELL” AND WAIVE ITS FACILITY FEE PER TICKET AND PAYMENT OF 10% OF GROSS FOOD AND BEVERAGE SALES TO THE CITY OF AMES BACKGROUND: Ames On the Half Shell is an event sponsored by the Ames Jaycees featuring live bands and concession sales (including food, beer, wine coolers, and soft drinks). According to the organizers, the bands will perform adult pop-rock music, similar to what might be heard at a wedding reception. As their request (Attachment A) states, the Jaycees are requesting to utilize Bandshell Park on five Friday evenings between May 29 and June 26, with performances scheduled from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. (ending no later than 8:30 p.m., with teardown by 9:30 p.m.) They also request to serve alcohol between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m., to be consumed at ground level within a fenced-in area, with the fence removed no later than 9:00 p.m. In 2025, the Jaycees paid $3,270 in rental fees for its five-events. The Jaycees have previously requested the Commission waive the $1.00 per ticket facility fee and the 10% of gross food and beverage sales payment to the City of Ames. The Commission has approved this waiver in the past, and the Jaycees are again requesting the waiver of these fees for 2026. Additionally, the Jaycees request the Commission recommend the City Council allow alcohol sales (beer and wine coolers) at Bandshell Park during this event. A City ordinance currently allows alcohol consumption only in specific community parks (Brookside, Inis Grove, River Valley, McCarthy Lee, and Moore Memorial). The Jaycees provided data for 2025 and 2024 events, as shown in the table below for comparison: Category 2025 2024 The Jaycees donate their profits from Ames On the Half Shell to various community projects, such as the holiday food baskets and the Blast Back to School Project. Over the years, they have donated $7,500 to the Parks and Recreation Department’s Youth Scholarship Fund. Subject to Commission approval, City Council action would be required to allow the sale and consumption of alcohol and ensure the Jaycees have obtained the necessary liquor licenses and comply with all local and State alcohol laws. In case a concert gets cancelled due to weather, staff will be asking City Council to provide staff with administrative authority to reschedule without having to get additional Council approval for rain dates. The Jaycees would fence off the area in front of the Bandshell (playground area and Durham Bandshell would not be included) and charge a $5 per person admission fee. The admission fee is to cover the cost of each band. Attendees may also purchase alcohol drink tokens (plastic bottles of beer or wine coolers) for $6 each and non-alcoholic drink tokens (soda or bottled water) for $1 each. Each year, Parks and Recreation administrative staff attend the event and have recognized the event’s appeal to attendees of all ages. Police Department reports indicate that no complaints were received since 2019. Police also reported that the event was well managed, and the size of the crowd and related parking issues were comparable to Thursday evening municipal band concerts. ALTERNATIVES: 1. Approve the Jaycees’ request to: a) Sponsor “Ames On the Half Shell”, utilizing Bandshell Park on five Fridays between May 29 and June 26, with the band playing from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., ending no later than 8:30 p.m., and teardown by 9:30 p.m. b) Recommend City Council approve alcohol sales at Bandshell Park on five Fridays between May 29 and June 26, between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., consumed at ground level within a fenced-in area, with the area cleared no later than 9:00 p.m. or the fence removal, whichever comes first, and City Council require the Jaycees to obtain a State liquor license to comply with local and State liquor laws. c) Waive the Jaycees’ payment of the $1.00 per ticket sold and 10% of gross food and beverage sales. 2. Approve the Jaycees’ request to: a) Sponsor “Ames On the Half Shell”, utilizing Bandshell Park on five Fridays between May 29 and June 26, with the band playing from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., ending no later than 8:30 p.m., and teardown by 9:30 p.m. b) Recommend City Council approve alcohol sales at Bandshell Park on five Fridays between May 29 and June 26, between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., consumed at ground level within a fenced-in area, with the area cleared no later than 9:00 p.m. or the fence removal, whichever comes first, and City Council require the Jaycees to obtain a State liquor license to comply with local and State liquor laws. c) Deny the waiver of the $1.00 facility fee and 10% of gross food and beverage sales payment. 3. Approve the Jaycees’ request to: a) Sponsor “Ames On the Half Shell”, utilizing Bandshell Park on five Fridays between May 29 and June 26, with the band playing from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., ending no later than 8:30 p.m., and teardown by 9:30 p.m. a) Recommend City Council approve alcohol to be served at Bandshell Park on five Fridays between May 29 and June 26, between the hours of 5-8pm and consumed at ground level within the fenced in area no later than 9pm or the removal of the temporary fencing whichever comes first; and City Council require the Jaycees to obtain a State liquor license to assure compliance with local and State liquor laws. b) Waive the 10% gross food and beverage sales payment. c) Deny the waiver of the $1.00 facility fee. 4. Deny the Jaycees’ request to utilize Bandshell Park for “Ames On the Half Shell.” 5. Refer back to staff. STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION: When reviewing requests for events and fee waivers, staff must consider several things, including the precedent set by waiving fees that would reduce the Auditorium and Bandshell subsidy. In the past, the Commission has granted fee waivers to the Jaycees due to their commitment to community betterment and support of Parks and Recreation. Staff also considers the pros and cons the activity will have on the group making the request, the adjacent property owners, and the community at large. While some residents may express concerns, staff considers the overall feedback and event history to be a positive for the community. Therefore, staff recommends Alternative #1 as stated above. Offering business, individual, community and international opportunities for young leaders Mailing address: PO Box 624 · Ames, IA · 50010 Web site: www.amesjaycees.com 2026 Ames on the Half Shell (AOTHS) Project Location/Waiver Request History: The Ames on the Half Shell project held its inaugural event in the summer of 2003 at Bandshell Park. This project was established to raise money for Bandshell restoration while introducing an evening summer concert series in Ames. At the time of introduction, no other similar band concerts were being held in the downtown Ames area. Over the past 22 years, this project has grown into the largest and most successful rotating band concert series in Ames. 2026 Plans: The 2026 Ames on the Half Shell events will operate Friday evenings: May 29, June 5, June 12, June 19, June 26. At this time we do not have a rain-out location. In the event of inclement weather we may be forced to cancel or postpone an event. The Ames Jaycees will consult with Ames Park and Rec to see if a reschedule date can be obtained. Each evening’s event follows the same schedule; setup will begin at 3 PM, the event will run from 5 PM until 8 PM, and teardown will be completed by 9:30 PM. All open containers will be removed from the park prior to the removal of the temporary fencing no later than 9 PM. We charge $5 per person at the door and fifty percent of these revenues go directly toward the band’s fee. Drink tokens will likely remain $6 each for alcohol and $1 each for soda or bottled water. We will also have at least one food vendor, community partners and several sponsors to help cover costs each night. The Ames Jaycees do not receive any of the proceeds from the food vendors’ sales. Requests: The 2026 AOTHS Committee formally requests the use of Durham Bandshell Park, a waiver of the alcohol ordinance, the facility fee for ticketed events, and the vending policy fee of 10 percent of gross sales. The sale of alcohol is what allows this project to raise money that is given directly back to the community through Ames Jaycees projects. Funds that have been given directly to Ames Parks include contributions to the Durham Bandshell Renovation and the Ada Hayden Park Overlook Project. Beginning in 2015 the Ames Jaycees proudly presented a portion of the proceeds of Ames on the Half Shell to Ames Park and Recreation to help fund a scholarship for youth activities in the Ames community. The Jaycees also began hosting a non-profit organization each week to raise free-will donation funds for entities like Boys & Girls Club, Heartland Senior Services, and the Story County Animal Shelter. The ability to contribute financially to the community through events like Holiday Food Baskets is something that the Ames Jaycees continue to be very proud of. We are also able to provide our members with invaluable leadership development skills through fundraising projects such as Ames on the Half Shell. Ames on the Half Shell is the sole fundraiser held each year to fund these activities and donations. Therefore, the Ames Jaycees formally request that the Ames Parks and Recreation Commission allow us to return to Durham Bandshell Park, while waiving the alcohol ordinance, facility fee for ticketed events, and the vending policy fee. The Ames Jaycees would also like to reserve the option to extend these waivers to additional dates in the event of a rain out. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you, /s/ Katie Minnihan Katie Minnihan Ames on the Half Shell Ames Jaycees 1- Admission 2- Title Sponsor (Cars will be located here) 3- Tokens 4- Community Partner 5- Beverages 6- Food Vendor 7- Food Vendor 8- Nightly Sponsor 9- Nightly Sponsor 10- Nightly sponsor/bounce house on family night (if applicable) ITEM #___5____ DATE: 03/26/26 COMMISSION ACTION FORM SUBJECT: AGREEMENT WITH AMES YOUTH BASEBALL FOR USE OF THREE FIELDS (7, 8, & 9) IN BROOKSIDE PARK BACKGROUND: For many years, Ames Parks and Recreation Department (APR) and Ames Youth Baseball (AYB), formerly Ames Little League, have had a good working relationship regarding AYB using baseball fields in the parks. In 2014, AYB and APR developed an agreement governing responsibilities related to the maintenance and upkeep of the fields and it is updated and approved annually. This is the twelfth year AYB will be using all three fields in Brookside Park. The agreement, shown as Attachment A, allows Ames Youth Baseball priority use of fields 8 & 9 (no charge) and field 7 (rental fee required) from April 1, 2026, until November 1, 2026. ALTERNATIVES: 1. Approve the agreement with Ames Youth Baseball regarding use of fields 7, 8, & 9 in Brookside Park from April 1, 2026, to November 1, 2026. 2. Do not approve the agreement. 3. Refer the agreement back to staff. STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION: There has been a long-standing relationship with Ames Youth Baseball regarding use of baseball fields in the parks. This document clarifies and documents each party’s responsibilities for 2026. Therefore, it is recommended the Parks and Recreation Commission adopt Alternative #1, as described above. ATTACHMENT A CITY OF AMES DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION AGREEMENT WITH AMES YOUTH BASEBALL CONCERNING USE OF THREE FIELDS (7, 8 & 9) IN BROOKSIDE PARK. THIS AGREEMENT is being entered into between the City of Ames (hereinafter referred to as “City”) and Ames Youth Baseball (hereinafter referred to as “Grantee”) for the use of three fields (7, 8 & 9) in Brookside Park. Both parties agree to comply with all City of Ames Park Policies. The parties further agree to the terms below concerning the use and the space of Fields (7, 8, & 9) at Brookside Park as follows: 1. The City hereby grants to the Grantee the privilege and rights for use of Fields 7, 8, & 9, located at Brookside Park in the City of Ames, for the period from April 1, 2026, to November 1, 2026. 2. The City will mow the infield, outfield, and surrounding turf beyond the fences on Fields 7, 8, & 9 used by Grantee at 3.5 inches. Grantee personnel has permission to mow the infield turf on fields 8 & 9 inside the fences below 3.5 inches, but not less than a minimum height of 2 inches, using a walk behind mower not furnished by or property of the City. City staff will trim around all fences, dugouts, and batting cages. 3. In the event of damage incurred by the City or outside parties, excluding Grantee, the City will provide all necessary means to repair the facility to its original design. 4. In the event of damage, above normal wear and tear, incurred by Grantee and or affiliates, Grantee shall be responsible for and shall reimburse the City for any damage to property of the City. 5. It is the responsibility of the Grantee that Fields 8 & 9 are groomed and safe for Ames Youth Baseball affiliated events (games, practices, tryouts, etc.) 6. The Grantee shall keep Fields 7, 8, & 9 and surrounding grounds for fifty (50) feet around all sides of the Fields free of debris, papers, and trash at all times. The City is responsible for removal of trash from receptacles placed in the parks. 7. If and when the City and Grantee agree improvements are necessary to Fields 8 & 9, the City and Grantee will agree in regard to cost sharing between both parties. 8. The Grantee covenants and agrees to hold the City, its officers and employees harmless and to indemnify them against each and every claim and demand of whatever nature made by or on behalf of any person or persons resulting from or arising out of any activities or omission arising out of the use of the Fields of the Grantee, its agents, servants, invitees and employees. For such purposes, the Grantee agrees to carry liability insurance naming the City, its officers and employees as Additional Named Insured, such insurance to have limits of not less than $1,000,000 combined single limit per occurrence. The Grantee further agrees to file a Certificate of Insurance with the City Manager’s office, City of Ames, evidencing that such insurance has been furnished and that the same will not be canceled without ten (10) days’ notice to the City. This Certificate of Insurance must be filed prior to the execution of this agreement. 9. All equipment necessary to host an event shall be furnished by Grantee or affiliated parties. Equipment to be furnished includes, but is not limited to, bats, balls, gloves, uniforms, and protective equipment. On fields 8 & 9, equipment also includes bases, pitching rubber, homeplate, etc. 10. The City will place one portable toilet in the western part of Brookside Park, accessible for individuals using the park. No charges will be issued to the Grantee for use of the portable toilet. 11. The Grantee shall not make permanent changes or improvements to the premises without the express written consent of the City. Any such improvement shall become the property of the City without compensation to the Grantee. 12. The City will furnish all structures and in-place equipment to the Grantee from April 1, 2026, to November 1, 2026. For Fields 8 & 9, material costs pertaining to maintenance and/or construction of player dugouts or structures of necessity to Grantee will be sole responsibility of Grantee. All material costs pertaining to maintenance and/or construction of player dugouts or structures on Field 7 will be sole responsibility of City. 13. All playing surface material (ag-lime, Turface, field dry, etc.) necessary for field renovation may be kept in piles at a City approved location near the playing fields off of hard surface and turf areas for a maximum of seven days. After the seven days, playing surface material must be spread by Grantee or Designated Contractor with Certificate of Liability Insurance on file with the City Clerk’s office. All playing surface material necessary for daily field upkeep must be stored at an offsite location. The City will set aside a location on City property for a stockpile of field aggregate at a maximum stockpiled amount of 10 tons. The City will deliver playing surface material a maximum of twice per month on request from Grantee. 14. The City shall be responsible for applying two applications of granular fertilizer per year on Fields 7, 8, & 9 used by Grantee. One application will be done before June 1 and one application will take place after September 1. 15. The City shall be responsible for all foliar chemical applications (weed control, fungicide, etc.). Applications will only be done on an as needed basis. 16. Field maintenance equipment owned and operated by Grantee at Fields 8 & 9 must be housed at an offsite location not on City property. 17. Field Use: a. First priority shall be given to Grantee regarding Fields 8 & 9 reservations. Fields 7 reservations for the upcoming year will be based on field use from the previous season. The Grantee has priority for dates and times of scheduling for Grantee affiliated events. To guarantee all Field reservations, Grantee must submit requests to the City by April 1 of each calendar year. All Field reservations shall be reserved through the City by contacting the Community Center at 515-239-5350. b. For all other events, priority is given to the City to reserve for groups or organizations not affiliated with Grantee. c. If and when Fields 8 & 9 are not reserved, any individual or group outside of Grantee may use Fields 8 & 9 free of charge and in accordance to City Park Policies. 18. The Grantee shall not assign this agreement or sublet the premises without the express written consent of the City. 19. Failure to abide by any or all the terms and conditions addressed in this agreement, as determined by the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, shall result in loss of the use of fields 7, 8, & 9 by Grantee, up to and including termination of this agreement. 20. Grantee is required to pay all associated rental fees for use of Field 7. City will provide all field maintenance, including grooming, chalking and/or painting of base lines, batter’s boxes, bases, and pitching rubber. The City or Grantee may terminate this agreement by providing written notice of said termination to the other at least thirty (30) days prior to the date of termination. The City reserves the right to terminate this agreement within seven (7) calendar days of written notice if the Grantee does not perform the terms and conditions of this agreement. Dated and executed at Ames, Iowa, this 26th day of March, 2026. The City of Ames, Iowa Parks and Recreation Commission By:_____________________________________________ Chairperson Ames Little League Grantee By:_____________________________________________ President Caring People  Quality Programs  Exceptional Service Parks and Recreation 515.239.5350 main 515 Clark Ave. 515.239.5355 fax Ames, IA 50010 www.CityofAmes.org TO: Keith Abraham, Director of Parks and Recreation FROM: Staff RE: Monthly Report March 2026 PARKS AND FACILITIES: 1. Staff cleared snow on park trails and shared use paths in late February. Staff also groomed the cross-country ski trails in East River Valley. 2. Staff prepared soccer and softball fields at North River Valley Park. Stall also prepared the baseball fields at Brookside Park for the start of the spring baseball season. 3. A crew from the Conservation Corps of Iowa/Minnesota cut and applied herbicide to volunteer woody vegetation at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. Funds to complete the work was donated by the Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park. 4. Staff started replacing the asphalt shingle roof on Hickory Shelter at Brookside Park. The asphalt shingles are being replaced with a metal roof. The work is expected to take seven to ten days. RECREATION PROGRAMS: 1. Staff hosted a Hiring Tailgate at the Homewood Clubhouse on Saturday, February 28, from 10 AM to 12 PM. Representatives from all areas of the department shared job opportunities with prospective candidates. This marks the fourth year this event has been offered, providing a valuable opportunity for individuals to learn about temporary and part-time positions within Parks and Recreation. 2. In February, the Ames/ISU Ice Arena held 15 public skating sessions, drawing a total of 1,359 skaters. Additionally, 68 skaters participated in 8 figure freestyle sessions, and 47 skaters attended 8 stick-and-helmet sessions. The arena also hosted seven birthday parties and sharpened 59 pairs of skates. 3. Homewood Clubhouse hosted a Painting with a Twist Valentine’s Day instructor led painting class. A total of 46 registered participants attended the class. 4. Homewood Clubhouse hosted a total of seven rentals in the month of January: five internal (City) rentals and 2 external rentals. 5. A new class, “Mobility and Stretch”, began on February 18 at the Sixty Forward Center. The class was introduced with two free sessions in January, which attracted 35 participants. 6. There were 1,365 visits to the Strength and Cardio Room at the Sixty Forward Center. 7. A new session of Fitness Classes began in February with the number of registrations shown below: 8. Start Smart Basketball concluded in February at the Community Center with 40 participants. 9. A new session of Dance and Tumbling began in February, along with a new session of youth and adult tennis lessons 10. The following were held in the Ames City Auditorium: a. Hope Lutheran Church held four worship services. b. A competition team from Dancenter Dancer held a rehearsal. c. Parks and Recreation hosted Courtney Krause and Meara Rose as part of the winter concert series. d. Central Iowa Symphony hosted five rehearsals. e. IHSSA All State Speech Festival was onsite to host their Musical Theatre competition on February 21. PROJECT UPDATE: 1. ConStruct, Ames, Iowa, is in the final stages of completing the necessary work for the Homewood Golf Course Hole Nine Crossing Project in time for the opening of the 2026 golf season. Work yet to be completed includes laying the granular base for the path and the native seeding on both sides of the path crossing. That work is expected to be completed prior to the course opening. The concrete path for the crossing will be installed towards the end of the golf season in October or early November. As a result of the work that took place to bring in over 5,500 cubic yards of dirt for the crossing, the westernmost asphalt drive at the course was severely deteriorated from the heavy equipment traffic. Staff is working with the Public Works Department to develop plans and specifications to remove the asphalt parking/drive and replace it with concrete. The number of parking spaces will be increased as part of the project. Replacement of the westernmost drive will happen as soon as possible with the balance of the work done after the golfing season. 2. King Construction, Iowa Falls, Iowa, has completed the bulk of the Parks Maintenance Shop Expansion Project. Work yet to be completed includes all landscape planting and seeding, as well as final punch list items. 3. City Council awarded the Parkview Park Playground Project to Play-Pro Recreation, Clive, Iowa for the installation of a new playground structure and swing. City staff will be demolishing and excavating the playground site in preparation for the installation. Once the structure and swing are installed, staff will install the engineered wood fibers and concrete border. Work is expected to take place in late April, weather dependent. 4. TK Concrete, Pella, Iowa, and CRS, Verona, Wisconsin, will be starting the grading and equipment installation at Daley Park Splash Project in early April. City staff will be constructing the mechanical building that will house the mechanical equipment for the project. The project is expected to be completed by June 1, 2026.