09/14/26 Parks & Recreation Advisory Board

The Lawrence Parks & Recreation Advisory Board met on September 14, 2026, to discuss several agenda items including a proposal from the Lawrence City Band to construct a new ADA-accessible elevated platform in South Park. The band seeks the board's endorsement to present the project to the city commission, emphasizing that the funding and construction costs would be covered by the band and private donations, including a $50,000 bequest. The board unanimously endorsed the proposal. Additionally, the board reviewed a plan for the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board to assume responsibility for reviewing and recommending funding for the city's Unmistakable Events Grant Program, which supports local events funded by the transient guest tax. The board agreed to take on this role and will begin reviewing grant applications in the fall. Updates were also provided on staffing vacancies, the outdoor aquatic center construction progress, and the launch of a new monthly Parks & Recreation newsletter. No direct contract awards or RFPs were discussed, but the endorsement of the band’s platform project and the grant review role represent key procurement-related actions.