2018 Billings Parks and Recreation Annual Report

CONTENTS 1

Annual Report Introduction

2

Department Overview

4

Fiscal Year 2018 Financial Summary

4

Organizational Chart

5-13 Parks 14-16 Urban Forestry 17-20 Volunteer & Community Outreach 21-25 Planning and Construction 26-28 Cemetery 29-39 Recreation 40 Park Police Officer

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ANNUAL REPORT INTRODUCTION Welcome to the 2018 Billings Park and Recreation & Public Lands Department Annual Report.

The purpose of this document is to provide an overview of the department’s services and highlight accomplishments from 2018. The information provided below showcases a few key findings from the report.

Billings Parks and Recreation’s mission is to provide accessible, safe and quality parks, facilities, open spaces and recreational opportunities for all.

PARKS

Centennial park is the first community park to be built since 1982 FORESTRY

More than half of tree species in Billings Parks are from Asia and the eastern US!

RECREATION

60% of the operating costs are recovered through activity participation, administrative and rental fees.

CEMETERY

It is the largest and oldest continually operated cemetery in the region.

PARK PLANNING

Centennial park will be the first public park designated as an Arboretum.

OUTREACH

Since 2014, Billings City-wide Park District #1 has leveraged $350,000 in grant funding!

1

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW PARKS:

The Parks Division manages over 2,500 acres of parkland that covers approximately 10% of the City of Billings land area.

URBAN FORSTRY & NATURAL RESOURCES:

The Urban Forestry Division manage and care for 9,295 trees in 875 acres of developed parks, as well as overseeing management of 1680 acres of natural land areas.

RECREATION:

The Recreation Division offers over 143 recreation programs a year and operates a community center as well as two major aquatics facilities. These services are offered to residents of all ages and abilities.

CEMETERY:

The Cemetery Division operates a full service 65-acre cemetery that is the largest and oldest continually operated cemetery in the region.

VOLUNTEER & COMMUNITY OUTREACH:

Community Outreach is responsible for the volunteer program and assists with marketing and communications. Additionally, Community Outreach staff work on partnerships and grants.

PARK PLANNING/CONSTRUCTION:

Planning/Construction is responsible for overseeing park planning and development, trail construction, and deferred maintenance projects.

ADMISTRATIVE SERVICES:

Administrative Services provides budget oversight, payroll, long-term planning, department communications and general administration.

PARK POLICE OFFICER:

Park Police Officer position provides focused law enforcement at City Parks. The officer will coordinate efforts between the Police Department and the Parks and Recreation Department to ensure park safety.

2

Parks, Recreation & Public Lands Department Director: Michael Whitaker Customer Service Coordinator

Administrative Support II

Community Outreach and Engagement Coordinator

Park Planner

Parks, Urban Forestry & Cemetery

Park Police Officer

Recreation & Senior Services

Parks Superintendent Parks/ Cemetery Supervisor

Parks Supervisor

Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

Recreation Superintendent

Forestry/ Natural Resource Supervisor

3 Recreation Specialists Senior Services Specialist

(1.5) Arborist

Admin Support I

2 Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

Facility Maintenance Support II

Area 1 Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

Area 2 Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

Area 3 Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

Area 4 Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

1 Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

1.5 Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

1 Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

2 Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker

Area 5 Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker-Playground Safety Inspector

Weekend Sr. Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker Equipment Operator/ Maintenance Worker (Mechanic)

3

FISCAL YEAR 2019 FINANCIAL SUMMARY The Billings Parks, Recreation and Public Lands Department’s budget comes from five major

Where does the money come From? sources: City-Wide Park District, Special Fund, General Fund Contribution, General Fund Revenue and Where does the money come From?

35 Individual PMDs As stewards of public funds, the department strives to operate $8,710,824 efficiently and effectively to best use the resources available. $8,710,824 Where does the money come From? $8,710,824

12%

12%

23%

23%

12%

City-wide Park District City-wide Park District

23%

14%

Special Fund Special Fund

3%

14%

3% 3%

City-wide Park District General Fund Contribution General Fund Contribution Special Fund General Fund Revenue General Fund Revenue General Fund Contributio

35 Individual PMDs 35 Individual PMDs General Fund Revenue 35 Individual PMDs

48%

48% Where does the money go?

Where does the money go?

48% $9,977,508 Where does the money go? $9,977,508 $9,977,508 3%

3%

4%

4%

4%

3%

35% 35%

Urban Forestry

4%

4%

Urban Forestry

Cemetery Cemetery Urban Forestry

4%

13%

Administration Administration Cemetery

13%

35%

13%

2% 4% 7%

28%

4

2%

4% 7%

4%

7% 28%

Park Special Funds Park Special Funds

2%

Administration Senior Services Senior Services Park Special Funds Aquatics Aquatics Senior Services Recreation Recreation Aquatics Capital Improvement Projects Campital Improvement Project Recreation Parks Parks Campital Improvement Pro

on

ojects

BY THE NUMBERS: 91% of households say parks are

essential

20

tons or 40,000lbs Fertilizer applied to parks in 2018

PARKS

2,555 Acres of land is managed & maintained by Billings Parks and Recreation Department

106 inches Snow removed from

sidewalks and trails in 2018

2,600 Acres treated for weeds in 2018

9

Staff members are Certified Pesticide Applicators 5

PARKS & PUBLIC LANDS DIVISION OVERVIEW Since the founding of Billings in 1882, parks and open spaces have played a major role in the life of the city. South park was dedicated in 1913, and the Park system continues to grow to this day. Almost 10% of the land area of the city is set aside for Parks for the public to enjoy and recreate in. Parks vary in size and function from large, community parks like Castle Rock, Pioneer and North, to smaller neighborhood parks like Trails End, Ponderosa, and Francis.

Parks serve many different functions and management varies accordingly. Some Parks like South, Veterans and Stewart are landscaped, irrigated and intensively maintained, while others, like Riverfront, Cameron, and Swords are there to provide a semi-natural setting that provides habitat for wildlife and a “nature experience�.

With this mix, the Park System provides a variety of experiences from intensive organized sports in places like Amend Park to a solitary hike along the Rims or the Yellowstone River. Gone are the days when Parks were just a place for picnics and horseshoes. Besides providing scenic beauty, Parks serve as sites for scientific inquiry and educational opportunity, contribute environmental benefits like oxygen production and filtering particulates from the air and provide a vast array of recreational opportunities for almost everyone’s interests and abilities.

The Parks Division is proud to commit themselves to providing parks, open space and Public Lands that enrich the quality of life for all of Billings residents and visitors.

Community Partnerships & Events

Enviornmental Stewardship & Conservation

6

Park Lands Management & Maintenance

Core Services

Facility Management & Maintenance

Heritage Trail Management & Maintenance

PARK LANDS MANAGEMENT & MAINTENANCE Open Lands and Parks are a critical part of a vibrant healthy community. Since 1913 when the first park was dedicated, we have been creating and maintaining Billing’s public space and protecting the environment. Today woven throughout the city are 2,555 acres of park land. The Parks and Public Lands Division uses modern science to maintain and prepare these spaces for public use. Integrated management practices like soil tests and targeted pesticide applications and precise irrigation practices are used to safely and efficiently keep the parks healthy, whether it is in a developed park like Optimist or in an undeveloped park like Pow Wow. The 2,555 acres consists of 875 acres of developed parks such as Sacajawea park and 1,680 acres of undeveloped and natural area parks like Riverfront. The diversity in the parks system provides for a wide variety of activities and experiences.

7

North Park Pioneer Park

Riverfront Park

Big Ditch Trail

8

Rose Park

Descro Parkway Bike Net

FACILITY & BUILDING MANAGEMENT & MAINTENANCE The Billings park system has a wide array of facilities and buildings in order to serve the public’s varied interests. The Parks Division is responsible for the management and maintenance of all of the facilities and buildings listed below.

Park Facilities and Amenities:

• 6 neighborhood centers • 1 professional baseball stadium • 5 splash pads

• 140 water services to buildings and irrigation systems

• 1 skate park • 1 dog park

• 41 playgrounds • 14 picnic shelters available for

• 22 sports fields

reservation

• 22 baseball fields

• 26 tennis courts

• 16 softball fields

• 25 basketball courts

• 4 disc golf courses

• 21 restrooms

• 3 sand volleyball courts

2018 Notable Facility Accomplishments:

• A new recirculating splash pad was constructed in South Park • Facilitated 607 shelter and building rentals • Facilitated 35 Sound Stage Rentals • Landscaped new Pool Operations building • Removed Playground equipment at Hawthorne Park making room for Billings first All-Inclusive Playground 9

HERITAGE TRAIL MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE The Heritage Trail now consists of 43 miles of paved multi-use trails throughout the community, 10 miles of mapped and maintained soft surface trails and many miles of undedicated informal trails in natural area parks. As the Heritage Trail system develops throughout the Billings community, it will provide recreational opportunities as well as an alternate transportation corridor. Benches, picnic tables, shelters, trailheads, signage and restrooms are in place or being added to enhance the trail.

In 2018: • Mowing trail edges in natural area parks was completed once per month during the growing season • Hard surface trails were swept four times during the summer • Snow was removed on all paved multi-use trails throughout the winter months • The soft surface trail at Phipps Park was rerouted to a safer location • The trail system was checked daily for trash, graffiti and other potential problems

60% of Billings’ households reported that someone in their household used the trail system in 2017 85% of users rated the trails system as good to excellent.

10

ENVIORNMENTAL STEWARDSHIP & CONSERVATION The Parks Divisions’ role in environmental stewardship and conservation is broad, on-going, multifaceted and mandated by the Billings Municipal Code.

City Ordinance Section 19-203. Nature preserves states: All property under control of the city as park property and all dedicated parks are designated and declared to be nature preserves.

City Ordinance Section 19-204. Future development states: Overall park development shall retain natural areas for the study and enjoyment of plants and animals in a natural environment to the extent consistent with park and public needs. Where terrain and accessibility are factors, the preservation of natural areas shall be a prime factor in park development.

In 2018: • There were 1,680 acres of natural area parks in the City of Billings.

• 3 Park staff became Aquatic Facility Operators certified • Through a partnership with the Yellowstone County Weed Management District, noxious weeds were sprayed in many park locations • In 2018 2 staff members earned Class “A” Certified Driver Licenses bringing the total to 10 staff members with CDL • Over 24 acres of parkland were used for storm detention basins to temporarily hold water during rain storms • Park staff used Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to manage weeds, insects and other pests in Billings Parks. This means that we used pesticides sparingly along other cultural methods to reduce weed and insect problems.

11

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND EVENTS The Parks Division works with over 65 Partners to provide parks, facilities, personnel, equipment and resources to support and facilitate hundreds of activities, events and programs for tens of thousands of park users each year.

250

Park Use Permits by Year

200

204

150

161

164

168

2015

2016

2017

141 100 76 50

0

Saturday Live Pioneer Park

12

61

2012

2013

2014

2018

Below are some examples of the support the Parks Division provides to various groups that host events and programs within the park system: • The Park Division provided staff and resources to support soccer, baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, rugby and other team sports on 22 athletic fields, 22 baseball fields and 16 softball fields located in Billings Parks.

• Many large events took place in City parks including Symphony in The Park, Saturday Live, Summerfair, Billings All Original Car Show and the Celebrate Freedom 4th of July event.

• Many large sport events occurred in City Parks such as Big Sky State Games, the Montana Marathon, Montana Youth Soccer Association State Tournament, Heart and Sole Run and High School and University Cross Country track meets.

• We renewed our Partnership with the Billings soccer community to management and maintainance of the Amend Park Soccer Complex.

• Working with volunteers, we facilitated two community gardens.

• In partnership with Riverstone Health, we co-sponsored the South Park Farmers Market during the summer months.

• Through a cooperative agreement with Montana State University we brought Shakespeare in the Parks to Pioneer Park.

• The NCAA Division II Regional Cross Country races were held at Amend Park. 110 teams with 450 participants competed.

Billings All Original Car Show North Park

Big Sky State Games: Soaked Run Pioneer Park

Billings Hispanic Fiesta South Park

Saturday Live Pioneer Park

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URBAN FORESTRY

BY THE NUMBERS: 97 trees planted 594 trees pruned

93 trees removed

8 Wildlife Trees Designated in 5 Parks

Total Weed Abatements:

144 Cut by Forestry Crew:

112

Cut by Owner: 32 14

Dollars generated from weed abatement program

$14,962.50

URBAN FORESTRY INTRODUCTION Trees improve people’s sense of well-being, civic pride and quality of life, and they provide measurable economic, environmental and health benefits to individuals and to communities as a whole. With that in mind, the Urban Forestry/Natural Resources Division caretakes trees in Parks, Natural Areas, and at Mountview Cemetery.

We are particularly proud that we prune all of our trees on a cyclical basis, achieving a 3- and 7-year return interval between pruning for young and old trees, respectively. Pro-actively pruning on a regular schedule is a “Best Management Practice� that saves taxpayers money by keeping trees healthy (and beautiful!)

In addition to tree care in developed parks we manage 35 natural areas. With our management we guide them towards near-natural conditions, controlling invasive weeds in particular. In these areas, we partner with schools and environmental organizations to provide educational opportunities and high-quality, easily accessible, examples of intact ecosystems for study and viewing.

We make trees available to the public with our cost-share boulevard tree program and make it possible for people to remember loved ones with Memorial trees planted in developed parks.

And administratively, City code requires businesses and homeowners to obtain permits for any work proposed for boulevard trees whether it be pruning, planting or removing a tree and we are the entity that issues permits for approved projects. We are also the safety hawks! We watch for trees on private property that could pose a threat to public safety and work with Code Enforcement to task homeowners to remove or cut back trees that could be unsafe. Our perhaps most surprising task is that we also are in charge of mowing lawns that landowners allow to grow into conditions that do not meet City Code. If after receiving multiple notices, landowners do not cut their overgrown lawns, we will mow them for them, sending landowners a bill for our trouble.

15

2018 URBAN FORESTRY FOCUS AREAS

Wildlife Habitat Trees In 2017 a program was launched to provide “vertical” habitat for wildlife in city parks, where it could be done safely, by leaving some dead trees standing in parks and labeling them as Wildlife Habitat Trees. So far, we have left eight trees in five different parks, including two each in North, Riverfront and Veterans, and one each in Rose and Pioneer. Watch for these trees (snags) and tell us what wildlife you see using them!

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) In last year’s annual report, we highlighted the probable eventual arrival of the EAB to Billings. We noted that about 20% of the trees we manage are ash trees and, in some areas, Mountview Cemetery and Pioneer Park for example, more than 50% of trees are ash. The EAB causes 100% mortality of untreated ash trees so EAB infestation would be devastating to these areas. To increase our chances of detecting EAB presence, we set out sample traps last summer, distributing 30 traps across parks. Happily, no EAB were found. One more year of being EAB free!

Natural Areas In 2018 a Natural Area Parks management plan was put together. These are Parks that are managed for ecological outcomes that keep them in close to “natural” conditions in which a human imprint is minimally evident and habitat for wildlife and native flora and fauna are promoted. Billings is blessed with complex and varied topography, distinctive soils, a highly variable and a somewhat unpredictable climate. All of that adds up to a variety of distinctive habitats that define our natural areas. These habitat types, and an example park for each, include the following:

1) Woodlots of native and invasive tree species

(Cameron Park)

2) Small-stream riparian habitats (Blue Creek Park)

3) Native grasslands (Lampman Park)

4) Sagebrush high plains prairies with abundant

wildflowers (Swords Park - rimtop)

5) Large stream, cottonwood dominate riparian areas

(Riverfront Park)

6) Wetlands (Meadowlark Park)

7) Ponderosa pine/juniper/sage brush forests (Rehberg Ranch)

8) Rock walls (Swords Park – west end) Natural Areas are spread across the City of Billings so that no-one will be far from one no matter where one lives.

Detailed information about each park will soon be available on our website. If you have kids, you will soon be hearing about these areas as we are working with a variety of partners to make educational areas out of these.

Weed Abatements per Month 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

16

May

June

July

August

September

October

Weed Abatements It is City of Billings policy that nuisance weeds shall be controlled on both developed and undeveloped, privately owned parcels within city boundaries. Nuisance weeds include all weeds, grasses, noxious weeds, and untended vegetation growing in excess of twelve (12) inches in height.

The Forestry Division includes the Weed Abatement team assigned to mow vegetation when landowners fail to take care of “nuisance” vegetation after receiving notice that they must do so. In 2018 the Weed Abatement crew mowed 112 properties, spending 127.5 total hours of actual mowing time, generating $14,962.50 in revenue.

VOLUNTEER & COMMUNITY OUTREACH

BY THE NUMBERS: 1,584 Total volunteers

6,036

$145,715 Financial impact

$165,804

Raised through Total hours volunteered grants & fundraisers

approximately 3 full time employees

6

Eagle Scout projects

8,000+ lbs

of produce harvested at the community gardens

17

OUTREACH INTRODUCTION The Parks and Recreation Department formally began a volunteer program in 2013 when the Volunteer Coordinator was hired. The program began with the focus of connecting community members to volunteer experiences in the Parks and Recreation Department. The duties quickly evolved into the broader focus of community outreach. The outreach program includes special events, volunteer projects and programs, community garden oversight, grant writing and fundraising. These efforts are in cooperation with the other divisions of the Parks and Recreation Department. Through these community engagement efforts, citizens have the chance to learn more about the department’s mission while getting involved through volunteerism.

18

VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS & PROJECTS Volunteer Programs & Projects 2018 was a very successful year for volunteer projects. There were 1,584 volunteers who completed 6,035 hours of service. Volunteer Projects and Programs are divided into the following key areas: Special Events The two major special events during the year are Arbor Day and Refresh the Rims. Arbor Day is a celebration of trees that includes park improvement projects and education for 450 local fourth graders.

In 2018, Arbor Day was celebrated at Optimist Park. Arbor Day had 192 volunteers who contributed 916 hours of service. Refresh the Rims is a large park and trail cleanup held at various location on the Rims. In 2018, there were 199 volunteers who contributed 479 hours of service at Refresh the Rims.

Volunteer Groups Volunteer groups make up the bulk of the projects that take place during the year. Some of the volunteer groups include: churches, service clubs, athletic teams, corporate volunteers and the universities. They complete projects throughout the park system. Their projects vary from painting structures and graffiti removal to planting trees and working at the community gardens.

Eagle Scout Projects Eagle Scout Projects are an increasing part of the volunteer program. In 2018, there were 6 scouts that completed their Eagle Project with the Parks Department. The projects ranged from trail building to graffiti removal.

Park Ranger and Bike Patrol Volunteers The Volunteer Patrols work from May through September patrolling the parks, reporting issues and serving as park ambassadors.

19

COMMUNITY GARDENS The Amend Park Community Garden was started in 2014. It began with 26 plots and harvested just over 700lbs of produce the first season. The Songbird Community Garden was added in 2017. In 2018, the two gardens served 78 households and produced over 8,000lbs of produce. Additionally, the gardens donated 500lbs to the Ronald McDonald House. In addition to the traditional community gardens, the parks department checked out 20 container gardens to households with limited mobility so they could enjoy the benefits of fresh local produce.

Lastly, the garden program started a pilot parkland gleaning project funded by a $4,000 grant from Lucky’s Market. The purpose of the program is to increase edible resources in the parks by planting fruit trees and shrubs. In total, 67 trees were planted in four parks by 118 volunteers and forestry staff.

Fundraising 2018 was also a successful year for fundraising.

The outreach program received $165,804 through grants and donations for a variety of projects. Some of these projects include: Rose Park playground renovation, Arbor Day, Songbird Community Garden and fruit tree planting.

20

PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION

2018 PROJECTS:

South Park Splash Pad

Rose Park Pool Operations Building Replacement

Optimist Park North Parking Lot

Hawthorne Park Playground Improvements

Optimist Park Playground Replacement Dehler Park Concession Rooms 21

PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION INTRODUCTION Park Planning and Construction manages a wide variety of planning and construction projects identified in the Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). These projects consist of deferred maintenance items while others were accomplished through public/private partnerships enabling the Parks and Recreation Department to complete these projects through the funding they provided. The following list are projects completed in 2018: South Park Splash Pad The new state of the art Splash Pad at South Park was officially opened June 15, 2018 with a grand opening celebration. Even though it was raining, everyone had a great time (especially the kids) playing in the water features. The new spray features provide a fun and interactive play experience for children from toddlers to teens.

This park amenity has the latest in technology and efficiency designed to recirculate the water through ultraviolet and chlorination sanitizing systems in the same way a swimming pool is operated to provide clean sanitary water, reducing water consumption and at the same time being environmentally responsible.

Optimist Park North Parking Lot Through a partnership with the South Billings Urban Renewal Association (SBURA), the managing board of the South Billings Tax Increment Financing District, provided funding necessary to complete a new asphalt parking lot at the north end of the park. Work was started in September of 2017. However due to early winter storms and a record snow fall, combined with an unusually wet spring, soils became saturated and delayed the completion of the project until August of this year. The new parking facility has provided additional parking capacity while at the same time increasing vehicle safety coming to and from the park.

Hawthorne Park Playground Improvements On July 13, 2018 we held a grand opening for the new playground at Hawthorne Park. Located east of Main Street and North of Wicks Lane, Hawthorne Park is a very popular Neighborhood Park that has been in existence since the 1950’s. The existing playground had been a popular destination for youngsters, but it has reached the end of its useful life. In early 2016 PRPL Staff applied for and won a $125,000 grant from the Land Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to assist in the replacement and upgrade of new playground equipment. Projects like this are made possible through the Park District #1 funding allowing us to utilize these funds in the form of matching dollars enabling us to stretch the tax payer dollars to do more. In another cost saving measure, our Parks crew removed the old play equipment and base material for the installers to build the new playground. They also came in right behind them and placed the drainage material and fall protection saving tax payers approximately $30,000. A unique feature of this playground is that it is the first playground in Billings to incorporate Inclusive play features which provides opportunities for children with disabilities to play side by side with their friends. As we laid out the playground we made a conscious effort to include a range of equipment so that no matter the limitations of the participants they could access and enjoy playing on multiple play pieces.

22

PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OVERVIEW Rose Park Pool Operations Building Replacement In March of 2016, arsons partially destroyed the Rose Park Pool Building. This prompted the Parks and Recreation Department to move a planned replacement study to the top of the projects list. It was determined that it would be more cost effective to replace the existing building instead of repairing and upgrading it to meet current building codes and accessibility standards. Plans were developed and the project was successfully bid August 2017. Construction began immediately. Despite record snowfall, the contractor remained on schedule and we were able to open on time for the 2018 swim season. The facility features two buildings, one with accessible changing, shower and restroom facilities including two family changing rooms. The other housing the pool manager’s office, first aid room, concessions with an expanded menu, a staff training room with a serving area and additional restrooms. This building is climate controlled year round. Outside there is a generous breezeway for access to the pool and lots of deck space with a large roof structure to provide plenty of shade for those hot summer days.

Large panels of grass and open pool deck space offer generous room for those who prefer to lounge and play in the sun.

Optimist Park Playground Replacement Again the South Billings Urban Renewal Association (SBURA) partnered with Billings Parks and Recreation to provide funding for new playgrounds at Optimist Park. Staff worked with three different vendors who had cooperative purchasing agreements allowing us to utilize state contract purchasing to procure the new playground equipment without requiring a proposal and selection process. This state sanctioned purchasing method dramatically speeds up the purchasing process. The equipment has been purchased and is currently stored in City facilities awaiting the contractor to install the equipment.

Installation is dependent on their schedule and the weather.

Dehler Park Concession Rooms The owners of the Billings Mustangs requested three rooms at the Dehler Park complex be remodeled to accommodate additional beer sales, expanded food preparation space and a sweet shop to sell packaged ice cream and candy. Also as part of the remodeling operations, some mold issues were identified and remediated. These newly remodeled rooms will provide the owner additional capacity for concession sales. $20,000 of the $84,000 project was provided by the Billings Mustangs Boosters.

23

PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION Projects For 2019:

The upcoming 2019 year promises to be another busy planning and construction season carrying over several projects begun in 2018 and others scheduled to get under way this coming year.

Centennial Park Development At the June 25, 2018 Council Meeting approval was given to provide $2.46 million to partially fund the infrastructure development at Centennial Park. In 2015 the Centennial Park Master Plan was adopted and will be used as a guiding document for this project. Staff began immediately to secure a Landscape Architectural firm to provide design and project management services. Work began in November and is moving forward at a rapid pace. It is anticipated that this project will go out for bid in February of 2019 with construction beginning in April.

South Billings Aquatic and Recreation Center The South Billings Urban Renewal Association (SBURS) is engaged in a feasibility study for an aquatic and recreation center within its Tax Increment Financing District (TIFD). Two sites are currently being evaluated, a 10 acre site next to Amend Park and the old Billings Convention Center site next to the Red Lion Hotel on Midland Road. Billings Parks and Recreation is working with the SBURA consultant, Steve Zeier to manage the study as it moves forward. The feasibility study is anticipated to be completed this coming spring.

Amend Park Synthetic Turf Field Billings Parks and Recreation is working with SBURA who is recommending TIFD funding to build and light a synthetic turf soccer field at Amend Park. This field will allow for earlier games in the season and games later into evenings. The project is anticipated to be constructed this summer for fall soccer season.

Central Park Tennis Court Replacement The tennis courts at Central Park are in need of substantial repair. This project will replace the existing four courts with a post tensioned concrete surface and new fencing with ADA accessibility. It is scheduled to get started late this summer.

Primrose Park Playground Replacement The play equipment at Primrose Park is in need of replacement. Staff are working with the Quest Program in the elementary schools to design a new replacement. The students will learn about ADA accessibility, inclusive play, safety and what types of equipment to select. The top three layouts will be presented at a “playground fair�. The children will showcase what they learned about playgrounds and then vote for their favorite playground. After review by staff the playground will be installed. Construction will likely take place late spring.

24

PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OVERVIEW Rose Park Playground Replacement Rose Park playground equipment has reached the end of its useful life and needs to be replaced. City Council approved funding for this project. Also, Staff received a $150,000 Land Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant to enhance the original funding to make the necessary improvements. The State Fish Wildlife and Parks Department administers the LWCF program and as soon as all the paper work is completed we will begin the project.

Road and Parking Lot improvements in Various Parks In the fiscal 2019 budget cycle council approved funding to make much needed repairs and improvements to roads and parking lots within the parks system. Staff will evaluate and determine the most critical needs and then set priorities for the improvements. Construction should take place next summer.

State of Montana Department of Justice Natural Resources Damage Program (NRDP) In 2011 a petroleum pipeline crossing the Yellowstone River ruptured causing significant environmental damage to properties downstream and forced park closures during cleanup. Consequently the petroleum company was penalized and required to pay restitution to the State. The City of Billings received a portion of that funding to make improvements to lands along the river. The following projects received funding: • Coulson Park Master Plan Development. Coulson Park is a community park located between the Yellowstone River to the east, Interstate 90 on the west, the old PPL Montana Power Plant site on the South and the interstate 90 bridge over the Yellowstone River to the north. This land has long been in the possession of the City of Billings and was recently annexed into the city limits.

Partial funding became available from NRDP to do a master plan. Billings Parks and Recreation is partnering with the Big Sky Economic Development Authority (BSEDA) who is providing the other half of funding half of the master plan study. Currently consultant selection is under way with the goal of beginning the study in January and completing it in July.

• Replace Existing Vault Toilets at Coulson Park. The existing vault toilets have deteriorated and are in need of replacement. The Coulson Park Master Plan will help determine where new vault toilets will be located. Once the plane is completed, new toilets will be installed.

• Repair and Upgrade the Boating Launch at Coulson Park. The existing boat launch has received considerable damage in recent years due to flooding along the Yellowstone River. The Coulson Park Master Plan will determine what modifications and upgrades are necessary keep the launch open for public use. Once the master plan is completed, work will begin on this project.

• ADA Accessible Fishing Pier at Riverfront Park. Riverfront Park has two lakes that are very popular for fishing. However due to the topography around the lakes, persons with disabilities have a difficult time accessing the water to fish. An accessible fishing pier will allow access to fishing for all persons. This project is scheduled to be started within the next two years.

• Vault Toilet to Service Norm’s Island in Riverfront Park. There is a need for restroom facilities at Norm’s Island on the west end of Riverfront Park. Staff will work with the US Army Corps of Engineers to secure the appropriate permits to locate the new toilet facility. This project is scheduled to be started within the next two years.

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CEMETERY

BY THE NUMBERS:

116 Total burial and columbaria services

$75,740 Total revenue generated

1,065 total trees

26

65 Total acres

61 Total grave spaces sold

CEMETERY INTRODUCTION The City of Billings Mountview Cemetery is a historical cemetery receiving its first burial in 1882, a year before it was platted as a cemetery. It was, at one point, the only operating cemetery in Billings, but now is just one of ten Billings’ cemeteries. Mountview’s mission has been, and continues to be, to provide a meaningful, economical service to the citizens of Billings, MT.

Mountview Cemetery Total Burials 140 120 100 80

81

81

71

69

71

60 40 20 0

43

41

43

42

41

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Casketed

Cremains

27

The cemetery operations include several key functions. The first is to maintain the grounds during all seasons which includes mowing, string trimming and irrigating turf, as well as removing snow and trash.

The second function is to facilitate burials. This includes coordinating with families and funeral homes, opening and closing graves and working with vault and monument companies. The final service is related to cemetery records. This includes assisting family members in search of ancestors, generating new information for current services, and migrating information from paper records to digital records.

Volunteers continue to assist with the work of updating the cemetery records database.

2018 was a standard year operationally. The cemetery experienced the benefits and challenges of a long and wet spring. Burials and grave purchases remained similar to the previous year. Mountview cemetery continued to be a location enjoyed by walkers and joggers throughout the year.

Mountview Cemetery Graves Sold 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Graves purchased for at-need use Graves purchased for future use Graves put on contract for deed

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RECREATION

BY THE NUMBERS:

6,466

Program participants 5,566 Meals served at the Billings Community & Senior Center

95% of programs recovered all direct costs

241,209 Program

revenue increase since 2012

$4,375 or 136

Youth scholarships offered to lowincome families

143 Unique

recreation programs offered

39,718 Visits to Rose and South Park Pools

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RECREATION INTRODUCTION The Recreation Division experienced another outstanding year, full of growth and success. In 2018, the City of Billings Recreation Division celebrated its best year to date, breaking old records in participation numbers, class offerings, and revenue generated. The division offers recreational programs ranging from special interest classes, adult sports, youth sports and youth camps to active older adult programs. The wide range of activities the Recreation Division offers ensures there are opportunities for participants of all ages. The Recreation staff take pride in providing quality programs that are accessible to all members of the community.

One major achievement in 2018 included a complete update to our activity registration software (RecTrac). This new upgrade for RecTrac registration software is a browser based, comprehensive, fully integrated software package that automatically can process the many types of transactions involved in providing recreation and park services to our customers. It includes extensive support in handling day-to-day operational functions, as well as managing program planning, marketing and evaluation requirements. The browser-based system allows staff to access RecTrac anywhere, anytime, given a solid internet connection. Overall, this upgrade will improve customer service, increase staff productivity and accountability; enabling our organization to project a professional image and to maintain better public relations.

The Recreation Division staff is always looking to add programs that fit the needs of the community.

We have continued to expand offerings by adding exciting new programs such as Youth NFL Flag football and Tennis is Elementary, as well as maintaining the old favorites like City League Basketball and Pioneer Playhouse. Staff strive to provide all encompassing, high quality programs that are fun, safe, and affordable.

With the support of the Billings community, 2018 was an exceptional year full of fun, learning, and adventures. It is our pleasure to share with the City of Billings, a breakdown of our year. The following pages are a look at our programs!

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RECREATION PROGRAMS During 2018, there were 6,466 total program participants. The chart below provides a description of how the participation is divided up. Please note that Aquatic Programs percentage does not include pool admissions.

Recreation Program Breakdown 6%

6%

21%

21%

1%

%

18%

30%

18%

5%

5%

11%

8%

8%

30%

Active Aging Adults Active Aging Adults Adult Sports Adult Sports Fitness Fitness Aquatics Programs Aquatics Programs Special Interest Special Interest Youth Camps Youth Camps Outdoor Recreation Outdoor Recreation Youth Sports Youth Sports

11%

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RECREATION REVENUE BY YEAR $500,000

$469,291

$450,000 $400,000 $350,000 $300,000 $250,000

$228,082

$200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $-

2012

2018

The Recreation Division has seen sizeable growth in recent years. We have continued to expand our offerings to the community to provide an extensive range of programs and services for toddlers through aging adults. Due to the increase in programs and participation, we have been able to increase our program revenue by $241,209 since 2012. The totals in the graph include aquatic programs and lessons as well as administrative service fees.

The Recreation Division employs over 200 seasonal and temporary employees annually!

Youth Scholarships

The Billings Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to have a community partner like the Billings Parks, Recreation, and Preservation foundation that provides youth scholarships for under-privileged children to participate in Parks and Recreation Programs. In 2018, the foundation provided $4,375 in scholarships that allowed 136 kids to participate in programs they may not have been able to afford otherwise.

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RECREATIONFY 2018 Revenue REVENUE AND SPENDING

The Recreation Division is able to recover nearly 60% of its operating costs FY 2018 Revenue by collecting fees for programs and facilities.

0% FY 20187% Revenue 3%

0%

5% 7%

3%

5%

Batting Cages-$25,667 Batting Cages-$25,667

Recreation Programs-$394,141

Recreation Programs-$394,141

Administrative Services-$25,936

Administrative Services-$25,936

Aquatics-$231,889

Aquatics-$231,889

30% 30%

Senior Services-$40,000 Senior Services-$40,000

51%

51%

Vending Machines-$1,155 Vending Machines-$1,155 Building Rentals-$49,697 Building Rentals-$49,697

4%

4%

Without our shared2% facility use partnership with School District #2, nearly 2,000 children and adults would not have a location to participate in recreational programs.

2% FY 2018 Expenses 2%

16%

2%

27%

16%

Batting Cages-$24,504 27%

Recreation Programs-$352,798 Batting Cages-$24,504

Administration-$380,400

Recreation Programs-$352,798

Aquatics-$314,962

Administration-$380,400

Senior Services-$215,668 Aquatics-$314,962

24%

Facilities-$19,886 Senior Services-$215,668

24%

Facilities-$19,886

29%

29%

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AQUATICS The Recreation Division oversees the staffing and operations of the Rose Park and South Park pools, as well as the Pioneer Park and Hawthorne Park wading pools. We employ 50-60 lifeguards annually, all of which receive rigorous American Red Cross Lifeguard and CPR/ AED training before the pools open. We ensure each guard receives the proper training they need to respond to any situation that arises. This year, our lifeguards supervised nearly 40,000 visitors at Rose and South Park pools and thousands more visitors at Pioneer Park and Hawthorne Park wading pools. In 2018, we celebrated our fourth annual Dog Days of Summer on the closing day of the pool with much success.

One 2018 accomplishment that highlights our level of continued professionalism is that a total of 6 Recreation staff members completed their Aquatic Facilities Operators certification. This AFO certification is offered through the National Recreation and Parks Association and is good for 5 years through the 2022 season.

$37,361 in waterslide wristbands sold $231,899 total revenue $23,515 in season passes sold $56,603 in concessions sold 11,694 waterslide users

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459 participants enrolled in swim lessons

AQUATICS FACILITIES Pioneer Park wading pool and Hawthorne Park wading pool operate free of charge for the public to use. These facilities are extremely popular for small children, and widely used by day care programs throughout the community. Both of the wading pools are staffed by 2 lifeguards during hours of operation.

Around 90 seasonal aquatic employees are employed at the aquatic facilities annually. Many of these employees are School District 2 employees, college students, and high school students. We see a high retention rate of returning employees every year.

152 reduced price pool passes were sold in 2018 to help residents in low-income households cool off on our hot summer days

In 2018, Rose Park Pool and South Park Pool had 39,718 combined visitors!

STRIKE ZONE BATTING CAGES 2018 was a below average year for the Strike Zone Batting Cages. Unfortunately, with the late heavy winter and wet spring, the facility was closed or unavailable for use 28 days in April and May (which are typically our busiest months). The new pitching equipment, installed in 2014 using funds from the City-Wide Park District, still provides more consistent pitches and a better batting experience. Batters can choose between pitch speeds ranging from slow-pitch softball to a 35-70 mph fastball for baseball players.

18,328

tokens sold

$25,667 generated

274,920 pitches thrown

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SENIOR SERVICES

Since 1969, the Recreation division has provided life-long recreation opportunities for adults 55 years and older in Billings. Over the years, many of these programs have been held at our main facility, the Billings Community & Senior Center, since its doors opened in 1978. However, these programs and services transcend the center into the parks and even into various trips throughout Montana.

A wide variety of programs and services are available at the Billings Community and Senior Center. These include exercise classes, computer classes, games, hobby clubs, reduced or free health clinics, and so much more. In 2018, there were 21,249 visits to the Billings Community and Senior Center which is almost a 10% increase from the previous year. In addition to a bustling center, many new programs, activities, and events were added.

7 new programs, 5 new special events, and 1 new service were added in Senior Services in 2018!

Special events included a Super Bowl Party with fun games, a Mardi Gras Party that included the history of the celebration, and a tribute to Senior Veterans with a free lunch on Veteran’s Day. New programs in 2018 included an ever popular and growing Ukulele Class and a half-day seminar on how to reduce the risk of injuries from falling. There was even the demand for an all-senior CrossCountry Ski Trip.

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SENIOR SERVICES Much of the advertising and increase for programs can be attributed to the new Senior Scoop Newsletter that was released in January. For many years, the Center utilized a shared mailing. This year was the perfect time to create a special publication to target readership from the seniors that frequent the center. The newsletter is mailed out to about 800 homes each quarter and features colored photos of the seniors in action at the center.

In addition to the Senior Scoop, staff developed a new database for capturing senior users including important emergency and safety information. This database has 1226 registered senior users as of 2019 with 212 new free registrations last year.

It is always a goal to continue the great programs and services that happen at the Center as well as to expand. Often times this expansion includes adventuring outside of the center, for example, with the new Eastern Montana Art and History Trip.

On this trip, staff took 28 seniors to Miles City, MT to visit the Ranger Riders Museum and tour the Waterworks Art Museum.

Participants when surveyed commented that it was a, “great trip!” and, “will go again.” 100% of the respondents said that the trip met their expectations and that they received a good value for their fees paid.

It is not only important to create and expand but to also improve current programs and services. This year, Senior Fitness Week was revamped. Historically, participants could try any class, one-time, for free. This year, seniors were encouraged to track the number of free classes tried for an opportunity to earn 50% off of one fitness class. The revamp was a big hit and 7 seniors completed enough classes to receive a discount and many more participated without receiving a discount.

Another fantastic service that was added was the installation of the Lending Library at the Center. For months, donated books were collected in preparation for the installation and with the help of the fantastic senior volunteers, the Library was opened in February. The Lending Library is a book exchange program that runs on the honor system. Seniors can bring a book to take a book or even return the book later.

Months after the Library was opened, many seniors can be seen browsing the shelves every day.

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The services and programs offered to seniors wouldn’t be possible without many great partnerships. Over the year, new partnerships have been formed and long-lasting partnerships have been strengthened.

New community relations include a partnership with the Lima Hana Massage School to offer twice/month reduced cost chair-massages to seniors. Also, the Community Corner was developed, which features a visit by a different community resource monthly. Some of these community resources included Pet Partners with a visit by a therapy dog, a presentation on Online Safety for Seniors, and a book reading by a local author.

Senior programs and services are certainly enhanced through a formal partnership with the Adult Resource Alliance of Yellowstone County. It is through this partnership that the City received $40,000 through the Senior Mill Levy to support senior services. Also, through this partnership, an affordable and nutritious lunch is made available Monday through Friday.

In 2018, 5253 meals were served onsite at the Billings Community & Senior Center.

In addition to the meal program, through this partnership, 70 senior volunteers were stationed at the Center through the Alliance Volunteer Program. These volunteers fill a variety of positions, including greeting, chairing activities, office aid, assisting with meals, and more. In 2018, these volunteers provided 5698 hours of service equating to a financial impact of $140,683.62.

Park and Recreation also continued participation in community programs such as Senior Sports and Arts Week. This year, three new programs were added to the week in a partnership with the MSU Extension Office in Yellowstone County. Programs included: Line Dance, The Senior Pulse Cooking Demonstration, and Exercise for Aging Well Fitness Class.

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In an effort to always evaluate and improve senior programs and services, a Senior Center Annual Survey was included in the Senior Scoop with an option to mail in anonymous responses or drop completed surveys off at the Center. Surveys were collected for a one-month period. Unfortunately, the return rate was very low. However, 93% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the programs and services offered at the Billings Community and Senior Center had a positive impact on their quality of life.

To better understand the impact of the programs, after each quarter, evaluations are sent out to participants with a very high return-rate.

Out of 261 respondents, 98% said that the classes and programs evaluated were Average (40%) or Above average (58%) A marvelous outing.

Triniti was so fun and organized. Outstanding, I cant wait to go again!

-Tippet Rise Participant

I really enjoyed the class and both instructors were very helpful, knowledgeable fun and make us feel good about our self.

-Computer Fundamentals Class Participant

Amazed by the amount of activities available and the enthusiasm of those at the tables. It is a good example of all the amazing activities going on here. A very alive community center!

-BCC User

What was your favorite part of this class?

Exercise & fellowship with great seniors!

-Fitness by Deisgn Participant

It was such a fun experience overall learning new steps. It was a challenge but very enjoyable!

-Line Dancing class participant

The year ended with great participation in holiday activities with 153 lunches served at the Senior Christmas Dinner and an all-time high of 255 participants in the Christmas Tour of lights sponsored by the Billings Breakfast Exchange Club. This is a 33% increase in participation from the previous year.

It’s easy to see why so many seniors frequent the Billings Community and Senior Center and it is important for the programs to be accessible to everyone in Billings no matter their financial situation.

This is why the department worked in 2018 to create the Senior Scholarship Program. The program is intended to help seniors with limited income participate in fitness and recreation programs. In 2018, approximately $450.00 was donated to the scholarship fund and 3 seniors participated in the scholarship program.

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PARK POLICE OFFICER A Message from Officer Nick Lam In October of 2017, Parks & Recreation proposed to the Billings Police Department funding a “Parks” Officer. Officer Nick Lam, while still a certified officer with the Billings Police Department, works with Parks & Recreation patrolling the parks and trails within the City Limits. As the new Parks Officer, Officer Lam made contact with as many citizens as possible near the parks, passing out over 800 business cards, and explaining his position.

The number of disturbances, suspicious, trespass, and drunk calls in nine of the City’s largest parks showed a 30% reduction in calls for 2018, compared to 2017.

In 2018, Officer Lam made 117 arrests and issued 402 citations at City Parks.

Officer Lam was also tasked with working on the graffiti problem within the City of Billings. Looking at national models of combating this problem, Officer Lam, sought out funding through a grant to receive training on a model he believed was beneficial to the City of Billings. Officer Lam is now in the process of implementing this investigative technique and working towards criminal charges for these offenders.

Moving forward into 2019 Officer Lam will continue to increase public relations in the winter months and assist Parks & Recreation Staff with planning and preparation for Billings to have the safest summer in the parks yet.

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