2027-2028: Department Presentations - Parks and Recreation and CED

During the October 26 Committee of the Whole, Parks and Recreation continued their budget presentation from the following week, highlighting proposed shifts of contracted park maintenance to in‑house roles, expanded human services and outreach through increased budget for the City’s Housing Repair Assistance Program and dedicated human services outreach staff.

Parks and Recreation also discussed modernizing asset management, capital project progress, and efforts to preserve institutional knowledge. The presentation covered restroom maintenance, trail and right‑of‑way responsibilities, beautification standards, and staffing needs, concluding with an overview of Maplewood Golf Course. The golf course budget operates as an enterprise fund, meaning all operations, maintenance, and improvements are fully supported by course-generated revenue and reserves rather than the city’s general fund. Staff highlighted that ongoing investments are essential to protect the course, its infrastructure, and the overall customer experience. The accumulated reserve is being used for needed fixes such as roof replacement, replacing aging equipment, and restoring the driving range.

Next, the Renton City Council heard from the Community and Economic Development (CED) Department. The priorities of the department include several positions, equipment, professional services, and program investments.

The department is looking to convert two limited-term inspectors to full-time, a full-time building inspector, and replacement vehicles for these staff members and professional services funds allocated to contractors to expedite structural engineering plan reviews when staff is not available.

Finally, CED presented the City Center Community Plan for Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) recertification; added support for the graffiti abatement program, Paint with Purpose, and the existing downtown core cleaning contract; South King Housing & Homelessness Partners (SKHHP) dues; and proposed allocating Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) funds for an activation similar to summer 2026 at Legacy Square. The goal is to partner with community groups and businesses to host their own events while continuing to offer City-managed concerts, movies, and festivals.

During the next Committee of the Whole, the Renton City Council will hear final comments from CED, along with presentations from Finance, Human Resources & Risk Management, and our Legislative branch.