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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/02/2026 - Meeting Materials PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 DEPARTMENT of PUBLIC LANDS Parks, Natural Lands, Urban Forestry, and Trails Advisory Board Meeting Steward, Advocate, Activate March 5, 2026 Join in person: Public Lands Administrative Building: 1965 W 500 S., Salt Lake City, UT 84104, 2nd Floor Parks Training Room Join Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3703674458?pwd=xigAA5545gKVfb*uBU*QhpOPQtUb2O.l Meeting ID: 370 367 4458 Passcode: 133477 March Unapproved Minutes Board Member in attendance: Kerri Nakamura, Ginger Cannon, Aaron Wiley, Eric McGill, Sarah Foran, Christian Chavez, Thomas Merrill, James Alfandre, Meridith Benally, Steve Bloch, Melanie Perhson City Employees in attendance: Kim Shelley, Public Lands Director, Tyler Murdock, Deputy Director, Matt Kammeyer, Golf Division Director, Nick Fredrick, Park Ranger Program, Maria Romero, Executive Assistant I Board Manager I. Call to Order, Introductions, and Welcome (5:00 pm) Ginger Cannon thanked Maria Romero for the dinner served, followed by reminding the board of the Board Committee Goal Update document. Ginger Cannon asked committees to complete the document goals by the April Advisory Board Meeting. Ginger Cannon asked Maria Romero to brief the board on the SLC Media team filming. Maria Romero asked Paul Varela, Communication Specialist, to say their name for the record. Maria Romero briefed the board that Paul Varela would record the first 30 minutes of the meeting, as the board had been selected to be part of the City Board and Commission Video. II. Approval of Meeting Minutes (5:05 pm) a. Minutes from February 5, 2026 A motion to approve and adopt the Thursday, February 5th, meeting minutes for the PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Parks,The Natural Lands, Urban Forestry, and Trails Advisory Board was made by a Board Member, Christian Chavez.The motion was seconded by Board Member Sarah Foran.The vote passed unanimously,with the Board Members present to approve and adopt minutes from Thursday, February 5, Advisory Board meeting. III. Public Comment (5:10 pm) a. Verbal comments are limited to no more than 3 minutes; 15 minutes total. Written comments are welcome. Board meetings are intended to be a place for people to feel safe and comfortable in participating in their government. A respectful and safe environment allows Board meetings to be conducted in an orderly, efficient, effective, and dignified fashion, free from distraction, intimidation, and threats to safety. We welcome everyone and ask all meeting participants to keep comments free of discriminatory language. Ginger Cannon read the Public Comment statement, then gave the time to Constituent Anne Cannon. Anne Cannon provided the following statement. Constituent Jan Hemming declined to provide a public statement. Okay, my name is Anne Cannon. I would like to address the board. Can you hear me? I want to let the board know that the community involved in Wasatch Hollow Has the opportunity now to let you know that the property abutting the preserve, for Wasatch Hollow. is going to be sold. It's a LDS Church property. And... I hope that you are... aware. Now, I know that Tyler is. And that you are aware that the community would like to be involved and cares very much about The future use of this property. of... And as it abuts, the Open space that we worked so hard to preserve. We'd like to let you know that we're interested in preserving more. For public use, and this is a great opportunity. So that's my message to the board. IV. Director's Report (5:25 pm) a. Summary of current high-priority department items— Kim Shelley PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Kim Shelley provided an overview of the Public Lands leadership changes as of February 6t", which began with the Planning& Design Division. Tyler Murdock, Deputy Director, will also be serving as the interim Planning& Design Division Director. Tony Gliot, Urban Forestry Division Director, will be serving as the interim Park Division Director. The positions will be filled within 90-120 days. PNUT Advisory Board Members interested in serving on the April interview panels can communicate with Maria Romero. Melanie Perhson requested clarification on the positions. Eric McGill commended the interim directors. Kerri Nakamura commented that she is interested in serving on the interview panels. Kim Shelley followed with a 2025 Public Lands Annual Report. She added that the report will primarily be a web-based report, and 50 limited printed copies will be available. The board will receive information when the report is available. Kim Shelley provided the board with information on the department budget request to the mayor on March 17'. She added that City Departments have received guidance to submit only mandatory expense increases necessary to maintain our current operations. Kim Shelley added that the Fiscal Year 2027 budget will be similar to Fiscal Year 2026, with the exception of new properties that have been included. She added that the Mayor's Office will likely present to the board on a budget 101 update in May of this year. Kim Shelley presented the board with the Public Lands Mission,Vision, and Values. Details in the presentation included the Vision statement, which is creating a place where people feel connected to nature, each other, and the parks that make this city special. She added that the mission of the Salt Lake City Public Lands is to strengthen community connection by creating, protecting, and sustaining welcoming parks and natural spaces for all. Kim Shelley added that the mayor's goals and priorities influence Mission, Vision, and Values. Ginger Cannon asked Kim Shelley how the board can provide feedback. Kim Shelley requested feedback now or via email. V. Staff Presentations, Updates & Discussions(5:35 pm) a. Golf Division- Matt Kammeyer, Golf Division Director Matt Kammeyer explained that the division operates all six city golf courses, representing just over 1,000 acres of open space. The golf program has been part of Public Lands since its creation, and prior to that, it was housed under Public Services, which was not always an ideal fit. He noted that aligning with Public Lands makes sense, as the golf courses are considered green space, open space, and public space. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Matt Kammeyer described the courses as fee-based spaces, where users pay to access the experience. The division operates within an enterprise fund, meaning its budget is primarily supported by user fees rather than general fund dollars. Matt Kammeyer outlined two key topics: water usage and how the enterprise fund operates in relation to general fund support. He then shared the division's main areas of focus. First, the work centers on growing the game of golf, which directly supports the maintenance and care of these spaces. Second, the division prioritizes employee development, with approximately 270 staff members across six courses, offering training and opportunities to improve service to the public. Another major focus is improving aging assets. Matt Kammeyer explained that over the past 40 to 50 years, golf properties have not received sufficient reinvestment. This includes critical infrastructure such as irrigation systems, clubhouses, tee boxes, greens, and parking lots. Because the enterprise fund relies on excess operational revenue for reinvestment, and there has been little surplus over the past 30 to 40 years, improvements have been limited. He noted that the city has historically not supplemented the golf program with general fund dollars, leaving the system behind in needed infrastructure upgrades. He emphasized that irrigation systems are the top priority, as healthy turf is essential to maintaining the courses. Clubhouses also require ongoing attention due to their age. Staff have taken on improvements such as painting and flooring replacements, including updates at Forest Dale, Glendale, and Bonneville. While full replacements are costly, the team continues to make incremental improvements where possible. Matt Kammeyer also highlighted the importance of being a community partner. While the courses operate on user fees, they are still public spaces, and the division works to create opportunities for community access. Across the six courses, there are 15 free practice areas open to the public. The division also offers clinics to introduce people to the game, including women-only and youth programs, serving over 1,000 children annually. Turning to water usage, Matt Kammeyer noted that water is both a critical and limited resource, especially given current low snowpack conditions. The division manages just over 1,000 acres, with approximately 640 acres irrigated. To better communicate usage, water data is expressed in gallons per irrigated acre. In the past year, the division used approximately 415 million gallons of water. He emphasized that conservation is a priority, both to be responsible stewards of the resource and because the division pays for its water use. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Three of the six courses rely on culinary water and are charged the highest rates. The other three use secondary water sources. Rose Park and Glendale draw from the Jordan River, which is less expensive but lower quality for turf. Mountain Dell uses water from Lambs Canyon, which is untreated but high quality. However, this supply is limited, and by late summer, water availability becomes a concern, reinforcing the need for ongoing conservation efforts. Matt Kammeyer explained that maintaining efficient water use is challenging due to the age of the irrigation systems. Many of the systems are outdated, making it difficult to apply water evenly across irrigated areas. While efforts have been made to upgrade them, progress has been limited. The most recent full irrigation system replacement was completed at Bonneville in 2015, with the previous upgrade occurring 26 years earlier at Glendale. Other systems are significantly older, including the Rose Park system, which is 64 years old and currently in the design phase for replacement, anticipated as soon as next year. He noted that Nibley Park Golf Course is the only manually irrigated course in the state, and likely the region, highlighting how far behind the infrastructure is. The team has recently begun the design process for a new irrigation system there as well. At other courses, incremental improvements have been made, such as upgrading controllers and installing more efficient sprinkler heads to improve water use. Matt Kammeyer also shared that the division has developed a drought plan that aligns with the city's plan and is currently operating under Phase 2. This phase requires the division to reduce irrigation by 5% below the five-year average. He noted that the team exceeded this target, achieving approximately a 20% reduction in fiscal year 2023. These reductions were made both to comply with city requirements and to help manage costs, as the division's annual water budget is approximately$1.4 million, or about 10% of the total budget. In response to a question from Sarah Foran about efficiency improvements, Matt Kammeyer explained that the planned irrigation upgrades would result in significant savings. At Rose Park, the project includes a 25% reduction in irrigated turf by converting out-of-play areas to non-irrigated landscaping. Combined with a new, more efficient irrigation system, this is expected to result in approximately 44%water savings at that course. Nibley Park is expected to see smaller, but still meaningful, improvements due to its more Limited ability to reduce turf. Matt Kammeyer also described how irrigation reductions are applied strategically rather than uniformly. Using Bonneville Golf Course as an PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 example during fiscal year 2023, he explained that reductions focused first on out-of-play areas, such as roughs and driving ranges. While this resulted in visibly dry and brown areas that may not meet typical expectations for a golf course, it demonstrates the impact of even moderate reductions, which were about 18% at that location. He emphasized that the division continues to explore new ways to improve efficiency, including evaluating emerging technology from a company called Turf Rad. This system uses advanced sensors, originally designed for satellites, to measure moisture levels in both plants and soil. When mounted on maintenance equipment, the sensors can collect thousands of data points across a course, allowing staff to detect overwatering or underwatering before it is visible. This data enables precise adjustments to irrigation on a highly localized level. Kammeyer noted that this technology could improve efficiency by an additional 20%, and funding has already been included in the upcoming fiscal year budget to support implementation. He added that efficient watering also improves playability. Overwatering can negatively affect the playing experience, so the team intentionally maintains slightly drier conditions, which are generally preferred by golfers. However, he acknowledged that even with these efforts, golf courses require a substantial amount of water, which often raises valid concerns from the public. During further discussion, Kammeyer clarified that the visual example of dry turf at Bonneville was intentional and reflects what happens under current drought restrictions. He explained that if drought conditions were to escalate to Phase 3, requiring a 15% reduction instead of 5%, the impacts would be significantly more severe. The division can only sustain those conditions for a Limited time approximately five weeks before large areas of turf begin to die. He also explained that irrigation priorities focus on greens, tee boxes, and fairways. Greens, in particular, require careful management because they use a different type of turf with shallow roots and sand-based soil, causing water to drain quickly. These areas are also the most expensive to repair or replace. As a result, out-of-play areas are the first to be reduced during water cutbacks, which is why those sections appear dry and brown in comparison. Sarah Foran asked whether there was an option to distinguish between areas that affect play and those that do not when reducing irrigation. Matt Kammeyer confirmed that this is part of their approach. He explained that some of the visibly dry areas, including large brown sections, are non- play areas that the team intentionally allows to go dormant. In some cases, PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 these areas consist of cheatgrass, which is not ideal but is more tolerant of drought conditions. Sarah Foran then asked whether these types of areas could be suitable for alternatives such as xeriscaping. Kammeyer responded that there are many non-playable areas along the perimeter of the courses that could be converted. However, he noted that community perception can be a challenge. Neighbors adjacent to the courses often prefer to see green space rather than dry or naturalized areas. In some instances, staff have even applied green dye to dormant turf to improve its appearance. He emphasized that irrigation reductions are applied strategically, not uniformly. For example, irrigation in driving range areas may be reduced by as much as 70%, while other areas may see reductions of 30 to 40%, rather than applying a flat reduction across the entire course. Sarah Foran also asked about the financial considerations of maintaining turf versus transitioning to more natural landscapes, and whether longer grass or alternative ground cover would impact playability. Matt Kammeyer explained that the division has partnered with Utah State University to study alternative turf options. Test plots have been established at Bonneville, Glendale, and Rose Park, where several grass varieties have been evaluated over the past six years. One of the leading options is a blend of Siberian crested wheatgrass, which grows longer, requires little to no irrigation, and can still be playable in many cases. However, results have varied by location. At Rose Park, the grass grows too thick and quickly, while at Glendale it performs well, and at Bonneville it has struggled to establish. He also noted that some neighbors have raised concerns that taller grasses could attract wildlife such as snakes or rodents, although staff do not necessarily share that concern. From both a budget and conservation standpoint, Kammeyer stated that reducing irrigated turf makes sense. However, the division has not yet been able to fully implement a transition to alternative turf across the system. In response to a follow-up question about replacing turf with materials like rocks, Kammeyer explained that playability is a key factor. While rock landscaping may seem like a viable alternative, it can be costly to install and maintain, and it limits the ability for golfers to play from those areas. In contrast, natural grasses such as Siberian crested wheatgrass require minimal maintenance, are mowed only once per year, and still allow for some level of play. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 He added that these grasses also provide a reasonable aesthetic, appearing green when irrigated and transitioningto a silver tone as they dry. Overall, they offer a balance between water conservation, maintenance efficiency, and playability. Matt Kammeyer concluded by asking if there were any additional questions related to water usage. Eric McGill asked about the impact of rising water rates, noting that the city has adjusted rates over the past several years and questioning how that has affected the golf division's budget. Matt Kammeyer responded that the increase has been significant. Over the past four years, the division's water budget has risen by approximately 75%, with an additional increase of about 15% expected this year. He noted that overall, water costs have nearly doubled, making it a critical financial concern. While secondary water sources are less expensive, they still carry costs, and he does not anticipate rates decreasing in the future. Ginger Cannon added that there is little flexibility in these costs, as the division is effectively paying the city for water services without the ability to negotiate rates. Cameron Johnson confirmed that the city does not receive any discounts on water usage. Sarah Foran then asked whether increases in water costs are matched by increases in user fees. Kammeyer explained that while fees are adjusted annually, they are done so strategically rather than directly tied to water rate increases. He noted that since March 2020, golf has experienced a surge in popularity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as it provided a safe, outdoor recreational option.While the division did not see a large influx of entirely new players, many former golfers returned to the game, resulting in increased demand nationwide. As a result, the division has raised fees incrementally over the past six years to keep pace with demand and generate additional revenue. These funds have been reinvested into course improvements where possible. Kammeyer emphasized that nearly all revenue comes from user fees, with the exception of some general fund transfers. He also shared that about seven years ago, the division identified approximately$38 million in deferred capital needs, primarily related to irrigation systems, clubhouses, and other course amenities. While some progress has been made through increased revenue, the division still faces an estimated $20 million gap in needed improvements. Maintaining high PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 demand is essential, as continued use supports the ability to reinvest in and sustain the courses. Eric McGill then asked whether golf courses were included in the city's fire audit conducted the previous summer, and raised concerns about maintenance along Foothill Boulevard, particularly outside the golf course fence line where vegetation appeared overgrown and some trees were in poor condition. Matt Kammeyer explained that maintenance responsibilities in those areas are shared with the Parks division. Parks manages the irrigation infrastructure, while the golf division is responsible for general maintenance such as trimming and upkeep. He clarified that areas along the sidewalk outside the fence are still connected to the same irrigation systems that serve nearby trees. In response to further questions, Kammeyer confirmed that weed control and mulching in those areas fall under the golf division's responsibilities, while tree maintenance is not handled by the city's forestry team but instead managed through contracted services. He acknowledged that due to limited staffing, maintenance in these areas does not always occur as frequently as desired. Eric McGill suggested that the city consider expanding the use of private contractors for maintenance, noting improved outcomes in other areas where contractors have been used. Kammeyer responded that this is a potential option to explore, though he noted that Bonneville Golf Course presents unique challenges due to its large size and the extent to which it borders major public corridors such as Foothill Boulevard and Wasatch Drive, increasing the scope of maintenance responsibilities. Aaron Wiley asked whether the planned irrigation system upgrades would include options for water retention, such as capturing and storing water during the winter for later use, or if the focus was primarily on modernizing existing systems. Matt Kammeyer responded that several options had been explored. One idea previously considered at Rose Park was the use of reclaimed water from the nearby sewage treatment plant.While this seemed promising, discussions with Public Utilities determined that the salinity levels in the treated water were too high for maintaining healthy turf. Additionally, there are regulatory requirements for how much treated water must be discharged into the river, which limited the feasibility of that option. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Matt Kammeyer explained that many golf courses utilize on-site water storage, such as lakes, to improve efficiency. At Rose Park, plans are in place to add two lakes that will store water pumped from the Jordan River. This approach will allow sediment to settle before the water is used for irrigation. Currently, water is pumped directly from the river into the irrigation system, which causes frequent clogging due to sediment. This requires staff to clean filters multiple times per week, and if clogging occurs overnight, it can result in missed irrigation cycles since watering is not done during the day. He added that while capturing water from other sources, such as stormwater systems, is possible in some cases, it typically requires storage infrastructure like lakes, from which water can later be pumped for use. Wiley then asked why it is often difficult to secure a tee time. Kammeyer responded that demand is extremely high. Tee times are released one week in advance, and at some courses, such as Bonneville, they can be fully booked within 15 minutes. To help address this, the division has implemented a waitlist system that notifies users via text when a time becomes available, allowing them a short window to book. Matt Kammeyer noted that high demand has continued since the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilization rates across the courses average around 110%, reflecting how consistently full the courses are despite variations in weather and daylight hours. Melanie Perhson asked whether there are opportunities for sponsorships, such as partnerships with families, foundations, or organizations to support improvements like irrigation systems or clubhouse upgrades. Matt Kammeyer confirmed that sponsorship opportunities do exist and shared that the division is currently working with a partner on a potential investment in a new clubhouse at Nibley Park Golf Course. This partnership would involve shared contributions to rebuild the facility, with interest tied in part to the course's historical significance as the first public golf course in the state. However, he noted that infrastructure projects like irrigation systems are more difficult to fund through sponsorships because they are not visible and are harder to brand. Melanie Perhson emphasized the broader connection between water conservation efforts and regional concerns such as the Great Salt Lake, suggesting there may be interest in investing in solutions that address both environmental and recreational priorities. Matt Kammeyer agreed, noting that water is an increasingly scarce resource and that while fees have been raised over time, there are limits to how much PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 costs can continue to increase. He added that despite recent fee adjustments, the city's golf courses remain more affordable than many comparable public and private courses. Thomas Merrill echoed the idea that contributing to water conservation efforts could be framed as both environmental stewardship and an investment in preserving community golf courses. As the discussion continued, Ginger Cannon suggested pausing questions due to time constraints and encouraged board members to follow up later with additional questions. She noted that materials from the presentation would be shared and that further communication could be coordinated as needed. Matt Kammeyer explained that roughly eight years ago, the division faced significant challenges. At that time, several courses had already closed, including Wing Point at the airport and the Jordan River Par 3. Glendale Golf Course had even been proposed for closure. The general fund had questioned whether it made financial sense to continue operating the courses rather than repurposing the land. About seven years ago, prior to the recent surge in golf participation, the city's finance department identified certain fees charged to the golf division that were unusually high compared to market standards. For example, the city's IT department billed the golf courses around $250,000 to connect to the network, whereas a comparable expense in the private market would have been approximately$30,000. The city agreed to cover such costs to reduce the financial burden on the golf division. Matt Kammeyer also highlighted other city-supported adjustments over the years. Under Mayor Becker, the city implemented a living wage initiative that increased entry-level wages for golf division employees from $7.25 to $10.10 per hour, with the general fund covering the associated costs. Subsequent increases under Mayor Biskupski and additional equity pay adjustments, as well as administrative overhead and IMS costs, were similarly supported by the city. A significant part of this support also included general fund transfers for specific capital projects. For example, Rose Park Golf Course received annual funding of$500,000 over six years to stabilize the course and fund a new irrigation system, ensuring the course remained viable for residents. The city also supported an ESCO (Energy Savings Company) project at Bonneville, where Siemens helped design an irrigation system that would generate savings to cover the project costs. Similar projects were completed PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 at Glendale and Rose Park, with the city covering costs until the ESCO investments were paid off over a 17-year period. Altogether, these initiatives accounted for approximately$2 million in general fund transfers for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. Kammeyer emphasized that while not all of this funding went directly into golf operations, it played a crucial role in stabilizing the division, allowing for operational efficiencies, responsive pricing adjustments, and reinvestment in key projects. Matt Kammeyer concluded by noting that the support received over the past six years enabled the golf division to stabilize, improve operations, and respond to market demand, creating a sustainable path forward. Ginger Cannon encouraged board members to submit additional questions through Maria Romero for follow-up, and Matt Kammeyer expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to share the division's progress. b. Park Ranger Program— Nick Frederick, Park Ranger Program Director Nick Frederick shared that about half of the audience had attended his presentation the previous year, so he briefly revisited the program's fundamentals. He explained that park rangers serve as the visitor-facing division within Public Lands. While many staff maintain parks through landscaping, planting, and trail work, rangers focus specifically on the visitor experience and how the community interacts with public spaces. Their work is guided by three core pillars: customer service, public safety, and education. He noted that rangers spend most of their time on patrol, but their presence also creates efficiencies across other Public Lands divisions. For example, rangers assist with tasks such as watering trees, addressing off-leash dog situations ahead of maintenance crews, reporting maintenance issues, and removing graffiti before escalation is needed. These daily contributions help streamline operations across departments. The team consists of 16 rangers working seven days a week on staggered schedules, adjusted seasonally to align with park usage from sunup to sundown. During the summer, shifts range from early morning to late evening to ensure coverage when parks are most active. Rangers operate from four hubs—Fairmont, Liberty, Jordan, and downtown but serve parks citywide. Nick Frederick highlighted that this was the first year the team implemented an annual plan, which proved valuable for setting clear goals, measuring success, and maintaining accountability. It also marked the first year of PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 consistent year-over-year data tracking, with all ranger activities logged in a publicly accessible system. This allowed for stronger performance metrics and transparency. Improvements included expanded summer hours, better internal coordination to avoid redundancy, and continued development of training programs. Because rangers do not carry weapons, Frederick emphasized the importance of equipping them with strong skills in de- escalation, conflict resolution, and knowledge of community resources. He also shared a structural change: converting one ranger position into a second supervisor role to better support the team. With previously 18 rangers under one supervisor, the addition has improved coordination, coaching, and consistency. Public feedback also played a role in shaping the program. Building on a 2023 survey, the team used community input to inform the 2026 annual plan. Nick Frederick outlined several key performance increases over the past year, including a 34% rise in operational hours, a 42% increase in patrol activity, and a nearly 250% increase in homeless outreach. Dispatch coordination improved significantly with the adoption of MySLC, and interpretive programming increased by 54%, though this will be refined in the coming year to better align with broader Public Lands events. Litter mitigation efforts nearly doubled, reflecting a proactive approach to improving visitor experience. Focusing on customer service, Frederick noted that improved coordination helped rangers be more present in high-impact areas. Feedback indicated that rangers were not always visible in major parks, partly due to intentional coverage of smaller parks. Moving forward, the team aims to strike a better balance and increase presence where park usage is highest. He also shared plans to expand ranger involvement in volunteer events. In response to community interest in stewardship and education, rangers will take on a larger role in supporting and enhancing these events. This includes providing interpretive experiences, such as showcasing local wildlife during cleanup efforts, to deepen public engagement. Frederick expressed enthusiasm about these collaborations, noting they create more positive and meaningful interactions between rangers and the community. Overall, he emphasized strong progress across all pillars and expressed particular excitement about the team's increased ability to connect individuals—especially those experiencing homelessness—with available services, marking a shift toward more impactful engagement. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Sarah Foran asked whether the training referenced was conducted by outside providers or completed bythe ranger team themselves. Nick Frederick clarified that the hours reflected training completed by rangers, noting that most sessions are scheduled during the early months of the year when park activity is lower due to cold and inclement weather. He added that while some trainings were still upcoming, the program had already shifted its approach this year while maintaining a strong focus on preparedness. Thomas Merrill asked specifically about training related to homelessness services and where that content originates. Frederick explained that the program uses a combination of resources. Rangers participate in a virtual de-escalation training library developed by Ryan Dowd, which focuses on understanding the psychology of individuals experiencing homelessness and improving interactions. In addition, the team engages in hands-on collaboration with local service providers. For example, they have worked with the Salt Lake City Police Department's social worker team to better understand each group's role and improve coordination. The Fourth Street Mobile Clinic has also provided guidance on eligibility and available services. Nick Frederick emphasized that this blend of ongoing education and direct engagement with service providers helps rangers better connect individuals to appropriate resources. Eric McGill raised the question of coordination with Downtown Ambassadors, noting the overlap in geographic areas and populations served. Frederick acknowledged that while initial conversations had taken place, the relationship had not yet been fully developed. He agreed there is strong potential for collaboration moving forward, particularly given the shared presence in areas like Pioneer Park and other downtown spaces. Nick Frederick also discussed coordination with public safety partners. While there is currently limited day-to-day interaction with the Salt Lake City Police Department, rangers do support larger coordinated efforts, particularly along the Jordan River. In these instances, rangers often serve as community liaisons, helping communicate with the public so that police resources can remain focused on enforcement. Rangers also contribute to citywide data efforts by reporting non-emergency issues such as drug use through the MySLC system, helping inform police deployment strategies. Sarah Foran followed up to clarify whether police dispatch directs calls to rangers. Frederick explained that this is not currently the case, though he expressed hope that the recently established Green Space Squad within the police department would create opportunities for more proactive PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 coordination in the future. He noted that the unit is still new and in the process of defining its operations. Nick Frederick also reflected on feedback from the public survey, which indicated that some community members would like rangers to have greater authority. However, he pointed out that some expectations exceed even what police typically handle, underscoring the need for clearer public communication about the role and limitations of the ranger program. He concluded by highlighting new tracking efforts, including documenting graffiti removal and hazardous material cleanup. Rangers have increasingly addressed issues such as needles, foil, and hazardous household waste, often removing these items before they impact park visitors. Frederick emphasized pride in the team's proactive efforts, noting that these actions can significantly improve safety and the overall visitor experience. Eric McGill asked whether the reported numbers reflected actions directly taken by rangers or issues simply reported through MySLC. Nick Frederick clarified that the data includes a mix of both. Some items, such as vandalism and graffiti, are tracked through reports, while others like dog compliance conversations reflect direct interactions carried out by rangers. He noted that dog compliance efforts increased significantly, more than doubling over the past year, and attributed part of that success to improved coordination with County Animal Services. This included joint training to better understand roles, limitations, and opportunities for more proactive support, such as requesting targeted enforcement in problem areas rather than relying solely on dispatch. Eric McGill encouraged a stronger emphasis on immediate remediation when possible, sharing an example from a Jordan River cleanup where rangers opted to report dog waste through MySLC rather than address it on the spot. He emphasized that while reporting systems are valuable, resolving issues in real time can have a more immediate impact on visitor experience. Nick Frederick responded that rangers are expected to address issues directly when they have the appropriate tools, but safety guidanceparticu[arty around biohazards limits when and how they can intervene. He acknowledged the feedback and noted the balance between preparedness and practicality, especially given that rangers are on foot and must carry their equipment. McGill also asked whether data collected such as repeated dog waste issues was being analyzed to inform improvements like adding trash cans or dog bag dispensers. Frederick confirmed that this data is shared with the parks PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 team and used in planning discussions. However, he noted there are sometimes differing perspectives on whether infrastructure changes influence behavior or simply respond to it. As a result, decisions are made collaboratively, balancing visitor experience with maintenance and operational considerations. Sarah Foran asked for clarification on a data point related to "dog compliance— leashes." Frederick explained that this metric refers to the number of leashes distributed by rangers, noting that many are recovered from places like hotels or trailheads and then redistributed to park users in need. Frederick then shifted to the program's education efforts, highlighting a strategic focus on deeper engagement with park visitors. While general greetings remained steady, the team began categorizing more meaningful interactions such as interpretive conversations as "enhanced engagements." Rangers are encouraged to convert roughly 10% of routine greetings into these deeper interactions, helping visitors feel more connected to public lands. These conversations may include sharing information about park features, encouraging participation in events, or suggesting other recreational opportunities. He reported strong growth in both educational programming and compliance-related conversations, alongside increased patrol activity. These gains were largely attributed to improved planning and operational efficiency, demonstrating that the relatively new program can expand its impact without additional staffing simply by refining how it operates. Frederick concluded by reinforcing the broader role of park rangers as a visible, consistent presence in parks, contributing to both visitor experience and operational efficiency across departments. Looking ahead to 2026, goals include strengthening voluntary compliance efforts, refining educational programming to better align with Public Lands priorities, expanding partnerships with community and volunteer groups, and continuing to build team morale and cohesion. He also emphasized the importance of deepening community partnerships, highlighting a successful collaboration with local middle schools along the Jordan River. Through a state education grant, rangers support regular field trips, helping students engage directlywith the environment. This type of programming reflects the program's original intent to activate public spaces, particularly on the west side, and foster meaningful community connections. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 During closing discussion, board members raised additional ideas and questions. Thomas Merrill suggested that increased investment in park rangers could potentially reduce reliance on police in park settings, particularly for concerns like drone disturbances. Nick Frederick agreed that such issues can be challenging and noted that regulation currently falls under FAA guidelines. Sarah Foran asked whether increased event attendance correlated with improved communications strategies. Frederick explained that while his team primarily tracks attendance, anecdotal evidence shows that better communication leads to stronger turnout. He also noted that consistent, recurring events help build participation over time. Additional insights suggested that direct, in-person outreach and simple tools like flyers remain highly effective, especially in park settings. Austin Whitehead asked about enforcement practices. Frederick confirmed that rangers address all park code issues through education and voluntary compliance, including off-leash dogs, smoking, alcohol use, and unsafe behavior such as improper e-bike use. Nick Frederick acknowledged that some issues like unauthorized motorized vehicles are difficult to enforce due to safety and resource limitations. The presentation concluded with appreciation from Ginger Cannon and Melanie Perhson, who recognized the program's growth and evolution, and Frederick expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the team's progress. VI. Board Discussion (6:25 pm) a. Administrative Update— Maria Romero, Board Manager b. Committee Reporting Aaron Wiley reported on behalf of the Bylaws Committee, noting they are updating the bylaws, a draft will be available on the April meeting. Melanie Perhson reported on behalf of the Jordan River Committee, and she reported that the Jordan River Commission Executive Director will attend the April meeting to present. Kerri Nakamura asked Kim Shelley if the Miller Family could receive the Emerald Project Information. Kim Shelley responded with it is a missed opportunity, followed by" the City is ready for an expansion team. Working with both the Jordan River Commission and the Fair Park Authority. Eric McGill commented on the Fisher Mansion and its PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 future activation. Kerri Nakamura commented that the Miller Group will be receptive to the Emerald Project as it is a taxpayer-funded. Tyler Murdock commented prior to Larry H Miller Corporation acquiring property, the Emerald Project plan was shared with them, they are aware. Aaron Wiley asked if Utah Government has authority over the Jordan River, Tyler Murdock responded no. Kim Shelley followed with they can design but they need to follow City processes and work with land owners. Austin Whitehead requested clarification if Public Lands has been involved with the planning consultancy and field operation, Kim Shelley responded the City is aware, she hopes the Larry H Miller Group collaborated with Public Lands. Aaron Wiley asked about the potential impact of SB-130 on Salt Lake City, particularly in relation to the Jordan River and ongoing renovation efforts. Tyler Murdock explained that the bill, sponsored by Joel Ferry Fillmore, was largely driven by a desire to increase state investment in the Jordan River. He noted that the legislation gained momentum after the senator attended a local event where city staff were present. Murdock shared that the city has actively engaged in discussions around the bill to ensure Salt Lake City remains eligible for funding opportunities. Historically, similar state-led funding programs often administered through the Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands have excluded Salt Lake City. However, in this case, the city successfully advocated to be included and will be eligible for grant funding tied to the bill. Sarah Foran then provided an update from the Communications Committee. She shared that Jana Cunningham plans to add board members to a monthly newsletter that includes Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and bond updates typically sent to the City Council. Board members may begin receiving these updates directly or through a subscription link. She also emphasized that the communications team is seeking input from board members, particularly in niche or underrepresented areas, to ensure broader and more accurate community representation in messaging. This includes feedback on unexpected or noteworthy elements in parks that could be highlighted. Sarah Foran also noted that the committee is working on two separate efforts: improving the external board website and reorganizing the internal Google Drive. They plan to develop a mock-up of proposed website updates to present for board feedback before moving forward. Ginger Cannon clarified that any formal review should be scheduled as part of a board meeting agenda, though informal feedback during regular updates is also welcome. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Steve Bloch provided a preview of upcomingwork related to the Foothills Committee. He explained that, following direction from the board last year, the department has been working to establish a formal working group. This effort is progressing, and staff including Tyler Fonarow are expected to present a proposal at the April meeting outlining next steps. Bloch emphasized that this will not require board approval, as prior authorization has already been given, but will instead serve as an update on implementation. Ginger Cannon briefly addressed the status of the SCAMP (Strategic Capital Asset Management Plan), noting that there were no updates from consultants yet. Tyler Murdock added that consultants are expected to resume work soon and will begin asset inventory efforts in April, with a target completion timeline of May. The discussion concluded with a general check-in on committee participation. Thomas Merrill shared that the Urban Trails Committee has struggled to align schedules and may need to adjust participation to move forward effectively. Cannon closed by thanking board members for their ongoing work outside of meetings, emphasizing the value committees bring in supporting staff and advancing departmental goals. c. Board comments, question period & request for future agenda items Sarah Foran shared that her questions about golf might be better directed to Kim Shelley, but she was curious about whether there is any crossover between golf operations and broader parks and urban lands work. She noted that sustainable planning is a strong focus in parks and urban lands and wondered if there are opportunities for those resources and practices to extend into golf. She asked whether that kind of collaboration is currently happening or could happen in the future. Kim Shelley responded that there are indeed opportunities for collaboration, though funding sources often create clear boundaries. She explained that there are already some shared efforts, such as a landscape architect from her team working on golf irrigation improvements. She also mentioned that Matt Kammeyer participates in bi-monthly division director meetings, which allows for cross-sharing of ideas and practices. She added that certain park facilities such as reservable, fee-based athletic fields operate similarly to golf courses and may offer the most natural overlap. While some collaboration exists, she acknowledged there is room to expand those efforts. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Sarah Foran responded that it was encouraging to hear about the collaboration with the landscape architect, noting that it had previously been unclear whether those connections were happening. Kim Shelley added that improving coordination across what have historically been siloed divisions is a department-wide priority, and she expressed hope that the board will begin to see more integration in the coming year. Ginger Cannon suggested that similar training provided to park rangers could also be extended to golf course rangers, since both roles involve enforcing rules, educating the public, and managing policy-related interactions. She noted that consistent training across these public-facing roles could be beneficial. Eric McGill thanked staff for organizing the discussion but expressed frustration with the limited time allocated, noting that he had hoped for a deeper conversation with golf leadership. He emphasized the importance of clearly defining the board's role in relation to golf operations. He stated that the board is not a threat to golf but could serve as a valuable advocate and resource, particularly as golf faces challenges such as deferred maintenance and the need for long-term planning processes. He also raised concerns about financial oversight and wage standards, noting that previously cited wages do not reflect a true living wage in Salt Lake City. He suggested that, whether through the PNUT Board or a Golf Advisory Board, there should be stronger opportunities for citizen advocacy and engagement in golf-related decisions. Ginger Cannon reminded members that they can follow up with additional questions through staff and will have access to the data presented. She also expressed interest in seeing golf included in broader planning efforts. Aaron Wiley added that he would like to see golf incorporated into both the master planning process and the capital improvement program (CIP). He also requested updates on the condition of baseball fields ahead of the upcoming season. Kim Shelley responded that a smaller update would be available in April, with a more comprehensive update in May, potentially in written form. Aaron Wiley emphasized the importance of timely updates, noting that the season begins in April and is already well underway by May. He suggested that early insights into any challenges could help avoid last-minute issues. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Kim Shelley confirmed that written updates would be provided and offered to help distribute any additional questions from the board to relevant partners, including the county. Thomas Merrill raised a question about whether the Pioneer Trail could be added to the board's agenda, noting uncertainty about the status of a related bill. Kim Shelley clarified that the city is working closely with the constituent group requesting the item but is not advocating for it. She suggested the board could either receive an update through the group or have them present their vision directly. Melanie Perhson asked for an update on the Jordan River Vegetation Maintenance Project, particularly regarding the removal of undergrowth and potential habitat impacts. Tyler Murdock explained that the project could be a good topic for a future agenda item. He noted that work would pause starting next week, highlighted the safety and visibility benefits of the vegetation removal, and confirmed that much of the understory being removed is either invasive or willow species, which are expected to regrow quickly. He also mentioned ongoing coordination with the Tracy Aviary to monitor bird impacts and indicated that there were no significant negative impacts to report. A written update was suggested as sufficient. Aaron Wiley shared a constituent concern about Glendale-area bee gardens losing their locations and asked whether there are alternative public land sites available. Tyler Murdock noted there is an ordinance governing such use and that he would research potential options. He suggested the New Orchard in Glendale on the Nine Line Orchard as a potential location, subject to compliance with existing regulations. Aaron Wiley added that state land could also be an option, citing examples like the University of Utah's bee locations. Kerri Nakamura reminded the board that golf is already included in the Reimagine Nature Plan and acknowledged the comments on the board's potential role, noting that further integration with CIP and general funds could be pursued. Sarah Foran requested more information from Public Utilities on the watershed program project near I Street, highlighting limited visibility into the PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 restoration plan and timeline for public access. She also asked whether the golf reservation licensing system could be leveraged for field permitting, noting differences between ActiveNet and Golf Genius systems. Eric McGill commented on potential CIP projects related to golf and public lands, citing a project along Wasatch for public access as an example of where CIP and board resources could integrate. Kim Shelley confirmed that the March 17th presentation to the mayor is a closed-door session and that board members will be informed, but information cannot be released publicly until the mayor publishes the budget. Aaron Wiley noted some difficulty navigating the SLC app for upcoming events. Sarah Foran clarified instructions for adding events and noted that calendar access is separate from the app. Ginger Cannon reminded members of the suggested agenda calendar in the Google Drive for transparency and invited any last comments or future agenda items before moving to adjourn. d. Board Engagement Opportunities/Requests e. Written Update: i. Parks Leaves Update ii. Golf Update iii. Park Ranger Program iv. Bathroom Study v. Next Meeting: Thursday, April 2, 2026 VII. Closed Session (7:05) The Board will consider a motion to enter into a Closed Session. A closed meeting described under Section 52-4-205 Pursuant to Government Code Section 52-4-205(d): Conference with Legal Counsel a. The Board will vote to close the meeting I, Maria Romero, make the motion to open the closed session with all members present, with the presence of City Staff Kim Shelley and Tyler Murdoch. Public Lands Deputy Director, and I'll go back to Kim Shelley. She is our, Public Lands Director. We have Cameron Johnson, Senior City Attorney. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 Maria Romero, Executive Assistant and Board Manager. So this meeting is taking place on March 5th. at the Public Lands Building at approximately 7.04 PM, and this closed session will continue until 7... about 7.25 p.m. Cameron Johnson added that the purpose of the closed session is to discuss real estate acquisitions. Aaron Wiley made a motion to enter the closed session, Ginger Cannon seconded the motion, all board members where in favor. All Board Members were in favor of exiting the closed session. b. The Board will vote to open the meeting A closed meeting may also be held for attorney-client matters that are privileged pursuant to Utah Code § 78B-1-137, and for other lawful purposes that satisfy the pertinent requirements of the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act. VIII. Adjourn (7:25 pm) Aaron Wiley made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Steve Bloch seconded the motion, and all board members were in favor of adjournment at 7:41 pm. PNUT Agenda March 5, 2026 CERTIFICATE OF POSTING The undersigned, duly appointed board manager, does hereby certify that the above notice and agenda was (1) posted on the Utah Public Notice Website created under Utah Code Section 63F-1-701, and (2) a copy of the foregoing provided to The Salt Lake Tribune and/or the Deseret News and to a local media correspondent and any others who have indicated interest. MARIA ROMERO PUBLIC LANDS DEPARTMENT Final action may be taken in relation to any topic listed on the agenda. People with disabilities may make requests for reasonable accommodation, which may include alternate formats, interpreters, and other auxiliary aids and services. Please make requests at least two business days in advance. To make a request, please contact the staff at maria.romero@slcgov.com or 385-214-9408 or relay service 711. 0DEPARTMENT of . PUBLIC LANDS Public Lands Updates Parks, Natural Lands, Urban Forestry&Trails Advisory Board Thursday,April 2na 1700 Crosswalk Update: Public Lands coordinated with Transportation throughout the planning and design phases of Glendale Park to improve the crosswalks.The intent is to have a new crosswalk installed during Phase 2 on the east side of the parking lot(not needed now since the east side of the park is not accessible to the public). For the existing signal and crosswalk to the east of the playground, Transportation is replacing the existing rapid flashing beacon(RFB)with a full Hawk Signal (Phase 1 opened in Dec. 2025). Currently,that project is underway and Engineering is waiting for steel to install the poles to complete the project.An update from Engineering on completion dates is forthcoming. The project team in Public Lands is working with Transportation to identify options to install the new(middle) crosswalk in Phase 2. Baseball Field Update • Maintenance District is All fields in this district have been spun. Detailed work, such as edging,is still pending. • Maintenance District 2: Leagues have already spun Oakhill,Upper Lindsey, and Lower Lindsey fields.Mat's crew will begin spinning the remaining fields in his area starting tomorrow.They had planned to start today,but an employee called in sick. With the recent nice weather,we have begun opening additional restrooms and removing porta-potties.At Memory Grove,preparations are underway for the Wake Great Salt Lake event,including turning on water and locating irrigation lines. Rosewood restrooms are currently open while the Salt Lake City School District is on-site for practices,which are held every weekday and Saturday. We are still waiting for quotes to come in from our contractors to redo the infield at one of the Baseball fields at Riverside Park.We are having them quote both and then will make a decision with the funding we have on which one to do first. We continue to address gopher activity by flattening holes, and we are making great progress this year.The new equipment we purchased is proving to be effective. With the warm weather arriving,park usage has increased significantly, and many people are already out enjoying the parks. Cemetery Update: The cemetery roadway and irrigation project continues. The famous cemetery owls have made their way back and are in the nest. Cemetery staff is waiting for the first sight of the Owlets. Large Oak Tree Relocation Project: A couple of months ago,the Urban Forestry Division learned that the West High School reconstruction project was incompatible with a well-established and healthy Bur Oak tree (located in the park strip on 3oo North.Working with the School District and a company that specializes in large tree moving,the U.F. Division proceeded to plan and coordinate the movement of this tree to a median island on Zoo North (about a 1 1/2 blocks southeast of its current location). These efforts will culminate this Monday, March 23rd,when a large crane will pick up the Oak tree,put it on a flatbed semi-truck trailer, and transport it to its new'forever home.' The Oak tree is estimated to be between 5o and 65 years of age, and(with good care and nurturing) could easily live ioo more years in its new location.This is the largest known attempted tree move in Salt Lake City, and Forester believes that the effort demonstrates the City's love and commitment toward trees. The U.F. Division has made sure to well document this project, and will share the story with pictures and video when the work is complete. Jordan River Corridor Vegetation Maintenance Project: The Jordan River Corridor Vegetation Maintenance Project is wrapping up its winter/spring work this month after io weeks to pause for April through July for federal bird nesting season regulations. Diamond Tree Experts has cleared over 250 truck loads of organic debris (invasive trees,wildfire fuels,riverside overgrowth)from 1700 South to the Rose Park Golf Course creating additional acres of open space that the Department is actively planning for restoration and desirable activation. Diamond Tree will return in August to complete this year's maintenance with approximately$15oK remaining in UDOR grant award to remove additional river blockages that can't occur during winter months. Project blog post: https://www.slc.gov/parks/Jordan-river-water-trail-vegetation-project- resumes-this-winter/