Parks and Recreation Annual Report 2023

ANNUAL REPORT 2023

Table of Contents

Our Mission

The department’s mission is to create leisure experiences by providing world class customer service and diverse opportunities for all generations.

Messages from Parks and Recreation Leadership ......... Parks and Recreation Leadership ....................................... About DeSoto Parks and Recreation .................................. Strategic Direction ................................................................ Recreation Programming ..................................................... Facility Rentals ....................................................................... Aquatics ................................................................................... Senior Activity Center ............................................................ Equity and Inclusion ............................................................... Contact Us ...............................................................................

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Our Vision

DeSoto Parks and Recreation is a vital component in the community that provides diverse services and opportunities. Our staff will be known for their commitment to professionalism and their ability to grow and change with the community. Professionalism: We will exemplify the highest standards of the profession. Engage: We will develop strong relationships. Inspire: We will encourage and promote healthy vibrant lifestyles. Integrity: We will be fair and honest.

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Message from DeSoto Parks and Recreation Director

In Fiscal Year 2023, the DeSoto Parks & Recreation team strategically focused on effective staff development and improving relationships that would ultimately manifest into a tangibly improved service delivery. In our annual departmental retreat, staff identified the following goals:

• • Enhance the environment to be more conducive to succession planning • Focus on a healthy work/life balance • Improve Internal Communication •

Celebrate accomplishments

Increase accountability

To assist with the development of a solid foundation to accomplish our departmental retreat goals, our vision team, (also known as our V-Team), which consists of supervisory staff, embarked on reading a New Your Times and Wall Street Journal Best Seller, “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott. Radical Candor is about caring personally and challenging directly, soliciting criticism to improve leadership skills, and

Chris Glover

providing guidance that fosters growth. It focuses on praise but doesn’t shy away from criticism. In addition to administering an implementation plan for a $53 million Aquatics & Recreation Center that is scheduled for completion at the end of 2025, our team accomplishments for this year included:

Three National Parks & Recreation Conference Presenters National Athletic Business Conference Presenter Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) Commissioner – National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) Executive Board Member

• Organized and hosted the Inaugural Annual Directors • Summit – a derivative of NRPA Director School • Two Texas Recreation and Parks Association Presenters • National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) – North Texas Vice President • National Recreation and Park Ethnic Minority Society (RPEMS) – Southwest Region Board Representative • NRPA Supervisor Management School Attendee – Oglebay Resort, West Virginia

Tourism Planning for Park & Recreation Agencies Certificate from Indiana University, Eppley Institute International City/County Management Association (ICMA) City Manager Certification NRPA Marketing and Communication for Parks and Recreation Certificate Maintained Four Certified Parks & Recreation Professional Certificates

Two CAPRA Evaluators

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DeSoto Parks and Recreation Board

⁍ Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Shronda Whitfield Althea Satterfield-White Paul Dryer

James Culp

Danielle Odis

Kristi Boyett

Keep DeSoto Beautiful Board

Mary Davis Place 1

Rhetta Washington-McCoy Place 2

Felicia Turrentine Place 3

Latoya Moore Place 4

Debbie Hicks Place 5

Amen Kamau Place 6

Paulette Hunter Place 7

DeSoto Parks and Recreation Leadership

36

⁍ Click to edit Master text styles • Second level • Third level • Fourth level • Fifth level Chris Glover Director Nathan Busby Parks Superintendent Sydney Elliott Youth & Business Coordinator Dianca McGhee Senior Center Manager

Deneen Anderson Special Events Manager

Stephanie Young Administrative Assistant

Kevin Moore Manager of Sports & Recreation

Steve Moore Athletics & Aquatics Manager

Kayren Davis Recreation Center Supervisor

Shannon Myart Senior Center Supervisor

Rod Turner Marketing Coordinator

Kelvin Russell Operations Coordinator

Chris Aguilera Operations Coordinator

Adante Austin Operations Coordinator

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About DeSoto Parks and Recreation

Acres of Parkland 494 6 $5.8M $23.5M $16.9M 3.2 12 13 12.55 21 53 5 10 3 39 6 18 Parks Banquet Facilties Operating Budget Capital Budget Economic Impact Basketball Courts Sporting Events Hosted Trail Miles Playgrounds Ponds Pavilions Miles of Soft Surface Trails Athletic Fields Full-Time Employees Part-Time and Seasonal Employees Community Centers and Venues DeSoto Parks and Recreation Annual Report | 5

Parks and Recreation Strategic Direction

1. Review the financial viability of the competition pool 2. Develop Design Documents 3. Develop Construction Documents 4. Issuance for Construction Submission to the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) 5. Implement Construction of the Aquatic/Rec Center Construct A High Quality Aquatic And Recreation Center At McCowan Park 1. Demolish existing playground material at Zeiger Park 2. Explore healthcare system partnerships for the Adult-Use Park area 3. Obtain City Council approval for the purchase of fitness equipment 4. Install fitness equipment Create An Active Adult - Use Area In A City Park

50 Complete %

MARC Project Concept Design

100

%

Complete

Zeiger Park - Active Adult Use Area

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Parks and Recreation Strategic Direction

Department Goal 1 The Youth Advisory Commission (YAC) Summit is an opportunity for cities, schools, and community youth groups to share their experiences of their programs.

100% Complete

Department Goal 2 Collaborate with DeSoto ISD to expose students to the impact of trees.

100% Complete

Department Goal 3 Host a traveling festival in DeSoto.

100% Complete

Department Goal 4 Install historical, distance, & geographical information along trails.

100% Complete

100% Complete

Department Goal 5 Parks and Library collaboration to increase library access for student-athletes.

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Recreation Programming Recreation programming witnessed a dynamic evolution, characterized by innovative approaches and community engagement. Emphasizing inclusivity and diversity, initiatives were tailored to cater to a wide array of interests and age groups, fostering a sense of belonging and participation among residents.

4,785 1,207

1,131 2,650

Adult Programming Enrollment

Summer Camp Enrollment Youth Athletics Enrollment

Special Events Attendance Special Events Hosted Memberships Sold

16,454

1,447

Youth Programming Enrollment

26

Recreation Programming is 40% in Cost Recovery

From Summertime on Beltline to various youth sports, the programming landscape was revitalized and engaging for all. Collaborative partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders amplified the impact of these initiatives, ensuring access to enriching experiences for all members of the community. Recreation programming emerged as a cornerstone of social cohesion and personal development, reflecting a commitment to holistic well-being and vibrant community life.

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Facility Rentals Facility rentals experienced a notable surge in demand and adaptability with more events retuning to in- person. DeSoto Civic Center and Corner Theater caters to a diverse range of events, including weddings, corporate functions, and community gatherings. In 2023, pavilion booking became available online which provided convenience the ease of booking and facilitated a seamless process. The integration of flexible booking options and enhanced sanitation protocols reassured patrons, facilitating a seamless transition back to in-person events amidst evolving health guidelines.

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Civic Center Rentals Corner Theatre

Rentals Pavilion Rentals $120,870 TOTAL REVENUE

Facility Rentals are 72% in Cost Recovery

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Aquatics In fiscal year 2023, aquatics programming made waves with a dynamic blend of safety, education, and recreation. The year saw a resurgence of interest in swimming and water-related activities, with aquatics facilities serving as vital community hubs. Robust learn-to-swim programs catered to individuals of all ages and skill levels, fostering water competency and drowning prevention. Additionally, specialized classes such as water aerobics and aquatic therapy provided avenues for fitness and rehabilitation. Collaborative partnerships with schools and community organizations expanded access to swim lessons and water safety education, promoting inclusivity and equity. Despite challenges posed by changing health regulations, aquatics facilities adapted admirably, implementing stringent sanitation measures and innovative programming to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. In fiscal year 2023, aquatics emerged as a cornerstone of community health and vitality, embodying resilience and commitment to aquatic education and recreation.

13,385

879

Total Attendance

Swim Lessons and Classes Enrollment

34

63

Junior Lifeguard Enrollment

Rentals

$168,738

TOTAL REVENUE

Staff Costs Aquatics Operations are 43% in Cost Recovery Direct Expenses only Aquatics Operations are 142% in Cost Recovery

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Senior Activity Center

DeSoto Senior Activity Center flourished as a vibrant hub of community engagement and support for older adults. With a commitment to promoting wellness and social connection, the center offered a diverse array of programs and services tailored to the unique needs and interests of its members.

17,876

17

Meals Served

Special Events Offered Special Events Attendance Visitor Count

1,014

1,688

Memberships

14

18,211

Programs Offered

21,600

Program Attendance

From free fitness classes and educational workshops to cultural outings and volunteer opportunities, the calendar was rich with activities designed to foster physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Innovative initiatives such as community garden, Golden Voices choir and intergenerational programs further enriched the center’s offerings, bridging generational divides and nurturing a sense of belonging among participants.

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Equity and Inclusion This fiscal year, equity and inclusion took center stage as guiding principles across all facets of community development. Recognizing the importance of diversity and representation, initiatives are continuously implemented to ensure equitable access to resources, opportunities, and services for all residents. Collaborative efforts between local government, community organizations, and advocacy groups foster dialogue and action toward addressing systemic barriers and promoting social justice. The City of DeSoto desires to expand employment opportunities to catalyze economic prosperity by expanding opportunities for emerging businesses, improving workforce development through economic inclusion opportunities, and providing opportunities for youth engagement. The Parks & Recreation Department spent over $1.4 million in partnership with 41 minority and women-owned businesses*. Nine, comprising of $550,000, were certified by the North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (NCTRCA) as Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. The remaining 32, totaling $860,167 were non-certified businesses. These expenditures accounted for approximately 27% of the total Parks and Recreation vendor expenditures. The department is currently in the process of constructing an Indoor Aquatics & Recreation Center, which is scheduled for completion in Fiscal Year 2025. This estimated $50 Million project will be the most expensive project for the City of DeSoto. Staff negotiated a minimum of 30% participation with NCTRCA Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises for the project. Procurement Category FY23 Contract or Total Amount City Mandated M/WBE Goal M/WBE (NCTR- CA Approved) % DeSoto Parks M/ WBE Overall $ Status

DeSoto Parks M/WBE Overall Participation %

Advertising

$12,544 $44,840 $37,605 $40,275

20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00%

N/A

6.98%

$875

Did Not Meet Exceeds Goal Exceeds Goal Exceeds Goal Did Not Meet Exceeds Goal Exceeds Goal Exceeds Goal Exceeds Goal Exceeds Goal

Apparel

36.05%

77.37%

$34,692 $37,605 $40,275 $683,906

Audio/Visual

N/A N/A

100.00% 100.00% 16.14% 89.04%

Catering

Contractor Services $4,238,330

5.39%

Fitness

$76,664

N/A

$68,264

* Based on information available to the Parks and Recreation Department

Mowing Services Musical Services

$663,550 $68,326 $10,335

6.79%

70.21%

$465,889 $68,326 $10,335

N/A N/A

100.00% 100.00%

Photography

FY23 Total

$5,192,469

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--

--

$1,410,167

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Contact Us

DeSoto Parks and Recreation Administrative Offices 211 E. Pleasant Run Road DeSoto, TX 75115 (972) 230-9653 DeSoto Civic Center 211 E. Pleasant Run Road DeSoto, TX 75115 (972) 230-9650 DeSoto Recreation Center 211 E. Pleasant Run Road DeSoto, TX 75115 (972) 230-9655

Senior Activity Center 204 Lion Street DeSoto, TX 75115 (972) 230-5825

Sports and Recreation youthsports@desototexas.gov Special Events specialevents@desototexas.gov Reservation Services civiccenter@desototexas.gov

Corner Theatre 211 E. Pleasant Run Road DeSoto, TX 75115 (972) 230-9650

Connect With Us!

Moseley Pool 1300 Honor Drive DeSoto, TX 75115 (972) 228-3553

Desotorec Desotopard

www.desototexas.gov/parks

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