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MINUTES PARKS AND TRAILS ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, April 8, 2026 - 4:00 P.M. 155 N. TEGNER STREET WICKENBURG, ARIZONA 85390 A. CALL TO ORDER - Chair Craig called the meeting to order at 4:00 PM B. ROLL CALL Present: Nancy Craig, Chairperson John Oplinger, Vice Chairperson John Anderson, Member Morgan Barnes, Member (arrived at 4:06 PM) Cindy Chamberlin, Member Wayne Coates, Member Sean Sigl, Member Margaret Nyberg, Council Liaison Staff Present: Cason Chambers, Public Works Director Justin Smith, Parks and Facilities Manager Todd Wallace, Project Manager Amy Brown, Town Clerk Jennifer Jubany, Executive Assistant C. CALL TO THE PUBLIC – None D. ITEMS OF BUSINESS 1. Consideration and Action to Approve the Minutes of the Meeting of February 11, 2026 MOVED BY Member Coates to approve the minutes of the meeting of February 11, 2026 SECONDED BY Member Chamberlin VOTE: 6 - 0 (Yes – Chair Craig, Vice Chair Oplinger, Members Anderson, Chamberlin, Coates, and Sigl) 2. Discussion and Introduction of New Parks and Facilities Manager Justin Smith Cason Chambers, Public Works Director, introduced Justin Smith, the new Parks and Facilities Manager, and provided a brief biography. Justin Smith was born Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 2 of 8 and raised in rural St. Johns Michigan, and began his career with the City of St. Johns Water Department as a water operator and laborer. Over the course of nearly 28 years, he advanced through the ranks, serving as Water System Supervisor and ultimately Director of Public Services before retiring from the city. Justin is a licensed water operator in the State of Michigan, holding the highest- level certification in water distribution and the second-highest level license in water treatment. Justin Smith, Parks and Facilities Manager, shared that he is originally from Michigan, approximately 15 miles north of Lansing, and brings nearly 20 years of experience in the municipal sector. He expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Town and working collaboratively with staff and leadership to continue community progress. Chair Craig inquired about Justin’s experience related to parks, recreation facilities, and trail systems. Manager Smith responded that during his tenure with the City of St. Johns, he oversaw parks and recreation facilities, including the development of a multi-use loop trail system designed for biking and walking. The project was supported through grants from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. He further noted that park amenities in his previous community were somewhat limited due to seasonal weather constraints but highlighted a significant project he managed: the completion of “Fantasy Forest 2.0,” a $1.6 million, predominantly grant-funded playground. He explained that the playground is fully ADA-compliant, allowing individuals using wheelchairs or motorized devices to access all features of the facility. He is excited about the more extensive park system available in the town. Chair Craig commented positively on the loop trail concept and expressed interest in the idea. 3. Discussion and Update on all Parks and Facilities Justin Smith provided an overview of current parks and facilities projects, noting that he is in his third week in the role and expressing appreciation for the staff support and mentorship. Coffinger Park Improvements • Ongoing improvements include installation of sidewalks, benches, ADA- compliant picnic tables, and a new bike rack • Dugouts have been installed; benches and backstop fencing expansion are in progress • Irrigation updates are underway • A castor oil-based treatment was applied to deter gophers Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 3 of 8 • Infield improvements are complete; final grading will occur after fence and dugout completion • Outfield sanding was completed; grass establishment is in progress • New signage is pending installation Pool Renovation • Renovations include expanded pool deck, new shade structures, and painted locker rooms • Additional funding secured for epoxy flooring installation • Parking expanded by 88 spaces; restriping to occur following project completion Rodeo Grounds Improvements • Significant upgrades completed, including a new access road and approximately 70,000 square feet of parking • New ADA-accessible entrance received positive feedback from recent events • Water infrastructure improvements include hydrants for animal areas • LED lighting installed, improving safety and energy efficiency; electrical system simplified for ease of use • Future opportunities include development of a barn area to support livestock events and increase usage and revenue Pickleball Courts • New LED lighting installed at courts and parking areas; additional security lighting added • Restroom project is nearing final contract approval and will include ADA- compliant facilities and a bottle-filling drinking fountain Constellation Trails • Overview of trail segments: o Constellation Loop: 1.27 miles with 171 ft elevation gain o Cobblestone Run: approximately 1 mile with 98 ft elevation gain • Discussion of proposed improvements to trail and park signage, including: o Directional signage to trailheads and facilities o Trail markers and maps at key locations o Emphasis on creating a unified signage design across the town Signage Discussion • Committee members provided feedback on signage preferences: o Support for consistent, town-wide signage design o Preference for vertical signs over slanted designs due to durability concerns o Recommendation to include maps at staging areas and trailheads o Suggestion to review signage examples from regional trails for best practices Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 4 of 8 • Staff noted the importance of conducting a full inventory of existing signage and identifying gaps • Estimated initial cost of $3,000 applies only to signage for the first two trails and would be part of a phased implementation approach • Potential for grant funding to support signage improvements was noted Sunset Park Footpath • Existing one-mile loop trail requires regrading and cleanup • Planned improvements include maintenance and enhanced accessibility Joe Stevens, In-Town Resident, raised concerns regarding signage at the Constellation area, particularly near the hotel, noting that despite prior discussions and assurances that signage was available, it has not yet been installed. He emphasized the need for improved and completed trail signage, including proper vertical signage, and noted concerns about trail alignment and portions potentially located on private property. Mr. Stevens stated that many of these trails require maintenance, including raking and general cleanup and suggested a Saturday volunteer work party. 4. Discussion and Review of Parks Master Plan Justin Smith, Parks and Facilities Manager, provided an overview of the Parks Master Plan, noting it is a comprehensive document that includes: • Park and recreation facility inventory and analysis • Public engagement efforts • Identification of future needs and opportunities • Vision plan development • Final report and recommendations He highlighted system metrics: • 82 acres of parks • 429,000 square feet of landscaped right-of-way areas • 14,716 square feet of indoor facilities Manager Smith also referenced the concept of a connected, multi-use trail system throughout town. A committee member raised concerns about the focus on developing larger “mega parks” (e.g., Sunset/Sunrise Park) versus maintaining smaller neighborhood parks. The member cited the benefit of having parks within close proximity to residents and noted higher daily usage at smaller parks like McGuire Park compared to larger facilities outside of event days. Manager Smith responded that both large community parks and smaller neighborhood parks serve different but complementary purposes, and the town currently benefits from a mix of both. Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 5 of 8 A member raised concerns regarding the placement of ball fields on both sides of a major highway, citing potential safety risks for children crossing high-speed traffic areas. Staff acknowledged the concern and noted it would be addressed in future discussions. A question was raised regarding a dashed green line shown on the plan map that was not included in the legend. Staff clarified that the line represents a wash area and noted that the plan includes discussion of potential recreational trails along these washes. A committee member emphasized the need for a simple, accessible trail guide or handout to help residents and visitors locate trailheads and access points. Suggestions included: o A basic printed map or pamphlet o Availability at Town Hall and the Chamber/Visitor Center o Coordination with existing tools (e.g., GPS apps) Cason Chambers, Public Works Director, provided an update, noting coordination with the State of Arizona to utilize existing trail data and avoid duplication. The goal is to develop an updated map or pamphlet incorporating both state and local trail information. It was noted that the Visitor Center currently distributes a trail pamphlet, though some information is outdated. There was support for updating materials to include additional trails such as Sophie’s Flat and improving overall usability. A committee member asked how proposed and potential trail routes were determined. Staff explained that recommendations were developed through a combination of community input and consultant analysis, identifying viable routes based on existing assets and connectivity opportunities. The committee expressed general support for using the Parks Master Plan as a guiding document and highlighted key areas for improvement, including safety considerations, trail accessibility, and updated public information materials. 5. Discussion and Update on Sunset and Sunrise Park Development Justin Smith, Parks and Facilities Manager, provided an update on the proposed conceptual expansion of Sunset Park (including a new baseball field) and Sunrise Park. It was clarified that the project is still in a conceptual stage. The Town Manager has paused further progression pending review of second and third quarter revenue reports. Following the upcoming council meeting, staff will provide a recommendation regarding whether to proceed into the design phase (potentially 60% or 100% design) and later determine funding availability for construction. Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 6 of 8 Safety and Connectivity Concerns: • Concern was raised regarding children needing to cross a busy roadway (SR- 60) between park areas • Suggestions included considering a pedestrian overpass or underpass to improve safety if cross-access is needed Design Intent / Park Layout Response: • Staff responded that the intent is to separate activity types between park areas (e.g., baseball on one side, flat fields on the other) to reduce the need for crossing • The design concept also aims to provide similar recreational amenities on both sides so families do not feel divided or limited by location Need for Additional Field Capacity: • Member Barnes noted significant field shortages, particularly during soccer and baseball seasons • Concerns were raised about field sharing conflicts, including youth teams at different age levels using overlapping spaces • Parents cited logistical challenges when families have children in multiple programs at different locations Centralization vs. Distributed Parks: • Support was expressed for a centralized multi-field complex to improve scheduling and reduce travel burden on families • Others raised concern that the site could become the town’s “primary park,” potentially shifting focus away from neighborhood parks • A contrasting view suggested that smaller neighborhood parks should remain separate, with larger-scale facilities serving regional or tournament- level needs Economic Development / Multi-Use Ideas: • Discussion included potential for multi-use amenities, such as camping facilities and additional park programming that could generate economic benefit for the community • It was suggested that visitors using park facilities may contribute to the local economy through fuel, dining, and related spending Alternative Recreational Amenities: • Suggestions were made for additional features such as pump tracks, trails, and non-field recreation areas to serve a broader range of users and age groups • Interest was expressed in ensuring parks include amenities for children and families even when not participating in organized sports Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 7 of 8 Traffic / Infrastructure Concerns: • Concerns were raised regarding existing traffic conditions on SR-60 and the potential need for additional traffic signals or infrastructure changes • Possible impacts to existing trails and nearby areas (including Flying E Ranch trails) were also mentioned Summary Direction • The item remains conceptual and paused pending financial review • Key themes from discussion included: o Need for additional athletic fields o Significant concern about pedestrian safety across SR-60 o Desire to balance centralized sports facilities with neighborhood park access o Interest in expanded multi-use and youth recreational amenities o Need to evaluate infrastructure impacts (traffic, crossings, trails) 6. Discussion and Review of the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee’s Role in Town Budget and Contracts Cason Chambers, Public Works Director discussed the role of the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee (PTAC) in the town budget and contract processes, and how council benefits from committee recommendations. He noted the importance of understanding how committee input translates into actionable guidance, such as recommendations on project scope, scale, and funding priorities. Director Chambers went on to clarify the Parks and Trails Advisory Committee’s role as strictly advisory in nature. The committee does not have the authority to approve budgets, authorize spending, award contracts, or sign agreements. These responsibilities rest solely with the Town Council and Town Manager. It was emphasized that the committee’s value lies in providing recommendations and community insight. Staff encouraged members to continue offering input on priorities such as project size (e.g., pocket parks versus larger parks), funding allocation, and community needs based on resident feedback. Regarding budget responsibilities, the committee may: • Review proposed project budgets • Provide recommendations on funding priorities • Identify community program or facility needs • Offer feedback on the use of funds and project focus areas Regarding contracts, the committee may: • Review project scopes of work • Provide input on proposal content and project elements • Recommend selection criteria for contractors • Offer feedback on community impact and project priorities Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Minutes of April 8, 2026 Page 8 of 8 • Review progress on active contracted projects However, the committee cannot: • Sign or approve contracts • Commit town funds • Direct staff to hire specific vendors Director Chambers reiterated that committee recommendations are valuable and are included when presented to decision-makers. The committee’s role was further highlighted as essential for bringing subject matter expertise, community perspective, public input, and transparency into the decision-making process. E. NEXT MEETING DATE – June 10, 2026 F. ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY Member Chamberlin to adjourn at 5:07 PM SECONDED BY Member Sigl VOTE: 7 - 0 (Yes – Chair Craig, Vice Chair Oplinger, Members Anderson, Barnes, Chamberlin, Coates, and Sigl) Nancy Craig, Chair Attest: Jennifer Jubany, Executive Assistant