Supplemental A - Engagement Summary_Final_12.22.25
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SUPPLEMENT A Engagement Summary 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Touchpoints 3 Staff, Council & Advisory Task Force Planning Sessions 4 Focus Groups 15 Public Workshop 32 Pre Survey 39 Community Needs Assessment Survey 43 Community Open House 71 Virtual Engagement Room 78 SUPPLEMENT A: ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY 3 TOUCHPOINTS Who We’ve Heard From Staff Advisory Task Force & City Council Community Planning Session January 2025 Interviews January 2025 Planning Session (both) January 2025 Update Meetings (Advisory Task Force) March 2025 May 2025 Update Meetings (City Council) June 2025 September 2025 Focus Groups January 2025 – 49 participants representing 7 groups Public Workshop January 2025 – 20 participants Online Pre-Survey February 2025 – 72 responses Community Open House June 2025 - 59 participants Needs Assessment Survey July 2025 – 420 responses Virtual Engagement Room August 2025 - 116 responses 4 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS SWOT ANALYSIS SUMMARY STRENGTHS Staff personnel, leadership, and organizational culture Communication Overall, strong communication efforts Financial The city has a strong financial foundation WEAKNESSES Variety of services could provide a wider range of services Communication can improve sharing offerings and understanding residents Park & facility maintenance improvements to maintenance and overall safety OPPORTUNITIES Partnerships teaming with local organizations and businesses Parks & facilities expansion and improvement to the system Transportation & connectivity Improved connectivity to increase accessibility THREATS Physical & mental health trends in overall health affecting the community at large Environmental concerns climate change, extreme heat, and lack of water Public safety Safety in public parks affecting residents 5 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS SWOT ANALYSIS SUMMARY 1. What are the organization’s strengths? What should be celebrated? • Staff By far the top organizational strength was staff, leadership, and the organization’s culture. Staff feel empowered and trusted while Council trusts staff to serve the community. • Communication Staff, Council members, and Advisory Task Force members all believe the organization’s communication efforts are an area of strength. • Financial A strength to be celebrated is the City’s strong financial foundation. • Park & facility amenities Council members and staff believe the City has a good portfolio of park and facility amenities. 2. What could be improved? • Variety of services While there was not one overpowering theme, one common message was ensuring that the Department can improve a wide range of programs and services than it currently does in order to serve the entire community. • Communication Another message was to improve overall communication efforts to ensure the community understands what the Department offers, so staff can better understand resident needs, and to offer bilingual options so everyone can be heard. • Park & facility maintenance Taking care of current parks and facilities for maintenance and increased safety is an area that can be improved upon. 6 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS SWOT ANALYSIS SUMMARY 3. What opportunities exist? • Partnerships Many responses suggested that opportunities to partner with community organizations and businesses could improve the Department. Suggested partner opportunities included local businesses, HOAs, faith-based organizations, and cultural groups. • Parks & facilities Whether expanding and improving current parks and facilities to adding new parks, there’s an opportunity to improve upon what the City currently owns. • Transportation & connectivity There were a few responses that believed the City has the opportunity to increase the use of parks and recreation services through improved transportation and connectivity options. 4. What gets in the way? • Finances Financial considerations present limitations with what the Department is able and not able to accomplish. • Community relations It seems that there is a disconnect between the City and residents. There are differing opinions and perspectives between demographic groups, and also with interaction with the City. 5. What’s happening to which the organization should pay attention? • Physical & mental health The organization should be aware of physical health (e.g., childhood obesity, diabetes) and general mental health trends when planning services for the community. • Youth & family Ensuring that youth and families are provided with a plethora of services is important, specifically among Council members. 7 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS SWOT ANALYSIS SUMMARY • Environmental Climate change, heat in the summer months, and a lack of water are all important considerations for the Department to be aware of. • Public safety A couple of responses stated an awareness of current safety concerns in City parks. 6. Given what’s happening, what should be prioritized with attention and/or resources? • Public safety Bringing current park and facility amenities up to safe standards should be prioritized before looking to expand. • Strategic growth Given the City’s current realities, responsibly and strategically into the future should be prioritized. • Community relations There’s an opportunity to improve relations with residents. 7. Other notes? The overall sentiment was that the community should have safe spaces and diverse service opportunities offered by the Department. 8. What would you tell Parks & Recreation staff as a citizen in the year 2050? (asked to the City Council only) The overall message from Council members was that they want staff to remember the importance of parks and recreation services for the community and that staff have figured out how to meet the needs of the citizens of 2050. 8 What do you believe the focus of the Department should be as it positions itself to have the greatest impact on the community? STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS What do you believe will be important for the Department to consider as it creates an operational philosophy that guides service development and delivery? Community engagement & gathering Understand community needs for events and spaces to come together Public safety Ensuring residents feel safe in public parks and facilities “I BELIEVE” STATEMENTS SUMMARY Trails & connectivity Improve connectivity of system through trails Park & facility amenities Provide a wide range of amenities for residents and to attract outside visitors Park & facility maintenance Ensure clean and well-kept parks and facilities to increase usage Sustainable planning Implement smart long-term goals that are realistic and beneficial for the future Variety of services Understand community demographics to accurately and inclusively provide services to the entire community Staffing Maintain a workforce that can accommodate current and future needs Public safety Increase maintenance and security in parks to provide safer spaces Communication Establish and keep lines of communication open to residents to encourage participation Sustainable planning Understand current realities while responsibly planning for the future 9 What do you believe will be necessary for the Department to do so that it can become the best version of itself? STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS Describe what parks and recreation in El Mirage looks like in the year 2035? (asked to the City Council only) Communication Improve overall communication efforts between all stakeholders to increase awareness, collaboration, and buy-in Variety of services Understand community demographics to accurately and inclusively provide services for the entire community “I BELIEVE” STATEMENTS SUMMARY Culture & identity Respect El Mirage’s past, present, and future to create an inclusive culture Public safety Improve measures in parks to make residents feel safe in public gathering areas Trails & connectivity Improve connectivity throughout the City Parks & facilities Parks and facilities are well- maintained, have more greenery, have expanded, and are well-utilized by residents Services Recreation services are available for youth and adults Recreation Center A full-service Recreation Center open to residents 10 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – STAFF 11 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – STAFF 12 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – ADVISORY TASK FORCE 13 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – CITY COUNCIL 14 STAFF, COUNCIL & ADVISORY TASK FORCE SESSIONS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – CITY COUNCIL 15 FOCUS GROUPS Q&A SUMMARY 1. When you hear “El Mirage Parks & Recreation” what immediately comes to mind? 2. Do you currently use any services offered by the Department? If so, what services? If not, why? • General use of parks The general use of parks was the top-cited reason for utilizing Department services. Specific parks used include Cactus Park, Gateway Park, and Gentry Park. 16 FOCUS GROUPS Q&A SUMMARY • Sports fields The use of sports fields at City-owned parks was tied for the second most cited reason for utilizing Department services. Specific sports included soccer and baseball/softball. • Events General events put on by the City was tied for the second most cited reason for utilizing Department services. Specific events named included the Winterfest Parade, Public Safety Day, and Get to Know Your Neighbor. • Skate park There were a couple of responses stating the use of the Skate Park at Gateway Park. • Do not use About a fifth of the focus group responses stated that they did not use Department services. • The two most cited answers were that they were using HOA parks and playgrounds, and the other was safety concerns with using Department services. 3. What do you believe will be the most important community-wide issues the greater El Mirage area will face in the next 3- 5 years? • Public safety One of the most mentioned issues was the overall public safety of the community. Specific issues included homelessness, an increase in crime, and rule/law enforcement. • Transportation Another common issue was the City’s lack of transportation infrastructure. Traffic congestion and safety concerns, the absence of public transportation options, the need for an increased number of EV charging stations, and the lack of sidewalks and trail connectivity were the most mentioned issues. • Accessibility Overall accessibility and connectivity of City amenities were a common message. Specific issues included more trail connections and improved accessibility for people with physical disabilities. • Growth & development Concerns regarding managing community growth. As the community continues to grow, there is a desire for a healthy balance between business development and residential needs, as well as increased fiscal accountability for businesses to support City services. 17 FOCUS GROUPS Q&A SUMMARY • Department-specific issues There were a handful of Parks & Recreation Department-specific issues mentioned that included an increased level of park maintenance, park amenities, and communication and marketing efforts. 4. In what ways do you believe the Department influences and/or impacts these issues? • Community engagement & events The most mentioned theme on how the Department can influence and impact these issues was through community engagement and activation through events and services. Ideas such as hosting more events to bring the community together, increasing communication and marketing efforts to promote services, improving partnership and stakeholder relations (e.g., with HOA, YMCA, etc.), and adding more volunteer opportunities (including through schools) would help address these issues. • Improve parks & facilities Another top theme was increasing the Department’s overall parks and facilities. Improving maintenance, addressing sidewalk and lighting issues, and expanding areas such as playgrounds and activated spaces were among the top ideas. • Public safety To address public safety concerns, focus group members brought up ideas including implementing safety programs (e.g., bike safety, safe zones), enhanced security in problematic public spaces, and providing more resources for staff to support the community. • Additional ideas Other less-mentioned ideas included increasing children-specific Department services, improving public transportation options, and utilizing environmentally sustainable practices. 5. In your opinion, how should the Department invest resources (including taxpayer dollars)? • Parks & facilities From maintenance improvements to current infrastructure to the addition of new amenities, mindful investment in the Department’s park and facilities was the top category of response. Most responses were calling for general improvements and additions; there were very few specific requests. 18 FOCUS GROUPS Q&A SUMMARY • Public safety Another frequently mentioned request was to address public safety concerns. The most prevalent responses suggested increased lighting and video surveillance in public areas and increased staff presence. • Partnerships Many focus group members stated that they’d like to see the Department increase partnership opportunities with local organizations, including HOAs, schools, Boys and Girls Club, and sports organizations. • Capturing City’s culture Capturing the City’s history and making sure all residents feel represented and heard was suggested multiple times by focus group members. Specific ideas included increasing communications in Spanish and finding ways to capture El Mirage’s history and present (e.g., murals). • Services The addition of parks and recreation programs and services was another common theme. Ideas included additional family-focused events and eSports opportunities. 6. Are there any barriers (if any) that you believe may prevent people from participating in park and recreation services offered by the Department? • Communication The most common barrier mentioned was communication-related concerns. There is a desire for an improvement to overall communication efforts, from marketing of Department services to accessibility of City-wide updates to how City staff and elected officials respond to community members. • Financial Another common barrier heard from the focus groups was financial-related concerns, primarily around affordability for Department and City-wide services. • Public safety Some focus group members cited concerns about overall safety provide a barrier to participation. 19 FOCUS GROUPS Q&A SUMMARY • Parks & facilities The last common theme heard was the lack of parks and facilities amenities. Areas of improvement to address barriers include overall maintenance, more shade and green spaces in parks, improved service offerings, and the addition of amenities (e.g., fishing pond). 7. What opportunities do you believe exist for the Department to partner with other community organizations? • Local schools The most common opportunity cited was to increase involvement with local schools. Specific ideas shared included activating high school students through events and working with schools to co-host services. • Faith-based organizations The second most common opportunity shared with partnering with local faith-based organizations. Radiant Church and Santa Teresita Church were specifically mentioned. • Health & wellness The third most common opportunity shared by focus group members was a call for more health and wellness opportunities. Ideas ranged from programs (e.g., health drives) to involvement with the El Mirage 24/7 Emergency Room. • Other local organizations & businesses There were a myriad of low-frequency responses calling for collaboration with local municipal entities (e.g., libraries, police department, other local parks and recreation departments), non-profit organizations (e.g., YMCA, sports organizations), HOAs, and local businesses. 8. Is there anything else, as it relates to the Department and/or the master planning process, that you would like to share? • Communication Focus group members would like staff to prioritize overall communication and marketing efforts as part of the master planning process to increase awareness, information, and community connection. • Financial responsibility As part of the master planning process, clear and responsible consideration and use of taxpayer dollars is important to focus group members. 20 FOCUS GROUPS Q&A SUMMARY • Community engagement & events Additional events such as races, festivals, volunteer events, and public health and education opportunities were ideas to be considered as part of this process. • Partnerships Working with local organizations (e.g., schools, HOAs, faith-based) and businesses could be integrated into the master planning efforts. • Accessibility & affordability Focus group members would like staff to prioritize providing affordable and accessible recreation options. 21 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – ADULTS REPRESENTING YOUTH 22 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – BUSINESS COMMUNITY 23 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – BUSINESS COMMUNITY 24 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS (HOA) 25 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS (HOA) 26 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – SCHOOL DISTRICT COACHES 27 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – SCHOOL DISTRICT COACHES 28 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – SENIORS 29 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – YMCA 30 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – YOUTH 31 FOCUS GROUPS MURAL BOARD RESPONSES – YOUTH 32 PUBLIC WORKSHOP POLL RESULTS 50% 45% 0% 0% 5% HOA (Home Owners… Non-HOA Private (Rosewood,… Original heritage… I don't live in El Mirage What type of neighborhood do you live in? 0% 84% 11% 0% 5% 1 2 3 4 5 Which zone do you live in? Are you here representing any special interest or group? What is 1 word that comes to mind when you think about the future of Parks & Rec in El Mirage? 33 PUBLIC WORKSHOP 3 QUESTION BOXES What community issues can El Mirage Parks and Recreation impact the most? If you had to choose, what one thing should El Mirage Parks and Recreation do for the community? Do you have other thoughts you would like to share to help inform the master plan process? Public safety Accessibility & inclusion Community engagement & gathering Youth & family services Park & facility maintenance Park & facility maintenance Community image Aquatic feature Trails Sustainable planning Accessibility & inclusion Public safety Accessibility & inclusion 34 PUBLIC WORKSHOP PARK BOARD RESPONSES Comment Totals • 23 specific comments were made for Basin Park • 11 specific comments were made for Bill Gentry Park • 1 specific comment was made for Gateway Park Key Takeaways • Most specific comments to Basin Park were related to new park amenities, including wanting a mix of both passive and active amenities. • Amenities wanted at Basin Park include volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, sports fields, a lake for fishing, a pump track, a splashpad, frisbee golf, ADA play equipment, a dog park, an equestrian area, and outdoor fitness. • Other desires for Basin Park include public art, need for lighting, adequate parking, street improvements surrounding the park, and public safety features/ideas. • Several comments were received wanting to rebuild the gazebo at Bill Gentry Park. • Several comments were received to relocate the new ballfield at Bill Gentry Park to its original location. • A few comments were made about wanting new amenities, including a new indoor facility for city offices, frisbee golf, swimming pool, swings, walking paths, and a splash pad. 35 PUBLIC WORKSHOP PARK BOARD RESPONSES 36 PUBLIC WORKSHOP PARK BOARD RESPONSES 37 PUBLIC WORKSHOP PARK BOARD RESPONSES 38 PUBLIC WORKSHOP PARK BOARD RESPONSES 39 PRE SURVEY Q&A SUMMARY 1. What role do you believe parks and recreation should play in our community? • Community engagement and gathering spaces The most mentioned theme was that parks and recreation should play a vital role in providing all residents with a sense of community and social connection through parks, facilities, and services. • Safe and accessible spaces A frequently mentioned theme was that parks and recreation should provide safe, clean, and well-maintained parks and facilities for the community. Specific responses included a strong commitment to maintenance and cleanliness, providing space for healthy activities (to reduce mischief and crime), and ensuring that spaces are accessible for those with physical disabilities. • Variety of services Many survey respondents believe that parks and recreation should provide and promote a variety of programs and services for the well-being of community members. Specific answers included sporting activities, exercise areas, events, and wellness programs. • Communication center One message that was received from respondents was that parks and recreation should be a place where internal and external messages are communicated. Those who mentioned this requested that the City provide more effective messaging for parks and recreation-related news and updates. 2. What types of outdoor spaces or recreation facilities do you think are currently missing in our community? • Aquatic facilities The most mentioned theme was that parks and recreation should play a vital role in providing all residents with a sense of community and social connection through parks, facilities, and services. • Sports facilities A frequently mentioned theme was that parks and recreation should provide safe, clean, and well-maintained parks and facilities for the community. Specific responses included a strong commitment to maintenance and cleanliness, providing space for healthy activities (to reduce mischief and crime), and ensuring that spaces are accessible for those with physical disabilities. • Trails Many survey respondents believe that parks and recreation should provide and promote a variety of programs and services for the well-being of community members. Specific answers included sporting activities, exercise areas, events, and wellness programs. 40 PRE SURVEY Q&A SUMMARY • Playgrounds Another space or facility that was a common theme was for more playgrounds in parks. Respondents requested better-equipped, better-shaded, and more inclusive play areas. While most responses were aimed at youth, a few respondents suggested outdoor fitness stations for adults. • Public safety A common theme called out the perceived lack of public safety in outdoor spaces and recreational facilities. Suggested improvements included better outdoor lighting, increased security, and addressing homelessness to make residents feel safer. • Community gathering & event space To better serve community gatherings, a theme heard was for a more dedicated or adaptable space for community gatherings and event spaces. From rentable areas for families and groups to park space for large community events, respondents desire more. • Dog parks & dog-friendly trails The addition of large and fenced dog parks and more dog-friendly trails is desired. 3. What types of recreational programs, community events, or social activities are missing or could be improved within our parks and recreation offerings? • Community events Far and away, the top theme for missing or improved recreational service was various community events for residents to gather. Many respondents voiced the desire for parks and recreation to offer regular events such as farmers’ markets, carnivals and fairs, more concerts, food truck events, and cultural and holiday celebrations. • Sports Sports-related offerings for youth and adults were a common theme. Respondents voiced wanting these services in El Mirage so they don’t have to travel to outside communities. Examples of sports included pickleball leagues and tournaments, as well as leagues for soccer and baseball/softball. • Teens While mentioned considerably less than the above two themes, services for teens and young adults could be improved. Respondents shared a desire for safe spaces and opportunities for this demographic could help teens grow socially, professionally, and academically (e.g., STEM programs, technical training, mentorship), and even through public service. 41 PRE SURVEY Q&A SUMMARY • Seniors Like teens, increased service levels for seniors was shared by respondents. Most answers were generic, simply asking for more senior services and spaces. 4. What challenges or barriers currently prevent you from enjoying our parks, recreational facilities, or programs/events more often? • Public safety The most mentioned challenge and barrier preventing respondents from enjoying parks and recreation services was safety concerns. Specific barriers in City parks include homelessness, illegal activity, poor lighting, lack of security presence, vandalism, and trash (e.g., broken glass, used equipment). • Park & facility amenities Another top challenge or barrier that was heard was a lack of desired amenities in parks and facilities. Some of the desired amenities include pickleball courts, green spaces, shaded areas, tables and benches, and open restroom facilities. • Communication Communication was a frequently mentioned barrier. Those who mentioned this stated that overall communication and marketing efforts for parks and recreation services were lacking, with many often not knowing when events were happening until after they occurred. • Transportation & accessibility While not a top theme, some respondents mentioned that transportation and accessibility challenges prevented participation in parks and recreation services. ADA-compliant amenities, a lack of pedestrian options (e.g., sidewalks, crosswalks), and public transportation options were some of the examples heard. • Maintenance Respondents indicated that general park and facility maintenance was a barrier to participation, including dog poop, trash in parks, and broken equipment. 42 PRE SURVEY Q&A SUMMARY 5. Check all that apply 43 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY SURVEY METHODS Note: The following pages in this section represent an overview of the Community Needs Assessment Survey. The complete report has been provided to the City. 44 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY SAMPLE DEMOGRAPHICS 45 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY SAMPLE DEMOGRAPHICS 46 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY KEY FINDINGS 47 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY KEY FINDINGS 48 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY KEY FINDINGS 49 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 50 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 51 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 52 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 53 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 54 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 55 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 56 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 57 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 58 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 59 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 60 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 61 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 62 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 63 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 64 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 65 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 66 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 67 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 68 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 69 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 70 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY DETAILED FINDINGS – CITY SERVICES/SPENDING PRIORITIES 71 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE PARK BOARD RESPONSES Key Takeaways • When asked to vote on which park amenities would provide the highest value for the El Mirage community, participants selected an amphitheater, walking paths, and pickleball courts as the top three priorities. The lowest-ranked amenities were multi-purpose fields, soccer fields, and tennis courts. On the other hand, the top three amenities selected as being desired to be further maintained or renovated were playgrounds, ballfields, and soccer fields, which tied with walking paths. Amenities wanted at Basin Park include volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, sports fields, a lake for fishing, a pump track, a splashpad, frisbee golf, ADA play equipment, a dog park, an equestrian area, and outdoor fitness. • Community members were presented with two different concepts for the expansion of Basin Park. The majority of participants preferred Concept 2 with notable amenities such as a large amphitheater and volleyball courts. • Comments gathered on both of the concepts included support for the amphitheater, pickleball courts, and volleyball courts. A desire was expressed to include basketball courts in the final concept. Support was also expressed for playgrounds and fitness areas, but with the caveat that a buffer be included to separate children using the playground from adults using the fitness equipment. The buffer was suggested to be a plaza, but with other comments made, perhaps a Gazebo could also be considered. • The addition of a dog park received mixed reactions, with support including recommendations to move them further north and to add multiple areas to allow for regrowth of planting/lawn space, if it is included. Opposition to dog parks included concerns of safety and liability. • Lastly, the proposed parking on 125th Avenue was a concern due to the potential for traffic congestion and proximity to an HOA community. Suggested parking opportunities were made to be created on Canterbury Drive, currently a no parking zone. 72 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE PARK BOARD RESPONSES 73 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE PARK BOARD RESPONSES 74 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE PARK BOARD RESPONSES 75 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE PARK BOARD RESPONSES 76 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE PARK BOARD RESPONSES 77 COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE VOTING RESULTS Which park amenities would provide the highest value for the El Mirage community? 0 3 2 3 8 4 3 2 9 1 9 10 3 6 0 10 20 Add New Amphitheater Add New Walking Paths Add New Pickleball Courts 78 VIRTUAL ENGAGEMENT ROOM VOTING RESULTS Which park amenities would provide the highest value for the El Mirage community? 3 7 10 16 39 7 8 6 25 7 30 31 16 7 0 10 20 30 40 50 Add New Playground Features Add New Amphitheater Add New Pickleball Courts 79 VIRTUAL ENGAGEMENT ROOM VOTING RESULTS Please choose your preferred design concept below for the Basin Park Expansion. 21 91 Concept 2 Concept 1 80 VIRTUAL ENGAGEMENT ROOM VOTING RESULTS Please choose your preferred design concept below for the Basin Park Expansion. 21 91 Concept 2 Concept 2 81 VIRTUAL ENGAGEMENT ROOM VOTING RESULTS Do you have any comments about Concept 1? • Shaded areas Many respondents noted that there were not enough shaded areas in Concept 1, whether from natural or permanent structures. • Restrooms Restrooms were a commonly mentioned amenity. Comments included moving the proposed location due to concerns about the homeless populations utilizing any on-site restrooms. • Size of amenity areas Several comments were made regarding amenity sizes, with most observers feeling that the dog park size was disproportionate compared to the children’s play areas. • Amphitheater There were mixed responses regarding the amphitheater. Some liked the size and potential for events, while others voiced their concerns about increased noise levels to nearby residents. • Safety & lighting A few respondents called for the importance of well-lit areas in the park, specifically the dog park area, parking lot, and restrooms. Do you have any comments about Concept 2? • Amphitheater Comments were mostly positive regarding the amphitheater. Many are excited about the potential for concerts, movies, and cultural events, while some are concerned about usage. The concession area was met with positivity. • Shaded areas Responses regarding the shaded areas in Concept 2 were more positive and approving than Concept 1. • Selection of amenities There was a divide amongst respondents about some of the selected amenities, such as the prevalence of handball and outdoor fitness areas, and the proportion size of sports fields and dog park. • Restrooms Feedback on restrooms was generally positive, especially the location and inclusion of two restrooms in Concept 2. • Parking & access Some commented on parking capacity during peak park usage, questions on continuing to permit street parking, and the location of the parking lot relative to ideal traffic flow.