Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Brookings public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in parks rec with medium priority
Splash Pad Location
The board will discuss where a new splash pad should be built. The location decision affects which neighborhoods get easy access to this popular summer amenity.
Golf Course Early Bird Rates
The board may vote on early bird rates for the city golf course. Those rates set what golfers pay for the upcoming season, so it matters to your wallet if you play.
E-bike and scooter rules on trails and sidewalks
New city rules now set clear expectations for bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters: pedestrians get the right of way, shared-use trails carry a 15 mph limit, and Class 3 e-bikes, ATVs and dirt bikes are banned from trails. Police will lead with education before enforcement.
2026 Brookings Trails Project
New trail connections near Mickelson Middle School and the Boys and Girls Club, plus maintenance, awarded at a low bid of about $158,000.
5th Street Gym 2027 Expansion
The planned 2027 expansion of the 5th Street Gym was on the tour list if time allowed. The project would add recreation space for the community.
Dwiggins-Medary Skatepark
The skatepark was on the tour route, giving board members a look at current conditions. Skatepark upkeep or improvements could come before the board later.
Golf course and airport sustainability
The golf course gets about 21% of its budget subsidized (roughly $312,000) and the airport about 69% ($209,000 from solid waste plus $59,000 from CIP). With liquor store revenue flat, its transfers to the golf course are drying up — so expect higher golf fees and no youth scholarship program next year.
Dakota Nature Park Public Art Installation
The $250,000 public art project at Dakota Nature Park was finalized on second reading. Councilmembers defended a nationwide artist selection process after a resident again objected to the money going to an out-of-state (Oregon) artist.
Lions Park playground replacement grant
The city will seek a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant to help replace the Lions Park playground with a lion-themed, highly accessible play area, backed by about $170,000 in planned 2027 capital funds.
2026 City Fees for Parks, Recreation, and Golf
Park fees for 2026 are set: cheaper shelter rentals and community gardens, simpler court fees, and a $1-$2 bump on golf greens fees — with discounts if water construction disrupts play. Golf memberships stay flat after pushback.