M
essage from the Administrator
“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt 2020 will certainly be a highlight in the history of the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department. For a Department that manages through the seasons with predictable operational tasks, programming for the thousands, preparing for each new project and following the structure of annual goals to achieve…2020 toppled all our best-laid plans. In reflection, while there were certainly challenges and devastating times related to the pandemic, there were also many moments of realizing a deeper purpose in the work we do for the community we serve. • Witnessing the vital role parks and recreation plays in the health and wellbeing of the community; • Being a source of physical activity for those seeking a chance to breathe fresh air and move; Parks and Recreation Department • Providing mental health relief through music at concerts, a shady tree to Administrator Paula McDevitt sit by or the sound of water while kayaking at Griffy Lake; recognizes business partners at the • Opening facilities for mask-making efforts and delivery of food to children Twin Lakes Sports Park sign learning virtually from home; dedication on Oct. 21, 2020. • Supporting Department team members through personal and family member COVID-19 diagnoses, working through the disappointments of canceled events, adjusting ongoing health regulations, and understanding the importance of virtual communication. Department staff, while separated through remote working and observing strict protocols as essential service providers, worked together every day to keep participants safe and parks open. Master Plan Finding our way forward during the pandemic came through the 2021-2025 Master Plan process which occurred despite the everyday challenges. Through an extensive physical and social inventory and analysis process that included research into best practices, stakeholder and focus group meetings and a record-breaking community interest survey response, the Department has indeed found a way forward. Emerging from the planning process are four major goals which include: • Maintain and enhance the assets and natural resources of the Department • Reinforce activities and programs to positively impact public health, sustainability and climate action • Prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion • Develop administrative and staffing capacity The Master Plan goals will guide our work through achievable strategies and action steps as we emerge from the challenges of COVID-19...setting our standards higher than ever before!
Paula McDevitt Administrator
2020 Bloomington Parks and Recreation Annual Report 1
