2015 Where Fun Comes Naturally!
(314) 615 - 4FUN v www.stlouisco.com/parks
Our Mission... St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide high quality parks, facilities, and recreation services that enhance residents’ lives through responsible and effective management of resources.
www.stlouisco.com
Letter from the Director Parks Department Management Gary Bess, Director Tom Ott , Deputy Director Bob Mainieri, Manager of Special Projects Jim Foley, Program Services Manager Jim Gerken, Operations Manager Carolyn Weingaertner, Fiscal Services Manager John Nesbit , Chief Ranger Paul Andrew, Design & Development Group Manager
Parks Department Advisory Board Ernestine Shivers-Jones, Chair Diane Christy
Robert Muckler
Angie Hilzinger
Don Zykan
Gary Otten
Gerry Sander
During this last year, St. Louis County Parks was not only able to complete many maintenance projects that have been on the “to do” list for several years, but we were able to grow and expand with the addition of our newest recreation and aquatic center, The Pavilion at Lemay in Jefferson Barracks Park. These improvements would not have been possible without continued support from our local community through the passage of Proposition P and the commitment of The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership to lead in the development and growth of our community. In collaboration with Laumeier Sculpture Park, Inc., we were also able to complete the construction of the new Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center and the renovation of Laumeier’s 1917 Estate House into the Kranzberg Education Lab. We have also had the opportunity to create some exciting new recreational opportunities for our community such as the new Police Athletic League (PAL) which puts youth in direct contact with police officers who help train and coach them in basketball programs. We have some exciting plans for 2016, including the completion and opening of our first dog park, Tails & Trails in Queeny Park in West St. Louis County and the completion of the ice rink renovation at Kennedy Recreation Complex in South St. Louis County. County Executive Steve Stenger also announced plans for a new state-of-the-art, destination Soccer Park in Creve Coeur Park. The project, set to be completed in fall 2017, will be funded by the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission and will give St. Louis the opportunity to host large regional and national soccer tournaments. Thank you again for your continued support of St. Louis County Parks. We are very proud of the advances we have made in 2015 and are looking forward to a very successful 2016.
Gary Bess Director, Saint Louis County Parks & Recreation (314) 615-7017 GBess@stlouisco.com
2015
Our 6 Community Centers
Engaged and Served More Than
Annual
690,000
Highlights
St. Louisians in 2015: 84,494 Pools/Aquatic Centers 45,682 Meeting Room Rentals 112,595 General Visitation 220,988 Ice Rinks 163,883 Gym/Arena Rentals 66,735 Programs Attendance #:
More Than
391,000
Visitors enjoyed our 77 Shelters for family events, birthday parties, fundraisers, etc.
We work to communicate with our community in a variety of ways:
1,633,498 Web Views 51,735 Facebook Fans
3,200 Instagram Followers 3,600 E-Newsletter Subscribers 20,000 Printed Activity Guides 29,175 Online Activity Guide Impressions
115
Weddings
202,301
were held in St. Louis County Parks
Attended an event held in a St. Louis County Park Visits to our
7
71 Parks Miles of 145 Trails 41Playgrounds
1.3 Million Historic & Cultural Sites
589 18 7
Acres of Lakes Parks on Local Rivers Boat Ramps
99 Multi-Purpose Athletic Fields 12,722 Total Acres
Museum Visits at Jefferson Barracks Park
2015 Annual Report â—? www.stlouisco.com
Parks Staff
P
arks staff work tirelessly year-round to keep our parks, recreation centers and museums in tip-top condition; this year was no exception. Through the hiring of new individuals, we were able to expand and improve upon our programs, facilities, trails, waterways and green space. We are sad to see employees go who dedicated a large part of their working years to the St. Louis County Parks Department, but we look forward to growing with our new employees.
New Hires Carolyn Bailey Accountant III Administration
Stan Motley Maintenance Supervisor St. Vincent Community Center
Gary Bess Parks Director
Diane Pfeiffer Secretary Greensfelder Rec. Complex
Steven Dengler Bldg. System Mechanic Trades
James Prater Bldg. System Specialist St. Vincent Community Center
Marrine Hardison Secretary North County Rec. Complex
Ryan Schmitt Bldg. Maitenance Specialist Pavilion at Lemay
Sally Landeck Dispatcher Rangers
Linda Shuster Secretary Pavilion at Lemay
Nick Lang Maintenance Supervisor Laumeier
Robert Smith Material Inventory Supervisor Administration
Matthew Lindow Maintenance Driver II/Grading Trades
Mike Venso Museum Curator Jefferson Barracks Historic Site
Bob Mainieri Special Projects Manager Administration
Promotions • Marvin Anderson, Complex Manager St. Vincent Community Center • Charles Moore, Maintenance Supervisor Sioux Passage • David Miller, Maintenance Worker I Laumeier • Connor Reuter, Recreation Supervisor Kennedy Recreation Complex • Dan Gonzales, Historian Administration • Ryan Schmitt, Building Maintenance Specialist Pavilion at Lemay • Alex Bonner, Maintenance Worker I Jefferson Barracks Park • Rex DeNoyer, Building Maintenance Worker Pavilion at Lemay • George Heege, Maintenance Worker II West Tyson • Matt Lindow, Maintenance Drive Lead Trades • Tanya Long, Maintenance Worker I Jefferson Barracks Park • Ken Callahan, Maintenance Worker I Spanish Lake Park • Mark Manning, Maintenance Worker I Greensfelder Park
Retirements • Esley Hamilton, Historian 35 Years
• Ron Pogue, Maintenance Worker I Lone Elk Park • Charles Ulmer, Maintenance Worker I Creve Coeur Park
• Bud Spindler, Trades 33 Years • Keith Goldacker, Rangers 33 Years • Keith Ehlen, Museum of Transportation 27 Years • Pat Trower, St. Vincent Community Center 25 Years • Ronnie Williams, St. Vincent Community Center 18 Years • Pat Campbell, Jefferson Barracks Park 15 Years • George Herzing, Jefferson Barracks Park 15 Years
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Activities, Attractions & Events
W
e take great pride in being the regional park system for St. Louis County, and we are always striving to offer new and unique outings for individuals and families. The St. Louis County Parks programming staff work very hard to provide a variety of year-round activities and events for the surrounding communities. Our activities range from Parks Food Truck Fest and summer camps, to the annual JB Blast!
ATTENDANCE NUMBERS FEAST in the Park
28,190
Faust Summer Concert Series
22,350
JB Blast
9,000
Art Fair at Laumeier
8,854
WWII Weekend (Jefferson Barracks)
7,500
Harvest Festival (Laumeier)
4,344
Hayrides (various)
3,187
Heritage Festival (Faust)
2,712
Adult Egg Hunt (Jefferson Barracks)
1,710
Suson Farm Fridays
922
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By the Numbers
26 couples “popped the question” at Winter Wonderland.
10,700 A record number of guests attended Winter Wonderland Walk.
5.7
The lights and displays at Winter Wonderland require 5.7 miles of extenstion cords
21,151 89,860
Despite being closed a week early due to flooding, more than 89,800 people drove through Winter Wonderland at Tilles Park.
The carriage rides offered by Brookdale Farms is always a popular holiday tradition with 21,151 people seeing the lights in this unique way.
825
Parks staff have designed, built and upkeep 825 separate light displays.
2015 Annual Report ● www.stlouisco.com
9 Keeping lights sturdy and in their place takes more than 9 miles of zip cords.
550
To keep the lights twinkling and set to music, the staff run 550 light control channels.
30
It takes 30 full-time and seasonal staff to set up for Winter Wonderland each year.
Parks Volunteers
S
t. Louis County Parks relies heavily on our volunteers to help maintain beautiful county parks and facilities. In 2015, volunteers contributed 114,141 total hours with a total value wage of $2,628,719 to County Parks. Many of our gardening projects and most of our trail maintenance projects would not be completed without the efforts of our amazing volunteers who work year-round.
Special Thanks to Our Partners •
St. Louis County Parks has an ongoing partnership with Gateway Off-Road Cyclists (GORC) volunteers who help us design, build and maintain our trails. GORC leads every Trail Crew event that we have.
•
Thank you to the National Charity LeagueSt. Louis Chapter, the Open Space CouncilSt. Louis Region, Gateway SERVE, Gateway Region YMCA, Lafayette High School Key Club, Chaminade College Prep, St. Louis Audubon Society, St. Louis University, St. Louis Community College-Meramec, AmeriCorps-NCCC, Brentwood High School, Holman Middle School, Junior League of St. Louis, Lutheran High School North, Mehlville Schools, Notre Dame High School, Parkway West High School, Washington University and Webster University for their continued support.
•
Thank you to the Missouri Botanical Garden and the University of Missouri Extension St. Louis Master Gardeners Program which help us recruit experienced gardening volunteers.
•
Thank you to our corporate sponsors which include Edward Jones, Liberty Mutual and Spectrum Brands.
Volunteer Hours and Value (in U.S. Dollars) 2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
97,735
103,681
103,714
115,447
115,901
114,441
$2,037,775
$2,214,626
$2,259,928
$2,555,997
$2,612,181
$2,628,719
Our Volunteers Do It All! We have volunteer opportunities for all ages, talents and interests! From gardening to trail maintenance and museum attendants to honeysuckle removal, we truly have something for everyone. Some of the volunteer positions we are typically looking to fill include: > Trail Crew > Museum Attendants > Trail Watch > Gardening > Honeysuckle removal > Farm Hands > Interns for various educational focuses For more information, contact us at (314) 615-8865 or email sbell@stlouisco.com
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Park Rangers
S
t. Louis County Park Rangers are responsible for public relations, protection and programming in the parks. With 71 parks, six recreational facilities and seven historic and cultural sites, our Park Rangers have a big job. Last year our department employed 23 full-time rangers, 4 part-time rangers, 3 ranger aids and 3 dispatchers. Along with keeping our visitors, waterways and trails safe, the Park Rangers also create and implement a wide variety of educational programs. These year-round classes are offered at little or no cost.
Popular Ranger Programs » Creve Coeur After Hours » Night in the Wild Campout » Full Moon Bike/Walk/Paddle » Team Challenge / Alpine Tower » Archery Lessons » Caving » Hikes & Dog Walks » Outdoor Skills » Fish Camps » Scout Badge Programs » Hayrides Summons for Ordinance Violations (194)
188
The Educational Programs that were provided by our Rangers were
3,800 people and brought in almost $32,400 in attended by more than revenue.
Many of our programs are only made possible due to the generosity and dedication of valued partners. A big thank you to our following partners:
Safety Statistics Traffic Citations Issued (276) Written Reports (537)
»
Alpine Shop
»
Creve Coeur Lake Rentals
»
Great Rivers Greenway
»
Missouri Department of Conservation
»
South County Archers
»
National Recreation & Park Association
2015 Annual Report ● www.stlouisco.com
Laumeier Sculpture Park Completes Construction of New Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center On June 30, 2015, Laumeier Sculpture Park announced that it completed construction of the new Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center. The architecturally significant, 7,500-square-foot building doubles the Park’s capacity for indoor programs and events. “The Aronson Fine Arts Center is a milestone among the many noteworthy improvements bringing fresh energy to the Park this year,” said Marilu Knode, Laumeier’s Executive Director. “We are incredibly excited to use this beautiful facility to expand the cultural offerings of St. Louis County and the entire region.” Laumeier celebrated the construction’s completion with a grand opening on July 2, where 150 guests were among the first to experience the new space. In October, guests were able to enjoy its first two public exhibitions, Raqs Media Collective: If the World is a Fair Place Then… and Zlatko Ćosić + Ashley McQueen: Harmony in 3, the 2015 Kranzberg Exhibition Series. Other recent and ongoing developments at Laumeier include the newly renovated Kranzberg Education Lab for learning opportunities, a new public plaza, an expanded event rentals program and a refreshed brand identity, featuring a new logo and website.
Laumeier Sculpture Park operates in partnership with St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department. St. Louis County is the single largest contributor to the Sculpting the Future Capital Campaign with its investment of $3 million for the construction of the new Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center and the renovation of Laumeier’s 1917 Estate House into the Kranzberg Education Lab. The $4 million Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center is the centerpiece of Laumeier’s $10 million Sculpting the Future Capital Campaign. Named in honor of a co-founder of the Park and designed by Trivers Associates, St. Louis, the building provides a compelling contrast to Laumeier’s historical buildings. The Aronson enables Laumeier to grow its presence as a national and international leader in contemporary arts programming. The barn-style shape of the building provides maximum flexibility for artist experimentation inside the large gallery. The metal roof stands out in contrast to the cedar wood siding, which was selected to help the building blend into the surrounding landscape. Uniquely shaped “fins” on the exterior block direct morning sunlight from hitting the gallery walls inside, while the glazed windows allow for views into the gallery from the outside. The Aronson will serve as the new public focal point of the Park, featuring a large indoor gallery, reception area, collections storage, conservation space and event facilities.
“This year, Laumeier celebrated the most significant period of growth in the organization’s history,” said Knode.
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Recreation Centers
O
ur six recreation centers are a vital part of St. Louis County Parks. They provide our residents with programs, activities and amenities that promote an active lifestyle. Due to the positive impact these facilities have on the community, the Parks Department works hard to keep them up-to-date and in great shape for visitors. Our staff works diligently to ensure that we are constantly providing new and great programming to help keep our residents active and healthy.
Amenities - Pools / Aquatic Centers - Fitness Classes - Free Weights - Fitness Machines - Indoor Tracks - Basketball / Volleyball Courts - Multi-purpose Rooms - Meeting Rooms - Large Event Spaces - Pickleball Courts - Dance Classes - Day Camps - Swimming Lessons - Special Events - Educational Classes - Ice Rinks - Party Room Rentals - Tot Care
✳ North County Recreation Complex Veterans Memorial Park 2577 Redman Road * St. Louis, MO 63136
✳ St. Vincent Community Center
St. Vincent Park 7335 St. Charles Rock Rd. * St. Louis, MO 63133
✳ Affton White-Rodgers Community Center ✳ The Pavilion at Lemay 9801 Mackenzie Road * St. Louis, MO 63123
Jefferson Barracks Park 305 Gregg Road * St. Louis, MO 63125
✳ Kennedy Recreation Complex ✳ Greensfelder Recreation Complex 6050 Wells Road * St. Louis, MO 63128
Queeny Park 550 Weidman Road * St. Louis, MO 63011
2015 Annual Report ● www.stlouisco.com
Cultural & Historic Sites T
he St. Louis Carousel in Faust Park had another great year due to the hardwork and dedication of the staff. The resulting revenue gains are being re-invested back into the building to continue with the remodeling of the interior space. This year we removed the carpeting and replaced it with a stained concrete floor giving the floor a polished granite appearance. With the new lighting, painting and changes to the gift shop, we are booking more large events including weddings and receptions. The space can accommodate up to 350 guests outside and up to 200 guests inside for weddings and receptions.
L
aumeier’s 2015 Summer Art Camps experienced their most successful year to date with more than 750 registrations—a 14% increase from 2014. Laumeier offers one-week sessions of Summer Art Camp for ages 4 to 15. Campers learn about artists throughout history, explore Laumeier’s woodland trails and find inspiration in the artworks on view for drawing, painting, sculpting and more!
D
uring 2015, almost 150,000 visitors to the Museum of Transportation were able to see wonderful additions to and restorations in one of the world’s largest heritage transportation collections. These included vehicles built in St. Louis before the Great Depression and locomotives professionally restored by a Class I railroad. With over a dozen car shows, an opportunity to photograph the Museum’s railroad collection at night and facility rentals for weddings, business meetings and family events, the Museum of Transportation was a popular destination in 2015.
I
n 2015, the Historic Village at Faust Park held its popular Heritage Festival and hosted many school children visiting on field trips. Park staff continues to work on the restoration of the Village; the Spanish Lake Blacksmith Shop opened in September 2015 and the Fenton General Store will be completed in 2016.
F
ort Belle Fontaine was placed on the National Register in 2015. The effort to do so was spearheaded by the Friends of Fort Belle Fontaine who did a large amount of primary research and submitted the first drafts. Many Parks History staff members participated in the work as well, including Dan Gonzales, Esley Hamilton, Janet Wilzbach, Mike Venso, Mike Kladky and JD Magurany. A section of property that contains the grounds of the 1809-10 fort, constructed by Lt. Colonel Daniel Bissell at Fort Belle Fontaine, was transferred by the State of Missouri to St. Louis County Parks in 2015. The original Fort Belle Fontaine grounds contain the St. Louis County Park, a State of Missouri Department of Youth Services Facility and a City of St. Louis Canine Training Area. State Senator Regina Walsh’s Bill 435, which was handled by State Representative Tommie Pierson, was signed by Governor Jay Nixon in August of 2015. The Governor’s signature allowed Office of Administration to proceed with the land conveyance to St. Louis County in the Fall. We cannot offer enough gratitude to Sen Walsh and Rep Pierson for their tremendous effort in this regard. It is of benefit to the citizens of Missouri, our district and the park.
T
he General Daniel Bissell House in North St. Louis County received new shutters on the 1812-19 section of the building. These shutters, approved by the Historic Buildings Commission, were installed by the St. Louis County Parks carpenters.
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Completed Projects
T
he Design and Development Group (DDG) is the Parks professional design and project management staff assigned to deliver capital improvements and facility and park site renovations. DDG Projects include those funded by appropriated funds as well through funded projects with partners. This group also performs land use agreement support and permanent easement review and administration for work in Parks.
During 2015, DDG produced a total of 19 bid packages for Park Projects for bids or proposals totaling $5.36mil. These included 15 formal Invitation to Bids, three Request for Quotes and one Request for Proposal. Contract awarded amount in 2015 totaled $3.58mil for completion of projects that will carry-over into 2016. During 2015, the DDG managed the following projects awarded for contract work via the County procurement system:
Playground Surface Replacement at Clydesdale Park
New Shelter dedicated to the Smith Family at Queeny Park
Roof Replacement at Faust Park – Visitor Center (historic Seeds Carriage House)
Bohrer Park Ballfield Drainage Improvements
Connection of the Forestry facility at Queeny Park to the public sewer system
Sodding and Irrigation system for the new Queeny Park dog park, Tails and Trails
Renovation projects for Kennedy Recreation Complex including new Fire Alarm system, new ice rink and new HVAC system
Kennedy Pool system repairs
Sanitary Sewer Lift Station Replacement for the Creve Coeur Athletic Field Restroom
Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair at Love Park
HVAC system replacement at Jefferson Barracks Old Ordnance Building
Demolition of a former clubhouse at Creve Coeur Park / Lou Fusz Soccer Complex
Parks Partnerships DDG staff assisted in opening the new $17mil Pavilion at Lemay in Jefferson Barracks Park, by working through the funding partner, St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, and park staff to gain occupancy permits and towards acceptance of work by the Contractor. This resulted in opening the pool for its initial season, and gaining correction of deficiencies required to open the facility. Parks DDG provided services for the partnership with Laumeier Sculpture Park, Inc. the not-for-profit friends group, to open the new $4mil Adam Aaronson Fine Arts Center in 2015. This effort with the friends group completed the five year $5mil capital investment program, which included a $1mil renovation to the Estate House in this Park. The new $3.5mil aquatic facility at North County Recreation Complex in Veterans Memorial Park, opened for a short time at the end of the 2014 pool season, was completed and accepted for the 2015 season. In 2015, through coordination with our regional trail development partner, Great Rivers Greenways, a greater equity was sought in trail development project planning and funding allocations using revenue collected in St. Louis County for county trail projects. Moving forward with design in 2016 with completion starting in 2017 and beyond were project developments assigned to DDG for the following:
McKelvey Woods PH II Trail connecting Creve Coeur Park with Maryland Heights
Mississippi Rivers Trail within Cliff Cave Park
River Des Peres Phase IV connection through Lemay Park
Maline Creek Greenway development in Bella Fontaine Park to include replacement of three pedestrian bridges
Gravois Creek Greenway for Grants Trail
2015 Annual Report ● www.stlouisco.com
In moving towards a 2016 Master Plan and Benchmarking Study for park needs and services, County Parks gained a commitment from the Great Rivers Greenways to share in the cost of the $500,000 Master Plan. DDG will project manage this plan, expected to be completed in 2017. Easement / Lease Responses and Requests The DDG responds to requests by outside agencies and developers as well as internal projects to provide utility extensions / replacements in County Parks. The following is a listing of such actions in 2015: •
Various: Planning and reviews are in progress for several projects with MSD including Pump Station Elimination within Jefferson Barracks County Park, Deer Creek within Deer Creek Park (leased to Webster Groves and Maplewood), Baumgartner Waste Water Treatment Plant connection in Suson Park, Broadway Dammert Relief Sewer
T
he division of Natural Resources within the Department of Parks and Recreation is responsible for providing for the health, inspiration and education of the people of St. Louis County by helping to preserve the County’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Park staff are continually working to manage and maintain our beautiful prairies, woodlands, savannas and wetlands while also battling invasive species such as honeysuckle throughout the parks system.
NATURAL RESOURCES PROJECTS •
Back to Nature at Queeny Park (Missouri Department of Conservation Grant)
- Volunteers Planted 3,325 native trees and shrubs
- Park staff created a series of connected wetlands
- Park staff planted 450 wetland plants donated by the Shaw Nature Reserve
- Park staff continue to battle invasive species through the growing season •
Mallard Lake Habitat Restoration at Creve Coeur Park (joint grants from the Missouri Department of Conservation and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service)
- Project will convert lawn to prairie, savanna and woodlands while creating various pollinator gardens along the trail
- Honeysuckle removed by St. Louis Audubon Society volunteers during two seperate events
- 220 trees were planted by St. Louis Audubon Society volunteers
- Park staff chemically treated lawn grasses to prepare the site for a prairie planting
- Project Partners include the St. Louis Audubon Society, Forest Re-Leaf, Wild Ones and Missouri Master Naturalists
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A Place for the Lemay Community to Call Their Own
T
he idea for a recreation facility in Lemay, Missouri was born in 2006. When it was realized that there was a need for fitness and recreation options in that area of South St. Louis County, St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department sought to find a way to fulfill the need.
The Aquatic Center, which is arguably The Pavilion’s best quality, features a lazy river, diving board, deepwater pool with a slide, diving platform, climbing wall, lap lanes, tot area and a play structure.During the summer of 2015, the aquatic center averaged more than 525 guests per day.
“There was essentially a 10-mile diameter dead zone of fitness centers,” said Recreation Complex Manager Michael Biedenstein. “We were excited to be able to serve this community.”
Even though The Pavilion has experienced a large number of visitors, St. County Parks wanted to ensure that the facility was made available to a wider range of residents, and this was made possible through the Community Eligibility Program (CEP). The CEP allows for children who qualify for the Free and Reduced Lunch program at local schools to obtain a free pool pass. During the summer of 2015, over 400 children benefited from the program.
A Development Assistance Committee made up of community leaders and St. Louis County Parks staff engaged Lemay residents to get input on where the community center should be located and what amenities and programs it should provide. An aquatic center or pool was at the top of the request list after community meetings and surverys. A new pool had not been built in the South County community since the opening of the Kennedy Recreation Complex in 1976. Once plans were created, County leaders worked to identify the appropriate funding sources to make the community’s vision become reality. With assistance from the St. Louis Economic Partnership, the County Port Authority, Pinnacle Entertainment and River City Casino, St. Louis County Parks was able to move forward with building a state-of-the-art facility and aquatic center. The Pavilion at Lemay opened to the public on May 23, 2015 and in just seven months, welcomed over 90,000 patrons through its doors. With such staggering numbers, it is apparent that the Lemay community has greatly benefitted from this new addition. “We are reallly proud of this facility and what it offers,“ said Biedenstein. “I think it is really cool that we are able to fill the void that was here in St. Louis County, and it’s obviously giving people healthy recreation options.” With a 8,400-square-foot multipurpose athletic center, fitness equipment, a walking track, weights, and space for fitness classes, The Pavilion is a great place to get fit, but its an even better place to have fun.
“We think its really important that all Lemay residents have the opportunity to visit their local recreation center,” said Gary Bess, Director of St. Louis County Parks and Recreation. “The CEP not only opens our doors to more families but it helps to give kids a safe place to be over the summer.” Another benefit of The Pavilion has been the positive economic impact the community has experienced. In its first year, The Pavilion was able to hire about 70 employees, many of them from the Lemay area who are able to walk to work. In addition to the aquatic center and the fitness center, The Pavilion offers a variety of programs including fitness classes, pre-school storytelling, martial arts, meeting rooms, summer camps, large fundraising events and educational speaker series, just to name a few. Free walking is also offered on the indoor track Monday through Friday from 9 - 10 a.m and the facility is excited to be one of four other St. Louis County facilities that will taking part in the Silver Sneakers program beginning in August 2016. “This has really been a joint effort between the County and the local community,“ said Biedenstein. “Its really exciting to see the residents of Lemay utilizing and enjoying this place that they can truly call their own.”
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New Foundation Established to Support St. Louis County Parks In 2015, a long-time dream of the Parks Department at last came to fruition; a new foundation was established to help support local County parks and facilities. The St. Louis County Parks Foundation, led by local businessman, Mark Ohlendorf, has pledged to support and promote the facilities, programs, capital improvements and resources of the St. Louis County Department of Parks and Recreation and to assist in the futherance of the objectives of the Department. The original idea for the new foundation came from Tom Ott, then acting director now assistant director of the St. Louis County Parks Department and was an unfinished objective of the department’s 2000 Parks Master Plan. Parks senior staff members worked with Ohlendorf to develop the new Foundation, put a Board into place and got all of the correct paperwork in order. A celebratory kick-off event was held at Tilles Park on Wednesday, July 15 where the new foundation debuted a replacement fountain, with new LED lights, as the first step towards its goal. The Ohlendorf family has a long history with the Parks Department. Howard Ohlendorf donated land and money to the County in the 1960s to establish two parks: Ohlendorf West Park in West County and Ohlendorf Park in South County. He also donated the St. Louis Carousel which is located in Faust Park in Chesterfield. “My father was very passionate about making sure that there was green space for St. Louis County residents to enjoy,” said Ohlendorf. “He was especially concerned about West County, which was being developed very quickly at the time.” “As a department that is 65 years old and continuing to grow each year, it was really time for us to take the lead from other departments throughout the United States and develop a Parks Foundation,” stated Ott. “Our Parks System really is a jewel in the St. Louis area that is enjoyed by not only residents but visitors as well. We have a vision for our St. Louis County Parks that will help us progress to the top echelon of park systems and make our residents and community proud to be a part of St. Louis County. This new foundation will help provide the funds that can make our dreams a reality.” In addition to Ohlendorf, board members include Robert Hall, a former director of St. Louis County Parks; T. Frank “Toby” James III, operations manager of Lewis and Associates, P.C.; Ginny McCook, a master gardener and on the members’ board of the Missouri Botanical Garden; Susan Poling, retired senior planner with the Parks Department; Faye Edwards, walking activist and program developer for the North County Community Development Corporation; attorney Joseph Neimann; David Boudinet, director of project management; and Elizabeth Sedlock, founder of Sedlock Brand Marketing. Ohlendorf said the first project of the foundation – the Tilles fountain – honors his father. “My dad had given fountains to the county parks years ago but they’ve worn out or broken, and the county had no money to repair them,” he said. A list of needed improvements has been developed and the Foundation will be working with Gary Bess, Parks Director, and Park staff to develop long-range goals. Ott said his department already has identified more than $40 million in improvements and repairs that need to be made to the parks system. “We want to not just take care of infrastructure needs but also have the foundation focus on new, fun things the public would like to see in the parks,” stated Ott. The Foundation has already started working towards that goal by installing new “Expression Swings” at four County Parks which allow children and adults to swing together. They are also researching the idea of adding Family Play Trails to some parks. These trails would feature several stations that include fitness equipment for the adults and playground equipment for the kids. To donate to this foundation or for additional information, please visit the Foundation’s website at www.stlcountyparksfoundation.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation.
Looking Ahead Dog Park at Queeny Park Saint Louis County Parks is excited to be opening its first Dog Park located inside Queeny Park in West St. Louis County. The new Dog Park will feature separate fenced in areas for small and large breed dogs as well as an area for special events. Other features include WiFi, spray features, an agility course and a covered pavilion. There will also be the opportunity for the community to purchase bricks on a memorial walkway to honor those furry friends who have passed. Space will be available to rent for private training events, special events such as doggie birthday parties. Tails & Trails will open in Spring 2016. A Dog Park has consistently been on the community’s “wish list” and we are very excited to offer this new destination to all of our four-legged friends in St. Louis County.
Soccer Complex in Creve Coeur Park St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger, along with County Council Members and the Convention and Visitors Commission, announced the first phase of development of a state-of- the-art, destination soccer complex in Creve Coeur Park. The complex, currently targeted to open in Fall 2017, will feature 13 lighted artificial turf fields, a championship field with permanent seating for up to 500, a main building with locker rooms, and a satellite facility with restrooms and concessions. The complex will also feature 2 smaller, youthsized fields. This $14 million project will be funded by the Convention and Visitor’s Commission. Projections indicate that when fully operational the complex will generate an estimated $7.7 million yearly in economic impact to the St. Louis County region.
Kennedy Recreation Complex Renovations A big project on the Parks “to do” list was to update the 40-year old Kennedy Recreation Complex. Repairs needed include updating pool code requirements on the 50 meter flat water pool system and fixing a leak that required staff to add 7-12 inches of water per day during the pool season. The original fire alarm system will also be replaced to current Fire Codes for emergency responders, and improvements will be made to the available fire suppression system for code compliance and operational reliability. The original HVAC System will be converted from an all-electric facility to electric and gas powered units to condition Recreation Complex indoor spaces, and adding dehumidification and ventilation improvements to the arena which is used as an ice skating rink in the winter and event programming the remainder of the year. Renovations will also include full replacement of the original ice rink, accessories and mechanical equipment, with a more efficient refrigerant. Visitors to the Kennedy Recreation Complex will also experience a new front entrance walkway and vehicle drop off, to include a round-a-bout and disabled user access. All aspects of the project are projected to be completed by October 1, 2016.
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Gold Star Pavilion Opens in Jefferson Barracks Park In summer 2015, the Missouri Military Memorial Foundation (MMMF), a 501c3 organization that was formed in 2010 to create a monument to Missouri citizens killed in the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, announced that it would be donating a new shelter to be built inside Jefferson Barracks Park. The announcement was made by their current president, Chris Andrews, the mother of Lemay resident Sgt. Amanda Pinson, killed in action in 2006 in Tikrit, Iraq. St. Louis County Parks staff broke ground and began construction of the Gold Star Pavilion on September 4 and a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate completion was held on May 9. The 30’ x 40’ poligon-designed structure cost approximately $150,000 and is just the first phase of a two-phase project the MMMF has planned to honor those who have lost their lives in duty in Iraq or Afghanistan. The second phase will include the installation of five granite stars with details on all of the conflicts and the names of local heroes who lost their lives. “Our hope is that the pavilion and the monuments will draw visitors to this area of Jefferson Barracks Park and encourage them to tour the area,” said Andrews. “We believe its important that our community becomes familiar with their local heroes and why they were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.” The estimated cost of the monuments is $500,000. The organization will use the shelter to host fundraising events to meet this financial goal to complete the project. The pavilion can also be utilized by the general public and can be reserved on our website at www.stlouisco.com/parks.
Cavalry Exhibit Brings History to Life On March 7, 2015, the team at Jefferson Barracks Park opened a new exhibition inside the Old Ordnance Room entitled “Courageous and Faithful: The Cavalry at Jefferson Barracks.” The exhibit, that took months to plan and construct, not only educates visitors on the history of the American Cavalry but lets them explore and learn in very unique ways. The United States Cavalry was born at Jefferson Barracks, and its purpose was to conquer the American Frontier. The men who joined became the vanguard of westward expansion. This exhibit explores the contributions of the mounted troops at Jefferson Barracks, and the role they played in bringing about the settlement of the western half of the nation. The 1,500 square foot gallery space is filled with powerful artifacts including: a Grimsley saddle used by the earliest cavalry soldiers, an army issue Buffalo Coat used by cavalry troops in cold climates and a Sioux war club given by Chief Red Cloud himself to an Indian Agent. In addition, visitors are able to engage with hands-on activities, videos, and touch screen interactives while discovering anew why St. Louis is truly the Gateway to the West. In early 2017, Jefferson Barracks Historic Site will open a new exhibition in the Old Ordnance Room commemorating the contributions of America, Missouri and St. Louis soldiers during World War I. The exhibit will coincide with the centennial of the United States preparations and entry into the “Great War”.
2015 Annual Report ● www.stlouisco.com
Department Financials 2015 Revenue Sources GAAP Basis (unaudited)
● Sales Tax - Prop P (23.1%) ● Property Tax (38.2%) ● Metro Parks Sales Tax (14.3%) ● Rents & Concessions (6.3%) ● Parks & Recreation Charges (3.7%) ● Other Revenue (1.5%) ● Other Revenue Debt Service (3.7%) ● Investment Earnings (0.3%) ● From Fund Balance (8.9%)
2015 Expenditures Budget Basis (unaudited)
● Salaries (40.6%) ● Fringes (16.7%) ● Purchased Services (12.8%) ● Commodities (5.8%) ● Personal Allowances (0.2%) ● Other Expenses (5.0%) ● Transfer Payments (14.6%) ● Capital Allowances (4.3%)
2016 Budgeted Revenue Sources Sales Tax (Prop P) Property Tax
2016 Budgeted Expenditures
$7,114,440 (23.1%)
Salaries
$12,535,941 (40.8%)
$11,737,451 (38.2%)
Fringes
$5,623,639 (18.3%)
Purchased Services
$5,227,956 (17.0%)
Metro Parks Sales Tax
$4,403,100 (14.3%)
Rents & Concessions
$1,945,569 (6.3%)
Commodities
Parks & Recreation Charges
$1,135,236 (3.7%)
Personal Allowances
Other Revenue Other Revenue - Debt Service Investment Earnings From Fund Balance TOTAL
$461,900 (1.5%)
$2,660,256 (8.7%) $87,264 (0.3%)
Other Expenses
$1,888,597 (6.1%)
$1,127,138 (3.7%)
Transfer Payments
$1,418,996 (4.6%)
$80,847 (0.3%)
Capital Allowances
$1,302,991 (4.2%)
$2,739,999 (8.9%)
TOTAL
$30,745,640
$30,745,640
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Saint Louis County Parks & Recreation Administrative Offices 41 S. Central Avenue, 7th Floor Clayton, Missouri 63105
(314) 615-4FUN | www.stlouisco.com/parks