SUBJECT:
Title
OSTAB Annual Work Plan Discussion
Department
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
Presenter
PRESENTER(S): Luke Bolinger, Director of Parks & Recreation
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Time
TIME ESTIMATE: 30 minutes
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Fis
Body
SUMMARY/KEY POINTS
The purpose of this memo is to provide a draft annual work plan framework for OSTAB’s review and discussion. Establishing a predictable annual rhythm allows the Board to focus on strategic priorities, align with budget cycles, receive regular development updates, and ensure proactive oversight of land acquisition and stewardship initiatives.
A clearly defined work plan also sets expectations for Board members, staff, and the public regarding when key discussions will occur. It reduces reactive agenda setting, supports more meaningful preparation, and helps ensure that meetings are strategic rather than transactional. When the Board knows in advance when budget conversations, acquisition strategy reviews, or annual reporting will occur, members can prepare more thoughtfully and engage at a higher policy level.
In addition, a structured work plan improves transparency and accountability. It provides a roadmap for tracking progress on Trails and Natural Area Fund (TNAF) investments, land acquisition priorities, trail connectivity goals, and stewardship outcomes. It also helps staff sequence presentations and decision points in a way that aligns with fiscal deadlines, development cycles, and Council expectations.
This draft is intended to create structure while maintaining flexibility for emerging issues, referrals, and Council direction. Development applications, acquisition opportunities, requested project updates, and policy matters will continue to be incorporated as needed, but within a predictable governance framework.
Additional questions for members to consider:
• Should OSTAB hold one standing annual joint meeting with another board or commission to improve cross-board coordination?
• Should OSTAB schedule one formal field tour per year to review recent acquisitions, restoration sites, and future acquisition targets? A late summer tour often provides the best visibility of projects in progress.
• Does OSTAB wish to establish a clearer standard for canceling meetings when there are no action items or substantive updates? One option is to maintain 10-11 meetings annually, with cancellation occurring only when there are no development referrals, no action items, and no strategic updates requiring discussion.
Staff will finalize the remaining 2026 work plan for adoption at the July meeting.
priorities
attachments
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Town of Erie Open Space and Trails Advisory Board DRAFT Work Plan