Community Engagement

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) understands that engaging and involving the public is critical to the success of future park and recreational facilities, programs, and services. To that end, the MPRB strives to involve the Minneapolis community in fulfilling our stated mission and vision to 2020.

Community Engagement
The MPRB has amended the MPRB Code of Ordinances and approved a new policy on community engagement to provide consistent practice in working and communicating with Minneapolis residents and park users. The policy specifically addresses community engagement in the planning and development of projects budgeted within the Capital Improvement Program . This effort aligns with goals and strategies outlined in the 2007-2020 MPRB Comprehensive Plan and the priorities of the Board of Commissioners.

Background on Policy Development
Various community outreach and research methods were used to gather opinion from the community in development of the policy. Individuals and community groups were invited to share their thoughts though an online survey, public meetings, focus group discussions, and print questionnaires available at recreation centers. Staff interviewed residents at community events such as neighborhood socials, movies, and concerts in the parks.

Feedback from community members, MPRB staff, and the Board of Commissioners was analyzed and incorporated into a draft policy. Draft versions of the ordinance and policy were released for a 45 day public comment and review period in 2011. An online comment form, print copies in all recreation centers, including a series of public meetings outlining policy details provided residents and parks users an opportunity to provide additional feedback. Suggested improvements were incorporated into the amended ordinance and policy and approved by the Board of Commissioners in November 2011.