August Newsletter

2 adults and a child on a green canoe in the river.

Executive Officer's Report

Staff is excited to kick off the strategic planning process, with a strong focus on engaging board members and key stakeholders around near-term goals and objectives for the Parkway. This collaborative effort will help shape priorities and guide our collective vision moving forward.

The Executive Officer has also been increasing engagement with board members through 1:1 meetings, regular monthly board meetings, and quarterly workshops. Regular and frequent communication will align the vision for the Parkway as we move through this important planning phase.

 

Thank you to our Board members who will be joining us in the office! We welcome you all.

 

Administrative and Contract Developments

  • Submitted the Ball Ranch Operating Agreement amendments to DGS for review.
  • Executed service agreements with certified DVBE and SB vendors for air conditioning and plumbing services, moving Lanes closer to hosting meetings and conferences.
  • Secured signature on the Approval Agreement for the Alternative 5B parking lot project, allowing for the construction of a bathroom and shade structure to be included.
  • Processed and submitted 10 operational agreement invoices through the Fiscal system.
  • City of Fresno passed the resolution to execute the operating agreement for Jensen River Ranch and other Parkway properties.

Property Management and Maintenance Updates

  • Coordinated with DGS on Circle V demolition project management and provided updates to address board member requests.
  • Partnered with Fresno State College Corps to begin intern interviews, organize program duties, and draft duty statements.
  • Submitted reclassification and hiring package for Associate Parks and Recreation Specialist to State Parks HR.
  • Worked with law enforcement to address ongoing property safety concerns.
  • Coordinated with City of Fresno Public Works to align property needs and priority projects with Measure P resources.
  • Submitted River Vista environmental compliance CRUISE request to DGS.
  • Met with the City of Fresno and FAIHP at Jensen River Ranch to discuss irrigation, electrical needs, and removal of abandoned equipment.

 

Celebrating Our People

This summer, we had the pleasure of welcoming Xiena, a dedicated high school student volunteer. Over the course of 45 hours, Xiena supported staff with clerical tasks and took the initiative to design her own outdoor education program. Drawing on research about the history and natural resources of the San Joaquin River, she created an engaging nature walk tailored for children. Her efforts culminated in leading two separate groups of children and parents on guided walks through Wildwood Native Park, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for the river’s natural environment.