HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Committees - Parks & Recreation Commission - 09/28/2022KENT
Item Description
Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda
Commissioners: Chair Jennifer Ritchie, Vice -Chair Kristie Duggan
Director: Julie Parascondola, CPRE
Deputy Director: Brian Levenhagen, CPRP
September 28 2022
5:30 p.m.
To listen to the meeting call
1-888-475-4499 or 1-877-853-5257
And enter Meeting ID 841 1657 1953
1. Roll Call / Call to order
Action Speaker Time
- Chair Ritchie 01
2.
Changes to the Agenda
-
Chair Ritchie
01
3.
Approve Minutes Summary dated July
YES
Chair Ritchie
01
27, 2022
4.
November / December Meetings
YES
Parascondola
05
5.
Volunteer Opportunities
NO
Parascondola
10
6.
2023-2024 Budget
NO
Parascondola
60
7.
Director/Commission Updates
NO
All
10
8.
Adjournment
NO
Chair Ritchie
01
The public may submit written public comments that relate to a commission agenda item by emailing:
cityclerk@kentwa.gov by 3:30 p.m. on the day of this commission meeting. After 3:30 p.m., written public
comments may only be submitted in person by presenting them to the committee secretary at the public
meeting. Written public comments that do not relate to a commission agenda item are not permitted. Written
public comments are not read into the record.
Unless otherwise noted, the Parks and Recreation Commission meets at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday
of each month at Kent City Hall, Chambers
220 Fourth Avenue South, Kent 98032.
Any person requiring a disability accommodation should contact the City Clerk's Office at 253-
856-5725 in advance. For TDD relay service, call Washington Telecommunications Relay Service
at 7-1-1.
Parks and Recreation Commission
Meeting Minutes
Approval Pending
Date: July 27, 2022
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Place: Kent City Hall Chambers
Kent, Washington
Attending: Chair Jennifer Ritchie, Vice -Chair Kristie Duggan, Elizabeth Carter,
Kathleen Meehan, Matthew Morgan, Michael J. Javelli, Richard Minutoli,
Sarah Veele, Scott Taylor, Taek Kim
Director Julie Parascondola
Absent: Edith Gonzalez, Roberto Arellano, Jr, Stuart Chapman
1. Call to Order/Roll Call:
Commission Chair Ritchie called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
2. Changes to Agenda:
None
3. Approve Minutes dated May 25, 2022:
Approved
4. Update on Earthworks/Mill Creek and East Hill North Parks master
planning processes:
Q&A occurred. No actions or decisions were made.
5. 2023-2024 Budget Process:
Q&A occurred. No actions or decisions were made.
6. Kent Parks Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Plan:
Director Parascondola shared a Request For Proposal (RFP) handout titled
"Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Plan (CRSP)" with the commission Q&A
occurred. No actions or decisions were made.
7. Kent Parks Marketing and Community Engagement Update:
Director Parascondola shared with the Commission a Powerpoint presentation
titled "Kent Parks, Recreation and Community Services Marketing and
Engagement." Q&A occurred. The Parks Administrative division will send the
Events and volunteer opportunity list to the Commission.
8. Commission Discussion on Work Plan:
Q&A occurred. No actions or decisions were made.
9. Director/Commission Updates:
• Park Tour for August meeting
• August 2nd will be taking the Clark Lake Purchase to council
South King County Housing and Homelessness partnership presentation
was given on July 19 at the City Council Workshop.
10. Adjournment:
Commission Chair Ritchie concluded the meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Rmw� Li�ii� JI-
Ronald Lashley Jr.
Parks and Recreation Commission Secretary
Page 12
•
ENT
WASHINGTON
CITY OF KENT - DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
CLIMATE RESILIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY PLAN (CRSP)
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
ISSUE DATE: JUNE 20, 2022
SUBMITTALS DUE: MONDAY, JULY 11, 2022 BY 5:00PM PST
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The City of Kent Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department (Kent Parks) is seeking proposals from
qualified firms to complete a 2023-2038 Kent Parks Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Plan.
POINT OF CONTACT
Julie Parascondola, CPRE, Director
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
400 West Gowe Street, Kent, WA 98032
Phone 253-856-5007 1 Fax 253-856-6050
aparascondola@KentWA.gov
ABOUT THE CITY OF KENT
The sixth -largest city in the State of Washington and the third largest in King County, the City of Kent is a
community where people choose to live, and businesses change the world.
Kent lies in the heart of the Seattle -Tacoma metroplex, just a few miles from SeaTac International Airport. The
city of 34 square miles and close to 138,000 residents is at the center of a burgeoning tech and new space
industry anchored by companies including Blue Origin, Boeing, Hexcel, and Exotic Metals.
Kent is central to all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer, including Mount Rainier and Olympic National
Park, world -class salmon fishing, an NFL, MLB, and NHL team, world -class skiing, regional wineries and
breweries, and some of the best hiking trails on the planet. With easy access to 1-5 and Highway 167, as well
as a commuter rail stop and two light rail stations currently under construction, getting to all the amazing
amenities of the Pacific Northwest could not be easier.
Incorporated in 1890 with an official population of 793, Kent was the second incorporated city in King
County after Seattle. At that time, Kent was a thriving agricultural area specializing in hops and berries.
During and after the Great Depression, Kent was known as the "Lettuce Capital of the World." Dairy farming
was also an essential segment of the local economy, with the first can of Carnation Milk produced in Kent in
1899. Timber harvesting and agriculture remained the dominant industries until the 1950's, when industrial
development began in what is known today as the Kent Industrial Valley.
Page 1
The Kent Valley industrial area has one of the largest concentrations of distribution, logistics, warehousing,
and manufacturing facilities in North America. Where river steamboats once transported crops to Seattle's
public market, trucks and trains now arrive at Kent warehouses to pick up and deliver goods to the global
market.
Those looking for shopping and entertainment need look no further. Kent's retail activity in the East Hill and
Meridian areas continues to grow, including the highly coveted Trader Joe's. Those looking for international flair
will enjoy the Great Wall Mall at the north end of Kent. In the heart of downtown, Kent Station is a convenient
open-air village that offers a gathering place for friends and families with many dining options, retail locations,
access to college classes, and a movie theater. Our Historic Downtown also offers great dining options and fun
shops to explore.
The accesso ShoWare Center, North America's first sports and entertainment arena to achieve Gold
Certification from Leadership in Energy and Environment Design by the US Green Building Council, is a 6,000-
seat, 150,000 square foot multipurpose arena located downtown. The accesso ShoWare Center is home to the
WHL Seattle Thunderbirds and hosts family shows, professional and exhibition sports, trade shows, and
community gatherings.
Kent households earn a median income of just over $77,000 annually, and homes in the community currently
have a median price of approximately $650,000. Most Kent residents are served by the Kent School District,
which educates 25,000 students across 42 campuses. Smaller portions of the city are served by Federal Way
and Highline School Districts. Green River College has a satellite campus located at Kent Station and Highline
College is located on the West Hill. University of Washington, Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, Pacific
Lutheran University, and the University of Puget Sound are close by.
City of Kent Website Link
ABOUT KENT PARKS
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department (Kent Parks) designs, builds, and maintains parks
with guidance from the Parks and Recreation Commission; provides recreation programs; oversees cultural arts
programs with guidance from the Arts Commission; maintains city facilities; and funds human services programs
with direction from the Human Services Commission. City owned and -operated facilities include a community
center (Kent Commons); senior center; athletic complexes and a golf complex that consists of an 18-hole
course and driving range. Nationally recognized multiple times for excellence in parks and recreation, Kent has
55 parks, 1070 acres and 54.7 miles of trails and serves 1.4 million people annually through programs and special
events. Kent Parks Website Link
The mission of Kent Parks is "Dedicated to Enriching Lives". We are committed to providing safe and inviting
parks and facilities, meaningful, inclusive and diverse recreational programs, cultural activities and human
services.
Our staff is pro -active, responsive and ethical in their dedication to influencing the following outcomes
throughout the City:
• Social equity and inclusion
• Economic development
• Placemaking and brand identity
• Health and wellness
• Youth Development
Page 2
• Healthy aging
• Public land and facility stewardship
• Environmental sustainability and climate resiliency
• Active transportation (walking, bicycling, skateboarding, roller-skating, etc)
Kent Parks is committed to reducing our operating emissions and its impact on the environment. As leaders in
building environmental community resilience, Kent Parks connects community members to environmental
programming, ensures healthy ecosystems, advocates for the benefits of nature and implements sustainability
practices. In all departmental strategic planning efforts, where appliable - environmental sustainability is
addressed with goals and practices established, these will be available for consultant review.
Kent Parks has no formal, consolidated plan, but has been working towards better environmental practices in
key areas for decades, including, but not limited to:
Responsible Natural Lands Management, Green Infrastructure. Kent Parks practices responsible natural land
management by conserving and enhancing the integrity of natural lands and natural processes and minimizing
the use of harmful treatments. Kent Parks is continually focusing on the following areas, through changes in best
practices and standards and/or by one-time investments in its infrastructure:
o Continued focus on natural resources, open space and critical areas maintenance and
preservation
o The City of Kent is a 2021 Tree City USA
o Planting native and regionally appropriate species
o Preserving and increasing tree canopy and tree health, Tree Keeper software
o Exploring and increasing rain gardens and other water conservation elements
o Controlling invasive plants with less toxic means
o Testing environmentally friendly "green" cleaning supplies in parks, where applicable
o Limiting irrigation and application of chemicals responsibly and to the minimum possible
o Currently exploring the concept of "pesticide free" parks, where applicable
o Managing water conservation and irrigation through centralized controls (Calsense)
o Following sustainable turf management practices
o Following Integrated Pest Management practices
o Conserve existing and increase permeable surfaces at parks and facilities (ie: Turnkey Park)
o Using natural systems to reduce erosion
o Utilization of pollinator gardens to increase ecological resilience of communities, attract bees,
butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, bats, and even hummingbirds, to Improve water quality by
filtering stormwater and runoff and to help reduce the heat island effect
o Use of drought tolerant, slower growing and wear resistant varieties of grass seed which require
less water, fertilizer and require less frequent mowing
o Introduction of both non -maintained and low -maintenance areas throughout system
o Employ best practices for Low Impact Development (LID) and Green Stormwater Infrastructure
(GSI) wherever possible
Reducing Land Fill Waste. Reducing landfill waste has a compounding effect on the environment. The benefits
from reducing landfill waste are multifold, including the reduction of energy -intensive transportation of waste to
landfills and the elimination of hazardous and toxic chemicals leaching into surrounding soil and groundwater.
Kent Parks aims to reduce their contributions to landfills indicated, exploring and implementing the following:
Page 3
o Providing special event recycling bins and collection
o Composting and/or reducing the use of plastic bottles
o Continuing to pilot recycling projects outdoors to determine feasibility
o Pilot the impact of using solar- powered, compacting garbage bins to reduce trips, and
determine if their use is warranted in more parks.
o Continue recycling in all City facilities, where applicable
o Continue recycling at Kent Parks events, where applicable
Environmentally Friendly Building Practices. Kent Parks strives to meet environmentally friendly building
practices, including the construction of green and sustainable infrastructure, refer to the use of environmentally
responsible and resource -efficient construction processes and materials that minimize the ecological impact of
a structure for its entire life. Kent Parks implemented and/or is exploring the following:
o Using LED lighting and lighting conversions, where applicable
o Using Energy Star -rated appliances
o Using low flow plumbing fixtures/water stations/water recycling
o Testing environmentally friendly cleaning supplies currently
o Using recycled construction materials
o Performing audits and review on utility consumption in facilities, manage over 400 City wide
utility accounts
o Testing and exploration of low flow or waterless urinals
o Centralized HVAC controls throughout system (Siemens)
Exploring Renewable Energy Sources and Green Equipment. As owners and operators of a significant number
of buildings and infrastructure, Kent Parks promotes sustainability by exploring and ultimately expanding their
use of renewable energy sources. These energy sources reduce the carbon footprint of our operations, while
educating the public on the availability of cleaner energy sources. Green equipment and transportation
methods reduce emissions released into the air and the quantity of fossil fuels consumed. Kent Parks
implemented and/or is exploring the following:
o Pending, first ever solar panel pilot project on the roof of the Kent Senior Activity Center
o Engagement in Puget Sound Energy's "Green Direct" renewable energy program
o Confirm and seek to reduce the department's carbon footprint for both departmental
employee commute, as well as smart routes during the week for Kent Parks staff
o Purchasing fuel -efficient vehicles, where possible
o % of golf carts utilized at Riverbend are electric
o Operations staff adhere to anti -idling practices with their assigned vehicles
o Purchasing fuel -efficient machinery
o Solar panel pilot project on the roof of the Kent Senior Activity Center
o Engagement in Puget Sound Energy's "Green Direct" renewable energy program
o Confirm and seek to reduce the department's carbon footprint for both departmental
employee commute, as well as smart routes during the week for Kent Parks staff
o Purchasing fuel -efficient vehicles, where possible
o Expanding electric vehicle fleet infrastructure and piloting on City Hall campus with Motor Pool
vehicles
o Maintaining a % of electric golf carts utilized at Riverbend Golf Complex
o Operations staff adhere to anti -idling practices with their assigned vehicles
o Purchasing fuel -efficient machinery
Page 4
Public Engagement and Educational Programming. Kent Parks fosters community sustainability and resiliency
through public engagement and education activities focused on sustainable topics, greatly expanding their
overall impact by influencing the behavior of the general public. Kent Parks seeks to increase their impact
through engaging the public indicated implementing the following:
o Offering environmental education and nature programming opportunities
o Setting up educational kiosks, displays and bulletin boards in public areas
o Entering public/private partnerships that promote sustainable practices and land stewardship
o Youth workforce training and engagement in Parks
o Showcase Kent Parks sustainability efforts on Kent Parks webpages and social media
Adapting to climate change has been at the forefront of the parks and recreation profession for decades,
however, Kent Parks would like to take a more formal approach to it's climate resiliency planning by creating a
consolidated plan that confirms or recommends existing practices and changes, explores and recommends
new, innovative practices, highlights gap areas or activities the department hasn't explored yet and to help us
position and strategize for grants, funding and other capital investments. Uncertainty is inevitable, but the latest
science, combined with current experience, show that we must pro -actively plan for climate change impacts
today so we can be prepared for tomorrow. This plan and it's results are important to our community, our
Mayor, City Council and the department who take their public stewardship seriously and who are also seeking
national accreditation in 2024, of which an intentional approach to climate and sustainability is required.
It's important to note that this plan is only for the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, not for
the entire city. There may be overlap and engagement of key outside departments where applicable, but the
majority of the work will be one department. This plan will also be referenced and considered a demo/model
for larger city-wide sustainability planning.
SCOPE OF SERVICES
The selected Consultant will work with the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department to help us
create a 15-year (2023-2038) climate resiliency and sustainability plan and approach, that aligns with
departmental, City and County environmental goals. The completed plan will guide Kent Parks budgets, grant
applications and work plans, along with prioritization of capital re -investments and/or new development to
parks and facilities and to help Kent Parks inform and guide the City's Comprehensive Planning (coming in
2023) and any future sustainability planning citywide on departmental needs.
The final plan should include the following:
• Executive summary;
• Consolidated summary on recent and on -going climate efforts conducted by Kent Parks;
• Summary of Kent Parks' greenhouse gas emissions (GHE) and vulnerability assessment;
• Realistic and attainable Kent Parks GHE emission reduction targets and goals;
• Policy recommendations and actions that help improve Kent Parks' ability to adapt to future climate
change impacts and increase level of preparedness;
• Identification of new innovative land management, vehicle/equipment/tools or other maintenance
policies and practices the department should consider;
• Established strategies that both reduce greenhouse gas emissions or enhance the ability to sequester
carbon, and support climate adaptation and resilience;
Page 5
• Recommendations on funding and/or grant sources to implement goals; and
• Development of a performance reporting mechanisms or ROls on the advancement of this plan, which
will/should include a geospatial element for us to utilize within Kent Parks' GIS platform and
performance management system.
The plan to be developed should provide strategic action items, operational steps and outcomes in table
format to facilitate Kent Parks' ability to efficiently implement the plan. Primary tasks will include developing a
plan that includes (3) unique phases, as follows:
A. PRELIMINARY REVIEW AND SUMMARY OF EXISTING BASELINE PRACTICES, DATA AND PLANS
Review and summarize existing Kent Parks climate and sustainability practices and policies. This will
include meetings (prefer virtual) with staff from (6) separate divisions within Kent Parks, including:
A. Parks Administration
B. Park Planning and Development
C. Park Maintenance and Operations
D. Facility Maintenance and Operations
E. Riverbend Golf Complex
F. Recreation and Cultural Programs
2. Review of 2019 (pre-COVID) and 2021 utility data of 28 city buildings (400,000 sgft of indoor space)
Consumption data will be provided.
3. Review of the City's participation in the Green Direct program and the ROI to date, as well as
creation of an estimated 15-year forecasted estimated savings or % of energy utilizing solar/wind
energy.
4. Review Kent Parks' vehicle and rolling stock inventory and operational practices and usage to
make recommendations on new or modified practices and potential transition to electrical and/or
different utilization of fleet to achieve resiliency goals;
5. Review of Kent Parks' "Tree Keeper" data which includes information on trees under Kent Parks
control and management - estimated over 6,88 + trees with condition assessment, species and
collections information and more. However, Kent Parks has over 50,000+ trees in their entire park
system, not all are spatially tracked in the system;
6. Review existing six -year capital improvement plans for parks, facilities and Riverbend golf course
and where re -investment may support resiliency goals.
7. Review of Kent's geographic socio-economic and racial demographics to assist in identifying
vulnerable communities via Environmental Intersectionality. Mapping and data will be provided.
Kent's park and recreation system and city facilities are utilized by millions of residents, employees
and visitors annually, visiting from this region and beyond. Parks and nature are critical to the
mental, physical and emotional health of people, particularly those most impacted by climate
change. Kent Parks is specifically looking to highlight Environmental Intersectionality, where
applicable, within its system. Intersectional environmentalism will help us identify areas where the
most vulnerable communities and the earth intersect.
8. Review of existing land management practices and it's connection to climate resiliency.
9. Review the following existing strategic and/or operating plans, which will be ear -marked to highlight
only key relevant information to this project, which will be provided:
A. 2022 Kent Parks, Parks and Open Space Plan, completed in 2022
B. 2022-2028 Kent Parks Comprehensive Recreation Program Plan, completed in 2021
C. 2020-2025 City of Kent Human Services Strategic Plan, completed in 2020
D. 2018-2023 Kent Parks, Riverbend Golf Complex Business Plan, completed in 2018
E. 2022 City of Kent, Facility Condition Assessments, completed in 2021
Page 6
F. Kent Parks Urban Forestry Draft Plan (Final Draft Pending)
G. 2022 City of Kent Fleet/Vehicle Plan
H. City of Kent Green Kent 20 Year Plan
I. Kent Valley Loop Trail Plan
J. City of Kent Comprehensive Plan with over 100 adopted policies supporting a healthy
climate. Note: This plan is scheduled for update in 2023 for adoption in 2024.
10. There is no public process on this plan, this is an internal operating plan only, however, we will
provide the consultant results from Kent Parks' most recent community engagement surveys, each
of which asked specific climate, nature or sustainability questions of Kent's residents:
A. 2022 Kent Parks and Open Space Plan Quantifiable and Qualitative Survey
B. 2020 Kent Parks Comprehensive Recreation Program Plan Quantifiable and Qualitative
Survey
11. Review of the State of Washington's new Clean Building Standards and how Kent Parks' Facilities
division will be impacted and/or should begin planning for. Information can be found here:
https://www.commerce.wa..gov/growing-the-economy/energy/buildings/clean-buildings-standards/
12. Review EUI ratings for all 28 city buildings and summarize where results align in terms of industry
benchmarks for building type and Clean Buildings Act. This work was recently completed and data
will be provided to the consultants. For more information visit:
https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/benchmark/understand metrics/what eui
13. Review of King County's 2020 Strategic Climate Action Plan and confirm goals that Kent Parks can
support. This plan can be found here: https://kin_county.gov/services/environment/climate/actions-
strategies/strategic-climate-action-plan.aspx
14. Review of King County's Cities - Climate Collaboration Program. This plan can be found here:
https://kin _ cq ounty gov/services/environment/climate/actions-strategies/partnerships-collaborations/k4c.aspx
KENT PARKS GREENHOSUE GAS EMISSIONS AND VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT.
Development of a comprehensive inventory of Kent Parks Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Vulnerability
assessment. The methodology worksheet should include the Kent Parks operations inventory (data
gathered from departmental divisions) and a worksheet that calculates the equivalent CO2 emission
from those energy uses, where applicable.
The Consultant will also provide a vulnerability assessment of the risks that Kent Parks is likely to face in
the short and long term future, as the impacts of climate change become more severe. The risks
evaluated must include, but are not limited, to drought, extreme heat, precipitation, air quality, winds,
wildfires, development impacts, financial constraints and any indirect effects of sea level rise in nearby
coastal communities (e.g. population migration). The analysis will also address any disproportional
impacts that climate change may have on vulnerable populations across the City (e.g., seniors,
children, low-income residents, persons with disabilities, etc.). Considerable experience in analyzing
data, writing, preparing figures, and in communicating with the public, Commissions, and Councils is
desirable.
C. PLAN DEVELOPMENT
Develop a 15-year (2023-2038) attainable, performance -based plan with key deliverables and
milestones established, including an overall executive summary and summaries of sections A and B
in the scope.
2. Develop an organized and prioritized set of short, medium, and long-term actions to achieve
resiliency goals and measurable targets;
Page 7
3. Identifying alignment and/or potential conflicts of recommended actions with existing
departmental and city policies and plans;
4. Identification of innovative land management policies and practices the department should
consider to achieve resiliency goals;
5. Recommendations on critical policy decisions to advance city owned facilities in the attainment of
the State of Washington Clean Building standards;
6. Recommend actions and messaging to pursue with our residents and public users of Kent Parks land
and infrastructure, to assist Kent Parks in achieving its climate resiliency goals via the creation of "call
to actions" or "where you can help" type of programs;
7. Identify projects, programs, and policies that are ready for rapid implementation;
8. Identify challenges and opportunities in meeting GHG reduction or resiliency goals.
9. Develop timeline for actions with milestones identified, where applicable;
10. Develop and use methodology to assist departmental decision makers in measuring each proposed
implementation action's costs and benefits to their operations and/or the community and present
this analysis with recommendations for final list to include in plan;
11. Determine which key performance measures should be collected to influence future decision -
making in each of the (6) six divisions highlighted in Section A(1) above. Provide detailed strategies
for how Kent Parks should use this data moving forward to influence programming, maintenance
and operations, policy and planning decisions. Measures should identify divisions responsible for
implementation along with any other city department that may need to assist and identification of
indicators for success.
12. Provide recommendations on state, regional, national and private funding or grant sources that
could support advancement of recommended strategies, as well as any internal departmental or
city funding strategies and practices.
13. The final CRSP must include GHG emission analysis, goals, strategies, and actions to enable the
department to achieve or exceed attainable GHG reduction goals, climate adaptation and
resilience strategies, recommendations on funding and grant opportunities and means of reporting
and monitoring the effectiveness of the plan.
KEY DELIVERABLE(S)
The selected firm will be expected to deliver the following:
A. Initial Meeting. The Consultant and representatives of Kent Parks shall meet to go over the proposed
schedule and plan, including responsibilities, the scope of work and deliverables. Where possible,
meetings and staff discussions should be conducted as video (remote) conference - both Teams and
Zoom are acceptable platforms. A data sharepoint/collaboration work space that is conducive to
work being shared by Kent Parks staff and consultant -staff will need to be identified. Recommended
platforms to use is Dropbox, unless Consultant recommends something else, approved by Kent Parks.
Project Plan. Based on the schedule and the initial meeting, the Consultant shall prepare a project plan,
outlining the process for conducting the scope of the work outlined, including any methodologies to
achieve identified objectives. Kent Parks will review and approve the plan before work starts.
C. Kent Parks Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Vulnerability Assessment. A full assessment and analysis of
Kent Parks carbon emissions and vulnerability areas internally and externally shall be completed by the
consultant to help inform recommended action and strategies and summarized in detail and
graphically for the department to share its staff and the public via an appendix or within the final plan
itself, to be determined jointly by Kent Parks staff and consultant.
D. Stakeholder Engagement. There is no stakeholder engagement, this is an internal operating plan only,
however, Kent Parks will provide recent public survey information regarding sustainability and climate
topics, as referenced in Section A(9).
E. Research. The Consultant shall perform additional research, if necessary, using approved
methodologies and practices. If in conducting this research, the Consultant shall find any statistical
anomalies or other inconsistencies, irregularities or concerns with the data or the methodology used,
they shall notify Kent Parks in writing and propose solutions prior to the due date for any identified
deliverable in the project plan.
F. Draft Kent Parks Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Plan (CRSP). The Consultant shall provide a draft
plan for review according to the agreed upon schedule and scope details in Section II. This draft plan
will serve as a framework upon which additional detail will be added to create the final plan. Kent Parks
shall have sufficient time to review the draft plan, make any changes/additions/recommendations to it
and ask for further clarifications if needed.
G. Final Kent Parks Climate Resiliency and Sustainability Plan (CRSP)_. Based on the draft plan and input
from Kent Parks, the Consultant shall prepare a final detailed, 2023-2038 Kent Parks Climate Resiliency
and Sustainability Plan (CRSP), complete with any supporting data, charts, graphs, appendices and
analysis covering key findings, strategies, tactics and recommendations. The final document should be
reader friendly, contain graphic summaries. Kent Parks shall have sufficient time to review the final plan
and request any changes/additions or ask for further clarifications. The final approved plan will be
submitted in an electronic, editable version as well as a pdf version.
H. Presentation(s). The consultant shall meet with representatives of Kent Parks to share information
throughout this process, as well as present the final plan, identify key findings and answer questions to
the Kent City Council. Consultant engagement on -site will be discussed during the Initial Meeting.
Meetings. During the initial meeting, Kent Parks, will work together with the Consultant to determine
appropriate timing of when meetings may be required throughout the process, with an effort to
minimize travel and expense. Estimated that a minimum of 6-15 meetings may be required. Consultant
engagement on -site will be discussed during the Initial Meeting. While some site visits may be necessary
for facility or park tours, the goal is to do most of this project virtual, where applicable.
CONSULTANT QUALIFICATIONS
Consulting firms who apply must have experience in the following areas:
• Bring expertise and insights from other relevant and leading -edge climate and environmental strategies
throughout the region and/or country;
• The consultant will need to bring GIS resources to the project, with Kent Parks only playing a secondary role
as needed. Data will be provided to selected consultant from multiple sources. Consultant will need to
analyze it, produce their own findings based on it, which then comes back to Kent Parks in a geospatial
format. Kent Parks will own all geospatial data prepared for this project.
Page 9
• Present technical information in a clear and concise way, including the use of visual and graphical
materials, which can be understood by the general public;
• Demonstrate experience with incorporating equity and social justice as a focal point into a climate
resiliency plan;
• Convey expertise in data analysis and high impact yet achievable GHG reduction practices;
• Lead productive and transparent decision -making, keep the process on track and focused on key
deliverables;
• Ability to link findings of multiple current and past planning documents, community surveys and the city's
and department's strategic documents into this desired plan;
• Demonstrated ability to provide a final product that is clear, simple, with strong, attainable implementation
strategies with data citations that support recommendations.
CONSULTANT INSTRUCTIONS
A. Pre -Response Information and Questions: Each response received by the submittal deadline will be
evaluated on its merits and completeness of all requested information. In preparing responses, firms are
advised to rely only upon the contents of this RFP and accompanying documents and any written
clarifications issued by the City of Kent. If a Respondent finds a discrepancy, error or omission in the RFP
package, or requires any written addendum thereto, the Respondent is requested to notify the Point of
Contact noted in this RFP, so that written clarification may be provided to all prospective consultants. City
of Kent staff is not responsible for, and Respondents shall not rely upon, any verbal instructions.
B. Plan Development Budget: An overall budget has not been determined and respondents of the RFP should
do their best to accurately and competitively price their work. Kent Parks has researched recent pricing for
this type of plan across the US and locally.
C. RFP Modifications: Clarifications, modifications, or amendments may be made to the RFP at the discretion
of the City of Kent. Any revision(s) to the RFP will be made available on the City of Kent's website.
D. Response Submission: To be considered, the indicated number of copies of the response must be prepared
in the manner and detail specified in this RFP.
1) Responses must be emailed to Julie Parascondola, Director, and be received by the deadline indicated
in this RFP. It is each firm's responsibility to ensure that its response is received by the City of Kent prior to
the deadline. A confirmation email will be sent to you confirming receipt of submittal.
2) Submission of a response demonstrates that the firm is thoroughly familiar with this Request for Proposals
(RFP). By submitting a response, the firm warrants that it understands and agrees to abide by each and
all of the stipulations and requirements contained therein.
3) All documentation submitted with the response will become the property of the City of Kent.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The City of Kent reserves the right to reject any and all responses to this RFP and to waive irregularities and
informalities in the submittal and evaluation process. This solicitation for Consultant Services does not obligate
the City of Kent to pay any costs incurred by respondents in the preparation and submission of a response. This
solicitation does not obligate the City of Kent to accept or contract for any expressed or implied services.
Page 10
Furthermore, the City of Kent reserves the right to award the contract to the next most qualified Consultant if
the selected Consultant does not execute a contract within thirty (30) days after the award of the proposal.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
• Project First Advertised (3w)....................................................... June 20, 2022
• SUBMITTAL DEADLINE................................................................... JULY 11, 2022, BY 5:OOPM PST
• Target Short List Selection (lw)................................................. July 18, 2022
• Interviews / Presentations (2w).................................................. August 1, 2022
• Final Selection(3d)...................................................................... August 4, 2022
• Contract Negotiations Complete (2w)................................... August 22, 2022
• Project Kick-off (1 w).................................................................... August 29, 2022
• Final Report................................................................................. December 30, 2022 (4-month process)
Please note: Schedule can change based on numerous variables. Will confirm the final schedule with the selected consultant.
SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS / PROCESS
Interested firms shall submit an email (PDF) of their response to this RFP as outlined in this document. All
responses must be emailed to the contact person below, with the subject line to read: "REQUEST FOR
PROPOSAL: KENT PARKS CLIMATE RESILIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY PLAN (CRSP)". Responses must be received by
the submittal deadline specified above and addressed to:
Julie Parascondola, CPRE, Director
Parks, Recreation and Community Services
400 West Gowe Street, Kent, WA 98032
Phone 253-856-5007 1 Fax 253-856-6050
jparascondola@KentWA.gov
This is a Request for Proposal. Your submittal should not exceed 20 pages in length. Included in your submittal
should be the following:
Cover Letter: A cover letter from the lead firm containing the name, address, and daytime phone
number(s) and e-mail contacts for the lead firm and any partnering firm(s). The lead firm's primary
contact person shall be identified along with any individuals who will be authorized to act in behalf of
the firm and any partnering firm(s). The letter shall bear the signature of the person authorized to act as
the legal agent of the principal firm.
2. An explanation of the firms understanding of the project scope and a confirmation of the availability of
the firm or any of its partnering firm(s) and key staff to provide services in a timely manner.
3. Describe how the service will be delivered. Include a detailed listing and description of tasks and
deliverables - including responsibilities of Kent Parks and of the Consultant for each task/deliverable.
Provide a summary of the proposed approach to the project, as well as a detailed description of the
methodology to be used to provide the requested service and deliverables. Explain how the team
proposes to interact with key stakeholders, to gain data to fulfill the deliverables of the proposal.
Proposers are encouraged to include tasks they believe would add value to the proposal.
4. A proposed work plan timeline summary that shows tasks and activities that will lead to project
completion within the deadline provided along with a recommended Project Timeline - Detail by each
Page 11
requested and proposed task listed in the Scope of Work. Planning should begin August 2022 and
completed by December 2022 - a 5 month timeline or sooner.
Information regarding the history and qualifications of the firm and a personal history or resume of key
personnel who will most likely be assigned to the project. Define team member roles, including the lead
contact person, and explain how the team expects to communicate with Kent Parks. Third Parties - If
the firm utilizes a third party for completing RFP requirements, list what portion of the RFP will be
completed by the third party and the name, if known, of the party.
A list of at least three references for similar projects completed by the firm in the last 5 years. Include
location, scope and contact information for projects listed. References should demonstrate specific
evidence of experience and capacity in providing the services requested in this RFP. References should
demonstrate expertise working with public agencies and preference will be given to those firms who
highlight park and recreation projects.
The proposing firm will set forth the precise method by which the firm would expect to be compensated
and estimated total cost. Include a cost breakdown for each of the tasks listed above and should
indicate the hours and billing rate for each consultant team member.
Please provide us with an electronic (digital) version of the above information for use by members of our
consultant selection committee. Following an evaluation of the RFP's received, the firm(s) considered to
have submitted the best proposal(s) may be requested to participate in an interview and final
consultant selection process. No further action beyond submission of the above information is required
at this time.
All proposals shall include all the information requested in this RFP and any additional data that the
respondent deems pertinent to the understanding and evaluating of the proposal. The respondent
should not withhold any information from the written response in anticipation of presenting the
information orally, since oral presentations may not be solicited.
10. Exceptions or deviations to this RFP must not be added to the RFP pages, but must be on company
letterhead and accompany the proposal response. Should Kent Parks omit anything from this RFP that is
necessary for a clear understanding of the work, or should it appear that various instructions are in
conflict, the respondent shall secure written instructions from Kent Parks.
ADDITIONAL SUBMITTAL DETAIL(S)
The successful firm must comply with the City of Kent's equal opportunity requirements. The City of Kent is
committed to a program of equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age,
nationality or disability.
The City of Kent reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive irregularities and informalities in
the submittal and evaluation process. This Request for Proposal does not obligate the City of Kent to pay any
costs incurred by respondents in the preparation and submission of a proposal. Furthermore, the Request for
Proposals does not obligate the City of Kent to accept or contract for any expressed or implied services.
The City of Kent reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposal submitted.
Therefore, the proposal should be initially submitted on the most favorable terms the firm can offer. The City of
Page 12
Kent shall not be bound or in any way obligated until both parties have executed a vendor contract. The firm
selected will be expected to enter into a contract with the City of Kent.
Submittal and signature of this Proposal swears that the Proposal is genuine and not a sham or collusive, and
not made in the interest of any person not named, and that the Firm has not induced or solicited others to
submit a sham offer, or to refrain from proposing.
In addition to nondiscrimination and affirmative action compliance requirements previously listed, the Firm
awarded the Contract shall comply with federal, state and local laws, statutes and ordinances relative to the
execution of the work. This requirement includes, but is not limited to, protection of public and employee safety
and health; environmental protection; waste reduction and recycling; the protection of natural resources;
permits; fees; taxes; and similar subjects.
Under Washington state law, the documents (including but not limited to written, printed, graphic, electronic,
photographic or voice mail materials and/or transcriptions, recordings or reproductions thereof) submitted in
response to this RFP (the "documents") become a public record upon submission to the City of Kent, subject to
mandatory disclosure upon request by any person, unless the documents are exempted from public disclosure
by a specific provision of law.
SELECTION PROCESS
Responses will be reviewed by a committee consisting of staff from Kent Parks. Evaluation of responses will be
based on the following:
A. 35% Overall approach to the project
B. 15% Experience and commitment of staff assigned to project
C. 15% Schedule of work
D. 35% Experience with similar or comparable projects involving parks, facilities and/or public recreation
departments
Page 13
•
.40
0 0
,00 KEN 7
WASH IN G T O N
KENT PARKS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
MARKETING AND ENGAGEMENT
Parks and Recreation Commission
July 27.. 2022
WHY MARKET?
• Department has (2) entrepreneurial divisions —golf and recreation.
• Achieve earned revenue $6.1 million goals/targets.
• ($3.1m Recreation and $3.Om Riverbend Golf Complex)
• Difference between codified fees and discretionary fees.
• Communication vs. Engagement
• Goal is to first engage via dialogue/emersion, second is to move towards action.
• Communication (transmit or exchange information, convey ideas or intent — unidirectional, etc.)
• Engagement (involve, attract/entice, establish meaningful connection, active participation, bidirectional, etc.)
• Understanding the local market and competitors to what we offer.
art direct; Brand Sources help
reviews
blogs a��0"" °" sites individuals Intemet
al" etecGronic algQmon,todng altered Answers
devices sharinn usin9different; television bookmarking a ,:_Print
¢VfJI I � irrberacSo.�ialmCustom''.A
er
small _ search
created h1d1e ""� �pe5 People
creseaonGenGjn�ormation reaCh'�e raggedGechnologies�"'c
now r„., - applications —consumers
technological neGworkin reductioncom syrk i=Wn:•:sUincbiDn
edit g Exam�les p rrxriiGg
e r iesSbabisbics ecomc Community k n�
p °P"` industrial sepbember arbicie and y
017 5 inberneb Online ;user.generabed brands
erC' o�cc like physical publish enable
suetime typicallg m��n$ global
iss'"'.�.�-.`� mohile Business iorms
used tools build others milion
MARKETING PLAN
• Completed a Marketing and Engagement Plan in 2019 by JayRay
• Marketing Plan Continuum:
o Capacity Development: Lay strong foundation for a new Kent Parks marketing program
o Build Brand Identity: Begin implementing elements of the Kent Parks marketing plan
o Gain Momentum: Implement additional elements of the marketing plan; extend into new
channels and new communities
o Evaluate and Sustain: Measure outcomes, refine and sustain the marketing plan
• Marketing Plan Goals:
o Grow awareness of the full scope of Kent Parks offerings, programs and services
o Increase participation and enrollment in programs and services among Kent businesses
and residents
o Increase understanding of Kent Parks contributions among city staff, mayor, council,
business community
o Increase engagement and participation in programs among diverse communities
KENT PARKS, RECREATION AND
COMMUNITY SERVICES
MARKETING AND ENGAGEMENT PLAN
March 7, 2019
KENT PARKS - MARKETING AND ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
• Hired Haleigh Elliott 3 Years Ago - Primary Role/Function:
o Recreation Guide design and production (working with 30-35 staff (3) times per year)
o Attends most large departmental events and programs (evenings and weekends)
o Leads Parks & Recreation Month Coordination and Staff Appreciation events
o Public engagement coordination for park projects, grand openings, ground breakings etc.
o Assists in overall management of Engage Kent Parks platform (several staff have access)
o Responsible for managing swag inventory and orders, and coordinating marketing giveaways
o E-Newsletters
o Provides content for the Mayor's Newsletter weekly
o Responsible for monthly Parks newsletter - compiles and edits content from up to 25+ staff monthly
o Primary liaison to Multimedia and City Comms -working on specific marketing, signage and communication, coordinating on average 500-600
marketing pieces annually
o Responsible for coordinating design and execution of all Parks marketing collateral including, but not limited to signage (entry signage, rules
signs, construction signs, a -frames, banners, event signage, etc.), social media graphics, website graphics, event collateral, recruitment
materials, PeachJar advertisements, external advertisements, etc.
o Coordinates creation of all external signage (items not able to be created in-house)
o Manages PeachJar promotions
o Leads Kent Parks' digital storytelling efforts via content creation - primary management of all Kent Parks social media
o Primary management of Kent Parks pages on City's website
o Coordinates with all Parks staff and designated Parks CMS users to update pages, content, etc.
o Updates the City's event calendar with support from Parks CMS users
o Responsible for updating our annual report and numbers
KENT PARKS - ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE
• Hired a marketing and engagement coordinator
• Completed Kent Parks marketing plan with JayRay
• Created Kent Parks social media accounts
■ -Facebook
■ - Instagram
■ - Twitter (have since decided this is not the right avenue for Parks and will shift to providing content to City Twitter)
• Continues to grow Kent Parks Facebook Page (3,400 Followers to date) and Instagram account (1,042 followers to date)
• Re -validated and added Parks guide mailing reach from-50,000 to-63,000
• Streamlined interface with Multimedia and grew/expanded relationship.
• Established a Kent Park (e)Newsletter- currently sitting at 17,300 subscribers
• Creation of Kent Parks department logo, mood board and draft brand guidelines (final guidelines in process) in collaboration
with Multimedia
• In process of reigning in Riverbend Golf Complex to align with City standards and process
■ Creation of Riverbend mood board and brand guidelines (final guidelines in process)
KENT PARKS - ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE Cont.
• Reducing FB accounts from 8 to 3; planning to keep following accounts active:
■ Kent Parks Facebook �
■ Kent Parks Instagram
■ Kent Arts Commission Facebook
■ Riverbend Golf Complex Facebook
■ Riverbend Golf Complex Instagram
• Completely re -built the Kent Parks webpages/framework, including anew parks and facility directory with query options utilizing
GIS
• Created the Engage Kent Parks Platform
• Contracted professional photography to create a Kent Parks digital inventory
• Refreshed the design on the Recreation Guide towards magazine style and added all areas more prominently - Planning,
Human Service, Golf, Partners (where appropriate)
• Beginning to integrate translation and community languages into signage and collateral
• Created virtual programs with Recreation team during pandemic to keep residents connected to Parks
0 coordinated videos with MM, created webpage, promoted all virtual events and programs, etc.
KENT PARKS - ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE Cont.
Established a Senior Center E-Newsletter (now expired and merged with Kent Parks
now that the pandemic is over)
Established an account at Kent School District for PeachJar
Established a HandShake account for colleges level engagement and recruitment
Created a new hiring/recruitment portfolio and brand to utilize every year
Merged the Senior Center's Guide into the Recreation Guide
Stepping into external, paid advertisements with SouthSound/425 magazines, Parent
Map Magazine and exploring Sound Transit and Pandora/Spotify
Reviewed and provided comprehensive departmental feedback on draft City
Comms Plan and Multimedia Service Level Agreement
s1(�lI fii
Pai-ent
Map A
Pai-ent
Map
ALIGNMENT WITH MISSION AND GOALS
• All marketing, collateral, social media, etc. needs to align with our goals.
PARKS & RECREATION - A FOUNDATION
Parks, recreation and human services programs help in the positive influence of combating critical
corrimunity issues — proactive prevention and deterrence ors. reactive response.
Social Equity and Inclusion tined--. cnnuT Ity{
Basic Needs and Self -Reliance {ihrw ni alYY}
Health and Community Wellness (+hNwmoty)
Economic Development
Youth Development/Out of School Time j*Awinaarcyr
Healthy Aging (+hnwWe cm)
Land & raci Iities 5tewa rdship i-61nrWn d—ft )
Arts and Culture 0h,114M W)
Environmental Sustainabillty tmmsiT biro yku}
Active Transportation a,,dPln�InrT.�.E,�
MENNErr"M
Kj" — wFµ+* Wp6 a choose L. 5.w
.nd husl--s h.ng. U- Hd
Parks Under Construction in 2022
CNEE7NVT RmeE rAiR SALT AIR VISTA PARK
OUR LARGEST MARKETING TOOLS
Recreation & Cultural Programming
IRIEW
Programming Cycle(s):
Spring/Summer (Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug) Deadline: January
Fall (Sept, Oct, Nov) Deadline: June
Winter (Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar) Deadline: September
RECREATION
GUIDE—`
6
0
Kent 101
RECREATION ACTIVITY GUIDE
• Mailed to every household in the City and
KSD boundaries
• Highlight "free" activities
• Added transportation/bus line information
• Focused translation in critical areas
• Added benefit statements
• Merged with Senior Center
• Added Park Planning
• Strengthened other areas like rentals and
Human services
• Transition to magazine like style and paper
0
Ole
ram
Comnwrfity Serwimm
(D G) --I)
Regism for a Program Rent a Shelter w Reem Jain our
IT
IF 9 T w 'M
MA.
OUR LARGEST MARKETING TOOLS coot
El JD
FAQ �� CWd� o �m
Welcome to Engage Kent Parks!
Get Involved
Engage with the City here online and give us your ideas and feedback Help guide our planning
process for future projects, programs and services. Get involved and be heard!
Current Projects
ENGAGE KENT PARKS
• Houses all park construction projects
• Engagement site for master/site plans
• Engagement site for strategic plans
• Translates into 108 languages
• Survey ability
• Updates and other functionality
NEXT STEPS
• Solidify Parks and Riverbend brand guidelines
• Creation of program or divisional marketing plans with identified target audiences
• Creation of many departmental policies around marketing, communications, social media, etc.
• Creation and implementation of a new Kent Parks sponsorship platform
• Creation of annual marketing calendar for pro -active planning by Parks and Multimedia
• Continuation and testing of the paid advertisement market
• Creation and implementation of rental sales campaigns to meet sales goals
• Completion of the Kent Parks digital inventory
• Implementation of Marketing Checklist for all planned collateral
• Begin the evaluation phase of marketing materials and engagement tools
• Exploration of paid advertising in the Recreation Guide by community partners
• Enhancement of Kent Community Foundation - Donation marketing
• Creation of a Community Relations Plan and engagement of external community
• Integration and relationship building with CBOs to help spread the word of Kent Parks offerings
1 RAP-sAp" WAO k )ue
WEBSITE FACEBCCK INSTACRAM
www.mykentparks.com mykentparks Qmykentparks
'Rp F
17,;, -