City Council/Public Finance and Economic Development Authority/Parking Authority
October 19, 2026

Recommended Actions Intended Outcomes Prioritization
Financial
Resource
Requirement
Staff Resource
Requirement Staff Lead/Team Timeline Complete? Notes
Conduct a comprehensive Park Asset Inventory Report. high high mediumEnhance the existing aging park amenities with modern amenities. medium high highDevelop a comprehensive Maintenance Management Plan. high medium mediumEstablish a trail maintenance program. low high highDesign walkable and bike-friendly Trails (offroad) throughout the City for safe and equitable access to parks and facilities. medium medium highIncorporate the most needed park amenities into future parks (including dog park South of Hwy99) low high highEvaluate the feasibility of an indoor multi-generational recreational facility at Merced Regional Sports Complex. medium high highPosition Merced Regional Sports Complex as a revenue-generating regional asset. high low mediumEvaluate and create implementation plans for current and additional recreation facilities inlcuding rentable space high medium medium munity Connection
Recommended Actions Intended Outcomes Prioritization
Financial
Resource
Requirement
Staff Resource
Requirement Staff Lead/Team Timeline Complete? Notes
Enhance internal and external communication about Department activities, events, and services using new technologies such as trail head and playground QR codes medium low mediumConsider public-private partnerships to assist in the identification and advancement of new indoor recreation facility opportunities, relocations, and parkland acquisition opportunities. high low highEvaluate existing partner agreements. low low mediumStrengthen and clarify the long-term operational model for youth center facilities to ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery. low medium lowStrengthen relationships, partnerships, coordinated recreation service planning with community-based organizations. high low highDevelop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for recreation program operations. high low mediumImplement an Adopt-a-Park / Friends-of-the-Park/ Adopt -an - Activity program. high low mediumFocus service provision efforts on enhancing current program offerings and addressing high-need gaps. medium low mediumMaintain an understanding of local public health indicators that are inflcuence program participation low low highLeverage Partnership to increase number of free community events that increase the sense of belonging and quality of life in Merced high medium medium y & Inclusivity
Recommended Actions Intended Outcomes Prioritization
Financial
Resource
Requirement
Staff Resource
Requirement Staff Lead/Team Timeline Complete? Notes
Enhance current and future parks and facilities with sustainable design that encourages safety and creates accessibility for users of all ages and abilities. low high highImprove safety and security measures as well as perceptions of safety in parks, trails, and open spaces through increased visible presence and coordinated community-based efforts. high low mediumStrengthen partnership with Merced County to address impacts related to unhoused individuals and behavioral health transitions within the City. medium medium highReduce cultural and language barriers to ensure equitable access to parks and recreation services. high low low rces & Stewardship
Recommended Actions Intended Outcomes Prioritization
Financial
Resource
Requirement
Staff Resource
Requirement Staff Lead/Team Timeline Complete? Notes
Update the Financial Sustainability Strategy on a biannual basis low medium lowConduct annual cost-of-service analysis updates. low low lowEvaluate long-term partnership and governance options to ensure the future feasibility of Applegate Park Zoo. high low highEstablish a long-term Financial Sustainability Strategy for Applegate Park Zoo as a pseudo-enterprise operation. medium low mediumEvaluate and update Developer Impact Fee (DIF) practices and policies to ensure adequate, equitable, and financially responsible funding for future parks and recreation facilities. high low mediumPursue and secure funding to advance the design, construction and maintenance of previously identified by currently unfunded park projects. medium high highEstablish clear standards for the type, quality, and functional characteristics of parkland to be dedicated and accepted by the City of Merced. high low mediumCreate position-specific and parks and recreation-centric professional development plans. medium low mediumExpand training and enhance the use of the Recreation Management Software System (RMSS). high low lowStrengthen interdepartmental collaboration to improve operational efficiency and enhance service quality for Merced residents. high low medium Quality places and spacesStaff and community prideHigh levels of serviceFuture needsEngaged communityEnhanced understandingIncreased participationStrategic and effective partnerships and relationshipsPerceived safetyInclusive access and engagementBelonging and cultural celebrationSustainable and scalable service deliveryStrong organizational infrastructureEquitable and responsible resource allocationStrategic funding and partnerships erced Parks & Community Services
ructure & Maintenance
trategic Action Plan Worksheet