Page 38 - KCMO Parks Master Plan 2032

respondents define “support.” In many cases that Programs was the overwhelming first choice favorite
correlates to financial support, but it can also mean and had nearly the most second choices, as well.
different things, that may be easier to rectify. This is not an uncommon response. The challenge
is that it is a VERY broad area with a wide variety of
When asked about community centers, the location programs that can fall into the category. It will be
and staff were identified as their favorite things, while important for the Department to understand their
maintenance and upkeep were identified as their core services and ensure that youth programs are
least favorite things. Respondents were asked what included.
changes they would recommend for the community
centers, to which a wide variety of responses were Respondents were given eight different initiatives
received. A common response was the need for and asked to indicate their level of support (very
more staff. supportive, somewhat supportive, not supportive,
The Department is in a challenging position not sure) for each. The two initiatives with the highest
regarding their community centers in part because level of support were:
they are surrounded by other municipalities with 1. Improving the maintenance/cleanliness,
similar competitive facilities and also because of enhancing, upgrading, and renovating
funding. existing parks and outdoor recreation
facilities to meet residents’ needs and
When respondents were asked what the priorities.
Department should focus on the most, they 2. Improving the maintenance/cleanliness,
indicated neighborhood parks. In most departments enhancing, upgrading, and renovating
the size of Kansas City there can be a tendency to existing indoor community centers to meet
focus on the large-acreage or regional parks. For the resident needs and priorities.
staff to express their opinion that a focus should be Given the scale of the Department it is not surprising
made on neighborhood parks is interesting, as they that the top two areas of support were in existing
can be time and labor intensive. This focus should be indoor and outdoor spaces and were not on
confirmed with residents, but also used to leverage acquisition of new. This also points to staff that are
additional financial support. very aware of areas where they feel they may not be
meeting expectations, or could improve on existing
When asked if the department should focus on conditions.
just two recreational programs, respondents felt
that Youth Programs should be the focus. Youth Respondents were asked to provide ideas of what

Figure 3.10: Which area do you think
the department should focus on
most?

32 KANSAS CITY PARKS MASTER PLAN