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NEW HANOVER COUNTY PARKS & GARDENS
896 Airlie Road · Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 798-7620 · (910) 798-7621 FAX · www.nhcgov.com
PARKS ADVISORY BOARD
AGENDA
NOVEMBER 4, 2025 – 8:30 A.M.
AIRLIE COTTAGE
896 Airlie Road, Wilmington NC 28411
Call to Order Ryan Bisplinghoff, Chair
Approval of Minutes Ryan Bisplinghoff
Top of Mind Topics All
Director/Staff Q&A Jodi/Andy
Adjournment
NEXT MEETING: NOVEMBER 4, 2025
ASSEMBLY
The Parks Advisory Board held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Airlie Cottage.
Present: Mary Ellen Lavoie, Ryan Bisplinghoff, Judy Justice, Caleb Rash, Gayle Tabor
Provided notice: Carol Hunter
Absent: Jordan Nason
Staff: Andy Johnson, Latashia Smith, Tanya Gurganious, and Jodi Rich
WELCOME AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES: The meeting was called to order by Ryan Bisplinghoff. Ryan asked if everyone had a chance to review the minutes and if there were any changes. Hearing
none, the following motion was presented:
MOTION: Ryan Bisplinghoff MOVED; SECONDED by Caleb Rash, that the minutes of the June meeting be approved. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
There was not a July meeting due to the proximity of the July 4th holiday. The August meeting was held at Trails End Park and the September meeting was held at Smith Creek Park. There
was not a quorum for either meeting.
Top of Mind Topics
Judy Justice shared that she will be unable to attend the November meeting. She inquired about the county’s process for acquiring land, noting a recent news story about the City of Wilmington
purchasing property. Ryan explained that all county land acquisitions must be approved by the Board of Commissioners.
Ryan, Gayle, and Jodi met with County Clerk to the Board, Kym Crowell, and Assistant County Manager, Lisa Wurtzbacher, to discuss their experiences serving on the Parks Advisory Board
and to provide an overview of the board’s role and functions. Ryan reported that the meeting was productive and informative.
Ryan also suggested that the board determine topics and goals for the remaining meetings of the year to assist with future agenda planning. He proposed including a brainstorming session
for the 2026 voice of the customer.
Mary Ellen raised the idea of offering additional programming in county parks. Jodi explained that while Airlie’s educators occasionally provide programs in other parks, most educational
activities take place at Airlie Gardens. Unlike the City of Wilmington,
Parks and Gardens does not have a dedicated recreation division. It was recommended that the educators be invited to participate as the voice of the customer.
It was also noted that November 12th will be Family Night at Enchanted Airlie for Parks and Gardens staff and board members.
Staff Updates
Smith Creek Park – No significant changes to report. Progress on the parking lot lighting project remains stalled.
Stormwater Pond – Staff is exploring potential remedies, including the installation of a footbridge or piping. However, the piping option may present ADA compliance challenges. The rest
of the trail could be paved but it would be more cost-effective to complete if poured in one phase.
Northern Regional Park – Vegetation has been cleared and removed from the site. Significant fill material has been imported, and asphalt paving is anticipated in December or January.
Middlesound/Market Street Trail – A Notice to Proceed has been received for the segment from March Oaks to Walmart. Monthly coordination meetings are underway.
Echo Farms Project – Staff are in discussions with USTA Nationals following bid submissions that came in higher than expected. Grant opportunities are being pursued to offset the funding
shortfall. With contingency included, the project faces a deficit of approximately $328,000; without contingency, the shortfall increases to $516,000. The total project cost is $1,252,958.
Next Meeting. The next board meeting will take place at the Airlie Cottage on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 8:30 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/
Latashia N. Smith