Parks Advisory Commission

Purpose

The purpose of the Parks Advisory Commission is to provide leadership and direction to staff and elected officials in the areas of parks, trails and open space planning and implementation. Commissioners advise on program priorities and planning for parks, trails and open space, and review and recommend proposed annual work plans and budgets. The Commissioners represent the citizens of Scott County and as such, serve as community ambassadors.

Meetings

The Scott County Parks Advisory Commission holds meetings on the 1st Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. 

All meetings are in-person meetings unless otherwise noted. Meetings are held in the Board Room at the Scott County Government Center (200 Fourth Avenue West, Shakopee, MN 55379). Members of the public may view the meeting in-person. 

To obtain meeting information or provide public comments during a meeting, email Patricia Freeman ([email protected]) at least 24 hours before the meeting start time. Members of the public may provide comments during the public comment period on the agenda during a public meeting.

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

Members

There are 7 members who are appointed by the Board of Commissioners: 1 from each Commissioner District and 2 at-large members. Members each serve 1 year terms, with no term limit.

  • Cary Coop - Commissioner District 1 - Current term ends December 31, 2025
  • Eric Spieler - Commissioner District 2- Current term ends December 31, 2025
  • Kathy Gerlach - Commissioner District 3 - Current term ends December 31, 2024
  • Mark Ewert - Commissioner District 4 - Current term ends December 31, 2025
  • Jody Stone - Commissioner District 5 - Current term ends December 31, 2024
  • Lauri Schmid - At large member - Current term ends December 31, 2025
  • Kristin French - At large member - Current term ends December 31, 2024

If you are interested in applying to be a future member of the Parks Advisory Commission, complete the application form online or contact Cara at [email protected] or at 952-496-8169.

Further Information

For more information about the Parks Advisory Commission, please contact Parks Program Manager Patricia Freeman at [email protected] or call 952-496-8752.