HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-22-2026 2027 VPA Budget Presentation FILED2027 Budget Presentation Venues Parks and Arts
September 22, 2026
,A City of South BendV Indiana
Filed in Clerk's Office
StY 2 1 2026
Bianca TiradoCity Clerk, South Bend, IN
City of South BendIndianaParks, programs, facilities, venues, and experiences South Bend residents value.
City of South BendIndianaVenues Parks and Arts brings our communities together in vibrant spaces through memorable experiences and meaningful connections.Our Mission
City of South BendIndiana2026: A Year of Community ImpactNew spaces, expanded opportunities, and meaningful community connectionsVIBRANT SPACES • MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES • MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS56Parks1,300Park Acres Maintained400+Playground Inspections Completed48,000+Morris PAC Visitors YTD56,250Attendees at Events in Our Parks YTD4,100+Summer Concert Series Attendees1,400+Volunteer Service Hours YTD34,048Recreation Program Participants
City of South BendIndiana2026: A Year of Community Impact (continued)New spaces, expanded opportunities, and meaningful community connectionsJANUARY 2026RACLIN MURPHY ENCORE CENTEROpened a new home for performances, events, and arts programming.52EVENTS HOSTEDSPRING 2026BYERS SOFTBALL COMPLEXOpened a new destination for local and regional play.112.6kVISITSSPRING 2026KENNEDY PARK AQUATIC CENTERBroke ground on a new aquatic center for the neighborhood.Summer 2027OPENINGVIBRANT SPACES • MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES • MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONSSPRING 2026DAVID A. FILER TENNIS COURTS AT LEEPER PARKOpened refreshed courts for play, lessons, and league use.9.6KVISITS
City of South BendIndiana2026: A Year of Community Impact (continued)Ongoing programs, downtown presence, and investments still to come2026 SEASONDOWNTOWN AMBASSADORSSupported a more welcoming and connected downtown experience.2,149BUSINESS INTERACTIONSSUMMER 2026DREAMERS SUMMER CAMPCreated opportunities for young people to learn, play, and connect.75CAMPERS SERVEDLATE SUMMER 2026INVESTING IN THE FUTUREHosted the 33rd annual Youth Scholarship Golf Outing$14KFUNDS RAISEDFALL 2026COMING SOONRum Village Phase 1VIBRANT SPACES • MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES • MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
City of South BendIndianaWhat Residents Told Us Matters MostThe themes that came through most clearly in resident input.01Parks & TrailsViewed as community must-haves, not extras.02AccessibilityResidents should be able to reach, enter, use, and enjoy every space.03Workforce ManagementThe right positions, skills, supervision, and accountability to deliver.04Community SpacesPlaces that bring neighborhoods together and stay welcoming.Themes drawn from Build the Budget engagement and ongoing resident feedback.Our responsibility is to protect community value.
City of South BendIndianaThe Reality We FaceWhere VPA stands today, and what the same team could deliver with the right structure.WHAT WE SEE TODAYWHAT COULD BE•Crews stretched thin across aging facilities•Maintenance and mowing consume the day•Reacting to problems instead of planning ahead•Staff present, connecting with residents•Updated spaces families choose to return to•Programming that brings the community togetherThe gap between today and what could be is a matter of structure and capacity.
City of South BendIndianaThe Future We Are BuildingWhat the 2027 structure is designed to deliver for residents.A VPA THAT WILL1Protects frontline servicesCrews and programs residents count on stay intact2Prioritizes parks and trailsInvestment follows the spaces people use most3Uses technology strategicallySmarter tools, faster service, less paperwork4Eliminates duplicationOne clear owner for every function5Creates clearer accountabilityDefined roles, measurable outcomes6Remains financially sustainableA structure the city can afford long termA structure built to protect services and the people who deliver them.
City of South BendIndianaThe Transformation FrameworkFive moves that let VPA work smarter1STRENGTHENING COMMUNICATIONSTelling one consistent VPA story.2LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGYImproving access, efficiency, and service.3EXPANDING PARTNERSHIPSExtending our reach through local and national collaboration.4DEVELOPING OUR WORKFORCECross-training, upskilling, and increasing ownership.5STRENGTHENING LEADERSHIP CAPACITYBuilding the structure needed to support our organization.Every 2027 change is designed to strengthen service and keep resources focused on resident impact.
City of South BendIndianaStrengthening Strategic CommunicationsMoving from production to purposeMORE INTENTIONAL COMMUNICATION • MORE CONSISTENT STORYTELLING • STRONGER CONNECTIONSTODAY'S MODELMARKETINGPromote eventsCreate materialsRespond to requestsFROM PRODUCTIONTO STRATEGYFUTURE MODELSTRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONSTell VPA's storyEngage residentsAlign our voiceCommunications SpecialistStrategy • Storytelling • EngagementSupported by internal expertise and specialized creative services as needed
City of South BendIndianaUsing Technology to Improve ServiceImproving accessibility, consistency, and operational efficiency2026CONSISTENCYAutomated restroom accessACCESSIBILITYExploring smart court accessEFFICIENCYTechnology supporting routine workMORE ACCESS• MORE RELIABILITY• BETTER USE OF STAFF TIMEFUTURE EXPLORATIONFUTURE EXPLORATION
City of South BendIndianaExpanding Our Impact Through PartnershipsBringing together expertise, resources, and relationships to serve more residentsBETTER TOGETHERA GROWING PARTNERSHIP NETWORKVPAMISSIONSPORTS + RECREATIONCORPORATE PARTNERSHEALTH + WELLNESSSCHOOLSNONPROFITSARTS + CULTURECOMMUNITY GROUPSGREATER ACCESS • STRONGER EXPERIENCES • BROADER COMMUNITY IMPACT
City of South BendIndianaBuilding a More Capable WorkforceCross-training, upskilling, and technology help employees solve more problems and deliver better service.TODAYA role built for a different operating model•Focused on one primary function•Many tasks completed manuallyBUILDING SKILLSTraining and tools that widen the role•Cross-training across roles and units•Digital, facility, and AI tools•Problem identification and escalationFUTUREMore Versatile VPA EmployeeMaintains • InspectsIdentifies • ResolvesEquipped to handle more routine needs end to endFEWER HANDOFFSFASTER RESPONSEGREATER OWNERSHIPSpecialized repairs will continue to be completed by appropriately qualified staff.Technology provides the tools. Our employees provide the judgment, skill, and service.
City of South BendIndianaStrengthening Executive LeadershipA Deputy Director role that adds day-to-day operating capacity and clear accountability.Stronger executive capacity for the organization VPA is becoming.01Operational PartnerWorks alongside the Executive Director to coordinate work across every division.02Strategic ExecutionSupports implementation of strategic priorities from plan through delivery.03AccountabilityStrengthens ownership and consistent execution across a large, diverse organization.04Executive CapacitySupports the Executive Director's focus on strategy, partnerships, and community.Replaces the Chief Experience Officer model. Guest service and resident experience principles carry forward across every division.
City of South BendIndianaMaking Thoughtful Personnel DecisionsEvery proposed adjustment was evaluated against mission, service, and long-term sustainability.PEOPLE FIRST, THEN POSITIONSFOUR QUESTIONS WE ASKED OF EVERY ROLEMISSIONSERVICEDELIVERYSUSTAINABILITYWHAT THAT LED US TO DO01RETAIN AND STRENGTHENPositions and skills central to service delivery02REDESIGNBroader roles, cross-training, and fewer handoffs03DELIVER DIFFERENTLYPartnerships, technology, and seasonal supportThe result is a more focused workforce aligned with future service needs.
City of South BendIndianaGroup Violence InitiativeCharles Black CenterExecutive DirectorExecutive AssistantChief Experience OfficerExperiences and EventsDowntown OperationsEngagement AmbassadorsCustodialSafetyChief of Community InitiativesRecreationAquaticsAthleticsHoward ParkRum VillageCommunity ProgramsO'Brien CenterPinhook CenterSOI & Youth Employ. MLK Dream CenterChief of Park OperationsFleetTradesGroundsForestryHorticultureGolfChief of Venues & PromotionsPalais RoyaleMorris Performing Arts CenterRaclin Murphy EncoreParking GaragesMarketing2026: VPA Organizational Chart
City of South BendIndianaGroup Violence InitiativeCharles Black CenterExecutive DirectorExecutive AssistantChief Experience OfficerExperiences and EventsDowntown OperationsEngagement AmbassadorsCustodialSafetyChief of Community InitiativesRecreationAquaticsAthleticsHoward ParkRum VillageCommunity ProgramsO'Brien CenterPinhook CenterSOI & Youth Employ.MLK Dream CenterChief of Park OperationsFleetTradesGroundsForestryHorticultureGolfChief of Venues & PromotionsPalais RoyaleMorris Performing Arts CenterRaclin Murphy EncoreParking GaragesMarketingWhat’s Changing: 2026 → 2027Gold = moving in 2027 · see where they land next
City of South BendIndianaGroup Violence InitiativeCharles Black CenterExecutive DirectorExecutive AssistantDirector of Experiences & EventsEventsDowntown OperationsEngagement AmbassadorsCustodialSafetyChief of Community InitiativesRecreationAquaticsAthleticsHoward ParkRum VillageCommunity ProgramsPinhook CenterSOI & Youth Employ.MLK Dream CenterChief of Park OperationsFleetTradesGroundsForestryHorticultureGolfGeneral Manager of VenuesPalais RoyaleMorris Performing Arts CenterRaclin Murphy EncoreParking GaragesCommunicationsVolunteersDeputy DirectorAsst. ForesterProject ManagerKEYShifted in the org chartNew for 2027Reduction in staffO'Brien CenterWhere the Gold Boxes LandGold = shifted in the org chart· now in their 2027 reporting lines
City of South BendIndianaGroup Violence InitiativeCharles Black CenterExecutive DirectorExecutive AssistantDirector of Experiences & EventsEventsDowntown OperationsEngagement AmbassadorsCustodialSafetyChief of Community InitiativesRecreationAquaticsAthleticsHoward ParkRum VillageCommunity ProgramsPinhook CenterSOI & Youth Employ.MLK Dream CenterChief of Park OperationsFleetTradesGroundsForestryHorticultureGolfGeneral Manager of VenuesPalais RoyaleMorris Performing Arts CenterRaclin Murphy EncoreParking GaragesCommunicationsVolunteersDeputy DirectorAsst. ForesterProject ManagerKEYShifted in the org chartNew for 2027Reduction in staffO'Brien CenterWhat’s Changing: New for 2027Blue = new for 2027 · positions added to support the new structure
City of South BendIndianaGroup Violence InitiativeCharles Black CenterExecutive DirectorExecutive AssistantDirector of Experiences & EventsEventsDowntown OperationsEngagement AmbassadorsCustodialSafetyChief of Community InitiativesRecreationAquaticsAthleticsHoward ParkRum VillageCommunity ProgramsPinhook CenterSOI & Youth Employ.MLK Dream CenterChief of Park OperationsFleetTradesGroundsForestryHorticultureGolfGeneral Manager of VenuesPalais RoyaleMorris Performing Arts CenterRaclin Murphy EncoreParking GaragesCommunicationsVolunteersDeputy DirectorAsst. ForesterProject ManagerKEYShifted in the org chartNew for 2027Reduction in staffO'Brien CenterWhat’s Changing: ReductionsRed = reduction in staff · positions reduced in 2027
City of South BendIndianaGroup Violence InitiativeCharles Black CenterExecutive DirectorExecutive AssistantDirector of Experiences & EventsEventsDowntown OperationsEngagement AmbassadorsCustodialSafetyChief of Community InitiativesRecreationAquaticsAthleticsHoward ParkRum VillageCommunity ProgramsPinhook CenterSOI & Youth Employ.MLK Dream CenterChief of Park OperationsFleetTradesGroundsForestryHorticultureGolfGeneral Manager of VenuesPalais RoyaleMorris Performing Arts CenterRaclin Murphy EncoreParking GaragesCommunicationsVolunteersDeputy DirectorAsst. ForesterProject ManagerKEYShifted in the org chartNew for 2027Reduction in staffO'Brien Center2027: VPA Organizational Chart
City of South BendIndianaPersonnel AdjustmentsProposed position reductions and additions by department15Total roles reduced7Vacant roles reduced8Filled roles / people impactedOf the 15 reductions, 7 are vacant and 8 are filled roles. The plan also adds 3 roles — a net change of -12 positions.Park Maintenance-2Building & Structural Maintenance. II Filled -1Painter IV Filled -1Development & Promotion-4Manager — Special Events Filled -1Marketing Manager Filled -3MLK-1Program Manager Vacant -1Community Programming-3Program Coordinator Filled -1Manager — Center Vacant -1Administrative Assistant II Vacant -1Visitor Experience-5Custodian Vacant -3Chief of Visitor Experience Vacant -1Superintendent III Filled -1Department-wide Additions+3Deputy VPA New +1Manager —Operations (Forester) New +1Communications Specialist New +1A net change of -12 positions, with frontline services protected.
City of South BendIndiana2027 Budget OverviewOperating lines ranked by 2027 proposed budget, with prior-year actuals and change$26.59M2026 adopted$25.05M2027 proposed-$1.55M / -5.8%Year-over-year changeOPERATING LINE2024 2025 20262027 YOY OPERATING LINE2024 2025 20262027 YOYPark Maintenance8.63 9.77 8.31$8.75M+5.2%Community Initiatives & Prog.2.64 2.87 2.98$2.63M-11.8%Golf Courses2.07 2.87 2.49$2.41M-3.3%Recreational1.99 1.52 1.97$2.01M+1.8%Visitor Experience0.00 1.95 2.52$1.93M-23.5%Development & Promotions1.12 2.07 2.04$1.60M-21.5%Morris Performing Arts Center1.23 1.38 1.68$1.47M-12.5%Parking Operations & Garages1.53 1.67 1.23$1.15M-6.5%Century Center (incl. Capital)1.74 1.59 1.45$0.93M-35.8%Park Administration0.53 0.46 0.38$0.59M+56.1%Potawatomi Greenhouse & Zoo0.45 0.46 0.41$0.46M+11.1%Palais Royale Ballroom0.13 0.13 0.16$0.17M+5.4%Actuals, adopted, and proposed figures shown in $ millions.Total operations down 5.8% — $26.59M adopted in 2026 to $25.05M proposed for 2027.
City of South BendIndianaWhere the Revenue Comes FromRevenue streams supporting the 2027 proposed budget, ranked by size$28.18M2026 adopted revenue$27.45M2027 projected revenue-$0.73M / -2.6%Year-over-year changeREVENUE STREAM2024 2025 20262027 YOY REVENUE STREAM2024 2025 20262027 YOYProperty Taxes13.12 13.20 12.72$13.85M+9.0%Charges for Services7.04 7.75 8.22$7.90M-3.9%Interfund Transfers In2.00 2.62 2.00$2.00M0.0%Debt Proceeds0.07 1.35 1.42$0.99M-30.1%Intergov. / Shared Revenues0.83 0.48 1.51$0.93M-38.3%Donations0.61 0.61 0.75$0.68M-9.1%Capital / Century Center0.50 0.50 0.84$0.38M-55.1%Interfund Allocation Reimb.0.00 0.00 0.29$0.31M+6.1%Other Income0.46 0.36 0.34$0.30M-10.0%Interest Earnings0.12 0.10 0.11$0.11M+1.3%Actuals, adopted, and projected figures shown in $ millions. 2023 actuals available on request.Property taxes and charges for services fund roughly 80% of the 2027 budget.
City of South BendIndianaLooking Ahead to 2027Projects and priorities taking shape in the year aheadWHAT IS AHEAD IN 202701Pursuing CAPRA Re-accreditation02Kennedy Aquatic Center03Howard Park Bandshell04Leeper Park Tennis Center05Potawatomi Park Enhancements06Rum Village Park Enhancements07East Race Waterway Reopening08Expanded Recreation ProgrammingA year of accreditation, new facilities, and expanded recreation across our parks.
City of South BendIndianaHow We Plan To Build ItReview the building blocks, align them, and build something amazing.REVIEW THE BLOCKSLay out every priority and resource we have to work with.ALIGN THE PIECESLine the work up so divisions move in the same direction.BUILD SOMETHING AMAZINGStack it into results residents can see and feel.One priority at a time, until it all stands together.
City of South BendIndianaOUR MISSIONVPA brings our communities together in vibrant spaces through memorable experiences and meaningful connections.Venues, Parks & Arts • City of South Bend
City of South BendIndianaThank YouQUESTIONS?Venues, Parks & Arts • City of South Bend • 2027 Budget