Macaroni KID Evergreen-Bailey-Conifer invited all six Evergreen Park and Recreation (EPRD) Board of Directors candidates to answer 10 family-focused questions about how they would support district families, if elected. All but one candidate submitted responses. See their answers below:
- What drove you to run for the EPRD Board?
- What are EPRD BOD’s top priorities? How do you align and how would you evolve to serve the community?
- How does EPRD currently serve children in the community?
- How can EPRD better serve families with young children?
- How should the EPRD address child care affordability?
- How can EPRD engage middle school children?
- How can EPRD prepare high schoolers for adulthood?
- How can families with children take advantage of EPRD programs and facilities?
- Why should parents with children at home vote for you?
- What is EPRD’s little known resource that parents should know about?
Ally Hilgefort (Contender) | Betsy Hays (Incumbent) | Erin Graham (Contender) | Geoffrey Erdahl (Contender) | Mary McGhee (Incumbent) | Peter Eggers (Incumbent) |
 |  |  |  |  |  |
1. What drove you to run for the EPRD Board?
- Hays:
I have served on the EPRD Board for the last 3 years and I would like to continue the plans we have set in motion. We successfully onboarded an amazing new executive director and brought to completion the on budget Evergreen Lake North Trail Project. We gathered community input and created a strategic plan that as the current EPRD Board President I am honored to put into motion with improvements and new recreational opportunities for the public. I have extensive experience in getting things accomplished in Evergreen and unincorporated Jefferson County. I am honored to work with the Board and staff at EPRD to implement the strategic plan in a logical and fiscally responsible way over the next 4 years which will benefit the entire community. - Hilgefort:
Before even moving into our home here in Evergreen, I started dialing myself in with EPRD offerings. The existence of the rec centers and EPRD was a big factor for our family to settle here. Of course we were drawn by Evergreen’s beauty and access to outdoor activities galore, but we also wanted a community hub for our kids to practice various sports and learn other skills as they grow. Our daughters are currently ages 7 and 3. I was pregnant with our youngest when we moved into our house, but we had been looking for our forever home since our oldest was just under 2.
EPRD events for the area excited me, too, although coming out of COVID, a lot of those ended up canceled due to low registration. Seeing events like the Haunted Glow Run evolve into the hugely popular, now-two-weekend community affair that it is in 2025, is absolutely wonderful!
All to say, EPRD is important to me and my family. I have long emailed my feedback on various events/classes, taken their surveys, etc. Equipping EPRD with information about the community, means the community can benefit the most from EPRD. Their successes translate to our collective community's benefit.
My family joined the "Walk the Park" event in Spring 2024 to learn more about the Buchanan Park Improvements, which led to me attending board meetings starting in September 2024. Experiencing these meetings as a member of the public inspired me to strive for a position on the board, so that I can more effectively advocate for all of Evergreen.
The projects in the works are meaningful and will shape our area for decades to come- Both in the physical amenities they'll provide, and in the overall opportunity for activities and programming. Our EPRD board needs a well-rounded perspective to guide all the decisions they'll make over these next several years. As a parent of young children and as an invested member of our community, my voice will serve that purpose. - Eggers:
In 1992, Hank Alderfer asked me to run for the board, saying: "We are building the Lake House and I need someone on the board who knows construction. Please run." I ran and won; and being on the board for those next 12 years was the most satisfying and rewarding time I could have had in service to Evergreen. I was re-elected in '08 and then also in '22 to help EPRD get back on its feet in the post Covid era. I am running again to continue that service and help execute the Strategic Plan we adopted in '24. - McGhee:
The previous boards up to 2021 were not listening to the community. I did not come to that conclusion lightly; it was only after getting to know EPRD from the inside-out. I did my homework, I volunteered, became an employee, as well as a patron and a taxpayer for over 30 years, to thoroughly learn EPRD’s spending and operations. I experienced firsthand the decision making from the previous 4 executive directors (1 only lasted a year) and I knew more effort, engagement and attention could be put into the board’s oversight and direction. So in 2022 I ran against 7 other candidates and won.
Now that the district bond was passed last November we have the funding, 1.35 million, to execute on pent-up district needs. For the next board term, I want to see this through. - Graham:
After much reflection throughout the past year, I decided to run for Evergreen Park and Recreation District’s Board of Directors because EPRD’s mission resonates with my personal values: fostering connection within our community, promoting health and wellness, and spending time in nature.
Since moving to the District in 2020, I have developed a deep appreciation for having the opportunity to live in such a thriving, beautiful, mountain community. From crossing paths with wildlife on a morning hike, attending art shows at Buchanan and film screenings at the Lake House, or celebrating local traditions like the Holiday Walk and the Dam Duck Derby, I’ve experienced firsthand how bringing people together enhances our collective quality of life. EPRD was established to do just that – bring families together to recreate and enhance the quality of life throughout our mountain community.
2. What are EPRD BOD’s top priorities? How do you align and how would you evolve to serve the community?
- Hays:
The top priorities of the Board are to execute on the components of the strategic plan and I align with these priorities as I have spent countless hours working on them over the last 3 years. First will be the Buchanan Park Improvements that include the ADA accessible playground with splash pad, skatepark, permanent stage, enhanced trails, activated upper pond for fishing, second is the addition of the lap pool onto Buchanan, third is the redesign of Wulf Recreation Center and the addition of multi-use courts onto the Buchanan Park Site. The current Board and staff are working well together to implement the strategic plan. We cannot do everything all at once. A pool takes 2 years and progress on that will be simultaneous with the outdoor free amenities at Buchanan. My vision is that as EPRD continues to take care of what it has, rebuilds and expands recreation and provides the community the chance to enjoy the progress as it is made. Over the last 3 years since I have been on the EPRD Board I have seen the confidence that the community has in the district grow and my goal is to continue to grow that confidence as the items in the strategic plan are implemented. I am someone who likes to get the job done and as a Board Member I am excited to see it through. - Hilgefort:
Top priorities are staying true to who the board represents: The entire Evergreen community. Community feedback over the last several years has directed the board to take care of what EPRD already has- maintaining and keeping up with current property and features- but also rebuilding and expanding facilities and parks, offering more for the community to enjoy while remaining fiscally responsible.
I would serve the community in this manner by providing that perspective needed to keep all of the board's responsibilities in mind- Keeping all of Evergreen in mind when developing these plans, both for the new projects and for the enhancement of already available features. - Eggers:
This capital campaign is a top priority for me and the current Board along with, of course, the day to day workings of EPRD. - McGhee:
The top 2023 board priority was to ask each and every resident what was their 1st priority. Now the priority now is to execute on those priorities from the district survey responses, town halls, PTAs, stakeholder, club sport group meetings, etc. As a result of that feedback, the 1st priority that emerged was to repair what we have. Therefore we got to work refurbishing the playgrounds with new equipment, fixing broken swings, adding new ADA surfacing, creating a pump track and mountain trail course that kids can walk their bikes to and use after school, a new roof, decking and log staining on the lakehouse, all new interactive play amenities in the children’s pool at Buchanan, added more kid’s summer camps (like building robotic legos using STEM and adding an Arts component, STEAM), increased winter activities and accessibility on Evergreen lake, emptied the water in the Wulf pool and scrubbed it with muriatic acid for a thorough cleaning, replaced leaky windows and rusted out bannisters, replaced old gymnastics equipment, etc.
The list is large and if re-elected I will continue to see that EPRD assets are maintained. The 2nd priority = the large ~10 million dollar projects. Currently, our after-school-care kids program uses the Wulf gym, especially when the weather outside is not cooperating. But the after-school-care kids have to compete with the other groups who want the gym at the same time, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, inspire, swimming meet overflow, gymnastics meets, event rentals, etc. We have an abundance of unparalleled outdoor space for kids adventures but we still need indoor too. The current gym was built 50 years ago. One gym at Wulf is no longer able to accommodate 25,000 district residents with the corresponding growth in youth activities. - Graham:
EPRD has a strategic plan with three areas of priority: taking care of the resources we have, rebuilding recreation to align with the needs and values of our evolving community, and expanding facilities and services. If elected, my top priority will be to move the District forward using these priorities as a guide.
My academic background is in Journalism, Political Science and Education. Relationship building and trust are at the core of all of these fields. I believe relationships are built by listening to one another and sharing perspectives respectfully. If elected, I intend to build awareness and engagement throughout our entire community – long-term residents to newcomers alike— and make recommendations based on listening to and respecting our entire community’s wants and needs.
3. How does EPRD currently serve children in the community?
- Hays:
EPRD serves children in our community through programming, camps, before and after care, drop in care, playgrounds, team sports including lessons, boating, family friendly concerts, events and wide open spaces to run and play. - Hilgefort:
There's really a wide array of offerings for school-aged children: aftercare as an after school program (busing kids from some schools), school break camps, summer camps, gymnastics, dance, swim lessons, climbing, basketball and many other ball sports for some grades, after-school clubs run by EPRD but taking place at some schools (roller-skating, lego club, and spanish club to name a few). There are some outdoor activities for older kids and more sports availability. Preschool-aged can dance, swim or do gymnastics, while toddlers can do the later two options. With enough enrollment they have offered short drop-off classes for toddlers and preschoolers. Playskool drop-in care is sometimes available, even for pretty young babies, but care-givers must remain on-site.
Maybe equally as important as all of those activities, are the community-builder events that EPRD is taking on more and more of. Holiday pool and gymnastics parties. Frostival was new this year and provided a fun afternoon to kick off the holiday season. They brought back a 4th of July festival in "Foothills Fourth" - There used to be an 'Evergreen Music Festival' on the Fourth that was missed for a couple of years there. The Buchanan Campouts are a wonderful time for families to spend amongst themselves, and yet together with the community. All of these fun gatherings allow for our town to spend time together, engaging with one another, enhancing friendships and enjoying where we live. Providing a really beneficial communal environment for our kids to experience. - Eggers:
For those families who engage with EPRD, the District has tremendous offerings for children between the ages of 2-3 with Tumblebugs on the gymnastics floor, all the way to middle school age with any number of sports, including soccer, lacrosse, baseball and basketball, just to name a few. In talking with Brian Tucker, our Director of Operations, sadly, the schools offer very little to this middle school age group who don't engage in sports re: other extra curricular activities. He is engaging other Rec Centers in our local area to try to develop programming for this age group specifically. - McGhee:
Where do I start! We have programs for infants all the way up to big kids. For youth, there is instruction in rock climbing, roller skating, dance classes in hip hop, jazz, tap, modern and ballet, gymnastics coaching and competition, Olympic style fencing, how to play chess (tactics and strategy), mountain biking, robotic lego Snapology, art classes taught by Ms. Jules from Evergreen Art School, including drawing, oil pastel, and watercolor. As mentioned in #2 above, we take advantage of the STEAM approach to this learning.
In addition, EPRD provides coaching, competition and leagues for basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, and gymnastics for all ages.
Then sometimes we serve children by giving busy parents a break. EPRD will entertain your kids in the playschool while you workout. Mom can get in a swim, treadmill, weight workout, zumba or yoga class while EPRD provides very affordable childcare. The playschool provides educational and creative fun. If you wanted to workout an hour every day, for a month, with EPRD’s monthy pass it will only cost you $2.80 for one child, drop-in at the playschool. - Graham:
EPRD offers several programs dedicated to children—sports, special events, playschool, afterschool enrichment classes, and school break camps—to encourage active lifestyles and create lasting memories. These activities are not just about having fun; they are the foundation to support a lifetime of healthy habits, care for community and stewardship of our environment.
When children are involved in active play and structured sports, they build more than healthy bodies. They gain confidence, learn discipline, and develop resilience within a supportive environment.
4. How can EPRD better serve families with young children?
- Hays:
EPRD does well serving children ages 4 and up with its depth and breadth of offerings. We have been challenged by staffing shortages for our summer camps and are actively trying to offer more opportunities this year. We also need to figure out a better way to gather feedback from parents with young children. It is difficult for those families to attend meetings and I would like to figure out if I create a drop in session at local playgrounds to make sure parents with young kids are heard-will anyone come? I do read all of the posts on the Facebook page of Evergreen Mountain Mamas and bring up to the staff and board what I see and answer thoughtfully as needed. We can do a better job of making sure families know what is going on and how the improvements benefit kids. For example: the new lap pool will always have 2 lanes available all day every day for the community for lessons, lap swim or other programs. While the pool at Buchanan has recently been refurbished, after school swim lessons have been limited. The new pool will also have a party room which currently does not exist and will be a great addition. In regards to childcare, if demand allows EPRD would need to figure out a way to provide care for kids during the time adults are taking advantage of our programs. - Hilgefort:
We could definitely use more classes and activities for babies and toddlers. Fun music classes for care-givers to enjoy with their little ones, toddler sports-learning classes for under 3, more sports in general for under 5, more outdoor activities for under 8, more short "pre"preschool classes (even for care-givers to attend alongside the kids, as a fun intro to school together). It would be amazing to see drop-in care with more hours that are also more reliable. I'd love to see an indoor play place somehow. I've talked with EPRD about some of these ideas, and I'm currently working to get voices of the community together to confirm these desires. If you're interested in participating, please reach out! - Eggers:
Candidate did not provide answer. - McGhee:
If the Jeffco school district allows us to purchase the abandoned Bergen Meadow school EPRD can program more activities for young children. The ball fields, gym and playgrounds are the right size. Another way EPRD could serve, would be to increase the childcare hours available so that parents who have to work late can still get those services in question #3 above. A 3rd way could be to expand the schools where we provide transportation. Currently EPRD will pick up your child at Bergen Valley and transport them after school to activities at Buchanan rec. Marshdale and Parmelee schools currently do not have this benefit. - Graham:
EPRD is focused on family fun! The District offers a variety of programs designed with young children and their families in mind. Whether your little ones are eager to try their first sports lesson such as learning to skate or exploring climbing and gymnastics, there are plenty of opportunities for them to laugh, learn, and grow. Our District was created with families in mind, with special attention given to aquatics—perfect for a refreshing splash after play. Whether your child is taking their first steps into active play or learning new skills, EPRD’s programs are available to support every stage of their journey with fun, friendly, and unforgettable adventures.
5. How should the EPRD address child care affordability?
- Hays:
This is a tough question. The role of EPRD is recreation and community gathering opportunities. We provide childcare to enable parents to participate in programs plus we have the afterschool care and camps. We have our prices set to recoup expenses. The definition of affordability is different for all. We do have scholarship money available through Active4All to help families in need and bridge the gap of affordability. If demand allows EPRD would need to figure out a way to provide care for kids during the time adults are taking advantage of our programs. - Hilgefort:
If EPRD could partner with a child-care provider- offering a space for care to be provided in- That overall cost to the family could be lower than when a child-care provider is also providing the facility and resources themselves. This sort of mutually beneficial situation is worth looking into. Playskool drop-in care is great if it can be reliable, but even then parents aren't able to get out and run errands, let alone go to work. - Eggers:
Active4All is the non-profit arm of EPRD and awards scholarships to those families who can demonstrate a need. It is funded by donations, the Polar Plunge, and other fundraising events. There is generally a good amount of money available for families to help with enrollment fees. - McGhee:
In addition to the very affordable $2.80/hr childcare, EPRD can look into expanding multi-child discounts. Right now parents get a 30% discount on siblings enrolled in dance classes. We could expand the Active-4-All scholarships available with more fundraisers and perhaps give families, enrolling multiple children, discounts on activities like Adventure Camp. - Graham:
A recreation district plays a vital role in offering affordable childcare by providing safe, engaging spaces to play, learn, and grow. By making quality childcare accessible and affordable, EPRD is investing in our community’s future, ensuring every family the opportunity to participate. For example, EPRD’s playschool program is designed with busy families in mind. With a punch card is priced at $39 for 20 sessions, families can enjoy flexible childcare at both Wulf and Buchanan Park Recreation Centers. Access to affordable childcare support child development through socializing, learning, and play – all of which contribute to a connected community.
6. How can EPRD engage middle school children?
- Hays:
We have a variety of programs and team sports for middle school kids. The improvements at Buchanan outdoors will serve middle schoolers with more activities and free places to congregate. - Hilgefort:
Offering more session-activities that are not the typical sports, like art classes, board game clubs, outdoor skills and adventures, sewing clubs, wood working, babysitting classes, CPR and other first-aid classes. Getting them involved in civic/beautification projects around town. One new cool thing they already have on the books is a "Super Smash Bros" tournament- an E-Sports game with prizes at this event!
Also, the middle school currently has space on its property that it would love help getting back into shape for middle schoolers to better utilize. If EPRD and Jeffco Schools could work out a partnership there (like they had at the Bergen Meadow property, renting those fields from the school district), that would give middle schoolers more options and easy access to activity. - Eggers:
Candidate did not provide answer. - McGhee:
Middle schoolers will walk right past EPRD on their way to Bergen Park. If we provided free outdoor basketball courts at Buchanan, which we do not have right now, it might divert some of the kids now walking by to stop and play. February 2025 there was a teen forum at the Bread Lounge that highlighted hacky-sack, basketball and chess as desirable teen activities. I think an expanded indoor/outdoor pool for teens to socialize outside school, with activities and nets for play would engage middle school children. - Graham:
From my perspective, families with middle schoolers are likely looking for programs focused on building independence, encouraging physical activity, and fostering social connections—all in a safe and engaging environment. If elected, I will ensure the lineup of activities will match priorities confirmed by the community.
The District currently offers a variety of after-school and summer camp programs, including Summer Adventure, Outdoor Climbing, Gymnastics, Science and Technology, Sports, INSPIRE (for special needs), Lake House, Chess, and Challenger Soccer. One example, Middle School Track practices, held after school twice a week, giving children an age-appropriate way to develop athletic skills, work as a team, and boost their confidence. This diverse selection means your middle schooler can explore multiple interests—from physical sports to creative and intellectual challenges.
EPRD also makes staying active affordable with our youth punch card (available for ages 4–18), which gives families flexible access to our programs. And for older middle school children (ages 13–15), EPRD emphasizes a gradual move toward responsibility with guided experiences in our weight room—either accompanying an adult or taking on tasks independently as they grow.
The District’s recreational priorities focus on giving families with middle school children opportunities to thrive through physical challenges, creative exploration, and supportive community experiences that blend fun with lasting personal growth.
7. How can EPRD prepare high schoolers for adulthood?
- Hays:
EPRD prepares kids for adulthood by providing recreational opportunities for kids of all ages. By encouraging engagement in sports, encouraging kids to enjoy the outdoors and local events EPRD helps kids as they mature become part of the community they live in. EPRD also provides employment opportunities at the rec centers and lake. - Hilgefort:
One thing they are already doing that is a really cool opportunity, is the Youth Advisory Board. These highschoolers have a seat at the table with the EPRD Board of Directors during monthly meetings, and they get together outside of those meetings to provide insight and feedback on the highschool population. It is an incredibly valuable experience for these teens. I've watched them sit through 3-5 hour meetings, listening to budgeting and financial topics and engaging in decision-making conversations for our community. They held a feedback session for fellow classmates, and then one of the YAB members presented to the Board, EPRD employees, and members of the public in attendance. This is such great preparation for adulthood! It's a program that really deserves to be celebrated.
To further help prep high schoolers, it could be great to offer a "Real World" class that meets once a week over the course of 2-3 months. Topics could be covered such as budgeting, banking itself, time management, household how-tos, etc. I'm thinking the class could consist of two parts, where the first is a more fun activity and the second covers that week's topic. - Eggers:
Candidate did not provide answer. - McGhee:
Teamwork, working towards a goal, self-discipline, integrating mind & body to train for an activity or sport, cooperation among different people, helps prepare for adulthood. It is a tremendous responsibility to provide kids with healthy learning, socialization and skill building outlets for their energy and curiosity.
Leveling up, building on an increasing solid foundation, with kids early success engenders more success. - Graham:
Recreation districts play a key role in helping high schoolers transition into adulthood by promoting independence, instilling valuable life skills, fostering responsibility, and creating opportunities for self-discovery. By joining a team, trying out a new sport, or participating in community events, high schoolers are given the chance to form genuine friendships and learn the practical skills they can rely on as they transition into the next exciting phase of their lives. The District’s purpose is to unite our community, and every activity—from sport ports leagues to outdoor adventures encourages young people to explore their passions, take on new challenges, and gain confidence in their abilities.
8. How can families with children take advantage of EPRD programs and facilities?
- Hays:
Parents should subscribe to the EPRD newsletter and follow EPRD on Instagram and Facebook to learn what is available and what is happening. Everything from free community nights at the Lake, concerts, competitions, and classes all are highlighted in the district communications. - Hilgefort:
Signing up for email updates from various departments can really help as a good reminder of what classes are coming up that families might be interested in. I would love to see the registration system more fine-tuned, though. Sometimes I know families just want to see what all is available for, say, a five-year-old, during specific times of the week. But it is trickier than it needs to be to obtain that information. This is something I've already discussed with EPRD and they seem open to working on the registration system, and better collaborating amongst departments. Hopefully this is something we can accomplish together.
A really great plan for fully taking advantage of EPRD programs and facilities, though, is for parents to go utilize the weight room or pool while their child is in a gymnastics or dance class, etc. Or, if available during the Playskool hours, drop your little one off while you workout or swim (or even just get some work in on the computer in the lobby).
Their "Parents Nights Out" events are a great way to get a date night while your kids have a fun evening of their own. In fact, EPRD just announced they're going to start *regular* Parents-Nights-Outs, every other Saturday! And they will rotate between the two rec centers (this is huge, as historically PNO has always been held at Wulf). These start May 10th and communication on sign-ups should be out any day (if not already). - Eggers:
Visit Evergreenrecreation.com and there will be a multitude of events and programs serving the 'parents with young children' segment of our population. I can't imagine a better way to fill the days. My children are grown and gone but they took every advantage of what EPRD had to offer in their formative years. - McGhee:
If a family desires, they could have their children engaged all summer long, every week, from May to August with swim lessons, team sports and outdoor activity camps and all year long with the After-school Enrichment programs.
The wonderful summer camps run May 28 - August 8, 2025 for all ages 3 to 16 and include Outdoor Rock Climbing, Gymnastics, Science and Technology, Sports, INSPIRE (Special Needs), Lake House, Chess, and Challenger Soccer, professional ART lessons, Rafting, Preschool Camp, Adventure Camp, Fencing, Sports Camp, Snapology Camp, Film Making Camp, etc. It’s better than hiring a babysitter - Graham:
Recreation districts are designed to welcome families of every shape and size, offering activities that cater to diverse interests and create lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a laid-back outing or an action-packed day, there’s something here for everyone.
Imagine spending an evening enjoying all sorts of events—from catching a summer concert or watching movies in the park to diving into both physical sports and even e-sports. These varied events are convenient for families to gather, have fun, and enjoy experiences that appeal to different tastes.
For those who cherish the great outdoors, there are abundant opportunities for family bonding. You might spend a day fishing, playing disc golf, or simply attending a summer concert together. If you are up for a bit of exercise and nature combined, take a family walk on the 6.45 miles of trails on EPRD property. These trails not only promote physical wellness but also serve as a backdrop for shared moments and conversations that help strengthen family ties.
Our recreation district is all about creating inclusive, engaging opportunities that allow families to connect, explore, and enjoy a wide range of experiences—all while building bonds that last a lifetime.
9. Why should parents with children at home vote for you?
- Hays:
I would be honored if parents with children at home would vote for me. My husband and I raised our 3 kids here and have participated in everything from Tumblebugs to T-Ball, Skating to Swimming, Lacrosse to Volleyball, Lake concerts to community clean ups and all of our kids worked for the district. I am interested to hear what parents have to say and work hard to use my connections in the community to stay on top of what is going on and what is needed. I am a problem solver and consensus builder and always ask when improvements or new things at EPRD are presented: how can this benefit kids, parents, retirees and everyone in between. I am not just a former PTA President at the public schools, the former Chamber of Commerce President and a former fundraising and events director for multiple local non profits. I am a person who thrives on getting things done for the benefit of all in our community. - Hilgefort:
Aside from the fact that I am that parent with children at home, I am passionate about helping to guide EPRD in best serving all of our youth. I strive to give feedback already, because it truly matters for EPRD to know what families need- coming straight from the families. I've already been reaching out to all of our schools' parent organizations to garner interest in a summit of the people who know what our youth needs, so that we can brainstorm with EPRD on what more they can do for us. I'm also always helping to spread the word on fun offerings, because I know family life is a whirlwind and often we just don't realize what's out there to take part in.
But at the heart of it, I have been living this mom-life for nearly 8 years. I understand parents' needs, because I'm right there with them. Not to say that all parents have the exact same needs for their kids. But I know and have interacted with so many of our Evergreen area families, out at playgrounds, on the soccer sidelines, in the rec centers while our kids are dancing or swimming. I feel I'm in the best position possible to voice our varying needs and make an even better Evergreen for our kids. - Eggers:
In voting for me, I offer experience, insight, consensus building and a solid vision for the future of Recreation in Evergreen. We build for you and your children, but also for their children. - McGhee:
They should vote for me because I care. - Graham:
While I am not a parent myself yet, if elected, I will offer the Board a fresh, community-wide perspective. Accessibility to programs and resources is imperative to the direction of our district and continued impact on our community. I understand the importance of supporting every family member through offering a variety of services and programs during a wide-range of hours.
From a professional standpoint, my background in government banking provides me with a keen eye for fiscal responsibility and strategic planning. I’m committed to ensuring that every dollar is invested in creating safe, high‑quality programs that promote physical health, creative expression, and, most importantly, community unity. Your vote would help amplify these efforts, ensuring families of all shapes and sizes have a place to connect, grow, and thrive.
10. What is EPRD’s little known resource that parents should know about?
- Hays:
Active4All is the foundation arm of EPRD. There are funds there for anyone who applies to help with program fees and scholarships for those in need. EPRD’s goal is to make recreation accessible and Active4All is there to assist. - Hilgefort:
Okay parents, if you don't yet know about Wulf's new "Kozy Korner," it is a life saver for hanging around during a sibling activity! EPRD literally turned a closet/storage space into this wonderful itsy bitsy world for kids. It's right around the corner from the courts entrance (and actually has a window to look out onto the courts!) - directly across from the dance studio, before entering the weight room area. There is a book rack, 4 bean bag chairs, and a couple games like Jenga. If your kid is old enough, they can hang here while you workout!
You wouldn't think such a small space could offer much, but both of my girls LOVE it and are actually bummed if they're the one with the activity, and not the one that gets to play in the Kozy Korner. My 7yo and two others somehow even managed to play the "Mister Fox, Mister Fox, what time is it?" game... Which got them thinking creatively since, again, it's not even a regular-sized room. Instead of sitting around bored alone, or running through the crowded hall, or yelling down below to gymnastics classes from that viewing area... kids are making new friends in this tiny little resource. Definitely check it out! - Eggers:
I have been a cabinetmaker, furniture designer and small business owner for 50 years. A very intimate profession where we are of service to a select group of clients. I am constantly in awe of the teachers and program coordinators who are employed by EPRD to serve the people of this community. They are a resource to be appreciated and valued for what they do on a daily basis. - McGhee:
Parents can take advantage of low-cost, in-district fees, even if you are out-of-district by Opting-In. For $375 an out-of-district resident can opt-in to the EPRD district to enjoy all the discounted fees on programs, drop-ins and passes. If you are a frequent EPRD user it makes cents.
Little known fact and resource – one of our most treasured EPRD teachers was once a kid in the EPRD programs herself! Our little EPRD camper of 15 years ago, has come full circle, to working full time at EPRD. - Graham:
Have you challenged your middle schooler to a pickle ball tournament at EPRD’s new courts? Are you planning to cheer on your child at the new skate park? What about renting space at a local park for your toddler’s birthday party? My commitment to our community is to build awareness and generate excitement around EPRD’s evolving offerings.
📅 Ready to Vote?
Your voice matters! You can register for an absentee ballot by 4/29, ballots are due by 7pm on Election Day. In-person voting will be on May 6, 2025 from 7am to 7pm at Buchanan Recreation Center.
Visit evergreenrecreation.com for official info and to see all candidate bios.
Check the District Map to see if you're in district.
See opportunities for EPRD programs for all age of kids. Take our quick survey and tell us what you'd love to see!
