Park Commission

The Medina Park Commission was established by the City Council in accordance with City Code Section 525(PDF, 80KB). 

The Commission’s purpose is to advise the City Council on matters related to parks, equipment, facilities, open spaces, trails, recreational programs, and the use of park dedication funds.

The Park Commission meets on the third Wednesday of each month in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. All meetings are open to the public.

The Commission is composed of seven members, each appointed by the City Council to serve a three-year term, or a shorter term if filling a vacancy. From among its members, the Commission elects a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and secretary. All positions are voluntary.

In addition, the Park Commission may include up to two youth members, appointed by the City Council to serve one-year terms. Youth members are non-voting participants, and their attendance does not affect the determination of a meeting quorum.

2026 Park Commission Members

The Park Commission consists of seven members, each of whom is either appointed by the City Council to serve a three-year term or a shorter term to fill a vacancy.  A commission chairperson, a vice-chairperson, and a secretary are elected from its members.  All Park Commission positions are voluntary.

The Park Commission may also consist of two youth members, each of whom is appointed by the City Council to serve a one-year term. Youth members shall be non-voting members and their presence or absence at a meeting shall not be counted in determining the existence of a quorum of the commission.

  • Will Gunter, Chair
  • Tom Mayer, Vice Chair (pending Council reappointment)
  • Joshua Lorenz, Secretary
  • Terry Sharp, Commission Member
  • Pam Farmer, Commission Member
  • Kelsey Thayer, Commission Member
  • Vacant - open
    • Eliza Akram, Youth Commission Member
    • Vacant - open

2026 Park Commission Meeting Dates

  • January 21, 2026, 7:00pm
  • February 18, 2026, 7:00pm CANCELED
  • March 18, 2026, 7:00pm
  • April 15, 2026, 7:00pm
  • May 20, 2026, 5:00pm Park Commission Tour of Parks
  • June 17, 2026, 7:00pm
  • July 15, 2026, 7:00pm
  • August 19, 2026, 7:00pm
  • September 16, 2026, 7:00pm
  • October 21, 2026, 7:00pm
  • November 18, 2026, 7:00pm
  • December 16, 2026, 7:00pm

Park Commission Public Records (Packets, Agendas, Minutes)

Park Commission Public Records (includes current and prior years packets, agendas, and minutes)

If you have questions about the Park Commission or meetings email: Lisa DeMars

Park Commission Application Process

Do You want to make a difference in your Community? Consider joining the Park Commission!

The City of Medina welcomes residents who want to help shape the future of our parks, trails, and open spaces. Park Commission volunteers advise the City Council on park improvements, recreational programs, and natural resource stewardship. No previous board experience is required.

Quick Facts

  • Eligibility: Medina residents for at least one year
  • Term: 3 years (adult members)
  • Meetings: Third Wednesday of each month, City Council Chambers, City Hall
  • Commitment: ~1 meeting per month + occasional community events
  • Compensation: Volunteer positions
  • Youth Members: 2 non-voting, 1-year terms; high school students encouraged to apply

How to Apply

Applications are accepted year-round and kept on file for two years. When vacancies arise, applicants will be contacted for an interview.

To apply, submit:

Role of the Park Commission

The Commission provides recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council on:

  • Parks, facilities, and equipment
  • Open spaces and trails
  • Recreational programs
  • Preservation of natural resources
  • Environmental awareness
  • Use of park dedication funds

Commissioners may also participate in Clean-up Day and Celebration Day events.

Authority

The Medina Park Commission was established by the City Council pursuant to City Code Section 525.

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