Zaundra Bina

My involvement as a participant or spectator in many programs the Fargo Park District offers is an asset to serving on the park board. I have leadership experience as a Head Volleyball Coach at Augustana & NDSU. I also have program management experience directing youth volleyball camps and clubs. Another experience that prepared me, was my role at the Village Business Institute marketing the Employee Assistant Program. While there, I completed wellness training and a wellness coaching certification. I now serve as a project coordinator working with outreach at the Office of Teaching and Learning at NDSU.

First, I hope to help execute the Fargo Parks master plan in a fiscally responsible way. With expected growth, I hope to assist Fargo Parks to maintain or create new partnerships and support programming in all areas for all constituents. Secondly, I want to serve our senior population in every section of the city with facilities and programs that promote engagement opportunities. Finally, another priority is accessibility for social connection and programs that help our citizens come together. Loneliness can be a problem in our society, so Fargo Parks can be a lynchpin to help encourage us to connect.

I strive to look at issues from a positive perspective. Fargo Parks has developed many opportunities. We should continue to leverage the vibrancy of Fargo maintaining the momentum that has been established. I envision connecting the bike trails creating a continuous loop around Fargo. Further, developing senior engagement opportunities is also a priority. Ultimately, I envision working on the Fargo Parks master plan that the public has had opportunity for input. Challenges are inevitable and I will always strive to listen and find solutions leading to compromise. Challenges are inevitable and I wills strive to listen finding solutions for compromise.

It would be important to ask for data when informing decisions to invest in new facilities or expand programs. My approach would be to fund maintenance of current facilities at a high level before approving new facilities. Also, I would take the same approach towards offered programs. There should be a balance between programs that are self-sustaining and those that need more support. Offering scholarships to create equitable participation in youth programs is a way to inspire participation and offer resources when needed. Leveraging partnerships with schools, non-profits, and local businesses can also help with the Park District financial sustainability.