Plans approved to landscape east end of Mills Park

Plans to landscape the east end of Mills Park and add an arboretum to the park were approved Thursday by Carson City supervisors.

"This gives us an opportunity to really finish Mills Park," Supervisor Jon Plank said.

About $343,000 had been set aside for work on the Wungnema House and the east side landscaping. However, the project will cost $200,000 more.

Supervisors approved the extra funds from extra Quality of Life funds.

Mayor Ray Masayko expressed concerns over the maintenance costs of the park additions. Steve Kastens, parks and recreation director, said it wouldn't put an extra burden on parks staff. Masayko also urged Kastens to make sure the project doesn't exceed its budget.

The arboretum plan allows several new tree species to be added to the park over time to help replace the cottonwood canopy that is a signature of the park.

Supervisors also approved $225,000 in residential construction tax requests. All park issues were previously approved by the city's parks and recreation commission.