Things are happening at the Starbuck Lakeshore Park.  Recently, Shelter #4 underwent improvements to enhance structural stability and accessibility. Volunteers from the Starbuck Auxiliary Riders temporarily braced and lifted the shelter, moving it off location to construct a new flooring. A new concrete flooring and patio were poured on Thursday, June 5, to replace the original wood deck and old cement flooring, significantly strengthening the structure and creating a more ADA-friendly shelter.

Duininck Concrete out of Willmar supplied the concrete at cost, with Rob Hanson from Hanson Masonry in Starbuck donating his labor. Scott Armstrong, Steve Wersinger, and several city employees also contributed time and effort. Ted Razink of Minnewaska Marine provided the lifting equipment. Donations from charitable organizations, local businesses, and individuals helped offset the cost of this project. The Starbuck Auxiliary Riders plan further improvements for the following year.

The improvements to Shelter #4 highlight the impact community involvement can have through the Adopt A Shelter program, an initiative inviting local groups, families, alum classes, and businesses to care for park shelters. Groups participating in the program commit to biannual inspections, light maintenance, and creating wish lists for improvements. It is a meaningful way to preserve and enhance the community space. For more information on the Adopt A Shelter program, visit the City of Starbuck website or contact the city office at 320.239.2525.

In addition, a few other noticeable changes have happened at the park. The two older pieces of playground equipment have been removed. Last April, the city park committee conducted a walk-through with Marc Dunker, a Minnesota League of Cities representative. Dunker identified several safety concerns and outlined steps to create a more ADA-compliant park. The old metal monkey bars and wooden play structure were deemed outdated and no longer safe. As a result, the city council approved the removal of both pieces at their May regular meeting.