The three neighborhood picnics in Albert Lea this week were a success, Albert Lea city manager Chad Adams said Friday.

“They went really well,” Adams said. “We had a really good turnout at all the events.”

Tuesday night’s community picnic was at Fountain Lake Park, Wednesday night’s was at Eastgate Park and Thursday night’s was at Memorial Park.

The picnics were from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The informal gatherings were seen from the city as a way for staff and the community to share ideas and learn about city services. Games were available for children. Hot dogs, cookies, chips, watermelon and a beverage were provided.

Adams said the meetings were meant to bridge relations between the city and residents.

“The community forum provides an opportunity for residents and city officials to engage with each other in an informal and more personable way,” he said. “We recognize that coming to a council meeting, stopping by City Hall or simply calling City Hall may be intimidating or

uncomfortable to some people. The picnics allow for more direct and casual conversation.”

Adams said the picnics also allow city staff to showcase services provided that residents may not be aware of that could benefit them.

“It was really nice to engage with people on things the city was doing,” he said.

Adams said he received advice from residents on a possible dog park and a possible permanent location for a splash pad.

Adams plans on three neighborhood picnics being held next summer in the other three wards.

“I wanted to get more information on what was going on in the community,” said Albert Lea resident Miguel Ortiz Jr.

Adams said he looked forward to next summer’s picnics.

“We were lucky to have great weather,” he said.