The Town of Washington, Connecticut
Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission
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www.WashingtonCT.org The Town of Washington, Connecticut Minutes: Parks & Recreation Commission |
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Disclaimer: While we have attempted to reproduce them accurately, the electronic documents you see here are not the official public documents. Official copies may be obtained on paper from theTown Clerk . Also note that minutes of recent meetings are often not yet approved by the Commission, and are subject to correction.
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Posted: June 1, 2013 May 20, 2013
Present:
Chairman C.J. Kersten, Commissioners Sheila Anson, Whitney Ryan, Joe Fredlund, Ray Reich, Tim Cook, Laura Martin. Coordinator Lisa Easter. Clerk Mary Anne Greene.Call to Order:
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Vice Chairman Sheila Anson.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the April 9, 2013 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Ray Reich, seconded by Joe Fredlund and unanimously approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Beach and Boat Launch:
Ray Reich reported that all is going well at the Boat Launch since it’s opening several weeks ago. Trees at the beach have been pruned and the 2nd application of fertilizer has been applied to the lawn area.* Fireworks:
Ray Reich reported that money has started coming in – mostly VIP donors; car passes are printed; t-shirt design should be ready by the end of May and ready for production. Ray has asked Atlas to put into writing the number of shells that will be in this year’s show. There was discussion as to the selling of extra tickets at the end of the driveway at Shepaug – the consensus of opinion was not to do this. Lisa Easter has received the approved use form for Shepaug for the fireworks.* River Walk Park: Ball Field Improvement:
No report.* Erosion on riverbank:
Hugh Rogers has emailed Janet Hill, Land Use Coordinator, regarding the Town’s herbicide application along the river at the River Walk and the subsequent erosion that may occur during high river levels and runoff and leaching of the herbicide. Janet forwarded Mr. Rogers’ concern on to Inland Wetlands, Conservation, Parks and Recreation and the First Selectman. First Selectman Mark Lyon responded to Mr. Rogers explaining that he and Conservation Commission Chairman Susan Payne worked with a Mr. Bob Gambino who has worked with the Northwest Conservation District on many projects. He used an environmentally safe herbicide to eradicate the knotweed in a section along the river. Mark has asked those who received the email to give suggestions for a replanting plan. Locks/doors at the Pavilion: Sheila Anson reported that the locks at the Pavilion are often difficult to operate. There was discussion about the doors to the bathrooms and kitchen-needing alignment and/or adjusting the lock plates and changing locks and handles. C.J. Kersten will check doors and locks and will speak with Washington Supply about what may be needed. Motion: To approve up to $2,000 for needed hardware and, if necessary, new doors. By Joe Fredlund, seconded by Laura Martin and unanimously approved. Pavilion Attendant Liz Gugel, Groundskeeper Wes Gladding and field maintainer Dave Swanson are all doing a great job. C.J. Kersten asked the Commissioners to think of possible projects that need to be done in or around the Pavilion and ball fields for possible Village Improvement Society funding. Some thoughts are sides for the Pavilion, bocce courts and new roofs on Joe Martin Field dugouts.* Region 12 Security – Adult Morning Swim:
Lisa Easter reported she, Sheila Anson and Rocky Tomlinson met last week to discuss the security monitoring at Morning Swim. Rocky has been the monitor and has now completed a security course. All is going well.* Summer Concert:
Whitney Ryan reported that she and Ray Reich met with Trooper Stephen Sordi to discuss the Jason Spooner Band Concert at the Pavilion on August 24th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. There will be a cost of $1835 for police coverage. Whitney will talk with him again about asking the Explorers to help with parking. She will also notify the Fire Department and Ambulance. Lisa Easter will notify the Fire Marshall. Tickets will be $10 adults and $5 for children and seniors. There will be 500 tickets available for sale either through the Parks and Rec Office or at the gate. Lisa offered to look into wristbands and glow necklaces. Laura Martin will take care of press releases; Joe Fredlund will be in charge of garbage. Those attending may bring picnics and no dogs will be allowed. Porta potties will be ordered at a cost of $400-$500. Whitney will also check into asking the Sing Out group if they would like to perform before and/or during breaks. More discussion will take place at the June and July meetings (July’s meeting being changed to July 22nd).* Summer Camps:
Lisa Easter reported that Jenn Badger who ran the Softball Camp last summer will not be available to do it this year. The Multi-Sport Camp can offer softball – Lisa will look into this option further. Other Summer Camps are scheduled. There is a need for a Pre-K Camp Director-Lisa will speak with the Director of the Summer Rec program and will advertise if necessary. Marisabel Artieda will conduct the Arts and Crafts portion of Summer Rec as well as direct Art Camp.
COORDINATOR’S REPORT:
Lisa Easter’s report is covered above.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Suggested for Town Beach: Bike rack, dock and BBQ grills:
Commissioners felt a bike rack at the Beach area would be a good idea – Lisa will look into prices, etc. Placement needs to be discussed further. A dock for launching kayaks and canoes will be discussed further as well. It was unanimously decided not to have grills for safety, cleanliness of lawn area, etc.CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:
C.J. Kersten reported the following:
* Condolences to the family of John Marsh who passed away May 18th.
* Congratulations to the Alex Family on the marriage of Caitlin.
* Congratulations to the Easter Family on the marriage of Amanda.
* Congratulations to Kimberly Anson on her new position at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital.
Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned at 8:36p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.NEXT MEETING : JUNE 17TH – 7:00P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene, Clerk
Posted: April 13, 2013 April 9, 2013
Present:
Chairman C.J. Kersten, Commissioners Ray Reich, Whitney Ryan, Joe Fredlund, Tim Cook, Laura Martin; Coordinator Lisa Easter and Clerk Mary Anne Greene.Call to Order:
Chairman C.J. Kersten called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. noting there was a quorum present.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the March 11, 2013 Special Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Ray Reich, seconded by Tim Cook and unanimously approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Beach/Boat Launch:
Ray Reich reported that the Boat Launch would open April 20th for the season. Hank Vallely will be returning as Director. Chris and Leah Papsin – Beach caretakers, are also preparing for the upcoming season with “spring clean up”, mulching, planting etc. Two large trees in the lawn area need pruning. Ray has spoken with Buildings and Property Commission member Nick Solley who offered to contact Lord Tree Services and Arbor Tree Services for estimates.* River Walk Park:
Lisa Easter reported that the Pavilion is scheduled to open April 15th. Lisa has contacted Eagle Electric regarding the installation of a motion-detected light by the kitchen door and a light by the grill area. She will coordinate with Groundskeeper Wes Gladding. Scott Anson and Fritz Johnson will paint the dugouts this week. Ray Reich has met with representatives from the Washington Garden Club who would like to donate to the River Walk Park – they were instrumental in the planning and plantings for the walking path and would like to continue their involvement. One suggestion was an informational sketch showing the walking path, the plantings and their identifications. Abbey Johnson-Everything Botanical-has presented a plan for maintenance of the Pavilion area and it was suggested the Garden Club and she meet. They also were interested in contributing to the beach area. The Garden Club will get back to Ray with thoughts and ideas, which will be presented to the Commission for approval. The irrigation system for the ball fields has been inspected and is turned on for the season. Don O’Leary, Facilities Manager for Region #12, sent an email regarding the Ted Alex field. C.J. Kersten will contact him to review who is responsible for the various areas of upkeep and maintenance. The Gunnery has requested the use of the softball field on several Saturdays – Lisa will check various schedules. Lisa will also follow up with Wes Gladding regarding the locks on the Pavilion doors-deadbolt locks will stay – door handles need to be replaced and doors painted.* Ball Field Improvement Project:
Gary Fitzherbert, who has offered to assist in fundraising efforts, will meet with Tim Cook in the near future.* Diving Clinic:
Mariah Hofman was not able to attend this evening’s meeting. Lisa suggested she email us a report on her Diving Clinic Senior Project.* Adult Morning Swim:
Lisa will meet with Rocky Tomlinson, who is providing security coverage at the school for Morning Swim, and Sheila Anson to fine-tune the check-in process, etc. Most participants have paid their monthly fee to use the pool, which will cover the cost of having the required security person in attendance every morning. However, there were several swimmers who came in March who have not yet paid. Lisa informed the Commissioners that there is a possibility that a lifeguard may also become a requirement of the Region in the future.* Fireworks:
Ray Reich asked Lisa Easter to check on the use permit for the Shepaug grounds. 1100 car passes are ordered as well as 100 VIP passes.* Summer Concert:
Whitney Ryan has been communicating with Jason Spooner and the August 24th concert at the Pavilion is confirmed. The Commissioners discussed naming the event “Washington Community Concert Series” and funds raised will “benefit the children of Washington, Connecticut”. Whitney will get a check request to Lisa for Jason’s deposit and she will contact Trooper Steve Sordi regarding police coverage. There was also discussion of asking the Fire Department and Auxiliary to sell food and to perhaps involve children from “Sing Out” to perform at intermission. More details will be discussed at next month’s meeting.* Hockey Follow up:
Laura Martin reported for Michael Gorra that this year’s hockey program went very well. The Bunker Burr Fund was able to help purchase several goalie uniforms and equipment. The program expressed it’s deep appreciation for the support of the Washington Parks and Rec Commission by providing insurance coverage and sponsorship.* Summer Camps:
Lisa Easter, Laura Martin and Whitney Ryan met with Brian McCauley, Summer Rec Director, to discuss this year’s program. Several new ideas and initiatives were discussed. Marisabel Artieda will be the Director of the Arts and Crafts program as well as conducting the Art Camp in the afternoons. A Pre-K teacher is still needed for the Summer Rec program July1 – 26th. Multi-sport, Lego, Science and Art camps have been scheduled.* Men’s Adult Basketball:
Greg Mercier is interested in coordinating and being responsible to get this program started again. The Commissioners were in agreement and more details will be discussed in the future.* Website:
Lisa has held off contacting myrec.com regarding setting up a website as the Town as a whole may be looking into various other websites – i.e. Virtual Town, etc. that may be able to incorporate all the information Parks and Rec would like to have available.
COORDINATOR’S REPORT:
Lisa Easter reported the following:
* Spring Swim Lessons: All lessons are full.* Master’s Swim Program: Also full.
* Adult Morning Swim: Going well - see above under “Old Business”.
* Summer Rec: See above under “Old Business”.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Community Day is scheduled for June 1st. Commissioners agreed to purchase a full-page ad in the program for $100.CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:
C.J. Kersten reported:
* Congratulations to Keith Lipinsky on his appointment as Athletic Director in New Milford!* Congratulations to Mary Anne and Doug Greene on the birth of their first grandchild, Tyler – born to Liz (Greene) and Eric Gibbs!
* Good luck to Shepaug Baseball and Softball teams!
Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m., as there was no further business for discussion.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Posted: March 13, 2013 March 11, 2013
Present: Chairman C.J. Kersten, Commissioners Whitney Ryan, Ray Reich, Sheila Anson, Joe Fredlund, Tim Cook, Laura Martin.
Coordinator Lisa Easter; Clerk Mary Anne Greene. Guest: Liz Gugel.Call to Order:
Chairman C.J. Kersten called the meeting to order at 7:00p.m. noting there was a quorum present.Approval of Minutes:
* Motion:
To approve the minutes of the February 12, 2013 Special Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Sheila Anson, seconded by Ray Reich and unanimously approved.
Visitors:
* Liz Gugel, Pavilion Attendant attended this evening’s meeting to discuss the upcoming season and various concerns, needs, etc. at the River Walk Pavilion:
1) Opening of the Pavilion is scheduled for on or about April 15th. Painting of the bathrooms will be done as soon as the weather permits.
2) If a person or organization rents the Pavilion – paying only for the use of the Pavilion and picnic tables – they should not be given a key to the kitchen and storage room. Bathrooms will be open.
3) Groundskeeper Wes Gladding should have keys to all the locks – kitchen, utility room, storage room.
4) Contact Gunnery School regarding the use of the fields for soccer practice, etc. Mud from cleats can be a problem in the bathrooms and on the Pavilion floor. Joe Fredlund and/or Liz will speak with Mark Showalter.
5) Request for sand bags and/or door sweeps to keep leaves from blowing into the bathrooms.
6) Grill grates – need to be cleaned or possibly have a back up set.
7) Gate lock and key needs to be replaced. This should also be the same lock and key for the water. Liz will look into getting new locks and keys at the Washington Supply. She will request a dozen keys - sets for renters, River Walk staff, Fire Department, Ambulance etc.
8) GFI outlets – some are tripping. Lisa Easter will have Eagle Electric check when they come to install the light by the grill and automatic sensor light by the back door to kitchen/utility room. Lisa will ask Liz or Wes Gladding to let them in. Allstate Fire Equipment will also be coming to inspect the hood over the stove.
9) Booklet for renters – Liz has prepared a binder with important information for renters that she goes over with them and leaves in the kitchen for their event (i.e. stove operation, grill operation, etc.) 10) Lists – Liz has prepared a checklist for renters of what they are responsible for and a list of suggested things to bring.
11) Re-labeling of circuit breakers – Liz will do.
12) Supplies – In order to save money, Liz will shop for supplies such as soap, cleaning supplies, etc. and submit reimbursement requests. Toilet paper is ordered through the Washington Supply and paper towels through the Town Hall.
13) Bulletin Board – Liz will post game schedules as soon as she receives as well as pictures and other important notices.
14) Bathrooms will be opened at 7:30a.m. Lisa will make a sign for the bathroom doors.
15) Storage room rack – Liz is looking for a rolling rack.
The Commissioners thanked Liz for attending the meeting and for her dedication and fine job!
OLD BUSINESS:
* Beach and Boat Launch:
Ray Reich reported all is well at the beach! The flag is flying. Tenants are happy and wish to renew their lease. Lisa Easter reported that Hank Vallely will again be Boat Launch Director and opening day will be April 20th –the opening of fishing season.* River Walk Pavilion/Park:
For safety and simplification, the door handle locks on the kitchen and bathroom doors will be eliminated and only the deadbolt locks will be used on those doors. Joe Fredlund will speak with Wes Gladding regarding the keys. Wes is “ready to go” for the season. He has asked permission to purchase a chainsaw. This was approved. Porta Potties have been requested for the fields. Coach Werkhoven has scheduled a workday this coming weekend for the fields. Lisa will order two loads of clay and request it be delivered by the end of the week. C.J. is meeting with Dave Swanson Wednesday afternoon to review the maintenance of the ball fields. They will discuss his costs as well as fertilization.* Diving Clinic:
Mariah Hofman was not able to attend this evening’s meeting to report on her Senior Project. She will hopefully attend April’s meeting.* 2013-2014 Budget:
Lisa gave a handout with final numbers she has worked on. Bottom line-$819 increase over last year’s budget. This is due to additional days at beach and boat launch and summer rec camp – due to calendar and when opening and closing days fall, increases in utility costs, etc. Commissioners who are able to attend will meet with the Board of Selectmen on Wednesday 3/13 at 5:00p.m. to discuss the budget.* Region 12 Security – Adult Morning Swim:
Robert “Rocky” Tomlinson is doing security duty Monday through Friday for Morning Swim. Participants in the program pay $25 a month to cover the cost of this security. There was discussion as to how to best monitor who has paid, etc. Lisa will be in touch with Rocky directly. There was also some discussion as to the cost as some participants have voiced complaints that they pay the same amount if they swim one or two mornings a week as those who swim five days a week. It was decided that it would be too cumbersome to have swimmers pay on an “as use” basis and that at $25 a month it is still a good deal. If the $25 a month more than covers the security costs, adjustments may be made in the future.* Fireworks:
Ray Reich reported the fireworks contract has been agreed upon –the cost is the same as last year. He will be requesting a check for the deposit in the near future. The 4th of July falls on a Thursday this year and there will be no rain date. The T-shirt design is in the works. Ray also reported he will be away the week before the 4th and asked staff and commissioners to “cover for him”. Joe offered to sell t-shirts :)!* Ball Field Improvements:
Tim Cook distributed a rough draft pamphlet that could be distributed outlining the improvements and equipment needed for the project he has previously presented to the Commission. If all were accomplished, there would be a cost of approximately $400,000. Gary Fitzherbert has agreed to assist with fundraising, which would include grant applications as well as individual solicitations. The Commissioners were in favor of the pamphlet and suggested Tim contact someone to have a sample made up for the next meeting. Gary will also be invited to attend the April meeting.
COORDINATOR’S REPORT:
Lisa Easter reported:
* Spring Swim Lessons:
Mo VanMoffaert has submitted her schedule for spring swim lessons. She will be teaching Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. Each session will be five weeks. Lisa is awaiting approval from Region 12 for use of the pool. Registrations will go out as soon as this is received.* Master’s Swim:
This will be the second year for this program – scheduled for April 2nd through June 11th on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-8:00p.m. Practices will be led by Todd Dyer, Shepaug swim team coach, and will focus on techniques to improve efficiency and speed. Anyone over the age of 18 and who is comfortable in the water is welcome. Cost $80 and advanced registration is required. For more information, contact John Moisan at john@westmountaindata.com.* Adult Morning Swim:
29 people paid for March, many for two months and some for the whole year. A membership punch card has been issued to those who have paid.* Karate:
Fran Caco has started teaching Karate this session.* Summer Recreation:
Brian McCauley has met with Lisa and anxious to come back as Camp Director this year. He has many new ideas to enhance the program and has also been in communication with Whitney Ryan - they will be getting together. Pre K/K director Addie Avery and Arts & Crafts director Mary Jane Ruthven have both notified Lisa they will not be returning this summer. Brian and Lisa will be meeting again this month to finalize camp plans and address filling these vacancies. Lisa also asked Commissioners if they had anyone in mind that could fill these spots to notify her.* Website:
Lisa has been looking into various companies to create a website for Parks and Recreation that can be accessed through the Town’s website. Information on programs offered, registrations and on-line payments would be offered. As a result of her research and her speaking with other Towns, she is recommending myrec.com.
Motion:
To hire myrec.com to create a website for the Commission for a cost not to exceed $3500.00.
By Tim Cook, seconded by Laura Martin and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Summer Camp:
see Coordinator’s Report.* Shepaug Soccer Club
has again requested a $1,000 contribution to the program. Roxbury and Bridgewater have also been asked. A budget was attached to their request. Motion: To approve a $1,000 contribution to the Shepaug Soccer Club. By Whitney Ryan, seconded by Laura Martin and unanimously approved.* Office coverage and meeting changes:
The April meeting will be rescheduled to Tuesday, April 9th. Lisa will be away May 3 – 15th. The office will be covered. The May meeting will be rescheduled to May 20th.* Summer Concert:
Whitney Ryan has been in touch with Jason Spooner who is pleased to do a concert in Washington. This has tentatively been scheduled for Saturday, August 24th at the River Walk Pavilion. Details of time, ticket sales, etc. will be worked on. Motion: To approve an expenditure of $1500 for Jason Spooner and his band to give a concert on August 24th. By C.J. Kersten, seconded by Laura Martin and unanimously approved.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT: C.J. Kersten reported:
* Congratulations Scott and Lauren Werkhoven on the birth of Andrew!* Congratulations Ray and Sue Reich on the birth of their grandson William – the third son born to Anne Marie!
* Men’s Breakfast scheduled for April 6th at the First Congregational Church. Parks and Rec Men will be cooking – thank you Joe!
* Happy Spring!
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:35p.m. as there was no further business for discussion.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene
Clerk
Posted: February 18, 2013 February 12, 2013
Special Meeting
Present: Chairman C.J. Kersten, Commissioners Sheila Anson, Joe Fredlund, Ray Reich, Laura Martin, Tim Cook; Coordinator Lisa Easter; Clerk Mary Anne Greene.
Call to Order:
Chairman C.J. Kersten called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. noting there was a quorum present and reminding Commissioners that as this is a “Special Meeting” any subsequent business not on the agenda cannot be added.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the January 7, 2013 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Sheila Anson, seconded by Laura Martin and unanimously approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Beach and Boat Launch:
Ray Reich reported the beach has faired well this winter and the flag is flying from the Beach House. The tenants are doing a fine job and wish to renew their lease. Ray also reported that a stump grinding truck had been parking at the Beach and he had notified them they could no longer use the lot for parking. Laura Martin asked the Commissioners if Washington Montessori summer camp could use the beach weekday mornings from 9:00-10:00a.m. for swim lessons. Megan Morse and Jill Skilton would be “in charge”. As Megan is the Assistant Beach Director, and the lessons would be given before the beach opens for the day, the Commissioners saw no problem. Rumsey Hall summer camp has used the Beach in the past. Lisa Easter and Megan will work out details.* River Walk Park:
Liz Gugel, Pavilion Attendant, will attend the March meeting of the Parks and Rec Commission to review any concerns, suggestions, etc. for the coming season. Whitney Ryan has contacted Jason Spooner about giving a concert. There is $1,000 already in the General Fund budget for a Summer Concert. Details to be worked out. C.J. Kersten asked the Commissioners if they had any suggestions for the Village Improvement Society. A built in supply closet in the kitchen, that could be locked, was suggested as were “sides” for the Pavilion that could enclose it in inclement weather. Lisa Easter will contact Durant’s and Mr. Tent to inquire as to cost, installation specifics, etc. Lisa will also contact Eagle Electric regarding the installation of a light in the area where the grill is set up. She will also ask them about installing “covers” over the circuit breakers that should not be shut off. Tim Cook will invite Gary Fitzherbert to the March meeting to discuss his fundraising ideas for the fieldwork that has been discussed at previous meetings. C.J. Kersten and Tim Cook asked Lisa to order clay for the baseball fields to be delivered the end of March. C.J. will also speak to Dave Swanson regarding the maintenance of the fields and fertilization – requesting cost estimates, etc.* Diving Clinic:
Mariah Hofman, who spoke to the Commission regarding her Senior Project Diving Clinic, will attend the March meeting to report on how it went. Lisa Easter reported that she knew there were at least 15 children participating.* FOI Training:
Sheila Anson reported that Tom Hennick, of the State’s FOI Commission gave a workshop to Town employees and Commissioners last month that was very informative. Minutes of that meeting, which highlighted important guidelines, were distributed.* 2013-2014 Budget:
Lisa Easter distributed a budget worksheet for the 2013-2014 budget. She and any interested Commissioners will meet with the Board of Selectmen on March 13th at 5:00 p.m. to discuss and review. The proposed budget is showing no increase from last year.* Region #12 Security – Adult Morning Swim:
As a result of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings, Region 12 schools have begun to implement new security measures. Robert, “Rocky” Tomlinson has offered to monitor the door at Shepaug School for the early morning swimmers. Lisa Easter will send a letter to the morning swimmers explaining the need for the door monitor and requesting they pay $25 a month to cover the cost. Once their fee is paid they will be issued passes. There is currently $285 in “Morning Swim” which, along with funds in “Miscellaneous”, will be used to pay Rocky until the fees are collected. Lisa also explained that registration fees for any afternoon and/or evening programs might need to be increased to cover security monitors.
COORDINATOR’S REPORT:
Lisa Easter reported:
* Mohegan Sun Bus Trip:
March 17th – currently has 24 people signed up. 30 are needed to break even. This should not be a problem.* Summer Camps:
Work has begun!* Website:
Up and running with just a few more “bugs” needing to be worked out. Lisa is also working on making it possible to register and pay on line for various programs.* Karate:
USA Martial Arts has informed Lisa that there will be a new instructor. This will be discussed further at the March meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
* Fireworks:
Ray Reich asked the Commissioners if they wanted to do the annual 4th of July celebration again this year. There was a unanimous “Yes!” 4th of July falls on a Thursday this year – there will be no rain date. He has spoken with the Fireworks company and agreed on the same price, same shooter.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:
C.J. Kersten reported the following:
* Happy February Birthdays: Lisa Easter – February 2nd and Whitney Ryan – February 14th.* Expressions of Sympathy to the DeCourcy Family on the passing of Bob – a Stephen Reich Award recipient as well as a long time, dedicated volunteer and member of our community.
* Sorry about the “49ers”, Sunny Duke!
Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 p.m., as there was no further business for discussion. Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene, Clerk
Posted: January 12, 2013 January 7, 2013
Pesent:
Chairman C.J. Kersten, Commissioners Sheila Anson, Joe Fredlund, Tim Cook, Laura Martin, Whitney Ryan; Coordinator Lisa Easter; Clerk Mary Anne Greene.Call to Order:
Vice Chairman Sheila Anson called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. and asked the Commission to keep Sandy Hook Elementary School and the whole Newtown community in their thoughts.Approval of Minutes:
Motion:
To approve the minutes of the December 10, 2012 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
By Tim Cook, seconded by Laura Martin and unanimously approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
* Beach and Boat Launch:
No report. Lisa Easter will check with Ray Reich regarding the flag for the beach house.* River Walk Park:
Joe Fredlund reported that the closing of the Pavilion is completed – all went well. Liz Gugel, Pavilion Caretaker, will be invited to the next meeting to review the season, suggestions, ideas, etc. Wes Gladding, Groundskeeper, has prepared the floors of the bathrooms and kitchen for painting in the spring. Lisa Easter will look into having a light installed by the grill and a motion sensor light by the back door of the Pavilion. Tim Cook gave a presentation on proposed field improvements – showing a map and plan of the playing field areas. The project, if done in its entirety is estimated to cost approximately $400,000. Gary Fitzherbert has offered to spearhead a fundraising campaign for these needed funds. There would be no cost to the Town. Following discussion, it was decided to invite Gary to the February meeting to present his ideas. Following that there will be a meeting scheduled with the Board of Selectmen and Buildings and Property Commission.Motion:
To approved payment of up to $300 to T. Michael Alex, Surveyor, for the creation of plans, contingent on receipt of a bill.
By Tim Cook, seconded by Sheila Anson and unanimously approved.* Holiday in the Depot:
Despite the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School, and after a meeting in the afternoon with the Selectmen and the Washington Business Association, Holiday in the Depot went on as scheduled on a more somber note. The Christmas music being played throughout the Depot was stopped immediately after hearing of the tragedy. Although some of the segments were toned down, people who attended enjoyed it and many have said they were glad to have the event to come to – to just be with others on such a sad night. First Selectman Mark Lyon spoke of the tragedy in his opening remarks prior to the lighting of the tree, asking everyone to remember the lives lost and those left behind. Rev. Paul Corner from the Salem Church led the Town in prayer. Lisa placed a collection bucket in the Town Hall – $163 was collected. The Commissioners decided to send it to Newtown for a new playground they plan to build. Santa has offered to come again next year. There was talk of the Christmas Tree at Town Hall and it was decided to speak with Bill Polluck of Arbor Services about taking the lights off, trimming the tree and replacing the lights in plenty of time for next year. Lisa Easter discussed the need to organize the Parks and Rec storage area.Motion:
To approve up to $600 for the building of shelves for storage.
By Joe Fredlund, seconded by Sheila Anson and unanimously approved.* Diving Clinic:
Mariah Hofman, who gave her Senior Project presentation at last month’s meeting, has contacted Lisa and reported that all is going well. She will be invited to the March meeting to give a final report.
COORDINATOR’S REPORT:
Lisa Easter reported:
* Holiday in the Depot:
See above. In addition to Santa, the WVFD Auxiliary helped write and mail letters to Santa and sold their annual ornament – this year featuring Holiday in the Depot. The Gunn Jr. Library had a craft for the children to make while the children waited in line for Santa. Children from Washington Montessori School sang Silent Night and a song for Hanukkah on the front steps. The Gunnery Troubadours walked around the Depot caroling. Utopia Percherons gave wagon rides around the Depot. The Main Hall looked great with the extra help from Keith, Cameron and Sydney Goetner, in addition to John Gueniat as usual.* Summer Rec: Brian McCauley would like to come back again as Camp Director. He’d like to hire a “Naturalist” to add a new dimension to the camp. He would like to offer the position to Alex Theisen (worked for us last year). He is not sure if Alex will have an internship this summer. Lisa has emailed Addie about her return as the PreK/K director. We may need to raise prices for camp to cover the increased cost of security for the building.
* Karate:
Roberta and Tom O’Neil will not be teaching Karate anymore for USA Martial Arts after this session. The O’Neil’s will be missed as they have been teaching for us for about 10 years. Karate will still be offered but with new teachers.* March Softball Camp:
Jenn Badger would like to have a 3-4 day clinic after school in March for Girls Softball. Details to be worked out asap.* How Cool is That?! Science Camp:
Velya Jancz-Urban would like to offer a camp over April school break. Her camp is popular in the summer. She would break it up into two age categories.
NEW BUSINESS:
* FOI Training:
Being offered on Monday, January 14th at 7:00 at the Town Hall. Some commissioners will be able to attend.* Region #12 School Use Update:
The Region will have a security guard at the school Monday through Friday from 2:30p.m. to 10:30p.m. If Parks and Rec should hold a large event at the school, additional security can be hired at a cost of $22/hour. Access to the school by authorized personnel will now be by key swipes. There was a brief discussion as to the need to hire a lifeguard for morning swim.* 2013-2014 Budget:
The Commissioners met prior to this meeting to begin discussions for the proposed 2013-2014 budget. Motion: To approve the estimate/proposal from Everything Botanical for work and maintenance at River Walk Park for $4,221.03. By Tim Cook, seconded by Laura Eanes and unanimously approved. Tim Cook will contact Tom Knecht regarding repairing the floor of the Pavilion and request an estimate.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:
C.J. Kersten reported:
* Thank you to Bill Polluck & Arbor Services for their quick response to string the lights on the Town Hall Christmas Tree for Holiday in the Depot.* Thank you to all who made the evening a success.
* Keep feeling better Joe Fredlund!!
* Happy 100th Birthday to Agnes Foulois!
* Election of Officers:
Motion:
To elect C.J. Kersten as Chairman, Sheila Anson as Vice Chairman and Laura Martin as Treasurer for the coming year.
By Joe Fredlund, seconded by Tim Cook and unanimously approved.Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Green, Clerk
Meetings in 2012