Parks Commission Meeting Minutes 6/15/23
Minutes of the meeting of 6/15/2023
Meeting date: Thursday, Jun 15, 2023
Meeting Opened at: 7:07 pm
Parks Commission Members Present: Gerard Clarin, Thomas Mensi, Tracey Brennan
Parks Commission Members Absent: Christopher Andrews, Steve Snyder
Also Present: Laurie McArthur (SB secretary), Judy
Call to Order 7:07 pm
Agenda
- Town Beach Planting
Tom reported that he was contacted by the native plant group regarding beach signage and the request for financial support from parks and recreation.Judy reported that they have the garden at the beach and feels it would be important to add signage that delineates the purpose of the garden along with the benefits of the various plants.The Town voted last year to become a pollinator friendly town by creating education and completing plantings.Judy said they have begun to have monthly speakers to educate the public, and explained the hopes for the material that would be displayed on the sign.She reported that the group contacted a graphic designer who would take the content provided and create a piece to display the images and information.The woman provided a bid of $300 for her time and any photography incorporated would be an additional $100.Judy discussed and presented options for the trail signpost.Judy reported that they range in size from 22”x29” to 38”x29”.Judy reported that she did not have installation costs but did present costs for the sign itself.Judy was requesting $1500 for the total cost of the sign.She has reached out to Berkshire Regional Planning.The Planning Board discussed current funds available along with options of transferring money to utilize to pay for the sign.Steve said that he would be open to giving the funds for this opportunity, and the Planning Board discussed the need to speak with Melissa to ensure funds are available.Tracy suggested reconsidering the design of the sign and placing low signage incorporated in with the plants, so it does not take away from the space.Steve presented the idea of having some information on a sign along with a QR code where individuals could access additional information.The Parks Commission discussed options for the project and the need for a discussion to occur to determine which option may be the most beneficial.
Gerry made a motion to set aside $1500 if the Parks Commission has the funds, and the Parks Commission would support the project up to $1500 and requested to be part of the viewing system for the signage of the project.Steve seconded.
Tom will follow up with Melissa regarding funding and will update the Parks Commission on the response.
- August 5th kids party on the Beach. Events, promotion
Tom provided an update for information provided by Chris. It was recommended by Chris to go through Carr Hardware, and Chris offered to conduct additional research for vendors. Tom suggested that this event be published in the Monterey News for July. Tracy will write the article for the Monterey News.
- Bidwell Park Planting
Tom, Gerry, and Tracey met with Courteny Moorehouse and said she was responsive to what the Parks Commission was interested in doing. Planting will begin June 24, 2023. Picnic tables will be brought down to replace existing ones.
- Beach Attendant
Tom worked with Sophia and Melissa to put together a job description. Two applicants have expressed interest thus far. One individual is only available Saturday and Sunday, and they are in Town. Steve suggested the Parks Commission have a meeting with the Beach attendant and the Police Chief so everyone is on the same page regarding possible issues or conflict that may arise in regard to parking.
Steve made a motion that once a beach attendant has been appointed a meeting be held between the Parks Commission, the Beach Attendant, and the Chief of Police.
Tom provided an update about the parking passes. The owner of the home will inform the Parks Commission of guests that will be staying in Town and the individuals will be informed of where they can park. This information is on the Parks Commission website.
- Greene Park Ball Field
Gerry said that no one has responded to the bids for the ball field.Gerry suggested meeting with Jim and Justin to discuss the Greene Park Ball Field project.
- Town Beach
Tom provided an update regarding adding information to the current signs regarding not attaching inflatables or vessels to swim rafts. Tom was quoted $125 per sign for the addition of the information. The Parks Commission discussed adding the rule to the main sign in the parking lot. The Parks Commission will make contact with the Environmental Police to have them come and assess the lake.
- Yoga on the Beach
This will take place on Fridays and there will be a $10 donation to participate.
- Y23 budget
ade a motion to adjourn the Parks Commission Meeting. seconded.
Call a vote: Steve-yes, Tracey-yes, Tom-yes, Gerry-yes. Meeting adjourned at 8:16pm.
The next Meeting will be July 13, 2023.
Documents used at the meeting
- Educational pamphlet from Judy