HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-11-10 Recreation Committee MinutesRecreation Committee Minutes
Wednesday, November 10, 1999
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The Recreation Committee meeting came to order at 7:35 PM irk &nfe. ence Room of
Reading Town Hall. Committee members in attendance included, Alan Beaulieu,
Chairman Jack Downing, Kate Kaminer, Vice Chairman Dave Bryant and Claire Bolger.
Also in attendance were Associate Members Sudie Faye, Bernie Winne and Mark
Nelson.
Ms. Kaminer made a motion to approve the minutes of the Wednesday, October 13, 1999
meeting. Mr. Bryant seconded the motion, minutes approved 5-0-0.
Sturges Park Playground Renovation
In attendance were the following neighbors:
Nancy Dieselman - 181 Walnut Street
Louis Canligiuri - 159 Pine Ridge Road
Valerie Sachetta - 141 Pine Ridge Road - Spokesperson
L. McGonagle -140 Pine Ridge Road
Peter Collins -171 Pine Ridge Road
The Sturges Park neighbors came to the meeting with an open mind and were looking for
information about the renovation plans. Questions were raised about painting the existing
swing sets and placement of the baby swings. The Committee explained that the existing
- sandbox would be removed from the park. Although the neighbors were not opposed to
an enclosed slide they would prefer a lower/wider toddler slide. The neighbors would
also like to have a steering wheel placed on an existing platform. Placement of a sitting
bench was also requested for the site. Overall the neighborhood was pleased with the
playground set-up. One resident did express concerns regarding the cleanliness of using
wood carpet as a protective surface. Another resident expressed her wishes for a seesaw
at the new playground. Those in attendance requested to see the final playground
proposal. Mr. Connelly will mail each resident in attendance a copy of the proposal. The
neighbors had a number of other concerns regarding the park in general:
L Adjust timing on winter ice skating lights.
2. Parking timbers and splinters.
3. Placement of benches at the park.
4. Maintenance of steel cables near the fire hydrant.
5. Repair of the water fountain (hard to turn on/off).
The Committee explained that the project was scheduled for June/July of 2000.
The neighbors exited the meeting at 8:15 PM.
Recreation Administrator Report
Fall Events: The Committee discussed the Bright Light Trip and New York City
Shopping Trip.
Cross Country Race: The Committee discussed the success of the event and ways to
increase participation. It was suggested that a school competition be added similar to the
Rotary Fun Run.
Halloween Parade: Ms. Faye reviewed the event. Ms. Faye expressed her thanks for the
generosity of the Reading Fire Department and Reading Police Department. The
Committee thanked Sudie Fay for her hard work organizing this inaugural event. Ms. Fay
reviewed the revenues and expenses of the event. The Fire Department may run their
annual party in conjunction with the parade on the Sunday before Halloween in future
years.
Aquatics Advisory Board: Mr. Bryant stated that the next meeting was Tuesday,
November 16th. The board is looking for a complaint resolution committee. The
Committee stated that this was the intent of the Aquatics Advisory Committee. Other
issues include scheduling the large verse small pool and meets verse birthday parties.
Travel Basketball: The Committee discussed this year's program.
Ms. Bolger motioned to adjourn, seconded by Mr. Bryant, and approved 5-0.
The Recreation Committee adjourned at 8:50 PM.