Park and Recreation Commission
August 2, 2021 Redding Community Center
Meeting Minutes
Present: Kevin Jones (Chair), Pete Graziano, Lorcan O’Connor, Scott Palmer, Mary Lou Carlson
CALL TO ORDER
Mr. Jones called the meeting to order at 7:32 pm.
REVIEW OF DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Mr. Blick reviewed his report:
- Summer camps are beginning to wind down, with only a few weeks left. The last week of camp will be held at RCC to allow the Elementary School extra set up time for the school year.
- Topstone experienced a relatively normal summer of activity, with many lifeguard-run events this season. There were only two acoustic shows this summer, with approximately 55 people attending the first show. We are looking forward to getting back to 5-6 shows next summer.
- There has been a much larger number of trees that needed to be removed from Topstone this year than in previous years.
- Extended Day will only have use of one room this year at RES due to expanded school program needs. This will affect the start time for some of our offerings like art class, karate and sports classes. One solution to explore is adding classrooms to the RCC building. Blick is looking into design and estimates for the project.
- Fall programs are being actively planned. It will be challenging with less space at RES.
- The purchase order for the Pavilion has been issued. The Selectman approved using LOCIP funding for the additional $9,113. It will formally be approved at their August meeting.
- Concerts on the Green have been a success, with no rain-outs. Shade continues to be an issue with another tree taken down last year.
- Children may not climb trees around the Parade Grounds area, nor can they be in the garden itself. Many of the plantings and trees were made in memory of former Redding residents. Parents must keep their children in the town green area.
LETTERS OR CORRESPONDENCE
None
PUBLIC COMMENT
None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM June 7, 2021
Motion to approve the minutes: Graziano, Palmer (second), 5-0.
DISCUSSION OF PREVIOUS BUSINESS
- Carlson provided drawings and brochures for the pre-k playground at RCC. The drawing provided measurements and estimated elevation for the planning of the project. Highway will do the land excavation and fence if it is a simple split rail. An engineer is being hired to do the site plan, and being paid out of the town budget. The Playground working group is following up with the vendors.
ADDITIONAL NEW BUSINESS OR INITIATIVES
None
SUPPLEMENTAL PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion Jones, Carlson (second), unanimous. Adjourned at 8:14 pm
Submitted: Kevin Jones