Kensington Recreation Committee Minutes

September 21, 2005

Approved 10/12/05

 

Meeting began at 7:00 at the Town Hall

 

In attendance: Nancy Roffman, Lili Spinosa , Kathy Cook, Donna Carter, Lorraine Petzy, Mary Jane Solomon.  KYAA members present: Sue Cannon, Jen Gray, Mary Larson, John Andreasse, Mark Finerty.  Also present: Stephanie Johnstone

 

Minutes from 8/10/05 approved.  It was requested we prepare a formal typed agenda to distribute at future meetings.

 

Lengthy discussion with KYAA members regarding poor condition of fields at Sawyer and the Town Park. Need was expressed for weed control, fertilization, removal of stone dust and replace with suitable material, and bagging and removal of grass clippings. Also complaints regarding rough surface of parking area at Sawyer Field. Nancy restated the Rec. does have a limited budget for basic maintenance of these areas. Rec. appreciates notification if these needs are not being met. For substantial work or repairs, it is asked that a KYAA representative present description along with estimated cost so it can be included in the following budget request. Mark said he would provide an estimate on weed control, fertilizing and aeration of both fields by 8/27/05 so it could be included in the budget. Stephanie reported there is no road agent at this time to ask about smoothing the parking area.

 

Donna explained one reason there have been maintenance issues is due to an overall change in organizations. In the past, KYAA members using the field were aware of what was needed to accommodate their programs. Members would take care of these problems through KYAA fundraising, donations of materials and equipment, and volunteers. These people have moved on, volunteerism is low, and no one knows who is supposed to be doing what. There is a need to restructure KYAA. It was suggested to try mandatory volunteering by all parents signing their children up for any program as is done in other towns.

 

The issue of spraying for mosquitoes was raised. A permit is required which would take 30 days to get at which time the threat would be nearly over anyway. Sue reported all parents of children participating in soccer have been notified of EEE concerns and how to take the necessary precautions. Few have opted not to participate.

 

Lili presented the proposed schedule of Rec. activities to take place at KES this fall and winter. Fee for programs was discussed. It was decided a fee of $10 would be charged to adults only to defray the costs of copying materials, sports equipment and repairs, first aide supplies, and janitorial fees if needed. Volunteers will be needed to oversee all programs.

 

Lili also reported receiving a grant for an orienteering program. Elementary students will receive some training during P.E. classes. A program will be lead for Kensington residents of all ages in Exeter at Fort Rock Park on Saturday, October 29th.

 

Discussed need for toddler play area and equipment at Town Park and Sawyer Field. Costs will be checked and included in the 2006 proposed budget. Long term goals are to research natural play areas to incorporate into the parks.

 

Budget proposal discussed. Increase of 10% seen as needed along with cost of play equipment and additional field maintenance.

Meeting adjourned.  Next meeting October 12, 2005

Respectfully submitted, Mary Jane Solomon