Present: Scott Richards, Peter Holmberg, Debbie Bednar, Denise Brennan, Louise Davis, Mike Prevoznik, Dede Conlan
Absent: James Smith, Celia Flynn, Mike Davies and (student representative) Catherine Bakewell
Minutes: The minutes of the July 18th meeting were approved.
HUB LAKES TRACK:
Joyce Leuchten, Christina Koch and Peter Kushulines presented to the Commission on Hub Lakes Track. Due to declining interest, there was some concern that Mountain Lakes would have to drop out of the Hub Lakes Track. However, Christina Koch has volunteered to lead the efforts for next year. Joyce reviewed the rich history of Hub Lakes Track (including her record setting pace in the 50 meter dash for the 60 year old age bracket). Peter Holmberg agreed to serve as the Rec Commission’s liaison for Hub Lakes Track. Peter will work with Christina to see how the Rec Commission can help provide additional support to increase participation and awareness of the annual Hub Lakes Track event hosted by Mountain Lakes (including possibly hosting a booth during May Day activities.)
NON-RESIDENT USE OF OUR FACILITIES:
Louise reported that as the Council’s liaison to the Commission, she took our recommendations back to Council. Council immediately agreed to move forward with the changing of hours of beaches and parks (suggested by Rec as well as Chief Tovo). The Sept 11th meeting was the first reading of an ordinance that changed hours of parks and recreation facilities – excluding lighted tennis courts - from current to dawn to dusk. Exceptions will also need to be made for prior approved special events. Lighted tennis courts will be open until 11:00 p.m. Council asked questions about enforcing prohibition of pets and non-resident usage of swings and picnic areas. Council did not act on other recommendations and will be discussing these at the Sept 25th Council meeting. The Commission discussed the pros and cons of prohibiting non-resident usage of our beaches (except as a guest of a resident) and Louise agreed to represent the spectrum of views back to Council at its next meeting.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
Summer Recreation: Denise reported that 250 children participated with approximately 40 counselors and 15 subs. Feedback on the rec survey was generally positive. There were purchased: 2089 beach tags; 303 tennis tags; 26 20-visit guest passes ($60); and 28 10-visit guest passes ($40). Denise advised there may be budget issues with respect to lifeguards as the 2006 lifeguard budget was cut by $1,000 but extra expenses were incurred due to the beaches being open one extra week. Denise will work with the Swim Association as the 2007 budget is being developed and set. Denise agreed to provide the Commission an accounting of the revenues and expenses for Summer Rec.
New Programs: Peter Holmberg is looking into starting a Running Club for adults to run together on Sunday mornings, possibly starting in the spring.
The Tri-Town Junior Field Hockey Clinic for grades 3rd- 6th will be held at Midvale every Saturday in October from 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Nick Bayvil will oversee the clinic with help from members of the high school team.
The Christmas tree lighting will be on Sunday, December 3rd at 5:00 p.m.
New Member Nominations: The Commission discussed several possible nominees, including Joyce Leuchten. Peter Holmberg suggested Rich Mancuso and Peter Sentowski and will follow up to see if they are interested in serving. Denise also has reached out to the Track Association to see if they have a person who will serve as either a liaison or voting member of the Commission. Any other nominees should be communicated to Louise.
NEXT MEETING:
OCTOBER 17th, 2006 7:30
PM DPW BUILDING