Present: Scott Richards, Peter Holmberg, Debbie Bednar, Denise Brennan, Louise Davis, Mike Prevoznik, Dede Conlan
Absent: James Smith, Celia Flynn, Mike Davies, Ed Kubliski, and (student representative) Catherine Bakewell
Minutes: The minutes of the September 19th meeting were approved.
EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT:
Francois Van Dame, a senior at Mountain Lakes High School, presented to the Commission on his Eagle Scout project involving constructing bat houses, hanging them around our town, and spreading awareness about bats. He discussed the potential benefits of his project. The Commission voted to approve Francois’ project and wished him well.
2007 BUDGET:
The Commission discussed Recreation’s performance against its 2006 Budget. Denise presented an outline for the 2007 Budget. Denise and Mike will develop a proposed 2007 Budget consistent with the 2006 Budget and her presentation. Denise will prepare a separate capital budget for 2007 and will update the Commission at our next meeting.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
New Programs: Denise reported self-defense classes will begin in the winter (space still to be determined). Denise needs to meet with the head of the Condominium Association to discuss its plans to build a playground (to be funded by the Condo Association).
Beach Report: Dede Conlan provided a comprehensive beach report that included an update on staffing, training, revenues, vandalism, maintenance, capital improvements and non-resident usage. Dede also discussed her budget status. Due to prior budget cuts and the addition of an extra week to the 2006 summer season, Dede went over budget expenses in 2006; however, she believes any shortfall was offset by increased beach tag receipts. The Commission thanked Dede for running an excellent and safe program.
NON-RESIDENT USAGE OF REC FACILITIES:
Louise reported that the issue of non-resident usage of rec facilities was discussed at the September 25th Council meeting. Council passes the ordinance changing hours of parks and recreation facilities to “dawn to dusk.” Council continues to discuss the issues.
The Halloween Flashlight Trick or Treat Hunt for our 4th and 5th graders will be held at Midvale Field from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, Oct 29th. The company that provided the already stuffed Easter Eggs makes a similar product in black and orange. Rec will provide refreshments – cider and donuts – and have a couple of games (e.g. bobbing for apples, pumpkin carving contest, Halloween cookie making, etc.). Denise advertised this in the October Bulletin. The Committee enthusiastically endorsed this new event.
2006 OBJECTIVES:
The Commission reviewed its performance against 2006 Objectives. Dede agreed to share the long-term capital
improvement plan for our beaches at our next meeting. The Commission has accomplished all of its objectives, including
offering many new programs for citizens of different ages (such as Yoga on the
Beach, Lacrosse Family Camp, Halloween Flashlight and Trick-or-Treat Hunt, and
Chili Cook-off).
OTHER BUSINESS:
New Member Nominations: Peter Holmberg provided more background information on Peter Sentowski and Rich Mancuso. Louise agreed to submit their names to Council. Denise stated that a member of the Track Association may serve as a liaison to the Commission in 2007 (but not as a full member).
NEXT MEETING:
NOVEMBER 21st , 2006
7:30 PM DPW BUILDING