RECEIVED MARCH 25, 2009 @ 8:30 A.M.
Michele R. Grande, Redding Town Clerk
2 pages
Redding Park and Recreation – Regular Meeting Minutes
Date: March 23, 2009
Town of Redding, Connecticut
PRESENT: Chairperson-Lee Morgan, Susan Goldman, Todd Bennett, Paul Degener, Meredith McClung
ABSENT: Kim Taylor, Liz Sager
STAFF: Rob Blick, Park and Rec Director
ALSO PRESENT: Lisa LeBlanc, Potential Commission Member
The meeting was called to order at 7:40 p.m.
The Minutes from February 23, 2009 were reviewed and unanimously approved (Goldman/Degener).
DIRECTORS REPORT: Mr. Blick discussed his meeting with the executive board of the JRMS student counsel who offered suggestions of teen activities that could be conducted by Park & Rec. Commission members agreed with the student counsel members that the lack of direct transportation from JRMS to the RCC is an issue for many middle school students who may wish to attend activities at the RCC. It was suggested that the student counsel direct a letter to the School Board requesting permission for students to ride buses directly from JRMS to the RCC. The Commission will thereafter follow up with a letter of support.
Commission members continued discussion on the teen initiatives program. Mrs. Taylor is working with Mr. Blick to increase participation through an increase in number and type of activities for teens. A spring dance for 7th and 8th grade students is planned for late April.
Mr. Blick obtained information from the Town of Weston as to pricing and usage of the Weston pool by non-residents. He will provide this information in upcoming brochures and email communications.
Commission members discussed the closing of the RCC during April vacation which is necessitated for resurfacing of the gym floor. Mr. Blick will approach the administration at JRMS as to the availability of the gym at JRMS for a day or two during vacation for open gym use by residents. Going forward, Mr. Blick will try to reschedule the work on the gym floor so that it does not coincide with February, April or December vacations.
Mr. Blick reported on a meeting with school administrators which addressed security concerns during time frames when Park & Rec activities occupy the school buildings. Mr. Blick has communicated these concerns to the community groups involved, and will notify Commission members if further incidents occur in order to enable the Commission to respond directly and appropriately.
BUDGET DISCUSSION: Mr. Blick confirmed his additional cost savings item would be to lease versus buy a copy machine. Mr. Degener confirmed that the Selectmen should be reminded that if future budget cuts are requested of the Department, that the reduction of staff would not be an option. The Selectmen should be reminded that the Department has operated with the same number of staff for the past fifteen years, while during that same time frame, programs and services offered have increased.
Ms. Morgan has spoken with Mr. Frierson about follow up regarding on-line registration options. Discussion ensued with Mr. Bennett offering information about alternative web-based products that could be used in lieu of the purchase of the server. Mr. Bennett advises that several towns in the area already take advantage of this option with positive results. Mr. Bennett will meet with Mr. Blick and will put together a proposal to be reviewed by the Commission.
Commission members discussed the long term planning proposal and expenses prepared by Mr. Blick. Members discussed in particular pursuing the skate park. Mrs. Taylor had mentioned that she will coordinate with the Boys & Girls Club to ascertain whether the two organizations can work in concert toward this goal.
CONCERT ON THE GREEN: Mr. Bennett presented a campaign proposal to appeal to sponsors which would involve display of signage and booths at the concerts. Mr. Bennett will proceed with a mailing to potential sponsors with the information.
LETTERS AND CORRESPONDENCE: Mr. Blick received a letter of concern from a community member partaking of an exercise class, who objected to the condition of the gym floor. Mr. Blick has addressed this concern with the custodial staff
PUBLIC COMMENT: Members discussed inquiries by potential commission members. Potential members were told to address his/her initial questions to their respective political town committee.
The next scheduled meeting will be a Regular Meeting scheduled for April 27, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
The meeting adjourned at 9:12 p.m.
Submitted by Susan Goldman
3/24/09
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