Park & Recreation Board

Park and Recreation Board Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 2, 2024 – 7:00 p.m. Present: Gary Harris, James Lannon, Robert Huether, Molly Crotty, Karissa Elser, and Recreation and Special Events Coordinator Caitlin Hernandez. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. The minutes from the March 5, 2024 meeting were approved as amended. Caitlin shared the background of the War Memorial Field Fee Waiver Request from the American Legion. The Board engaged in a detailed discussion, considering various aspects of the request. A motion was made to recommend to the Borough Council that the American Legion Baseball team be given a fee waiver for using War Memorial Field. The Park and Recreation Board voted unanimously in favor of the motion. James gave a Comprehensive Plan Update. He explained how the Planning Commission has realigned its vision for the Comprehensive Plan. James gave an overview of the focus areas for the Plan and detailed how each focus area will fit into the final Comprehensive Plan. Caitlin shared the Bike and Hike Report with the Board. The Shady Retreat path is under construction and well on its way. The Bike and Hike Committee is considering starting a “Safe Route to School” educational program for Linden Elementary School and possibly Doyle Elementary School. Caitlin also gave the Recreation Director’s Report. Burpee Park had some issues with the nets in the pickleball courts. Dave is looking into how to fix them so the problem won’t continue to be an issue. Saturday chess was very well attended this month. We are looking into an outdoor giant chess set and are considering our cost options. The chess program has a wide variety of age demographics; most attendees are adults, but the number of young people is increasing. Scenic strolls are back, and attendance has been steady. Yoga and Arts and Crafts are on our new online registration software, and we are starting to get sign-ups. Bike Month is coming in May. Some activities are planned, including a ride from Linden to Evolution Candy. The Easter Egg hunt had a great turnout, and we received feedback on improving the event for next year. The Lion’s Club is coming back in July and August. Old/New Business Under old business, James let the new members of the Board know that the July meeting usually does not occur and that the Park Tour is in its place. We will come up with a list of parks that might require improvement. We typically go to three or four parks. The bocce court has been budgeted for, and it will be built. Public Works is working to fit it into their schedule. With no additional business in front of the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 7:48 pm. Respectively Submitted by Erika Fellman Parks and Recreation Minutes Secretary