Park & Recreation Board

Park and Recreation Board Meeting Minutes Tuesday, June 4, 2024 – 7:00 p.m. Present: Gary Harris, James Lannon, Doreen McVaugh, Molly Crotty, Matt Reece, and Recreation and Special Events Coordinator Caitlin Hernandez. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. The minutes from the May 7, 2024 meeting were approved as amended. Caitlin shared the Bike/Hike Report. MBIT has created 11 new silhouettes for the 611 Bypass overpasses. The Bike and Hike Committee is discussing PennDOT’s plan to remove the bike lanes on the 202 Parkway to encourage riders to utilize the bike and hike trail. John and Caitlin met with Township officials to discuss connecting the Borough and Township trails. The Safe Routes to School program will begin at Linden Elementary this fall. Caitlin gave the Recreation Director Report. Broad Commons had the photo shoot for the new playground. We had a great turnout from community members. At Burpee, two large trees had to come down due to disease and rot. At Chapman, the new volleyball equipment will arrive in mid-June. First Saturday Chess continues to attract many participants, and Yoga in the Park has been doing well with its number of sign-ups. However, if sign-ups don't increase, the summer session may have to be canceled. Summer Shows start on the 19th with George the Magician, followed by We Bring the Fun on the 27th of June. Lolly and Friends will return in August. James shared that the Park Tour will replace the August meeting. We will meet at 6:00 p.m. and visit three or four parks. Caitlin suggested meeting at Broad Commons. James would like to include Hillside Park on the tour. James would like to consider whether any of the parks could use an upgrade with playground equipment and, if so, suggest that the Board consider accessible playground equipment for children of all abilities. After the tour, we will picnic at Dennis Livrone’s house. James gave a brief Comprehensive Plan Update. James hopes there will be a draft ready to go by the June special meeting of the Planning Commission. Old/New Business Under Old Business, Caitlin shared an update on the fate of the Outdoor Games program. The logistics of the Outdoor Games program were discussed. Another idea is an outdoor nature program for school-age children. Outdoor Games may need to be redesigned to consider inclement weather and what activities can be provided for inclement weather days. Perhaps using other parks and creating themed activities can be considered. Outdoor Games can charge a fee like Arts and Crafts. There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 pm. Respectively Submitted by Erika Fellman Parks and Recreation Minutes Secretary