Recreation Advisory Board

*** DRAFT *** City of Norwich Recreation Advisory Board Special Meeting Minutes December 21, 2010 Members Present: Robert Spayne, Chairman Deb Hinchey Ray Stewart Members Excused: John Iovino Bill Nash Also Present: Luis DePina, Recreation Director Andy Deptka Meeting called to order at 6:05 by Chairman Spayne. Motion to accept minutes of May 26, 2010 meeting made by Ray Stewart with a second by Deb Hinchey. Motion passes unanimously. Recreation Director DePina gave an update on the community center project. He informed board members that he has been part of a work group exploring the possibility of acquiring the YMCA building for future use as a community center and Boys and Girls Club. The participants in the work group include Alan Bergren, Bev Goulet, Robert Keeley, Gary Evans, Kay Eyberse, Joe Siegel, Jeff Brining, and Joe Ruffo. The group is exploring grant opportunities, fundraising, and capital campaigns for the purchase of the building. The Board had a general discussion regarding the condition of the building, possible purchase price, repair costs, and ADA requirements. The Board also discussed the benefits of a community center for both the residents of Norwich and the downtown area. At the conclusion of the discussion, Ray Stewart made a motion that the City Council and City manager be advised that the Recreation Advisory Board supports the purchase of the YMCA building for use as a community center. The motion received a second from Deb Hinchey and passed unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted. Luis DePina, Recreation Director