Recreation Advisory Board

Recreation Advisory Board DRAFT Minutes of the January 16, 2019 Meeting Present: Cheryl Hancin Preston, Bill Nash, Julie Cagle, Lee-Ann Gomes, Lo Waggoner, Ray Stewart. Excused: Jeff Blinderman, Stephanie Burnham Bill apologized for missing meetings and stated he’s a big supporter of the Rec and checks in frequently to see how things are going. Minutes from the November 28, 2018 approved. Old business….programs went well…a lot of programs ran. Facilities…Lo reported that the playscape by tennis courts is completed. There is room to add other equipment on as funds are available. They will place benches there in the spring. Other winter tasks include cutting brush before the spring, preparing for snow and finishing up projects. Lo reminded the board that they are shorthanded. Ray brought up an issue with how the hall space is shared between the Rec and YFS. Cheryl and Lee-Ann will give board members details so that they can have an understanding of the issues. City Counsel Presentation update….Bill noted that the council was very impressed with Cheryl’s presentation last month. The information presented was through and informative. Lee-Ann also commended Cheryl on a job well done. Budget process….Lee-Ann reviewed next steps in the process. Cheryl spoke about how the recreation software needs improving. Julie also voiced her concerns and troubles about registering for classes online. Winter Programs…..programs are out. Flyers went out in the Sunday Bulletin, 20 programs for youth….postponed some to get higher numbers….see brochure for offerings…Basketball, karate, tumblers… • Craftability…a special needs program with 6-8 kids and their parents…very positive feedback…arts and crafts/bubble making…parent/child lead…free • Recruiting for the Tony Gomes basketball tournament • Easter egg hunt, cleanup day are coming… Garden Club is growing New Business • Splash Park….Bill thought NPU had offered to help finance one in Norwich. Lee-Ann to check with Chris LaRose • Rec received an afterschool grant to do Lego camp in their STEAM program • We will be applying for $15,000 from the Community Foundation for camp scholarships Next Meeting March 20, 2019