Park & Recreation Commission

FINAL Salem Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of Meeting Date and Time: Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at 6:50 P.M. Meeting Location: Via Zoom Members Present: Debbie Amaral, James Shea, Bob Callahan, Amy Everitt Also Present: Patricia O’Brien Clerk: Kathleen Fitzgerald Meeting Called to Order Debbie Amaral calls the meeting to order at 6:50 P.M. She welcomes everyone to Zoom and stated that the Board would approve the Minutes from the August 11, 2020 meeting and then the public would have a chance to speak for a maximum of three minutes. The Park & Rec Commission would ask questions first and the public would need to raise their hand and be recognized to speak. She further advised that Zoom temporarily disabled the telephone version and will be re-enabled in the next few weeks. Debbie advised that when the Commission votes, there must be a roll call. James Shea makes a motion to approve the August Minutes. Amy Everitt seconds. Roll call is then done and the Minutes are unanimously approved. First on the Agenda: Forest River Update: Jenna Ide stated that she had more meetings and design updates. She advised that there was a strong community preference for two pools and operationally this gave a lot more flexibility because a lap pool was wanted. Tom Scarlata from BH+A then spoke. He stated that he met with the Commission on Disabilities to talk about configuration of the pool. He further advised the following:  They have reduced the amount of parking spaces, but increased the drop off area;  At the entrance there would be a gate with a pedestal and Fob and also a camera and intercom. The equipment can be set up to be controlled in the Community Room remotely; -1-   Parking has been changed to obtain better views and eliminates the need for removal of trees;  Accessibility now for a family changing station;  Added a lift for those with disabilities in the pool area;  Pool with be striped for lap swimming;  Exterior rinse stations will be located at entrance of the pool  Will be using regenerative filters  Looking into stainless steel gutters  Main pool can handle 300 bathers; wading pool 150 bathers  18 lifeguards with 2 permanent lifeguard chairs and numerous portable chairs Mr. Scarlata presented the Operation Plan and Assumptions from Ballard King. He also presented the Business Plan and Budget. Jenna Ide advised that solar panels will be used so not expecting electrical costs. She said the hope was that revenues would cover costs. James Shea questioned the $324,242.00 figure listed as revenue. He asked what the daily pass would cost and was concerned that a lot of Salem kids would not be able to pay much. Jenna Ide said she did not know what the cost would be. Trish O’Brien stated that the amounts stated were only projections. Jenna Ide further stated that there may be chartable donations, etc. which would help with membership fees. Debbie Amaral stated that the revenues and expenses appeared relatively aggressive. Jenna Ide said the pool would be significantly less expensive to operate due to old pool water loss and maintenance of the new building would operate a lot better. Debbie Amaral asked if there were any questions from the Committee. Bob Callahan asked that when it comes down to the rates for the pool the Park & Rec Commission decides. Amy Everitt said she was pleased to see adjustments for universal design. A motion to approve the design was made by Amy Everitt and seconded by Bob Callahan. Roll call was then taken and unanimously passes. Next: Skate Park: There was a discussion about the skate park rules and regulations. James Shea asked if the older kids will dominate and younger kinds not able to get on since it will be a very popular park. Trish O’Brien advised that there is a real bond with older skaters and younger skaters and that there are different skill levels and that it is a welcoming community for different skills. -2- The following are the proposed skate park rules:  Bikes, skateboards and rollerblades only (no motorized or electric); Skate Park hours: April through October 8:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. November through March 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.  Skateboarding, blading and biking are “High Risk Activities”. Wearing a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards should be used at all times;  Please be respectful of property, and courteous to others of all skill levels;  No alcohol, drugs or tobacco products allowed;  Please observe all local and state regulations. James Shea makes a motion to approve the Rules, seconded by Amy Everitt, roll call was then taken, and it passes unanimously. Next: CPA Representative -- It was suggested that a CPA representative with a strong voice from the Park & Rec Board was needed. James Shea suggested Bob Callahan. Bob Callahan asked about the commitment and he was advised that it was a three year commitment with meetings twice a year. He advised he could do it if the meetings were remote. James Shea nominates Bob Callahan, Amy Everitt seconds, roll call was then taken, and it passes unanimously. Old Business: Willows tennis courts lights. Trish O’Brien advised that she had spoken with Tom Devine who asked about the lights because not technically in the project right now. He needed to know if Park & Rec wanted to do it. Amy Everitt said that there have been so many issues at the Willows right now because of Covid and suggested reaching out to the neighbors and also suggested a conversation with Councilman McCarthy was needed. She further stated that people might stay at the parks later if there were lights. James Shea stated that if there is a renovation project, lights should be included, and if there is a problem because of Covid, don’t turn them on. Trish O’Brien advised that police patrol has been amped up the past two weekends but their presence is needed more. -3- Bob Callahan advised that the numbers at the golf course for June, July and August were up and that we are on the right track. He said that if next year adjustments are made concerning fees, it should be good. New Business: None Next meeting – Tuesday October 20, 2020 via Zoom. A motion to adjourn is made by James Shea seconded by Bob Callahan. Roll call was then taken, and unanimously passes. The meeting ended at 7:58 P.M. Respectfully Submitted, Kathleen Fitzgerald, Clerk -4-