Newbury Committee Explores Credit for Unused Field Time
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Meeting Type:
Recreation Commission
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Meeting Date:
05/06/2024
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Recording Published:
05/10/2024
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Duration:
84 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Essex County
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Towns:
Newbury
- Meeting Overview:
The Newbury Recreation Committee convened to discuss a variety of topics, with the most significant issue being the debate over offering credits to permit holders who were unable to use the property for two and a half weeks after the scheduled start date. The meeting also addressed the extension of a coffee truck operator’s permit, the creation of a mini library, and matters concerning public art, equipment storage, and the purchase of an A-frame sign.
The discussion on providing credits to the impacted permit holders sparked considerable debate within the committee. The primary concern revolved around the lack of clarity on the Town Administrator’s position on refunds and credits. The consensus was to seek further clarification from the Town Administrator regarding the potential for issuing credits for the lost time.
Further discussions on the issue of credits and refunds highlighted the challenges of scheduling and financial planning, especially in relation to extending seasons for various leagues. Weather, availability, and the financial implications were all considered as the committee explored the feasibility of adjusting the start date for field bookings.
Simultaneously, the application from Michelle, the coffee truck operator, to utilize the Fields Court Fieldhouse was another focal point. The lack of specific operating hours in her request raised concerns about the potential impact on other events. After a thorough debate, the committee decided to extend her approval for another year, contingent on the stipulation that the operating hours be clearly defined.
The committee also engaged in a discussion about the installation of a mini library at the Central Street recreational area. The idea to collaborate with the local library and involve local youth in the construction of the library stand received general support from the members present.
Another topic that encouraged active discussion was the coordination of recreational activities including ping pong, pickleball, yoga, and Tai Chi. The allocation of court and field time and the logistics of equipment storage and use were concerns. A volunteer was considered necessary to manage the ping pong and pickleball equipment, with discussions about security if stored outdoors. Additionally, there was talk of offering intermediate pickleball lessons and the possibility of providing open court time for community members.
The committee also deliberated on the use of the building by outside groups and the purchase of an outdoor lock box to address the issue of access and locked bathrooms. The preference was for a secure option that would deter theft. The potential installation of public art in a recreational area was brought up, with members suggesting a collaboration with the Cultural Council. However, there was concern over who would make decisions on the appropriateness of art displays, prompting a suggestion to create a governing body for such decisions.
The purchase of A-frame signs was also on the agenda, with the committee ultimately deciding to reduce the number from two to one and allocating funds not to exceed $500 for a new sign. The meeting further covered the need for outreach to potential grant sources, tabling the discussion on the fiscal year spending plan, and following up on the progress of ongoing projects.
Tracy Blais
Recreation Commission Officials:
David Broll, Mark Sandt, Mary Anastasio, Courtney Boudrow, Cindy Currier, Ben Norton, John Reagan
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Meeting Type:
Recreation Commission
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Meeting Date:
05/06/2024
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Recording Published:
05/10/2024
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Duration:
84 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Essex County
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Towns:
Newbury
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