The commission unanimously approved a motion to enforce parking permits at Long Lake from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This decision was made to address an oversight in current parking regulations, which lacked specific date limitations since at least 2017. A proposal was also introduced to modify enforcement hours for certain parking areas on Town Road and Lake Shore. The suggested change would waive enforcement after dark, allowing residents access without concern for violations. A commissioner noted the practicality of this change, stating, “the reality is nobody’s ticketing there after hours anyway.”

In a development for local recreational programming, the commission announced the successful application for a United Way grant. The grant, totaling $27,295, is intended to support staff training and the purchase of special programming supplies. This marks a notable achievement as eligibility requirements for these grants have recently changed to include recreation departments. The commission moved to accept the grant, receiving unanimous support from those present.

The commission also discussed the ongoing rehabilitation of the Middle School tennis courts and Wicom Field. With an estimated project cost of around one million dollars, this initiative has gained approval from the Finance Committee and the Select Board. The timeline for completion remains on track, with further discussions scheduled for October 16. This project is part of a broader proposal for additional recreational facilities, including the construction of four new tennis courts and the renovation of a baseball field near Russell Street Elementary, with funding proposed from various town resources.

Concerns over office space utilization were raised, particularly affecting the Land Use and Human Resources departments. It was reported that the new health director and building commissioner are currently confined to cubicles, which are inadequate for their needs. A strategic plan to address these space challenges was acknowledged as necessary, especially with the schools undergoing relocation, further complicating departmental accommodations.

The meeting also touched on the status of renovations on King Street, where work on framing, electrical systems, and plumbing is ongoing. Plans are in place to install a basement bathroom, with a target completion date set for March 2025. Commissioners discussed the potential reallocation of design funds from previous projects to cover construction costs, raising questions about financial transparency and the return of funds to the town’s general budget.

In community events, the commission expressed satisfaction with a recent special event that drew over 3,000 attendees. Feedback suggested scheduling conflicts with the Acton October Fest, prompting discussions about better coordination of local event calendars. Looking ahead, the commission is organizing a “Trunk or Treat” event for November 1, featuring food trucks, a costume parade, and trunk-or-treating activities.

A detailed financial overview was presented, highlighting that summer programming generates approximately 70% of the commission’s total revenue, with the remaining 30% during the school year. Challenges were noted with programs like Hadon Explorations and the beach, which faced financial struggles due to necessary expenses impacting profitability. Additionally, tennis lessons at the old courts saw a significant revenue drop due to court unavailability, though access to new courts is expected soon.

In resolving administrative matters, the commission discussed the assignment of a weekly packet signer to oversee financial documents, emphasizing the need for consistent management. The meeting concluded with the announcement of a new Recreation Supervisor and the lifting of outdoor activity restrictions following the downgrade of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis threat level.