The proposed playground renovation at Marta Park was a central topic, with council members and community participants delving into the visual and functional aspects of the design. The new playground plans include a mixture of brown and green color schemes to maintain a natural aesthetic, aligning with previous community preferences. There was enthusiasm for the visual appeal of these designs, but concerns arose regarding the Department of Public Works’ capacity to maintain the new features, especially given the high usage the park experiences.

Safety was another significant consideration in the playground discussions. Specific features like a tall play slide raised questions about safety measures, with assurances that covered structures and perimeter fencing would be included to enhance security, particularly for children with special needs. The proposed fence design involves a split rail with fabric to match existing park aesthetics, a choice supported by survey feedback. The council planned to solicit bids for the project by January 2026, with construction set to begin in June and aim for completion by mid-August, just before the school year.

The debate also touched on the practicality of integrating plantings within the playground area. Given the dynamic environment during school recesses, the feasibility of maintaining such features was doubted, as the park already faces challenges with regular maintenance tasks. The discussion on materials extended to the playground surface, with a preference for poured-in-place rubber that would incorporate a natural color palette.

In addition to playground renovation, the meeting covered preparations for community events. The Holiday Stroll and Santa in the Park are scheduled for December 5th, organized by the recreation department and business association. Challenges arose when Tom Bull from Two River Computer, who usually manages the music station, announced his unavailability. The council discussed potential solutions, including finding volunteers to manage the setup and operation of the music station. The event timeline was shared, with music starting at 5:00 PM and Santa arriving at 6:00 PM. The council humorously noted the challenge of keeping Santa engaged with children for long periods, emphasizing the need for volunteers to assist with Santa calls.

The meeting also addressed the upcoming Menorah lighting event on December 14th, led by Rabbi Shapiro at Memorial Park. Council members committed to following up with a comprehensive email detailing all relevant event dates to ensure clarity and coordination.

Additionally, the council discussed a new stormwater management ordinance that would affect all projects, emphasizing its significance for future development plans. There was also a proposal to reintroduce sponsorship banners for Fair Haven Baseball, which had not been displayed since 2018. The proceeds from these banners previously supported baseball operations and community initiatives, and the council recognized the need for an updated agreement to formalize this practice.

The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of recent successful community events, such as the Halloween festivities, which saw strong participation and creativity. Council members expressed satisfaction with the event’s organization and the engagement of local volunteers, whose contributions were instrumental in its success. The participants echoed a desire to maintain this momentum in upcoming celebrations.