Aguar’s proposal for Father Kelly Park included constructing a small parking area to address complaints about inadequate parking during busy events. He stressed the importance of a letter of recommendation from the Park Board for the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) application, stating that it would be incomplete without board support. However, Aguar expressed concerns about minimal public engagement, lamenting the low turnout at public hearings despite outreach efforts. This prompted discussions on how to maximize parking space without compromising park integrity, emphasizing a balance between accommodating vehicles and preserving existing walkways and trees.

The board’s extensive dialogue reflected broader issues of park maintenance and community involvement. A recent public survey with 584 responses underscored the demand for improved park facilities, with feedback suggesting a focus on maintaining current parks rather than developing new ones. The board acknowledged the parks’ significant potential, highlighting Pulaski Park’s unused land as an opportunity for optimization.

Attention then turned to the open space and recreation plan, a mandated document every ten years. The board expressed a desire to avoid the plan becoming stagnant and instead advocated for a monitoring committee to oversee its implementation. This would ensure the plan’s practical application, guiding decisions about park management and addressing evolving recreational demands.

Discussions also touched on the management of parking facilities at Maplewood Park, with concerns about the number of available spaces and their practical use. The necessity for proper enforcement of parking regulations was emphasized, drawing from past experiences at Lafayette Park. The board considered potential funding strategies, including paid parking, to ensure park maintenance. A participant reminisced about a successful paid parking system in Onset Harbor.

The conversation further delved into recreational facilities and the changing needs of local sports leagues. Engaging community members involved in these leagues was proposed to gather input and maximize park spaces currently appearing neglected. A suggestion to create a centralized database accessible via a city website was made, which would detail available amenities in each park, allowing residents to easily locate facilities for activities like pickleball or soccer.

Frustrations regarding communication with the city administration were also aired, with the board expressing a desire for more involvement in discussions about new developments. They emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue to ensure successful implementation of park projects.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to support the proposal for Father Kelly Park, pending final designs and budget considerations. A motion was made to send a recommendation letter to the CPC. The board confirmed there would be no meeting in December, planning to reconvene in January.