The primary focus of the meeting was on the swimming pool project, which aims to modernize the facilities and make the pool a family-friendly destination. The project includes maintaining the lap pool, incorporating state-of-the-art equipment, and potentially adding a slide and redesigning the kiddie pool area. The target date for the ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for late 2025, contingent upon securing the necessary funds.

Board members addressed the guidelines associated with federal funding and the challenges of navigating multiple funding sources. A member expressed frustration with the minimal support received from FEMA for past damages, highlighting the difficulties in obtaining adequate financial backing. The impact of Hurricane Ian altered existing plans and funding approaches, leading to a more constrained scope for the project.

Creative fundraising efforts were discussed, including seeking additional funding sources such as HUD funds. The community’s urgent need for recreational space was recognized, and there was optimism about the recent scoring of funding applications. Nonetheless, members acknowledged the necessity of strategic planning to navigate federal and state regulations effectively.

The discussion also touched on the potential development of an Olympic-sized pool. Participants expressed varying levels of optimism and concern regarding the feasibility and logistics of such a project. The possibility of using the old Tops food store as an ideal site was mentioned, but significant funding would likely need to come from external sources.

Infrastructure needs were highlighted as crucial for hosting larger events, with hotel occupancy rates currently insufficient to attract major events. The slow progress of other developments in the area was noted, with estimates suggesting a seven-year timeline for new major projects.

Clarification was sought regarding the advisory role of the board in developing the pool. While the board’s recommendations could be presented to the Town Council, there was frustration about the limited role in decision-making. Members emphasized the importance of modernizing the pool to meet current safety standards and advocated for a collaborative approach to ensure the facility meets contemporary needs.

A recurrent theme was the perceived lack of communication between the council and the board. Members stressed the need for clear communication pathways to ensure community feedback is effectively integrated into decision-making processes. The necessity of aligning the board’s mission with the evolving strategic goals of the town was also discussed, with suggestions to amend the ordinance to reflect current objectives accurately.

The meeting also covered other community projects and organizational challenges. The potential for the ball field to host multiple events, such as food and art festivals, along with an amphitheater for performances, was considered crucial for community engagement. The status of the ball field project was discussed, with the board awaiting a state extension for a $1 million grant requiring matching funding.

The conversation included the development of the pickleball courts and fitness area, with interest in expanding the number of courts and enhancing the fitness area with benches, a shade sail, and landscaping improvements. The classification of Bayside Park and Times Square was also addressed, with a proposal to create a cohesive park-like corridor between the two areas.

Updates on various topics were provided by members, including discussions about the Friends group, the condition of the small ball field, and the need for a community center pending the completion of the new town hall. The potential for dock space for community use was also considered, though regulatory and environmental complexities were recognized.