The meeting began with a presentation on Milton’s ongoing master plan for parks and recreation, a project aimed at evaluating existing facilities and identifying areas for enhancement. A consultant working with the town emphasized that the assessment process revealed several issues, such as the inadequate maintenance of town-owned fields compared to private ones, and the lack of athletic lighting, which restricts night games. The assessment also highlighted community feedback, noting issues with pet waste on fields and the degradation of natural turf due to overuse and poor drainage.

Community support for additional recreational fields was notably high, with survey results indicating that over 80% of respondents favored acquiring more space and increasing staffing to manage potential new facilities. The survey also revealed a strong preference for adding rectangular fields, passive activities, and pickleball courts to the town’s offerings. Synthetic turf fields were discussed as a viable solution to accommodate the growing demand for field use, with the potential to handle more usage than natural grass fields. However, challenges such as land availability and environmental considerations were also acknowledged.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the potential expansion of pickleball facilities. Despite concerns about noise and parking issues, the community showed a strong interest in repurposing existing tennis courts to accommodate pickleball, particularly at Kelly Field. Suggestions included resurfacing the courts and adding new ones to meet the increasing demand. The board recognized the popularity of pickleball and encouraged community members to pursue funding through the Community Preservation Act (CPA) to support these initiatives.

The conversation also considered the feasibility of developing new recreational spaces, such as Flatley Field, where there are plans to introduce a synthetic turf field, natural turf fields, and additional amenities like walking paths and fitness stations. The board discussed the need for a balanced approach that integrates recreational facilities with natural landscaping, drawing inspiration from successful models in nearby areas.

Community engagement in the planning process was another key topic, with concerns raised about ensuring inclusivity and effective communication strategies. The board acknowledged the need to improve outreach efforts, particularly to residents who might not be connected through traditional channels.

The meeting also addressed the need for improved lighting at fields like Flatley and Andrews, which could enhance community access to these facilities. However, the board expressed caution regarding lighting natural turf fields due to maintenance concerns. The cost and logistical challenges of installing lights were discussed, with reference to a previous project at the high school that involved significant investment.