The board unanimously approved a motion to proceed with the design development and construction phases of the pool project, as outlined in the Burbach professional services agreement. The agreement specifies fees of 7.92% and 3.96% of the total construction cost for phases two and three, respectively. This approval marks a step forward in realizing the community’s long-anticipated pool project. The board emphasized that tangible progress, such as the demolition of the old pool, would likely boost community support and funding efforts. A funding target of approximately $1.1 million above the $3 million already secured was set to reach a 90% funding goal for the project.

In conjunction with these developments, fundraising efforts are in full swing, with an event planned in collaboration with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Scheduled for the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the event aims to raise up to $20,000 through the sale of 400 raffle tickets at $50 each. Additional fundraising activities, including live and silent auctions and a pledge from Fire Brick Pizza to donate up to $5,000 from its sales, further enhance the potential for revenue generation. The board also plans to engage local businesses through a targeted newsletter campaign, seeking substantial donations from larger contributors.

The meeting also highlighted discussions on redesigning park signage, with a particular focus on the Covered Bridge Park and East Park. Board members expressed a preference for a unified theme across all park signs, potentially involving an archway and a bridge shape to reflect the town’s historical covered bridge. The conversation revealed differing opinions on whether to modernize the signs with new graphics or maintain traditional designs. Some participants favored a consistent, traditional look, while others saw value in introducing modern elements to attract a broader audience.

Concerns over the current state of the Covered Bridge Park entrance sign underscored the need for redesign, given its deteriorating condition. A suggestion was made to incorporate the shape of the covered bridge into the new design, aligning it with the aesthetics of other park signs to ensure visual continuity. The board also explored the possibility of updating signage for smaller parks, following the example of other cities that have successfully implemented numerous uniform signs.

In other matters, the board approved donations of a tree and benches in memory of community members. The board discussed the importance of ensuring new features align with existing park designs to minimize maintenance challenges.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the absence of swimming lanes in the new pool design. The zero-entry feature was noted as incompatible with traditional lap swimming, sparking a discussion on potential solutions, such as closing off certain areas for organized events. The community expressed interest in retaining the climbing wall, which is set to be reintroduced at the new facility.

Maintenance issues also surfaced, with a request to apply lubricant to squeaky baby swings for a better user experience. Concerns about playground equipment safety and maintaining the natural environment around park amenities were discussed. The board also reviewed efforts to recover costs from recent flooding through FEMA, with an estimated total recoverable amount of $10,000.