The board addressed a proposal from a campground host who requested a $600 discount on his seasonal site fees. The host, who plays a vital role in managing noise and collecting fees at the campground, emphasized the importance of having a reliable person to oversee the campground’s operations. Board members agreed with the host’s point that his presence and contributions were essential for maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. The motion to grant the discount was passed unanimously.

The pool committee reported a recent donation from the American Legion, totaling $3,200, which was raised through a pancake breakfast fundraiser. This contribution increased the total funds raised for the new pool to approximately $535,000. Despite this, the board acknowledged the financial gap that remains, with over a million dollars needed before construction can begin. The committee expressed the challenges of securing business support, noting a lack of responsiveness from some businesses. In light of these challenges, various funding strategies were explored, including the potential reallocation of operational funds from the existing pool’s budget, grant writing initiatives, and individual resident contributions estimated at $180 per resident to meet the funding requirements.

Safety concerns related to chlorine options for the new pool were also discussed. The board weighed the pros and cons of using gas versus liquid chlorine, with liquid chlorine being considered a safer option for staff training.

The meeting also included a conversation about repurposing the existing pool fence for pickleball courts. The board examined the limitations posed by temporary structures and the challenges of constructing stable surfaces without drilling into the concrete or ground. The discussion referenced similar challenges faced by facilities in floodplains, such as those in Pine Island.

Tree maintenance emerged as another important topic, with a report that two trees needed to be removed to maintain safety and aesthetics in the park. The board approved the $800 payment for this service. Additionally, a discussion on ordering trees included plans to engage local schools in planting and mulching activities, which could foster community involvement and enhance park aesthetics. Over a hundred trees were scheduled for delivery on April 1st, with a potential collaboration with the schools to support their planting.

Further discussions included the need for additional fire rings and picnic tables at the campground, especially with plans to open seasonal sites by mid-May. Although there was uncertainty about the availability of picnic tables, an estimate for ten tables was noted at around $500. The board committed to securing pricing details for the next meeting. The need for finalized campground rules and agreements was also acknowledged, with an indication that the proposed rules might soon be approved in the absence of significant feedback.

The board explored the idea of native seeding projects to enhance park areas, with a focus on planting pollinator-friendly prairie grasses. This initiative, estimated at $300 for a 500 to 1,000 square foot area, aims to improve privacy and aesthetic appeal while contributing to sustainability efforts. The board expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with local Master Naturalist chapters to involve volunteers in planting and educational activities.

The topic of trestle bridge repairs was a focal point of the meeting. The board considered presenting a request to the council to seek bids for repairs estimated between $120,000 and $150,000, which could extend the bridge’s lifespan by five to ten years. However, the potential for a larger transportation grant of $1.4 million was also discussed, which, if awarded, would only partially cover the replacement costs. This led to deliberations about whether to proceed with immediate repairs or wait for grant funding, considering the implications of bonding and repair timelines.