Park Board Meeting Minutes 2022

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Bouvat called the St. John Park Board Regular Meeting to order on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 5:00 pm and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Members present: President, Mike Bouvat; Vice President, Mike Moffitt; Pat Connelly; John Boersma. Also present: Tyler McLead, Parks & Recreation Superintendent; Nicole Bennett, Park Attorney; Mike Aurelio, Town Council Liaison; Wayne Pondinas, Town Council; Gabe Hernandez, Park Maintenance Foreman; Russell Vogel, Park Maintenance. Absent: Chris Salatas, Town Manager.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS:

Mr. Boersma made a motion to elect Mike Bouvat to serve as Park Board President for 2022. Mr. Moffitt seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

Mr. Boersma made a motion to elect Mike Moffitt to serve as Park Board Vice President for 2022. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Connelly made a motion to approve the minutes from Tuesday, December 21, 2021. Mr. Moffitt seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

NEW BUSINESS:

A. Consider approval of 2022 Landscaping Contract

Mr. McLead presented a contract from Great Lakes Landscaping for the 2022 park season. The only change to the contract from last year is the addition of Founders Park when it’s ready to be mowed. The cost to cut per acre is slightly less than 2021.

Mr. Boersma made a motion to approve the 2022 Landscaping Contract with Great Lakes Landscaping. Mr. Moffitt second. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

B. Consider approval of Professional Service Agreement (Legal Services)

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the 2022 Professional Service Agreement with Westland & Bennett. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

OLD BUSINESS:

A. Park Rules

Mr. McLead presented an updated version of the parks chapter in the Town Code. The one major revision in the updated version is revising the park hours to be 6 am – 10 pm as opposed to dawn to dusk. Mr. McLead noted this is a fluid document and revisions can always be considered as needed.

Mr. Connelly inquired if the proposed park hours could present an issue when the skate park opens. Ms. Bennett noted that particular rule could be amended to reflect the operations of the skate park.

Ms. Bennett also mentioned other notable changes. The park hours will not apply to bike trails and sidewalks that are not on park property. Ms. Bennett also referenced the Sec. 15-90 regarding restricted parking. The updated chapter prohibits cars from being left in the department’s parking lots going forward. The other notable revisions were in Sec. 15-97 regarding park pavilion and baseball field usage.

Mr. Moffitt if the park hours would apply to the youth baseball league since games are rarely over by 10 pm. Ms. Bennett stated that program would not be in violation since they are a permitted function and sanctioned by the town.

Mr. McLead asked Ms. Bennett what the process is to establish the document by ordinance. Ms. Bennett the document would be written in ordinance form and submitted to the Town Council for their consideration. Ms. Bennett noted that in order for this section to approved, significant changes in other sections of the Town Code would also have to be made. Mr. Boersma asked if the park board should table the item for now until the other needed revisions are made. Ms. Bennett recommended approving the document and sending it to the Town Council for their consideration.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the updated document as presented for the Town Council to review. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

B. Adaptive Swings

Mr. McLead presented a few options for the addition of adaptive swings including molded bucket seats, the no-transfer “We Go Swing,” and wheelchair platform swings. Mr. McLead recommended the molded bucket seats out of these options as they are the most affordable and can be installed in our current parks with relative ease. Mr. McLead expressed concerns with the wheelchair platform swing option and referenced negative experiences with the swing at a previous position.

Mr. Boersma expressed support for a wheelchair swing and would like to continue to explore those options.

Mr. McLead noted a future project for the department to consider would be a fully inclusive playground that would serve all ages and abilities. Mr. McLead mentioned the various benefits associated with these playgrounds and how it could make for a worthwhile future project at one of the larger parks.

Mr. Connelly asked if all the prices presented included installation for the various options. Mr. McLead responded that the only quote that included installation is the We Go Swing, but installation for molded bucket seats can be handled internally. Mr. Connelly stated it might be more affordable to look into one of these options at a new playground opposed to adding a swing to an existing site. Mr. McLead agreed that would be the easiest solution since an existing park might not have the needed safety surface or path to provide the needed accessibility for such a swing.

Mr. Bouvat asked what the current budget for a new playground project. Mr. McLead stated there are funds allocated for a new playground project this year, but he was unsure of the exact amount.

Mr. Boersma reiterated his interest in the wheelchair platform option. Mr. McLead noted that if the board wanted to move forward with that option, he would have to obtain additional pricing for installation, safety surface and pathways depending on the selected site.

Mr. Boersma made a motion to table the discussion for a future meeting. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

A. Staff

Mr. McLead reported electrical conduit has been installed at the skate park site for future lighting. A meeting took place at the site with a Musco representative to familiarize the company with the area.

Mr. McLead noted another Community Serve Day in partnership with Suncrest Church is scheduled for Saturday, April 23.

Mr. McLead stated discussions regarding a community center project are ongoing with the Town Council.

B. Board Members

Mr. Bouvat voiced appreciation for Councilman Pondinas and expressed disappointment with him being removed as liaison to the Park Board since he requested for the Town Council to keep him in the position. Mr. Bouvat asked the newly appointed Town Council Liaison, Mike Aurelio, for clarification on that decision. Councilman Aurelio stated the decision was made to even out the various appointments between the councilmen. Councilman Pondinas expressed his discontent with the decision. Mr. Boersma expressed frustration with the decision as well and complimented Councilman Pondinas on the job he did as the liaison. Mr. Boersma then questioned Councilman Aurelio’s knowledge of the park system. Councilman Aurelio rebutted the line of questioning and stated he is looking forward to serving for the Park Board and the decision was made to evenly distribute the appointments between the councilmen. Councilman Pondinas accused Councilman Aurelio of appointing himself to the Park Board through a committee composed of a few members of the Town Council. Councilman Aurelio stated he doesn’t know what Councilmen Pondinas is referring to. Councilmen Pondinas stated he plans to attend all the Park Board meetings regardless of the decision that was made. Councilman Aurelio replied that Councilman Pondinas’ attendance at the meetings is welcomed.

Mr. Bouvat asked Councilman Aurelio if he thinks the Park Board did a good job in 2021. Councilman Aurelio stated he values everything the current Park Board has done for the town and requested for the group to give him a chance to serve. Mr. Boersma reiterated his frustration with the Town Council’s decision, citing the request that the Park Board made to retain Councilmen Pondinas in the position. Mr. Bouvat then requested for Councilman Aurelio to have Councilmen Pondinas reappointed to the position. Councilmen Aurelio added the likely outcome of that request is for the appointments to remain the same.

Mr. Connelly also questioned the process by which the appointments were made. Councilman Aurelio stated that Town Council President Gerry Swets made the appointments and the claim that a committee made those decisions is untrue.

Mr. Bouvat addressed the audience and explained the Park Board’s source of frustration with the Town Council’s decision and once again expressed his support for Councilman Pondinas.

C. Town Council Liaison

No report given.

PAYMENT OF BILLS:

Mr. Boersma made a motion to accept the payment of the bills in the amount of $14,763.90. Mr. Moffitt seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Jim Estry (8750 W. Oakwood Drive): Mr. Estry spoke on behalf of Malt Brothers and stated the business is interested in organizing a beer festival for St. John with the idea of it becoming an annual event. The business is in the very early stages of the planning process, but they would like to partner with the town on the event and potentially host it at Heartland Park. Mr. Estry noted they would book a regional band with a large following that would draw a crowd upwards of 1,000 people. Mr. Estry mentioned his extensive experience with organizing events, most notably the St. John Evangelist Festival.

Mr. Boersma asked if the event would have vendors. Mr. Estry responded that Malt Brothers would be heavily involved with their products.

Councilmen Aurelio stated the Economic Development Committee is currently in the process of vetting an Event Planner that could assist with these efforts.

Mr. Boersma stated a committee would need to be established and asked a member of the audience, Ed Welch, to approach the lectern.

Ed Welch (Welch’s Stop & Shop & Malt Brothers): Mr. Welch noted a committee would most likely have to be assembled to help plan the event.

Mr. Moffitt asked if this would be a town event and who would benefit from the funds raised. Mr. Estry replied their intention is for the event to highlight Malt Brothers as well as other local businesses. Mr. Boersma noted this would be an event hosted by Malt Brothers. Mr. Welch stated a portion of the proceeds would be donated to local charities. Mr. Moffitt asked who would coordinate the logistics of the event including setup and tear down. Mr. Boersma noted the parks staff would have to be involved if the event was to take place on one of the park properties.

Mr. Bouvat thanked the gentlemen for attending the meeting and voiced support for their efforts.

Mr. Aurelio recommended for the Economic Development Committee and the group overseeing this particular event to work together.

Joan McLnerney (9405 W. 90th Lane): Ms. McLnerney thanked the Park Board for their accomplishments the past year and cited the recent renovations to the basketball court at Lancer Park. She expressed her excitement for the prospect of a community center for the town, but had questions regarding the department’s planning efforts to date for the project and asked if a master plan that included a project budget, staffing plan and potential revenues had been completed to help the Town Council make a decision on how to proceed.

Mr. Boersma stated the department is still considering a few options and has yet to compile that data as a result. Mr. Boersma asked Councilman Aurelio for an update on the status of the 40 acre property that could potentially be used as a site for a community center. Councilman Aurelio stated he would like to see a thorough cost analysis for the project that includes data for both options, Suncrest Church and the 40 acre property. Mr. Bouvat expressed doubt that the 40 acre property is an option since it’s part of an ongoing settlement agreement. Mr. Bouvat noted the department would like to meet with the Town Council to have a general conversation regarding their appetite for the project and emphasized it’s very much needed for the community.

Ms. McLnerney expressed concerns over the lack of data available for the Town Council to make a decision on the project.

Bill Manousopoulous (10011 Parrish Avenue): Mr. Manousopoulous expressed support for adaptive play equipment and would like to see additional efforts made to make more of our parks inclusive. Mr. Manousopoulous mentioned the challenges children with special needs encounter at public parks, and cited the various benefits playgrounds have for children. He mentioned he can share resources with the department that can help provide inclusive equipment in the parks.

Mr. Bouvat and several board members thanked Mr. Manousopoulous for his attendance and input.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Boersma made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Moffitt seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0). Meeting adjourned at 6:06 pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tyler McLead

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Bouvat called the St. John Park Board Regular Meeting to order on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 5:02 pm and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Members present: President, Mike Bouvat; Vice President, Mike Moffitt; Pat Connelly; John Boersma. Also present: Tyler McLead, Parks & Recreation Superintendent; Nicole Bennett, Park Attorney; Mike Aurelio, Town Council Liaison; Wayne Pondinas, Town Council; Russell Vogel, Park Maintenance. Absent: Chris Salatas, Town Manager.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the minutes from Tuesday, January 18, 2022. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

NEW BUSINESS:

A. Review Gates Playground renderings

Mr. McLead presented conceptual designs for the playgroup proposed for the park property located in The Gates. Mr. McLead noted the designs will display the scope of the playground that is within the budget. Mr. McLead recommended for the Park Board to approach this project like it will be the primary play structure on the east side of town and be sure to approve a design that maximizes the value of the space. Mr. McLead also recommended for the structure to be situated on the west side of the property detached from the incoming skate park. A meeting has been scheduled with Nutoys to firm up a site plan and to finalize a few concepts for the next board meeting. Mr. McLead also noted this project could be funded through the Sourcewell process.

Mr. Bouvat asked what a potential timeline would be for the project. Mr. McLead replied that it’s difficult to know given the volatility of the supply chain, but estimated 2-3 months.

Mr. Moffitt asked what the budget is for the project. Mr. McLead responded that the earmarked amount is $230,000 but that can be adjusted if needed as long as the department stays within the entire capital budget for the year.

Mr. Aurelio asked what would be included in a breakdown of the project costs. Mr. McLead replied that the proposals would include costs for the play equipment, surfacing, and installation. Mr. Aurelio asked what the process is to create these designs. Mr. McLead noted the company has a designer that worked off a few of his suggestions that take into account the project budget as well as the current equipment in the park system.

B. Consider Request to Purchase Civic Park lighting controls

Mr. McLead recommended for this item to be deferred since there was inconsistency in the quotes received for the project. Mr. McLead explained the lighting controls at Civic Park are an ongoing issue as they are being turned on and off directly through the breaker boxes. The idea for the project is to have a single switch at each field to control the lights. Mr. McLead noted the lighting itself will also have to be upgraded at some point in the future, but feels improving the controls is a good place to start for now. The department has funds available in the Civic Park budget. This would be the main improvement to the park this year. Mr. McLead noted the dugouts at Rookie Field will also be restored.

Mr. Moffitt voiced support for the project since the lighting controls have been an ongoing issue for the baseball program and noted the current situation also presents safety issues.

Mr. Boersma made a motion to table this item for a future meeting. Mr. Moffitt seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

C. Consider proposals for Memorial Bench and Tree Programs

Mr. McLead presented a proposal for a Memorial Bench Program and referenced recent requests he has received from residents who are interested in memorializing a loved one in this manner. The process would include a donation, finding a mutually agreeable location and finally placing an order for the items. The donation would cover the costs of all needed supplies including the bench, plaque and installation materials. The proposed fee for the memorial bench is $1,500.

Mr. McLead also presented a proposal for a Memorial Tree Program that would have a similar process. The program was modeled after several other similar programs. The donation would also include all costs associated with the program including the tree, plaque and installation materials. Mr. McLead noted he consulted an arborist prior to finalizing the proposed list of trees to ensure they are native to the region and appropriate for the program. The proposed fee for the tree is $500.

Mr. Bouvat asked how the programs would be promoted. Mr. McLead replied the information would be available on the town website and also promoted through various social media platforms.

Mr. Moffitt asked if one of these programs could be an option for the Allen family who previously owned the property at Founders Park and expressed interest in a memorial at the April 2022 board meeting.

Discussion ensued regarding the proposed fees and objective of the programs.

Mr. Connelly made a motion to accept the proposals for the Memorial Bench and Tree Programs as presented. Mr. Boersma seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

OLD BUSINESS:

A. Gates Skate Park

Mr. McLead provided an update on the skate park. The first invoice from SPohn Ranch has been received which included engineering, design and geotechnical work for the project. The next item on their worksheet is mobilization, which is targeted for late March. The facility is scheduled to be complete in late June. Mr. McLead mentioned the possibility of a groundbreaking ceremony with a date and time to be determined.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

A. Staff

Mr. McLead reported on a few lighting improvements made in the parks system. An LED light was added to Prairie West that will help deter vandalism as well as make the park safer for walkers. Lighting will also be added to the dog park to help make it safer as well for members during the winter months.

An application has been submitted for the NIRPC CommuniTree Program. If approved, the department will receive 1” caliper trees. Mr. McLead noted the department has identified a few parks and open areas along the trail that would make for good locations for additional trees.

Mr. McLead reported the electrical transmission lines that run east/west through town are being upgraded in 2023. The project will impact use of the trail as well as the parking lots at the Gates Park. The work will be completed in either the spring or the fall of 2023.

Mr. McLead noted information on a few ongoing programs including Bricks 4 Kidz, Young Rembrandts, Soccer Shots and NFL Flag Football. The annual Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for Saturday, April 9 at Lake Hills Park. The event is open for kids ages 1-9. The department is hosting two hunts again to accommodate the growing community; one at 10:30 am and one at 12:30 pm. Registration opens on Monday, March 7.

Mr. McLead thanked Gabe Hernandez and Russell Vogel for their hard work throughout winter and noted how they plow a large route for public works in addition to their park related duties.

B. Board Members

Mr. Moffitt completed Gabe and Russ as well for their efforts this winter. Mr. Moffitt also asked if the cameras at Prairie West were ever upgraded. Mr. Dravet responded that the cameras have been installed. Mr. Moffitt asked if grants would be available for accessibility related projects in the parks. Mr. McLead replied that grants are available for those purposes and affirmed he will research those opportunities.

Mr. Bouvat thanked Gabe and Russ as well for everything they do.

C. Town Council Liaison

Mr. Aurelio introduced David Beezhold from the Economic Development Committee (EDC). Mr. Beezhold provided an updated on the Freedom Fest being planned at Heartland Park for Sunday, July 3. The EDC is planning to hire an Event Coordinator to oversee the event. Mr. Beezhold discussed the various logistics related to the event and solicited input from the Park Board.

Discussion ensued regarding the event and the participation from the various entities that will be needed.

PAYMENT OF BILLS:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to accept the payment of the bills in the amount of $97,400.56. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

PUBLIC COMMENT:

No public comments given.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Boersma seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0). Meeting adjourned at 6:02 pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tyler McLead

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Bouvat called the St. John Park Board Regular Meeting to order on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at 5:02 pm and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Members present: President, Mike Bouvat; Vice President, Mike Moffitt; Pat Connelly. Also present: Tyler McLead, Parks & Recreation Superintendent; Joe Wiszowaty, Town Manager; Nicole Bennett, Park Attorney; Mike Aurelio, Town Council Liaison; Wayne Pondinas, Town Council; Gabe Hernandez, Park Maintenance; Russell Vogel, Park Maintenance. Absent: John Boersma, Member.

MOTION TO AMEND AGENDA:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to amend the agenda to remove the Park Board Advisor item under New Business. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0).

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the minutes from Tuesday, February 15, 2022. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0).

NEW BUSINESS:

A. Review Gates Playground renderings

Mr. McLead presented a few conceptual renderings of the proposed playground at Gates Park. Mr. McLead provided brief descriptions of each design and described how the project would be approached going forward. Mr. McLead noted a Special Meeting will most likely be called prior to the next Regular Meeting to approve of a finalized design and proposal for the project.

Mr. Bouvat complimented a few of the proposed designs, in particular the zip line piece and various climbing apparatus. Mr. Bouvat asked for a potential timeline on this project. Mr. McLead noted the lead time for equipment is currently around 6-8 weeks.

Mr. Bouvat asked Councilman Aurelio how much ARPA funds would be available for the project. Councilman Aurelio replied that a significant amount of funds could be available and the town will have more details within the next few weeks.

Mr. Bouvat asked what the budged is for this project. Mr. McLead replied the department has earmarked $230,000 for this playground, but there is flexibility within the capital budget. Mr. McLead recommended to approach this playground as if it will be the primary park for the east side of town, which is rapidly growing.

B. Consider 2022 Keilman Field Lease Agreement

Mr. McLead presented the document to the board and reported this is an annual approval for the use of the field on the southwest side of Civic Park. Mr. McLead noted the St. John Youth Baseball program pays the annual property taxes on the field, which is a stipulation in the agreement.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the 2022 Keilman Field Lease Agreement. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0).

C. Consider Ordinance 1759 creating Park Memorial Bench & Tree Fund

Mr. McLead presented Ordinance 1759 and noted it will establish a fund for the memorial programs approved at the February 15, 2022 Park Board Regular Meeting.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve Ordinance 1759 as presented. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0).

D. Consider approval of Independent Contractor Agreements

Mr. McLead presented a batch of Independent Contractor Agreements for approval for programs including Youth Co-Ed Sand Volleyball League, Bricks 4 Kidz, Young Rembrandts, Adult Co-Ed Sand Volleyball League, Soccer Shots, Little Ones Camp, Step Two Camp, Region Basketball Club Camp, Italian Classes, and Spanish Classes.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the Independent Contractor Agreements. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0).

OLD BUSINESS:

A. Gates Skate Park

Mr. McLead reported the most recent construction schedule he has received shows the contractor mobilizing in late March. The department is waiting to receive an updated schedule. Mr. Bouvat asked what the completion date would be with that schedule. Mr. McLead stated the park’s is targeted for completion in late June or early July.

B. Founders Park

Mr. McLead reported the reimbursement process for the LWCF Grant received from Indiana DNR is underway. The department received a $250,000 grant for the Founders Park project. Mr. McLead noted he is waiting to receive an updated construction schedule for this project as well.

C. Facility Assessment discussion

Mr. McLead reported he is working to obtain quotes for Facility Assessment Services for Suncrest Church. The services would include a full scale assessment of the building and site conditions. The process would also produce a preliminary cost analysis of an adaptive reuse option of Suncrest Church compared to a new construction of a similar size facility with comparable amenities.

REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE:

A. Staff

Mr. McLead reported he has advertised the position of Farmers Market Assistant. The position will assist the Market Manager with all market related operations during the season which is May – October. Applications are being accepted until Friday, April 1. Mr. McLead also noted several members of the summer maintenance staff from last summer will be returning this year.

The Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for Saturday, April 9 at Lake Hills Park. There will be two hunts; one at 10:30 am and one at 12:30 pm.

B. Board Members

Mr. Moffitt asked if there was follow up on the discussion from the previous month regarding the memorial bench at Founders Park for the site’s previous owner. Mr. McLead responded he will follow up with the former property owner to discuss options to recognize his family at the park.

C. Town Council Liaison

Councilman Aurelio reported there is a significant amount of ARPA funds available through Lake County that could become available to the town. He is going to work to help secure those funds for the town and park related projects.

Councilman Aurelio thanked Mr. McLead for pursuing facility assessment services.

Councilman Aurelio also acknowledged the accomplishments of the Lake Central Centralettes, a dance program at the high school who has won the Indiana State Championship 27 years in a row and also the 2022 National Championship.

PAYMENT OF BILLS:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to accept the payment of the bills in the amount of $72,208.50. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0).

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Dale Robert (11990 Heron Lake Road): Mr. Robert stated he felt Councilman Aurelio should resign his post as liaison to the Park Board.

Gerald Swets (9490 Joliet Street): Mr. Swets, Town Council President, attended to receive updates on park projects and addressed the ongoing discussions concerning the Town Council liaison appointments. Councilman Swets stated the decision to appoint Councilman Aurelio as Park Board Liaison is final and encouraged the board to accept that decision, noting the various ways Councilman Aurelio could be of service to the board.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (0). Meeting adjourned at 5:37 pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tyler McLead

CALL TO ORDER:

Mr. Bouvat called the St. John Park Board Special Meeting to order on Monday, April 11, 2022 at 5:00 pm and led all in the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:

Members present: President, Mike Bouvat; Vice President, Mike Moffitt; John Boersma; Pat Connelly. Also present: Tyler McLead, Parks & Recreation Superintendent; Joe Wiszowaty, Town Manager; Nicole Bennett, Park Attorney; Mike Aurelio, Town Council Liaison; Wayne Pondinas, Town Council; Gabe Hernandez, Park Maintenance; Russell Vogel, Park Maintenance.

NEW BUSINESS:

A. Approval of Gates Park playground proposal

Mr. McLead presented a Sourcewell Contract with Landscape Structures in the amount of $388,500 for the playground at Gates Park, which includes equipment, safety surfacing and installation. Mr. McLead noted the Special Meeting was called to approve this contract due to the volatility of the market and the project facing price increases after April 14. Mr. McLead highlighted the final design, which includes elements from each of the three renderings reviewed at the March 15 Regular Meeting. Mr. McLead introduced Chuck Gardiner from NuToys Leisure Products who will oversee the project. Discussion ensued with Mr. Gardiner regarding the proposed equipment and safety surfacing.

Councilman Aurelio inquired about the lead time for the project. Mr. Bouvat halted the questioning and instructed Councilman Aurelio to allow the Park Board time to discuss the project.

Mr. Moffitt asked about the lead time for the project. Mr. Gardiner replied the project has a ten to twelve week lead time for equipment currently. The installation process would take an additional three weeks.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the Sourcewell Contract with Landscape Structures for the playground at Gates Park in the amount of $388,500. Mr. Boersma seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

B. Gates Skate Park updates

Adam Eichorn from Spohn Ranch attended the meeting virtually to provide updates on the Gates Skate Park. Mr. Eichorn presented an alternate design for the facility, citing changes were needed to stay within the current project budget due to inflation and the volatility of the market. Mr. Eichorn stated the park was altered in an effort to avoid a change order for the project.

Mr. Bouvat asked if the executed contract with Spohn Ranch was for the initial design. Mr. Eichorn responded in the affirmative stating that the contract and construction documents were for the design that is now being altered. Discussion ensued regarding the updated design.

Mr. Boersma asked if the contract price would decrease due to the proposed changes. Mr. Eichorn responded the pricing would remain the same. Mr. Boersma expressed concerns regarding the price decreasing for the contractor but remaining the same for the town and also noted the various project delays. Mr. Bouvat echoed those concerns.

Councilman Aurelio agreed with the concerns and asked how the changes would affect the proposed electrical work. Mr. Bouvat halted the questioning and told Councilman Aurelio he was out of order.

Mr. Eichorn stated he will plan to attend the next regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 19. Mr. McLead noted he will work with Mr. Eichorn to provide more details at the next meeting.

C. Resignation of Parks Superintendent

Mr. Bouvat reported he has received a resignation letter from Mr. McLead. Mr. McLead’s final date of employment with the town will be Friday, April 29. The board thanked Mr. McLead for his service to the town. Mr. McLead thanked the board for their support and emphasized he will always be of service to the town.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to accept Mr. McLead’s resignation. Mr. Connelly seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0).

D. Approval of Parks Superintendent application documents

Mr. McLead presented application documents for the Parks Superintendent position. Mr. McLead recommended for the board to advertise the position right away so it can be filled in time for the park season. Mr. Connelly asked how long the process will take to fill the position. Mr. McLead noted he and Mr. Bouvat had a meeting with Mr. Wiszowaty that morning to install a timeline that would serve the department well.

Mr. Wiszowaty and the board members thanked Mr. McLead for his service to the town and wished him well.

Mr. Moffitt made a motion to approve the application documents as presented. Mr. Connelly seconded motion. Motion carried. Ayes (3). Nays (1- Boersma).

PUBLIC COMMENT:

No public comments given.

REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE:

Mr. Bouvat asked Councilman Aurelio to wait to be recognized before speaking at future meetings.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Boersma made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Moffitt seconded. Motion carried. Ayes (4). Nays (0). Meeting adjourned at 5:55 pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tyler McLead