Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting - July 21, 2026

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board met on July 21, 2026, starting at approximately 7:15 PM and adjourning at 7:37 PM. Key topics included approval of corrected storyboard signage for Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park, discussion of a proposed gym fee increase, and concerns over budget cuts to lawn chemical treatments. The board also received updates on park maintenance, youth sports, and a potential west side park.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes from May 19, 2026, were approved unanimously with no corrections.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were received.

Discussion Items

• Heritage Commission Storyboard Corrections: Carrie Hyde, Chair of the Heritage Commission, presented corrected versions of the storyboard for Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park. The corrections included changing “Brothers” to “Nephew” in reference to Fred Lambert's family, correcting the title to “Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park,” fixing the QR code link, and addressing six other errors. Some board members expressed frustration over delays and lack of timely materials. The corrected storyboard was passed around for review.
• Corner Protectors for Signs: Discussion ensued about safety corners on existing signs. The board agreed to explore inexpensive protective covers (e.g., PVC caps) rather than costly sign replacements.
• Gym Fee Increase: The board considered raising the gym usage fee from $5 to $10 per session. Current usage was cited as 432 sign-ins in the latest month, potentially generating an additional $1,500 annually. The board agreed to first clarify with staff (Christine) whether the revenue would go into a revolving fund accessible for parks and rec improvements, and to ensure funds can be used for items like a volleyball net. No vote was taken; further investigation was directed.
• Lawn Chemical Budget Cuts: A council report noted a proposed cut to the ground maintenance budget for lawn chemicals (fertilizer, grub control) for the next fiscal year. Rob, the parks crew chief, warned that skipping treatments could lead to larger future expenses (e.g., $6,000 for a single grub application vs. $2,200 for preventive treatment). He also noted his budget covers multiple sites including Donati, Petersbrook, Safety Center, Veterans Park, and the library. The board expressed concern and will ask the town administrator to reconsider.
• Other Old Business:
  • Scout involvement: Attempts to meet with scouts for bench projects are ongoing.
  • Knotweed treatment: About 75% of treated area remained controlled; plans to extend treatment in fall.
  • Bridge sign: Discussions with Mercier about a plaque for the bridge at Donati; a post-mounted sticker is being considered.
  • Volleyball net at Fraser Park: A net was left unattended and removed; board now leans against a permanent net and prefers allowing portable nets.
  • Safety covers for horseshoe pit pins: PVC sleeves with rope attachments will be made to prevent injuries and make pins visible at night.
  • Flower boxes on walking bridge: Condition described as poor, with dead plants and sharp zip ties; fundraising for new boxes was not repeated this year.
  • State recording of name change: The state now reflects the park’s name as Riverside Park (Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park).
• Youth Sports Reports:
  • HYA baseball/softball: Summer baseball underway; soccer deals directly with Rob; flag football has waiting list; tennis in its third year; concerns about field conditions at Donati (infield buildup, lips).
  • Discussion of private clubs using fields: Some clubs contribute via in-kind work, but concerns were raised about insurance and lack of payment. The board will review insurance certificates.
• West Side Park: Council member Roger Duhaime has been unable to tour the potential site on Hackett Hill due to busy schedule. Board members noted resident opposition and wetland issues; a walkthrough is planned.
• Grant Updates: Sam reported progress on grants for benches, a workout station, and walkway; fence funding remains elusive. A GoFundMe campaign raised little.

Key Outcomes

• Vote on Corrected Storyboard: Motion to approve the corrected storyboard (including text and QR code) passed with 3 in favor, 1 opposed, and 1 abstention. (The QR code link was not yet verified by some members, but the board accepted the document as corrected.)
• Gym Fee Increase: No vote; the board will investigate fund accessibility with Christine before any decision.
• Lawn Chemical Budget: The board will press the town administrator to restore funding for essential treatments.
• Safety Covers for Horseshoe Pins: Proceed with low-cost PVC covers; Rob will fabricate them after vacation.
• Storyboard Corners: Explore inexpensive corner protectors for existing signs; no cost to the town.
• West Side Park Tour: Rob, Andy, and interested board members will schedule a walkthrough with Roger Duhaime.