Millsboro Parks Committee Meeting - August 13, 2026

The Parks Committee held its inaugural meeting on August 13, 2026, focusing on establishing a mission statement, defining goals and objectives for the fiscal year, and reviewing current and upcoming grant opportunities for park improvements. No public comments were received. The committee also discussed plans for a new park on Route 24, improvements to existing parks (Cupolo Park, dog park), and the pursuit of multiple grants.

Discussion Items

• Mission Statement: The committee reviewed five draft mission statements proposed by Chairperson Gary. After discussion and amendment, the committee blended the first draft with the second sentence of the third draft, adding 'to enrich the quality of life in Millsboro' and changing 'neighbors' to 'individuals'. The final adopted mission statement reads: "Our mission is to provide exceptional resources for the Millsboro community to utilize recreational opportunities and activities for all ages and abilities to enrich the quality of life in Millsboro. We build a healthier, safer community through accessible outdoor spaces where individuals can play, gather, and grow together." The motion to adopt passed unanimously.
• Goals and Objectives: The committee reviewed the town's global goals and objectives for parks. Members agreed to expand these for the committee, with initiatives such as obtaining funding for new park construction, rehabilitating existing parks (e.g., Cupolo Park bulkhead and dredging), maximizing grant receiving capability, and potentially naming the Route 24 park. A more formal list will be developed via email and finalized at the next meeting.
• Grant Opportunities: Town Manager Ashley Sander provided an update on active grant applications. Two DeNREC Community Environmental Project Fund grants (up to $50,000 for gazebos and up to $25,000 for adaptive swings), an ORPT grant (up to $200,000 with a 75/25 match for the new park), and a National Park Service Outdoor Recreation Legacy Program grant (up to $15 million, requiring partnership with Sussex County due to population requirements) are being pursued. Additionally, an American Lung Association grant (up to $20,000) could fund water bottle refill stations. The committee supported moving forward with all grants.
• Parks Projects: Engineering design for the Route 24 park is underway with Verdantis, with a draft expected by August 31st to meet grant deadlines. For Cupolo Park, a grant for bulkhead engineering has been obtained, and FEMA funds may be available for construction. The dog park fence gate is being repaired with CTF funding; a security camera (potentially solar-powered) was discussed as a deterrent for issues, with the committee agreeing to start with a camera before considering access controls.

Key Outcomes

• Mission Statement Adopted: The committee unanimously approved the amended mission statement as a living document that may be refined later.
• Next Steps: Goals and objectives will be collectively developed via email and formally adopted at the next meeting. Monthly meetings were agreed upon, with the next meeting scheduled for September.
• Grant Applications: Ashley Sander will compile a spreadsheet of grants and deadlines for the committee. She will continue pursuing all identified grants, including working with Sussex County on the Legacy Program grant. The committee will follow up on the county partnership at the September meeting.