2022-05-16-REC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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4 39 MARRETT ROAD, LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02421 Counsel wants to know the intention of the use as the public building is currently leased to the Centre. Ms. Battite added that there are possibilities to partner that the department has not traditionally undertaken in the past and understands the loss of green space that would result if the project moves forward. Rick DeAngelis was in favor of the layout and commented on the exterior amphitheater. Dave Pinsonneault acknowledged that it would be challenging to create a connection to the Minuteman Bikeway. 9. National Park & Recreation Month – Proclamation July is National Park & Recreation Month and the draft of the proclamation is attached to the meeting minutes. Melissa Battite explained that this item would be a standalone item on June 6th Select Board meeting agenda since this is a first-time request. After a brief discussion, Lisah Rhodes made the following motion: “The Recreation Committee moves to accept and bring forward the designation of July as Park and Recreation Month to the next Select Board meeting.” Claire Sheth seconded the motion. The Recreation Committee voted 6-0 to approve this motion. Rick DeAngelis commended the incredibly dedicated staff of the department, including Melissa Battite, Peter Coleman, Christine Dean (Community Center Director), Tom Romano (Youth & Family Program Coordinator), Hayato Tsurumaki (Recreation Supervisor), and Kate DeAngelis. 10. Pickleball at Center – Darren Rough Darren Rough, resident of 35 Parker Street, gave a presentation on pickleball at the Center Recreation Complex and a copy of the presentation slides is attached to the meeting minutes. Mr. Rough moved to Lexington in Fall 2020 and the park and recreation opportunities in Lexington are numerous. Pickleball is a terrific idea, great for seniors who are valued within this community, and it features exercising, being outside, and socializing with friends. Noise is the identifiable problem. There are good and not-so-good places to put pickleball courts and they can be located in a more suitable location. Mr. Rough stated that noise bylaws were created because there are health issues and encouraged the Committee to think about why we have noise bylaws to avoid any ill effects. He asked where the better places for the pickleball courts would be and if there would be value in forming a working group that could evaluate the potential options. Mr. Rough referenced cricket, which speaks to the inclusiveness of the Lexington community. Christian Boutwell stated that the layouts for the courts would be the same as they have been the last four years when Gallagher #7-10 were lined for pickleball in 2018 and he reiterated that the current proposal has not been finalized yet. Claire Sheth added that a false narrative about the scope of this project has been created in recent months. Moving forward, Lisa O’Brien said that it will be important to correct inaccuracies so the community can trust the Committee with its stewardship of the Town’s recreational resources. Melissa Battite stated that there must be a thoughtful approach when it comes to the timeline for this project. The department currently has several successful working groups and reiterated that the noise bylaw exemption is not something that staff is hiding behind. Ms. Battite added that between April 1 and May 10, 2022, only four (4) hours of pickleball use were reserved on Gallagher #7-10. This does not include when the Lexington High School PE classes have pickleball as an activity. Richard Petrasso stated that those in attendance would like for there to be a working group. Rick DeAngelis said that the Committee has listened and that it will take some steps to form a working group on this matter. The next meeting of the Recreation Committee is scheduled to take place on Monday, June 13th at 7:00pm. The May 16th, 2022 meeting of the Recreation Committee adjourned at 9:10pm.