2002-02-12-REC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Town of Lexington Recreation Committee Sandra Shaw, Chairman Tel: (781) 862-0500 x262 Pamela Varrin, Vice Chairman Fax: (781) 863-2350 Frederick DeAngelis Donald A. Chisholm Richard L. Neumeier RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING February 12, 2002 Members Present: Sandra Shaw, Don Chisholm, Pam Varrin and Dick Neumeier Staff Present: Karen Simmons and Sheila Butts Others Present: Sujata Kajale, Shekhar Kshusagar, Peter Bass, John Recce, Anne Riccio, Michelle Weisberg, Mark Pardes, Amber Pardes, Diane Bailey-Boulet, Denise MacKenzie from the Justin Street neighborhood AGENDA 1. Public Information Meeting for Justin Park The Recreation Committee welcomed the residents in attendance from the Justin Street neighborhood. Karen Simmons explained the background of the proposed improvements to the Justin Street Playground, noting the commitment on the part of the Recreation Committee and Department to upgrade playgrounds throughout the town through the capital budget process. Don Chisholm inquired about the ages of the children in the neighborhood. The neighbors explained that there is a high turnover in the area, but currently there are numerous children who have yet to start kindergarten in addition to a fair number of middle school and high school boys. The Committee asked the residents what issues they currently had at the site and what equipment they would like to see if funding is approved. A majority of those in attendance requested that the natural setting of the play area be preserved. They would like to have the entrance to the area improved, and some equipment for children ages 2 – 5 installed. While they agree that a ½ basketball court would be used, if installed, there was concern about the loss of open space and noise. Karen Simmons explained that any new equipment would be installed within the area, as close as possible to the existing play apparatus. The entrance to the site would be improved and the new equipment would be accessible. The Parks Division will replace the existing bench this spring. th Town Meeting is scheduled to begin on March 25. If the $30,000 Capital item is approved, the funds would be available July 1, 2002. The Recreation Committee explained that once the monies are approved another meeting would be held with the neighborhood to obtain more input and review equipment design.