SYRACUSE — Syracuse Park Board was asked to review its 2017 budget during its regular meeting Monday night, Aug. 8. Park Superintendent Chad Jonsson explained the Syracuse Town Council questioned the park board’s plan to tear down the concession stand located at the top of the hill in Lakeside Park, removing a set of rest rooms in the process.

The town council asked the park board to look at what it would cost to rehabilitate the concession stand. Board member Mary Hursh asked if there is any idea what it would cost to renovate the concession stand. It currently needs a new roof as well as electrical and plumbing work. The interior is also in bad shape.

Carol Koble, park board advisor, and Donna Workman, advisor, noted the concession stand had been in bad shape for a number of years.

Jonsson reported he is meeting with Town Manager Henry DeJulia to discuss the costs of some of the projects the park board wants included in its five-year master plan.

Jonsson provided the board with a couple of drawings done by Heather Harwood on how to possibly develop Laudeman Park. The idea is to have as much green space as possible. Jonsson asked the board for its input. Hursh asked what Jonsson saw as a priority. He said a covered pavilion. He also noted putting rest rooms in would be more expensive than at Lakeside Park because a lift station would be needed.

Measurements have been taken for the new basketball hoops. Jonsson noted the old hoops need new pads and could possibly be sold to a church.

While reviewing the claims, several questions came up. Kip Schumm, vice president of the park board, asked about the fee for the pumpkin carving for Harvest Fest. Jonsson explained three pumpkins will be carved with anything the park department wants, while three will be used during the festival for demonstrations. There will also be sponsorships available where local businesses can have a pumpkin carved and put on display.

Schumm asked how entertainers for the Artisan and Farmers Market are paid. Tyler McLead, program coordinator, explained they are paid by vendor fees.

Jonsson explained a service call was made for the fountain at Crosson Mill Park due to a breaker being constantly tripped. The fountain is still off due to low water and so much material floating the filter protecting the motor is getting clogged.

Quotes to purchase 10 trees for fall tree planting have been sent out. An ornamental pear failed in Lakeside Park and was removed.

McLead noted Harvest Fest will be Oct. 8, several bands have been booked and activities planned. The last kids market will be this Saturday, Aug. 13, and Sept. 10. The final date for “Art in the Park” will be Aug. 13.

Syracuse Kid Olympics will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon Aug. 27 at the Harold Schrock Athletic Complex. Kids can register at the community center or the day of the event.

Punt Pass and Kick will be at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Schrock complex. Participants will need to show a birth certificate.

Wawasee Volunteer Expo will be 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 20.

Community canoeing will begin Sept. 6 and held Tuesdays throughout the month.