Park Board Discusses Tree Removals, Fountain Repair
By Phoebe Muthart
InkFreeNews
Tree removals, a resignation and a fountain repair were the main topics of Syracuse Parks and Recreation Board meeting Monday night, Sept. 14.
First, committee reports were presented. The tree board is removing 13 trees this year at various parks.
“We are planting 20 trees this fall,” said Chad Jonsson, superintendent, adding it may be by late October.
As work continues on the Veterans Memorial Park dam project, the board discussed the Veterans Memorial Park fountain.
“We’ve done multiple repairs since I’ve been here,” said Jonsson of the fountain, adding there are several options for repairing the fountain. A new power unit is $2,800, including installation. The cost to repair is $1,350 plus 7% sales tax. Another option is to do nothing.
“I like the fountain,” said David Van Lue, park board president and school board appointee. Jonsson said the motor is not old and a new fountain might come with a warranty.
“I can ask,” said Jonsson, who will find out the information and let board members know.
An update on Schrock Field was also discussed. Jonsson met with the engineers Friday, Aug. 14.
“We are helping to have a finished plan with nice drawings that can be presented in the near future,” said Jonsson.
Jonsson said he met with two contractors who provided designs for the Ward Park playground. Both companies have submitted an updated plan for the potential project.
“I’ll get costs and go from there,” said Jonsson, who added he will also seek a grant for the project.
There were several options presented to park board members for Laudeman Park’s plantings. A conceptual plan for the park was also viewed by park board members.
“Today, we did a second herbicide application,” said Jonsson of the property.
After viewing several landscaping options, presented by Heartland Restoration Services in Fort Wayne, the board suggested a mix of taller, smaller and shorter plants.
A decision was made on telephone and internet options, as well as the costs, for the community center. The board chose Community Fiber Network, New Paris Telephone Family Company. The cost is $388.88 a month for a three-year rate.
The approval of claims/financial report for Aug. 10 to Sept. 14, was made. A financial report for August was submitted for the park board members to review.
Donna Workman resigned after being a park board member and advisor for 25 years.
Darin Lursen, program director, gave his report. Most programs have been cancelled, or postponed to next year, including this year’s fall harvest festival and fall carnival However, some will take place. He said canoeing Wednesdays has been popular. The last one is Wednesday, Sept. 16.
A trick or treat drive-thru event will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 24. The indoor garage sale will be Oct. 17, at the community center. However, the number of vendors has been reduced and there will be wider aisles, so there will only be 16 booths.