During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the progress and future plans for various community projects, including the highly anticipated Camp Lodge and improvements to local playgrounds. The Camp Lodge initiative has already received approval from the common council, although funding for many aspects will not be available until April or May of next year. This timeline allows for the preparation of contracts and other necessary arrangements.
One of the key highlights was the ordering of new equipment for the Wingate playground, which is part of a grant program that requires early material orders to qualify for funding. The total cost for this equipment is estimated to be between $55,000 and $60,000, which officials view as a positive development amidst a broader array of ongoing projects, including enhancements to the cabin and nature playground.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the upcoming pond dredging at AquaPark, which is scheduled for winter. This project may impact the traditional ice skating season, as officials indicated that if conditions allow, the contractor would begin work shortly after receiving permission on December 2. The priority remains to minimize disruption to park activities, with plans to utilize the beach house as a warming station for skaters.
Officials emphasized the importance of completing the dredging by May 1 to facilitate further preparations for the summer season, including the installation of mooring points. While the potential cancellation of ice skating is a concern, the focus remains on the long-term benefits of the AquaPark project and its contribution to community engagement and revenue generation.