The Town of Stratford Parks & Recreation Committee convened on May 2, 2024, to discuss upcoming events and ongoing projects within the department. The meeting highlighted preparations for Strapper Day, scheduled for June 3, and the upcoming cleanup event at Peck Mill Pond, coinciding with the 125th anniversary of the trolley grass on August 7.

Chad, the Parks Department representative, reported on the successful opening day of soccer at Westerfield, which saw participation from over 700 families. He received commendations for his team's efforts in maintaining the fields and providing adequate facilities, such as extra garbage cans. Committee member Catherine expressed gratitude for the department's responsiveness to community needs, particularly regarding water issues affecting field conditions.

Chad also announced that he had renewed his certification as a playground safety inspector, valid until 2027. He shared plans for training on new painting equipment aimed at improving field maintenance efficiency. This new technology is expected to allow for quicker field setups and reduce resource waste.

Committee member Gary raised concerns about the recurring placement of lacrosse fields at Flood Park, which has led to ruts forming in front of the goals. Chad assured the committee that the new GPS-controlled equipment would enable more flexible field orientation and location adjustments, addressing the issue effectively.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to provide updates on the new equipment's performance in future sessions, ensuring continued improvements in the town's recreational facilities.