Mike Horn, speaking on behalf of the Hooksett Kiwanis, told the council on Oct. 8 that the Kiwanis Club plans to donate up to $30,000 in materials and volunteer labor to build a pavilion at Petersburg Field.

“We feel that…providing a pavilion at Petersburg Field…there’s really no place that has any shade or any protection from the weather unless you bring it with you,” Horn said. He described a proposed wood pavilion approximately 20 feet by 40 feet and said the Kiwanis has worked with Home Depot for discounts and volunteer support. “We feel that…providing a pavilion at Petersburg Field…will provide the very things that were described before, shading and seating area,” Horn added.

Horn and town staff described the proposed location east of the existing clubhouse adjacent to the concession stand; options for a crushed-stone or stone-dust floor were discussed with the prospect of a more permanent surface later. The Kiwanis expects to do layout and footings this fall after soccer season and final construction in spring. Horn said the club has coordinated with town building staff and HYAA representatives, including April from HYAA, on siting and design.

Parks and recreation advisory board reviewed the proposal and voted to recommend it to council, the meeting was told. Horn said the Kiwanis plans to seek volunteers, include scouting groups to build picnic tables and will return for a public hearing scheduled for Oct. 22.

Council members asked operational questions, including weekend trash collection and whether the new clubhouse includes a kitchen. The council expressed support and invited Kiwanis to return for the scheduled public hearing; no formal appropriation or formal approval was made at the Oct. 8 meeting.