Eastern Delaware County JRD approves budget amendment, moves to finalize Pizzuti services agreement

The Eastern Delaware County Joint Recreation District on an unanimous vote amended its 2025 budget to add local contributions and cover consulting work and discussed finalizing a services agreement with contractor Pizzuti that includes an annual-appropriation notice requirement.

The budget amendment approved by the board increases the district’s 2025 funding to provide for consulting services to complete a needs assessment and market analysis. Chair Ally Watson called the roll and confirmed a quorum before the vote.

Why it matters: Board members said the added funding is intended to keep the consultant work moving so the district can complete a needs assessment and begin planning for potential bond or levy work for a future facility. Board members discussed what additional costs the district may face next year — including conceptual design, architectural services and potential legal fees for levy work — and agreed to seek a budget estimate in time for jurisdictional partners to consider appropriations.

Board discussion and contract status

Mike (staff member) reported that Pizzuti’s general counsel accepted the draft revisions the district’s counsel proposed, with one additional request: because the agreement includes appropriation language, Pizzuti asked that the contract include a notice provision triggered if the board determines funding will not be available.…