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Erie Park work underway; residents ask about canine unit funding at LEGOLAND
Summary
Officials reported pavement and court work completed at Erie Park, playground equipment arriving soon and bathrooms nearing completion. Residents asked how the town's canine unit and police coverage at LEGOLAND are funded; officials said the dog was paid for with LEGOLAND funds and a grant while officer pay comes from the town and host/park fees.
Town parks staff briefed the Town Board on Sept. 25 on progress at Erie Park: basketball and pickleball courts have been paved, playground equipment is expected to arrive in the state next week, and restroom work remains to be completed pending meter installation. Staff said the park remains closed until all pieces are in place and equipment is installed.
During public comments, residents asked about the canine unit's funding and whether LEGOLAND pays for officers or the dog. The supervisor and staff said the dog was paid for with a contribution from LEGOLAND and a grant, while the officer who handles the canine work is an existing town officer paid by the town (part-time 20 hours per week). Board members also clarified the town receives host/park fees from LEGOLAND (the supervisor cited $1,100,000 as the usual hotel/host fee forecast, though earlier in the meeting he said actual trends show lower receipts), and that LEGOLAND contributes to policing costs up to an amount discussed with the police department.
Discussion vs. action: This was an informational update; no formal action was taken on park opening dates or canine funding. The board reiterated that Erie Park remains closed until installation is complete and that staff will provide timelines when playground equipment arrives.
What to watch next: Officials said they expect playground equipment delivery and a likely ribbon-cutting timeline once installation is complete; the town will post updates when schedules firm up.
