Board members reviewed multiple park projects and operational items at Lou Dennis Community Park and related facilities. Staff reported the splash pad will operate evenings on weekends and intermittently on weekdays as school resumes; staff and volunteers will monitor the splash pad, which has a rule against food on the pad. Chris Cook said construction of the Ninja course and playground is tentatively scheduled to begin when weather permits in March, with a timeline that could overlap Memorial Day weekend but remains contingent on contractor readiness and weather.
Andrea Balboni presented a contractor quote of about $9,700 to frame and install washable drywall inside the little red brick house (the building used by the Arts Commission) to allow a concession stand if council chooses to pursue that option. Board members discussed costs and staffing for a concession operation (three-compartment sink and staffing/operations questions); no funding decision was made and the item remains for council consideration.
Members also reviewed a proposal to relocate or add a volleyball court within Lou Dennis Park. The group discussed multiple placement options, concerns about taking premium, tree-shaded open space, sight lines to the splash pad and potential conflicts with upcoming construction. Board members agreed to defer final placement until playground and ninja-course construction are further along and to consider building the court during a future United Way Day of Caring project once heavy construction equipment is no longer expected in the area.
Why it matters: Planning the sequence and placement of new park amenities affects public access, safety and capital scheduling. The washable-wall quote would enable more concession possibilities but carries additional plumbing and staffing costs and requires council approval.
Next steps: Staff will consult the playground contractor and utility plans before siting a volleyball court, consult with Jim (historian/maintenance context) about the red brick interior walls before pursuing the concession work, and report budgets and timelines to the board and council when available.