Parks commission moves forward on pavilion and dock improvements; debate over installation of cameras

The Rangeley parks commission reported progress on park improvements and discussed installing a small pavilion and additional security cameras as part of park upgrades. Parks Commission member James (presenting the report) said the lake loop trail is finalized and the new docks at the town park had been installed this year. He said the commission is leaning toward a 12-by-24 pavilion to support events and provide shelter for program leaders, and that electricity and cameras are being considered for the site. "We're probably leaning more towards a pavilion now, like a 12 by 24 type pavilion...we're still moving along through that process," he said. Commissioners and selectmen discussed adding cameras to monitor basketball and tennis courts and other blind spots. One board member raised privacy and surveillance concerns, noting public spaces increasingly contain recording devices and urging a minimalist approach: "At what point does a public piece of property become unattractive with this camera camera camera... I'm just afraid of becoming too invasive..." The parks commission also said it will add wording to park rules and regs to address problematic behavior that had been occurring and will seek to strengthen enforcement language. Funding previously approved at town meeting for a gazebo-type structure appears likely to be used for the pavilion instead. No final procurement decisions were recorded; the commission continues to obtain cost estimates and will return with additional details on design, electricity and camera placement.