Norwalk committee approves joint‑use agreement to clarify school and parks facility sharing

The Recreation and Parks Committee unanimously approved a joint‑use agreement that documents long‑standing practices for shared use of Norwalk’s publicly held school buildings, grounds and athletic facilities.

Robert Stowers, Recreation and Parks staff, presented the agreement and said the School Board has already approved the document and that the superintendent will sign it after the committee’s approval. "This has been a long 2, 3 year effort to get this done," Stowers said, noting legal review by both the city and the school district.

The agreement—described in the committee packet as an interagency joint‑use agreement—clarifies priority rules and scheduling procedures. Under the terms discussed, school activities retain first priority for facilities; Recreation and Parks will coordinate third‑party scheduling through its office rather than third parties approaching schools directly; custodial fees will apply when custodians are required to open or close buildings for non‑school use; and the two agencies will meet annually and produce a summary of joint uses. The document is written to remain in effect in perpetuity, with a formal review every five years.

Committee members asked about budget and liability. Stowers said custodial fees will continue to be charged when custodians are required and that most other uses will remain free to the partnering agency. He also said the city’s risk manager reviewed the agreement.

Committee members voted unanimously to forward the agreement for mayoral signature and onto the full Common Council as required for final enactment.