Milton parks rules update discussed; board votes to table for staff edits

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on July 17 reviewed a draft set of park rules proposed by staff and voted to table the update, asking staff to incorporate board edits and return the revised draft at the next meeting.

Thomas [last name not provided], Parks and Recreation staff member, summarized the intent: “These are the new rules and regulations that, the department is looking to implement into our parks,” and said the rules are meant to sit alongside existing city ordinances with department-level implementation under city management. Thomas highlighted several provisions: a prohibition on fireworks or open flames unless permitted by the city; an online reservation process for fields; and a rule allowing temporary items such as hammocks but prohibiting anything “hammered in or intended to be a permanent structure or can do damage to the trees.”

Board members raised editorial and policy questions. One member asked that pet rules be consolidated for flow and that duplicate or redundant items be combined; another asked that references to permits and reserved spaces include clear directions (for example, where to submit a reservation or permit request). Several members noted the draft cited the city leash ordinance for pet control but did not cite ordinances for other items such as open flames or designated-use areas.

After discussion Jason Aberici moved and Stephanie Butler seconded a motion to table the park rules update so staff could make edits; the motion passed unanimously. The board directed staff to incorporate text edits, to add user-facing references (how to make reservations or obtain permits) and to clarify where existing city ordinances apply.