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Commission hears early idea for Boys & Girls Club yurt at Keyes Field; members flag security and liability questions
Summary
Recreation staff brought an early-stage proposal from the Boys & Girls Club to place a yurt at Keyes Field for programming. Commissioners raised concerns about vandalism, potential overnight occupancy and liability; staff said policing and Board of Selectmen review would be needed if the idea moved forward.
Recreation staff introduced an early conversation with the Boys & Girls Club about placing a yurt at Keyes Field for additional programming; staff emphasized the idea is in the beginning stages and no formal request had been filed.
Brandon (recreation staff member) said he had "1 conversation with somebody at the Boys and Girls Club about a yurt at Keyes Field" and described the proposal as an exploratory request for extra programming space. He told the commission he wanted to "bring it to the board's attention tonight, not trying to vote on anything," and asked for commissioners' initial views.
Commissioners and staff voiced a range of practical concerns: potential vandalism, the risk of someone attempting to live inside the structure overnight, liability if an incident occurred, and who would be responsible for maintenance. Several speakers said the proposal would require consultation with the police department for patrol and with the Board of Selectmen for approval. Commissioners noted the possibility of permitting a temporary structure for a weeklong or monthlong summer-camp need but expressed reservations about a permanent year-round installation.
No formal action was taken. Staff said next steps would include preparing a business plan and consulting other town departments — including public safety and the Board of Selectmen — if the Boys & Girls Club pursues a formal proposal.
