Committee hears reports on well repairs, trail work and occasional squatting at county parks

During the reports portion of the Aug. 28 meeting, the Richland County Parks Committee received updates on maintenance work at county parks, a pending well repair, recent trail improvements and a limited squatting incident.

Brian Thielman, introduced by a committee member during public comment, said he has visited several local parks “in the last couple of months. And for the most part, these look really, really good.” He singled out mowing and trail upkeep and thanked staff for their work.

Parks staff reported crews had returned to a bike-trail area near Rockbridge, removed an old blue strap and planted new species, but that high water and heavy rains had prevented work in some locations. The staff member said one well tested positive for bacteria; the problem was traced to a spigot head that had developed bacteria on the inside and “just basically had to be removed and replaced with the new heat” (replacement/spigot details described by staff). Parts for a separate well repair have arrived but scheduling is delayed by weather and by a busy season.

Staff also reported an isolated squatting incident at Biola; the individual had lost his home and staff connected him with services. No ongoing systemic squatting problems were reported.

Committee members asked for follow-up on the Viola well issue and whether that affects plans for any legal camping there. The parks staff member said Viola remains technically closed for overnight camping until monitoring paperwork is resolved and a DNR sign-off is completed.

No formal action was taken on maintenance items at the meeting.