Evansville board delays composting initiative; discusses possible transfer of Bridal Park parcels

The Solid Waste Management District discussed a proposed composting initiative and possible transfer of park parcels but took no formal action.

Jean, a district staff member, told the board that the composting initiative has arrived at an inopportune time financially because of constrained city and county budgets. Staff therefore recommended placing the project on hold for now. Jean said a related question is whether the board would be willing, at some future date, to transfer ownership into the district’s name of certain parcels currently in the parks department (referred to in the discussion as parcels at Bridal Park / Moteau Park) if the composting project were to resume.

Board members asked clarifying questions about current park use and liability. Jean said the parks department currently holds the parcels and carries liability insurance; there is no active playground structure on the parcels and limited maintenance is currently performed. Jean and other members said ownership would not change while the project is dormant — a transfer would only be considered if and when the district decided to proceed.

Justin (board member) said he had no comment at this time and referenced an email from Jamie with project-cost numbers that staff will use to determine necessary account balances if the initiative moves forward. No motion to transfer property was made and there was no vote. Staff said further study of the site and financial implications is warranted before any decision is considered.