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Friends of Nolensville Park ask commissioners for MOU guidance to support town parks
Summary
Representatives of Friends of Nolensville Park asked the Board of Commissioners for clear guidance and guardrails to enter a memorandum of understanding so the nonprofit can fund and accelerate park projects while preserving town authority and limiting liability.
Mary Kate Polrece, speaking for Friends of Nolensville Park, told the Board of Commissioners on Nov. 17 that the group was formed to “give the town additional capacity, tools, and funding options you don't currently have access to,” and asked the board for clear guidance on how the nonprofit can partner with the town without creating liability.
Jennica Harris, also representing the group, asked the board to outline the requirements and processes the town would want in an MOU so FONP can draft an agreement “that meets those expectations and brings value to the town, to parks and recreation, and, most importantly, to the residents that we all serve.” Harris cited a 2022 town survey in which 89% of respondents indicated willingness to fund parks initiatives.
Both speakers emphasized that the friends group would not commit the town to projects or spend town funds without authorization, and that a formal MOU would define roles, reporting expectations, and project approvals. Mary Kate told the board that friends groups typically form during early stages of park development and can help communities access state and federal grants and matching private funds.
Commissioners acknowledged the presentation and agreed to continue discussions with the group. Board members and staff signaled openness to coordinating an MOU and to clarifying guardrails, reporting, and approval processes during follow-up conversations with town staff and legal counsel. The board also discussed outreach and volunteer roles and encouraged FONP to continue working with staff on next steps.
The board did not take a formal vote on an MOU at the Nov. 17 work session; staff and FONP were asked to continue coordination and return with refined proposals or draft language for the board’s consideration.
