Wellington trustees approve parcel purchase for Centennial Park and plan community Earth Day cleanup

At the meeting's close, Wellington trustees confirmed a unanimous resolution to proceed with the purchase of a parcel adjacent to Centennial Park, using restricted park funds overseen by the town. Staff thanked colleagues for coordinating the purchase and credited work by town finance and staff members who reviewed restricted fund use.

Trustees discussed next steps for the acquisition but did not record a vote tally or ordinance number in the transcript; participants said staff handled legal and finance checks and will continue with the purchase process.

The meeting also turned to community engagement: staff proposed organizing a park cleanup timed around Earth Day, with possible dates (April 12 or 19 were discussed) and coordination with community partners including Kiwanis, school groups, Main Street, Harvest Farms volunteers and local sports teams. Organizers emphasized safety guidance (avoid syringes, wear gloves) and noted Main Street already has a separate cleanup event on April 17, so the town's cleanup should not conflict with existing volunteer drives.

Speakers outlined outreach strategies to recruit volunteers — tapping PTOs, student clubs, coaches and sports programs — and suggested providing supplies such as gloves and trash bags and considering kid-friendly elements to encourage repeat participation. Staff agreed to return with a proposed date and outreach plan at the next meeting.