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Oak Grove Farm Commission seeks flat budget; commissioners stress volunteer stewardship for 108-acre site
Summary
The Oak Grove Farm Commission requested the same $8,000 budget as last year for maintenance of a 108-acre property that includes fields, trails and a playground; commissioners said water access and large repair projects may require capital planning or outside contractors.
John Mackoy, chairman of the Oak Grove Farm Commission, presented the commission’s FY27 request and provided an overview of the property and recent maintenance.
"The property is 108 acres," Mackoy said, describing boundaries and uses and noting that the farmhouse is outside the commission’s management. He said the commission is volunteer-run (five members) and requested the same $8,000 budget as the previous year while explaining modest internal reallocations for increased water bills and other operating needs.
Mackoy said much of the daily maintenance and many improvements have been completed by commission volunteers, but that larger projects — playground replacement or significant field rehabilitation — would likely require placement on the town’s capital plan or hiring external contractors. He reported the commission uses a revolving fund for some activities and that revenues and small program fees help offset costs.
Committee members asked about tree-care and soccer-field maintenance; Mackoy said the commission began a multi-year maintenance program and expects field conditions to improve over a three-year horizon if funding and water access allow. Members also discussed volunteer recruitment and possibilities for engaging students in supervised projects.
The committee did not alter the Oak Grove Farm Commission’s request at the meeting and thanked commissioners for their stewardship.
