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Residents allege favoritism in park rentals; board approves draft rental agreements to create uniform rules
Summary
Multiple residents told the board that an unfamiliar softball organization used township fields and concession stands at no cost while long‑standing local groups were denied or charged; the board approved directing the solicitor to draft uniform rental agreements for township parks to prevent favoritism.
Several residents addressed the board June 1 to say a newly visible softball organization had used Cecil Township fields and the concession stand without apparent fees, while community groups that long maintained and fundraised at those fields were denied access or charged fees. Caller Cara Sheran said her travel softball organization was refused field use while another group was allowed to use fields “at no charge,” resulting in lost fundraising opportunities. Shell Stonemark and other speakers estimated the other organization made substantial concession‑stand and tournament revenue without paying fees.
In response, supervisors said the purpose of Resolution 116‑2026 — authorizing the township solicitor to draft rental/use agreements for Cecil, Hendersonville and Lawrence parks — is to create a level playing field and consistent rules for scheduling, maintenance, fees and concession use. Jack King and Solicitor Gretch Moore said the draft will designate a point person (Jack was suggested) and circulate the draft to the board for review. The motion to authorize drafting the agreements was approved by voice vote.
Board members and staff said the goal is transparency and equitable treatment for resident organizations and outside groups. Residents asked for retroactive compensation where appropriate and clearer communication; board members promised clearer rules going forward and said the solicitor and staff will prepare the draft agreements for review.
