Preston Parks & Recreation Commission approves minutes and accepts treasurer’s report; staffing and budget updates given

The Preston Parks & Recreation Commission approved its Dec. 2 meeting minutes and accepted the treasurer’s report during a Jan. 27 regular meeting at town hall. Commission member Katie Lozzia moved to accept the minutes; Gary Deveau seconded, and "all in favor" carried the motion. Nate Charron moved to accept the treasurer’s report; Lozzia seconded and the motion carried.

Why it matters: Approval of routine minutes and the treasurer’s report keeps the commission on schedule to manage programs and budgets for the coming year. Members were told the general budget is about 68% expended for the fiscal year and remains in good shape, but the program‑supplies line has roughly 16% left and may need monitoring through April or May.

The commission reviewed staffing and budget planning for 2026–27. Mark Simmons and Allison Bruehwiler reported that the department did not request any budget increases; four line items were noted for Parks & Recreation but no dollar totals were recorded in the minutes. The commission also noted a vacancy in the 2nd alternate seat; member Mike Brockway said he has a candidate in mind, Jose Ortiz.

Eve Pelletier was introduced as a new addition to the Parks & Recreation team; Pelletier will work 15–20 hours weekly through the spring and is expected to move to full‑time in mid‑May. The meeting closed after routine business: Katie Lozzia moved to adjourn at 8:25 p.m., Holly Gorman seconded, and the motion carried.

The commission covered additional items including field development plans, grant updates and community events during the session.