Community center nears completion; town plans rentals, storage and Round Barn cleanup

Town parks staff told the McCordsville Parks and Recreation Board that the new community center is approaching completion: stormwater piping and site water hookups are in place, lighting, cameras and the fob system are installed, and flooring work will start when the exterior dirt control is resolved. Staff described an optimistic April target while cautioning that weather and finish-work could move that date.

The board reviewed rental logistics for the center, including Wi‑Fi availability, table/chair provisions, access to a warming kitchen (included with a large‑room rental), cleaning‑supply provisions and a $250 cleaning fee that can be assessed after a rental. Staff recommended moving operational detail (allowed adhesives, renter cleaning responsibilities, damage liability) into a rental agreement that users must sign; the board asked staff to prepare that agreement for review at the next meeting.

Members also received an update on the Round Barn and Homestead property. Staff removed carpets and consolidated debris, cut back invasive ivy (noting chimney work will require a lift) and plan to rent a wood chipper to convert brush into mulch. They discussed the possibility of making mulch available to residents for a short, posted period if town rules allow; larger restoration work would depend on future budget or grant funding.

Staff said the site lacks a budget for major renovations this year but could provide program storage in the barn and work incrementally on cleanup and stabilization. The board expressed interest in pursuing grants for longer‑term restorations and asked staff to photograph current conditions and document next steps.

Next meeting: May 11 at 6 p.m. (board staff noted community-center rentals are unlikely before April 1 because bathroom access is seasonally limited).