Committee approves summer recreation program and moves to hire Mr. Bell as coordinator

The Parks and Recreation Committee voted to approve the town’s summer recreation program and to authorize offering the coordinator position to Mr. Bell, the committee said during its meeting. The approval was recorded as passed after a motion and second; the transcript does not specify who moved or the exact vote tally.

Committee members discussed program details before voting, including clarifying the intended age range on promotional materials (members suggested wording such as 'going into first through fifth grade' or 'kindergarten through 10') and confirming the regular program location would be at Blake. Members said logistics under consideration include transportation to library or splash-pad activities on Thursdays and Fridays, a plan for breakfast/snack distribution, and coordination with the town’s inventory of sports equipment at the pool house.

On staffing and safety, members addressed background checks and testing: the committee reported that staff recruited through the CRI program typically complete required background and drug checks, while outside hires would need to undergo those checks separately. Members also debated whether to offer free physicals at the event; several said medical services increase congestion and suggested leaving physicals to hospitals or Border Health to provide separately.

The committee recorded the hire as contingent on Mr. Bell’s acceptance. The transcript indicates a motion to approve the summer program and the hire was moved and seconded and then passed; the meeting did not capture a named mover/second or a detailed roll-call vote in the excerpt.

Next steps noted by members include: staff follow-up on any required background checks or insurance requirements; confirming whether Mr. Bell accepts the offer; and finalizing flyer wording, drop-off/pick-up logistics, and snack provision. The committee set the next meeting for June 10 to finalize event planning.