Veedersburg board discusses park upgrades, DNR grant limits and freezer purchase

Town and park representatives discussed several park items and the limits of a DNR capital grant during the meeting.

Park staff reported that the concession stand needs a new freezer; commissioners approved a motion to spend up to $600 so the park can replace or add a chest freezer. Staff said they will purchase the unit and present the invoice for reimbursement or payment by the town.

Members explained the DNR grant rules to the group: the grant covers capital needs (such as concrete or furniture) but does not cover labor. That constraint means the town must track which costs are eligible and match funds accordingly; commissioners and staff discussed the need for local matching funds and for appropriate board composition for the DNR grant application (the grant process requires certain membership balance that was not present, staff said). HWC was identified as the consultant preparing conceptual designs, and a Zoom meeting to review those designs was scheduled for June 1; staff asked HWC to include a requested photovoltaic (PV) field in the design.

Other topics raised included drainage and parking problems on local streets that could affect park access, reconfiguring parking to one side on narrow streets, and the need to solicit bids for fencing or netting around Sterling Park’s backstop. Staff said fundraising and donor contributions may cover some donor-requested items but reiterated that grant rules restrict eligible costs.

The meeting closed with administrative reminders and staff committed to follow up with procurement, bids and final invoices for the park work.