Earlham council and school board begin talks on rec park as 28E agreement nears expiration

Earlham City Council and members of the Earlham School Board met in a special session April 20 at Earlham City Hall to discuss improvements and governance for the city-owned recreation park as the current 28E intergovernmental agreement approaches expiration.

"The current 28E agreement is set to expire this year," Dr. Steve Kaster, a school board member, said, urging the two bodies to begin talks about a revised long-term arrangement so the school does not commit funds without clarity on future responsibilities.

The conversation centered on near-term maintenance needs — particularly drainage — and longer-term capital priorities. Charlie, speaking for Little League, highlighted repeated field damage from bikes and digging and the effects of heavy rains on playing conditions. "Losing the connection between Little League and high school activities would be a significant drawback," Charlie said, stressing the value of shared fields.

Mayor Lillie said the city owns the park and has amended the 28E agreement only incrementally over the past decade; she noted the last comprehensive review was about 15 years ago and listed the city’s capital priorities as a new public works building and, later, a fire station. She said major recreation-park upgrades are likely part of a longer-term, roughly 10-year plan.

School board member Jess raised concerns about investing large sums in facilities the school does not own, citing "$100,000" as an example of a significant investment that would merit caution. "Investing $100,000 into property not owned by the school is risky," Jess said. Mayor Lillie replied that transferring ownership or responsibility for the concession stand to the school or Little League could reduce city costs but noted the city previously assumed operation when volunteers were not available.

Councilmember Mudge suggested pursuing grant opportunities to avoid falling behind on needed updates, and the group discussed modest revitalization options such as remodeling the concession stand or repurposing the unused crow’s nest. For drainage, Dr. Kaster proposed a phased approach—tile the infield first, then the outfield—to reduce standing water; Mayor Lillie said some tile exists but likely needs repair and that drainage work would probably be a city expense.

As next steps, the council and school board agreed to reconvene the Park and Recreation Board to develop a shared long-term vision, review current membership and consider shortening board terms from five years to two years with two city representatives and school and league representation. They also agreed to consult attorneys to evaluate options for modifying or ending the existing 28E agreement and asked "Gary" to coordinate an assessment of the existing drainage tile and identify repairs.

On park access, Mayor Lillie said signage prohibits motorized vehicles but noted increased golf-cart use; the council allowed golf carts for fundraising during the current baseball and softball season and will reassess the policy later.

No formal votes were taken on park improvements during the session. The meeting included routine procedural motions — the agenda approval and adjournment — both passed unanimously. The council adjourned at 7:30 p.m.