Newfields signs agreement with veterans group to maintain Badger and Revolutionary parks

The Newfields Select Board voted March 24 to sign an agreement with the Newfields Veterans Organization (NVO) assigning the group responsibility for upkeep of Badger Park and Revolutionary Park.

Hoby Harmon, who recused himself from Select Board business to present for the NVO, said the agreement — prepared by Town Counsel Chris Bolt — sets out the organization’s maintenance responsibilities and includes indemnification provisions for the town. Harmon told the board the NVO is seeking 501(c)(19) status, plans to support Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances, and estimates there are about 81 veterans in town.

The agreement allows the NVO to collaborate with other town committees and contractors. Harmon said the group has received offers of donations to support park improvements and plans to install hardscape from Main Street to the bell tower at Badger Park; Derek Rugg will provide the labor and cover costs for that portion of the project.

Mark Kasper moved to approve the agreement; Cat Tarnowski seconded. All three members present voted in favor. The board record shows the motion carried.

The agreement will formalize who maintains the parks and how donated labor and materials are handled; it also clarifies the town’s liability posture. Town Counsel Chris Bolt prepared the document, and the Select Board’s approval authorizes the town to sign the agreement.

Next steps noted at the meeting include the NVO’s continued work to secure nonprofit status and coordinating installation logistics with town staff and any other committees that will participate in the park work.