Board approves split‑rail replacement for Willingham‑Knowles parking‑lot fence

The Charlestown Board of Parks and Recreation voted to replace the parking‑lot border fence at Willingham‑Knowles with a split‑rail fence and to fund the work from the board's Buildings & Grounds budget line.

The board reviewed two options for the fence after staff said the existing boards are rotten and many posts are failing. Staff reported a materials estimate just under $1,080 and noted that split‑rail materials are more readily available than the current style. Chair called for a motion to approve the expenditure; the motion was moved, seconded (mover recorded as Mr. Slover; seconded by Mr. Gallagher) and carried on a voice vote.

Board members discussed where to charge the work and whether it should come from the buildings and grounds line; staff confirmed there is roughly $11,500 available in that line this fiscal year and that the cost would be classified as department supplies/grounds maintenance. After the vote, the board directed staff to coordinate the work with the local contractor and with Mr. Wysong on scheduling as weather allows.

The decision authorizes staff to proceed with the split‑rail installation; the board did not record a formal roll‑call tally in the packet beyond the voice approval. The board will communicate final scheduling and any change‑order details to the membership once they are confirmed.