Swisher leaders outline park repair priorities, ask staff for quotes for pavilion, fence and infield work

Chair called the joint meeting to order and led a wide-ranging discussion of maintenance needs at Casted/Castock Park, telling staff the city owns the pavilion, restrooms, scoreboard and playground equipment and expects municipal staff to take the lead on repairs. Staff said electricians will visit within a week to fix scoreboard lights and crews have addressed weed work and playground cleanup.

Committee members emphasized that many park features are in poor condition and urged practical sequencing: fix immediate safety hazards like the outfield fence and a burnt pavilion beam, then budget for larger projects. "If they think that we're gonna fix all of it by next spring, they're nuts because we don't have the money to do it," Committee member said as the board framed a multi-year approach of incremental repairs and volunteer help. The board asked staff to obtain quotes for a metal roof, siding for the concession stand, dirt/grade work around the pavilion and the outfield fence so those items can be included in next year’s budget planning.

Board members also discussed volunteer options and donations: one member proposed asking a local business to provide free labor and equipment for infield work; staff agreed to solicit quotes and follow up on potential discounts if city crews remove certain elements first. The board did not adopt a final contract but directed staff to return with estimates and timing for work that could be done this season versus what must wait for next year’s capital plan.

The article’s attribution whitelist: Chair, Staff member, Committee member, Clerk.