MINUTES FROM THE JULY 2, 2001 MEETING OF THE REC BOARD

The regular meeting of the Hamburg Recreation Board was called to order at 7:00 PM.

MEMBERS PRESENT – Glenn Powers, Scott Kreider, Barry Shollenberger and Anna Heffner

MEMBER ABSENT – Tim Romig

ALSO PRESENT - Lynda Albright-Borough Mgr., Kim Y. Berger-Sec., Tonya Gerner, Rec. Director

A motion was made by Scott Kreider and seconded by Anna Heffner to approve the minutes of the April 2, 2001 meeting.

ROLL CALL: AYES – G. Powers, S. Kreider, B. Shollenberger and A. Heffner
NAYES – none

Lynda reported that we are having a problem with the baby pool being slippery. After it was sandblasted and painted it has become slippery on the one side. It will be emptied and repainted with some sand put in with the paint. This will be done sometime next week.

The main pool is still leaking, however, we cannot determine how much per day. One day we have to refill it with a lot of water and the next it seems that it didn’t leak as much.

There are some major issues at the pool which will need to be repaired. Lynda suggested that everyone think about holding some fundraisers. Tonya suggested some Swim and Dances.

Barry stated that we should decide what needs to be done before we can think about any fundraisers. Lynda stated that the major leak at the pool will be in excess of $100,000 and she has applied for a grant.

Lynda stated that we are using a company called Aqua Serve to help keep the balance of the water. Tonya stated that it is easier than before. The company is responsible for the water quality. Lynda stated that Boyertown uses this firm and were pleased with them.

A lot of discussion was held about the pool and the chemicals.

Lynda reported that there is a lot of vandalism at the park restrooms. Vandals shove toilet rolls down the toilets and then relieve themselves on top of it, there was a fire in the bathroom where the holder was melted. It is really disgusting. The crew has to take shovels into the restrooms and clean up fecal matter.

Lynda reported that EPA will be back at the park again, probably along the river and the tow path. We don’t know when this will happen.

Discussion was held regarding the damage at the park from the Memorial Day Festivities. Lynda stated that the week after the event, she was in constant contact with Bill Kramer who was the chairman of the event and Jeff Seidel from the ball teams and that the teams were pleased with the work that was done to correct the matter.

Glenn reported that the temporary fix that was done was okay but in fall the stone should come out and be replaced with topsoil and seeded.

No committee reports were presented.

Tonya reported that there will be a Swim and Dance on August 17. There will be a DJ provided, free of charge.

Tonya reported that the employees are trying to keep ahead of the trash problem at the park and pool, however, it is a major job. There seems to be a problem with squirrels. These critters go into the trash cans and remove the trash and spread it around. The employees were asked to wait as long as possible in the evening before emptying the trash cans so that the squirrels won’t empty them overnight.

Tonya stated that there was an issue with parking, and double parking, however, it has gotten a lot better.

Tonya reported that the ropes in the pool should be replaced. Pieces are coming off and are very sharp. If they are not replaced this year, definitely next year.

Kidspeace have contracted to rent the pool for 9 weeks – three times a week from 10 to 11:30 a.m. There are 3 guards on duty and the kids really enjoy themselves.

Attendance at the park is extremely good this year.

Swim lessons are going well. We are charging $10 for non-season ticket holders which is extremely cheap for lessons.

Lap swimmers continue to come in at 11 a.m.

Tonya reported that she has received many, many compliments about the guards and how well prepared they are.

Scott questioned the $10 per game for the field use. Lynda reported again that this is to help defray the cost of the lime, water/sewer, diamatex and electricity.

Scott questioned why there are no trash cans along Island Street for the fans to throw their trash. Kim stated that the crew does not put them out because vandals either throw them down the hill or in the street or start fires in them.

Glenn stated that the trees along Peach Alley really need to be trimmed. Lynda stated that she has the quote and it will be discussed for the fall.

Glenn requested that the light at the volleyball court be disconnected. No one plays there at night and sometimes the kids turn it on and it is left on all night long.

Glenn questioned why there is no flag at the park. Lynda will check with Rick on this.

Scott questioned the Lions Project, and what was happening. It was stated that they are not quite ready to come to the board with the information.

The next Community Day meeting is July 12 at 7 p.m. It was stated that the posters are just about ready to go.

Discussion was held about Chuck Barr and Harry Prutzman. Barry stated that he contacted Harry Prutzman and he will be performing for $100 and Chuck Barr will not be performing.

Tonya stated that she is really impressed with the employees at the park/pool. The lifeguards train every Wednesday, which a lot of people don’t know. Lynda suggested that the Item and Reading Eagle Times do a story on it. Lynda will call and get someone to do a story.

The next meeting of the Rec Board will be held on Monday, August 6, 2001 at 7 p.m.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. on motion of Scott Kreider and seconded by Anna Heffner.

Respectfully submitted,

Kim Y. Berger, Recording Secretary