Lakes, Parks and Recreation

Yesterday I attended the Lakes, Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Ice fishing in Spur Pond was a huge success this year. DNR recommends at least 4.5 inches of ice for safe fishing. Dirt will be brought in to help bank erosion and a dock will probably be built next year. They’re also discussing the possibility of stocking the lake with hybrid bluegill for Free Fishing Day this year.
• Rotary Park: The disc golf course is almost complete – only a few signs and benches still need to be installed. Construction will begin on sand volleyball court and horseshoe pits when weather permits. The park’s Master Plan is 5 years ahead of schedule.
• The musical Into the Woods is coming to the Rotary Park Amphitheatre on July 11, 12, and 13 at 8 p.m. Admission will be free. Auditions will be held on June 3 at 7p.m. at the amphitheatre. They need 7 male and 12 female roles, as well as backstage crew, lights, sound and costuming volunteers.
• Easter egg hunt is coming up on March 22 – a partnership with the YMCA and the women of Cardinal Key. A partnership with the Truman State Department of Exercise Science for spring park activities is also underway.
• Aquatics Center: Spring programs are off to a great start. Classes are growing and the pool is at capacity in the evenings. They are looking at expanding the ATSU pool pass program due to its overwhelming success.

I also spoke with Steve Bell about plans for all the parks. He said Master Plans are already finished for two city parks and all parks will have a master plan by the end of the year. This means that future park improvements and renovation projects can be fit within an overall vision for the park, instead of hodgepodged together as they come up.