Park and Recreation Commission Minutes
Tuesday, September 14, 2004 - 7:00 p.m.
Approved - Meeting Minutes
The meeting came to order at 7:00 PM.
Commissioners Present: Joseph Carabello, Thomas Caccavaro, Nancy Campbell, Leslie Mayer, and Don Vitters
Staff Present: Jonathan Jalbert, Recreation Superintendent
Patsy Kraemer, Director of Human Services
Others: John Coles & Roland Chaput of Friends of Robbins Farm
Peter Lackey & Alex Hoffinger of Friends of Waldo Park
1. Welcome and Approval of Minutes
Mr. Carabello welcomed the Commissioners and Guests to the September 14th Meeting.
MOTION (made by Leslie Mayer, 2nd by Nancy Campbell)
THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVES THE MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 2004 AND JULY 13, 2004 MEETINGS AS AMENDED, AS WELL AS THE COMMISSION MEETING SCHEDULE AS PROPOSED.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS (5-0) IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION.
2. Appointment of Chair and Vice-Chair
MOTION (made by Leslie Mayer, 2nd by Thomas Caccavaro)
THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION NOMINATES AND APPROVES JOSEPH CARABELLO AS CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMISSION FOR ANOTHER TERM.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS (5-0) IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION.
MOTION (made by Donald Vitters, 2nd by Nancy Campbell)
THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION NOMINATES AND APPROVES THOMAS CACCAVARO AS VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMISSION FOR ANOTHER TERM.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS (5-0) IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION.
3. Friends of Robbins Farm
Mr. Roly Chaput, and Mr. John Cole of the Friends of Robbins Farm Committee addressed the Commission to seek final approval and to address any questions the
Commissioners may have regarding the prospect of painting a mural on the concrete
wall at the base of the slide at Skyline Park. A sample of the artwork was
shared with the commissioners. This sample was painted by the 5th Grade
Students from the Brackett School. Materials for the project will be supplied by
the Friends of Robbins Farm, and the artist overseeing the project is Mr.
Coles, who cited many samples of previous work, and has much experience in
painting murals. Mr. Chaput informed the Commission he is aware of the concern
regarding graffiti or vandalism of the mural and they have investigated the use
of a specialized paint which sticks to concrete and can be cleaned. This
paint product is more expensive but they believe it will be worth the investment.
Commissioner Caccavaro stated he respects the hard work of the Friends of
Robbins Farm and thanked them for their many contributions. He stated he
supports many of the projects being discussed, however, he can't support the
painting of the mural for several reasons including the prospect of vandalism, and
the continued responsibility of upkeep. Mr. Caccavaro stated that in his
experience as a contractor the only known way of getting graffiti off a
concrete wall would be by sandblasting, and he has not been made aware of any paint
that would be fool proof or graffiti proof. Lastly, he is concerned with the precedent being set that murals can be painted on public property, and he is concerned that if this project is approved, many other requests will follow, and the town would ultimately
be responsible for maintaining these murals once created on town property.
Commissioner Mayer stated she researched several sites on the internet,
including graffitihurts.com and believes the mural if well kept, and brush painted may be a deterrent to graffiti or vandalism. Further she believes each decision should be
made on a case by case basis.
Commissioner Campbell was impressed with the sample presented to the
Commission and stated her belief that the mural would be an improvement to the
existing wall. She further stated that if the existing wall was vandalized, it
would still need to be sandblasted, and inquired if it would be possible to
repaint over any graffiti, instead of sandblasting.
Mr. Caccavaro stated that the Commission must evaluate not only the effect on
this property at Robbins Farm, but what it might mean to the town as a whole.
Lastly he stated that this project would need the approval of the Town
Manager, and he would adamantly state his arguments and objections directly to the
Town Manager.
Mr. Caccavaro recommended stone veneer as a possible solution, which may
help the goal of improved aesthetics of the park, but may be more easily
maintained/repaired if necessary.
Commissioner Vitters appreciated the thoughtful discussion by his colleagues
on the Commission and understands the concerns as well as the enthusiasm for
this project. Mr. Vitters stated that if a mural was approved it would need
to last a very long time. Additional he stated that if aesthetics was the
driving force, he recommended investigating the cost of stone facing, or stone
veneer 1/2 to 2 inches of stucco on the wall with a cap may be a viable
solution.
Commissioner Carabello stated that in his investigation of other murals in
surrounding towns, he noticed peeling, and fading paint, from weather, or
aging over time. He further stated he appreciates and likes the community
involvement in a project of this nature and appreciates the tremendous effort
already extended by the Friends Committee.
Mr. Chaput stated there is no immediate rush to proceed with this project
this fall and he believes it can wait until next spring. He further stated
that he wants what is right for everyone. He offered to investigate the cost
of stone veneer, will discuss this matter with the Town Manager, and will
report back to the Commission with his findings. Mr. Coles also that the Commission for their consideration and stated that the working with the Children was a wonderful experience.
MOTION (made by Leslie Mayer, 2nd by Nancy Campbell)
THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION SHALL POSTPONE THE VOTE REGARDING THE PROJECT PROPOSED BY THE FRIENDS OF ROBBINS FARM TO PAINT A MURAL ON THE CONCRETE WALL UNTIL THE FEASIBILITY OF OTHER ALTERNATIVES CAN BE SUFFICIENTLY RESEARCHED.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS (5-0) IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION
Other Notes Regarding Robbins Farm:
Some upcoming social events planned at Robbins Farm include Shakespare in the Park, the annual 4th of July Celebration, Movie Nights, and possibly a Portrait Day. Mr. Chaput distributed copies of the Winter/Spring 2004 Robbins Farm Almanac.
The initial planning of several other projects was shared with the
Commission, including a contract with a Landscape Design Group, who is working
pro-bono, to improve the area of the former tennis courts. A Farm Concept is
anticipated, which will tie into the history of the Park, and may use of the
original stones of the foundation. This site may be further enhanced with a
historic marker or sign. The concrete ground, may be painted with a sundial or
compass.
Several plantings were inadvertently weed-whacked during routine maintenance.
Mr. Chaput informed the Commission that one of the goals of the
Friends of Robbins Farm Committee is to enhance the existing town property, and
stated they will bring all their ideas and suggestions to the Park and
Recreation Commission for Approval.
4. Capital Project Updates
Robbins Farm: Commissioner Vitters stated that he has been working with the Architect,
Carol R. Johnson Associates, to finish up the Robbins Farm project. Funds have been withheld until the project is complete. One area needing additional work is the
lawn, which requires one more slice seeding. An intermittent railing will be
installed on the stairs for safety, and the loose rails on the top of the slide
will need to be fixed. Part of the plastic slide is cracked, however, this
will be the town's responsibility to fix. The Basketball Court area will be
filled in and this should take place in the next few weeks. The Jaffee
Memorial Tree has been removed due to vandalism, and DPW plans to replace the tree.
It is recommended the location of the tree and plaque be moved to avoid
future vandalism. This will be done with respect to and in collaboration with
the Jaffee Family.
Waldo Park: Mr. Alex Hoffinger and Mr. Peter Lackey of the Friends of Waldo
Park addressed the Commission. They found Larson Associates to be very
responsive and creative, and they were pleased with the process. The Friends
Committee developed a Program Statement which outlined the following goals which
included Security and Safety, Fenced in Play Area, and Dog Cleanliness
Issues. They are however disappointed with the cost the bids received. Mr.
Vitters reported that the bids were received and costs came in much higher than
anticipated. Eight Companies took the RFP's, and only 3 actually submitted
bids. $314,000 was the low bid for Waldo, which included 7 alternates,
$228,000 with no alternates, however only $88,000 is available. Drawing and Specs
were great, but cost estimates were low. They are re-evaluating the plan.
Selectman Jack Hurd is investigating to see if any other funds are available.
Options include cutting back improvements, which the Commissioners do not
feel is a viable option at this time, Re-Bidding the project in January, or
looking at other Capital Park Project Money, i.e. Buzzell, or CDBG Money. Mr.
Carabello will contact Selectman Hurd and brainstorm the issue.
Crosby Tennis Courts: will need an additional $80,000 based on bids. Both
Crosby and Waldo are CDBG. Locke is not. The Recreation Division was
informed by Larson Associates that the Tennis Courts are closed due to the test
pits needed, and this information was posted on the web-site as well as on the
cancellation hotline. Mr. Jalbert will follow up with another inspection of
the site to determine if they can be re-opened with the expected delay due
to the recent funding concern.
Locke Playground: The low bid for Locke was $264,000, also higher than
available funds.
Mr. Jalbert and Mr. Vitters reported that Thompson Playground still needs to
be resurfaced with rubberized materials. There have been many injuries,
including a recent one, due to the compacted surface. Quotes are currently
being sought to address this safety concern, and costs are expected to be between
$30,000 - $40,000.
There are 8 projects planned for this year, and the draft Capital Plan
Report needs to be submitted to Nancy Galkowski, Deputy Town Manager. The
following revisions were recommended:
FY-06, Seek an additional $80,000 CDBG funds for the completion of Crosby
Tennis Courts. Seek and additional $200,000 CDBG funds for Waldo. Seek an
additional $120,00 for Locke Playground FY-05. Postpone the following projects
one year from FY-06 to FY-07: Hurd Field, Summer Street, and Wellington.
Postpone the following projects one year from FY-07 to FY-08: Hibbert Street,
Poets Corner, Robbins Farm, and Turkey Hill. Postpone the following projects
one year from FY-08 to FY-09: Reservoir, and Wellington. Postpone the
following project one year from FY-09 to FY-10 Poets Corner.
MOTION (made by Leslie Mayer, 2nd by Thomas Caccavaro)
THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION ACCEPTS THE CHANGES/AMENDMENTS TO THE PROPOSED CAPITAL PLAN WHICH SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPUTY TOWN MANAGER.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS (5-0) IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION
Spy Pond Shores: Mr. Don Vitters reported that Spy Pond Bids were received
(6 Bidders), and the project has $720,000 to spend. The low bid was made by
Heimlich Construction Company for $716,000 with all the alternates included.
The project will start in 1-2 weeks, and there will be a walk through on
Friday September 17. Constructing of the staging area is waiting for approval
of 3-4 permits. Mr. Vitters is working with Ms. Krapelka, B.O.S Administrator
for these permits. The trailer, materials, and equipment area will be
fenced off and will be brought in through the tunnel. Signage will be placed on
Mass Avenue. They will consider using a police detail if necessary. If the
playground remains open an 8' high chain link fence will be installed at a
cost of $2,000-$3,000 and the opening of the gate will be relocated. Ms.
Kraemer will consult with Mr. Brian Sullivan, Town Manager, and Mr. John Maher,
Town Counsel, regarding liability issues of keeping the playground open during
construction. It is recommended that the Town notify the Arlington Advocate,
the Elks Lodge, as well as the Boys and Girls Club, and the Commission may
further request the Friends of Spy Pond Group, notify the abutters of the
construction project, and playground plans. A concrete slab will be poured for
use as the boat ramp, and it is not believed that additional permits will be
needed to be pulled from the Conservation Commission. The contractor is aware
of all conservation requirements. Ron Santosuosso will plan meetings on every
other Tuesday at 10:30. Carol Johnson will be taking the minutes of these
meetings. Mr. Santosuosso has also stated he will keep an eye on the project,
and check in 1x per day. He is concerned with drainage issues. Mr.
Carabello suggested that Rodent Control should be monitored careful, based on
experience with other projects surrounding waterways and areas that may be
natural habitats for rodents. Mr. Vitters distributed a handout entitled Spy Pond Park Capital Improvements.
5. Committee Updates
Field Policy Committee. The Field Policy Committee has met once, and the next meeting is scheduled for September 22nd. Nancy Campbell will represent the Park Commission on this Committee, and was nominated as Secretary. The Committee is still in the process of setting up, and collecting data. DPW is getting a list together. Lisa Reale (ASC and Town Moderators Appt) was nominated as Chair Person of the Committee. Others members are: Jonathan Jalbert, Superintendent of Recreation, Theresa DeBenedictis, DWP, Tony Lionetta (Capital), Steve Moniak (ASC and Selectman’s appt.), Kevin Wall (Adult Soccer), Jim Robillard (Babe Ruth Baseball). The Committee also will have 2 HS Representatives, but they were not present at the first meeting.
Sports Center Improvement Committee. The Sports Center Improvement Committee met and all members were present. Mr. Caccavaro will be the Park and Recreation Commission Representative. Other Members are: Mr. Jalbert, Superintendent of Recreation, Mr. Bartholomew (Arlington High School’s Representative), Mr. Shine (Arlington Catholic’s Representative), Mr. Augustino (Youth Hockey Club Representative). Ms. Nancy Campbell stated there are no women on the Committee and she would like to be added as an additional representative to the SCIC, which Mr. Carabello approved. Mr. Carabello also stated that he does not believe it would violate any open meeting laws/requirements have several Commissioners gathered at this meeting.
Open Space Committee. Ms. Leslie Mayer reported that the Open Space Committee had a Booth at Town Day. She further stated they are closely monitoring the Symmes site and Belmont uplands. It was reported that several recently planted Pine Seedlings were the victim of Weed-Whacking at the Minuteman Bikepath and it was recommended that any new plantings be reported to DPW.
Friends Groups.
FOCCA – The Proposed Dog Park at McClellan Fields is still up in the air. FOCCA is staying on top of this issue, but is not pushing forward aggressively, and is looking for alternative locations.
6. Recreation and Rink Update
Arlington Recreation had a Booth at Town Day and had the annual Town Day Road Race. The Fall Brochure was sent out, and received many compliments. Many new programs were added. Fall Programs are underway. The Rink opened up on time, in spite of the very humid weather conditions the first week. Opening early in September can cause difficulties due to the warm floor bed, old equipment, and weather conditions. The Fall Field Schedule is posted on-line as well as the Rink Schedule. Mr. Jalbert thanked Lisa Reale for her assistance in this project. Rec-Trac training has been scheduled. The fencing at Thorndike Field does not extend to the end. Theresa DeBenedictis of the DPW will follow-up.
Volunteer Credit Proposal
MOTION (made by Nancy Campbell, 2nd by Thomas Caccavaro)
THE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION REQUESTS THE SUPERINTENDENT OF RECREATION CONTINUE WITH THE VOLUNTEER CREDIT PROGRAM AT THIS TIME, WHEREAS THE SUPERINTENDENT SHOULD MEET WITH THE BOTH HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DIRECTORS, AS WELL AS THE PRESIDENT OF THE ARLINGTON HOCKEY AND FIGURE SKATING CLUB, TO DETERMINE WAYS TO EARN THE CREDITS. IT IS THE GROUPS RESPONSIBILITY TO ORGANIZE AND PLAN THESE PROJECTS, THROUGH THE DIRECTION OF THE ATHLETIC DIRECTORS/PRESIDENT WHO SHALL ACT AS LIASONS TO THE SUPERINTENDENT.
VOTE: (3-1-1) IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION
Affirmative (Mr. Caccavaro, Ms. Campbell, Ms. Mayer)
Negative (Mr. Carabello)
Abstain (Mr. Vitters)
7. Other
Ms. Leslie Mayer received concerns regarding the equipment at Florence Field. Mr. Vitters informed Ms. Mayer there is $25,000 for Florence this year for the timber edging and a slide could be added. Mr. Jalbert will schedule a safety assessment, which will be coordinated with Game Time and Mr. Sanchez of the DPW.
Captain’s Practices for Arlington High School’s Hockey teams are being discussed. The AHS Girls team is all set. The request made by the Boy’s teams (after school on Tuesdays and Thursday’s through the month of November) cannot be accommodated, because these hours have been booked with Mr. Bartholomew’s Middle School Program. Three skating sessions for Captain’s Practices have been scheduled for Thanksgiving Week, and this is being coordinated and scheduled through Coach Bartholomew.
Meeting Adjourned at 10:45 pm
| 
