1996-06-11
AGENDA RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING
JUNE 11, 1996
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
PRESENT: RJH, K.D., B.R, lC. lE., RF, B.G., E.K., S.M.
APPROVE MINUTES: May 14, 1996
Approved:
Corrections:
Seconded
CORRESPONDENCE
1. Memo from Graham Foster re: Martz Field paving
2. Memo from Dutchess Co. Emergency Response Re: Playground Camp Call List
3. Letter from Sloper Re: Camp Health Director
REPORTS:
K.D. B.G.
B.R E.K.
lC. S.M.
lE. RJ.H.
RF.
NEW BUSINESS: Boat Ramp Patrol for July 4th weekend
Fireworks at Castle Point Sept. 21 st.
OLD BUSINESS:
MEETING ADJOURNED:
NEXT MEETING:
"
.' '.;
RECREATION COMMITTEE MINUTES
JUNE 11, 1996
NEXT MEETING JULY 9, 1996
The regular meeting of the Town of Wappinger Recreation Committee was held
June 11, 1996 at Schlathaus Park, All Angels Hill Road, Town of Wappinger, Dutchess County,
New York.
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Ralph J. Holt, Chairman. Others
present were Kathi DeLisa, Senior Citizen Director, Bernie Reimer, Recreation Director,
Committee Members Joseph Ennesser, Ronald Friedman, and Barbara Gutzler. James Chappas
arrived at 8:20 p.m.
The minutes of the May 14, 1996 meeting were approved on a motion by Mr.
Friedman seconded by Miss Gutzler with all in favor.
CORRESPONDENCE
A memo was received from Graham Foster stating that as in the past, they will
continue to help and support Recreation in any way they can. Unfortunately, they will not finish
the scheduled bulk pick up until July 1 and after that date they will have to begin their spring
program for restoring the roads from last winter's storms. They, therefore, will not be able to do
the paving work which they had promised to do in exchange for the flail mower that was
transferred from Recreation to Highway last year. Since the condition of the paving around the
building at Martz Field is so bad and is a safety hazard, we will now have to go out and get bids to
see if we can have it done before camp starts or soon after.
A memo was received from Judie Traver, Asst.. Coordinator of the Dutchess
County Department of Emergency Response. The letter included a copy of the 1996 Camp Call
List which shows that Wappinger will be called by Sharpe Reservation and we will be responsible
for calling Camp Hillcroft and Camp Young Judea Inc. This is an emergency system which
notifies summer camps of severe weather and gives camps time to take appropriate action.
A letter was received from Sloper Willen Community Ambulance Service, Inc.
stating that Theresa Polhemus, EMT-P and Sloper Willen's Director of Operations, agrees to
continue to serve as Health Director for The Town of Wappinger Summer Program.
A Certificate of Insurance was received from the Southern Dutchess Women's
Softball League.
1
.
\_ '.J
SENIOR CITIZEN REPORT
Mrs. DeLisa handed out a report on the Senior's Activities for the month of May.
This report is attached to these minutes.
She also noted that Sue Parliman left on May 17th and that a replacement is needed
as soon as possible.
REPORT ON THE NYS RECREATION AND PARK SOCIETY CONFERENCE.
A report was given by Mrs. DeLisa, Mrs. Roe and Miss Gutzler on the conferences
that they attended and it was noted that a lot of information was received. A copy of the report is
attached to the minutes and will be forwarded to the Town Board Members.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Mr. Reimer mentioned that the staff is settled on paper at least. There are always a
few last minute cancellations. We have 38 counselors and directors which gives us a maximum
camper ratio of 456. We have hired 5 swim instructors but were having trouble finding someone
with W.S.I. In talking with Colleen Cannon of Deer Hill, we have decided to use the 29 year old
WSI who is on site at Deer Hill.
The RTE certification is 99% complete. The participants took classes on June 3rd~
4th, 5th and 6th from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and on the 8th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We also
had several others re-certified on CPR.
Tennis registration for the second summer session will be held on June 18 and June
19 at Town Hall from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon and from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. This session will run
from July 30th to August 22nd.
The basketball clinic which is scheduled for July 15th to July 19th at VanWyck
School from 10:00 to 12:00 noon will be conducted by Tom and Tim Fisher.
We have received tickets for the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show and a
notice will be in the paper. The first show is scheduled for November 16, 1996 with the bus
leaving Town Hall at 7:00 a.m. The show is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. and the bus will leave for
home at 4:00 p.m. The second show is scheduled for December 11, 1996 with the bus leaving
Town Hall at 10:30 a.m. and the show at 5:00 p.m. The bus will leave for home directly after the
show. Tickets for the Saturday Show are $27.00 and for the Wednesday show $21.00 and should
be made payable to Aristocrat Tours.
2
The first summer concert is scheduled for June 27th at 7:00 p.m. at Schlathaus Park
and features "Nite Life". Mr. Reimer mentioned that he will be putting an ad in the Southern
Dutchess News next week. We hope to have someone available to open up and to meet the group
that is playing. Mr. Reimer and Mr. Chappas will be there on the 27th.
The rest of the concerts are as follows:
July 4th
July 11th
July 18th
July 25th
August 1 st
August 8th
Switch in Time
Steve Johnson Magic
The Phantoms
Woods Tea Co.
Wildeast
Little Creek
Barbara G.I Bernie R.
Joe Ennesser
Joe Ennesser
Mr. Reimer will speak with Wappinger Transportation regarding the bus mileage.
Weare questioning their mileage on several of the trips. There also was a question on how we are
handling the buddy check at Splashdown. Mr. Zoller mentioned that we have to have one every
15 minutes. If that is the case the children won't have any time to enjoy the rides etc. We will
work on this.
AIRPORT PARK
Mr. Holt mentioned that there was a group of young people out there the other
night and they broke bottles all over the place and moved all the cement barriers. The guys were
out there this morning to clean up the mess. We have notified Supervisor Smith, and the Town
Patrol and action has been taken to have a patrol add that area to their list of patrolled stops.
SAFETY AUDIT
Mr. Ennesser mentioned that he has finished the safety audit for all the recreation
areas. There is a filed copy in the Recreation Office and the maintenance people have a copy.
One of the key items is the pea gravel and Spook Hill should be first priority especially around the
bridge. Since we have to so much back hoe work regarding the pea grayel as a safety item, the
guys were looking at an attachment that would go on the back of one of the tractors. It might be an
item for the 1997 budget. In the meantime, we have to get three estimates for the backhoe work
and go to the Town Board to get a P.O. Mr. Ennesser also mentioned that there are a lot of holes
which should be filled at Castle Point. It was mentioned that the Highway Department is
backlogged with the pick up and their road work so we will not be able to ask them for any help.
3
'. ~ ~
CASTLE POINT
Mr. Ennesser asked about the electric work at Castle Point and Mr. Holt mentioned
that he has spoken to Mr. Paggi and he indicated that they are still waiting for a release from one
of the three families who own property along the right of way. It was also indicated that, they will
be trucking in fill for the landfill area in the near future and if that is the case, we will have to do
something to make sure that the Playground children are safe and not in the way of the trucks
going in and out of the area.
Mr. Friedman mentioned that when he when to Castle Point to open the gate on
Saturday that the gate was already open. Mr. Holt said it was open on Sunday when he was there
and Mr. Ed Keller was there hitting golf balls. It was suggested that may be we could see ifhe
would be willing to open and close the area as needed. Mrs.Roe noted that the area was open
when she went to close on Saturday and Sunday and it would be a big help if we had someone
willing to open and close as needed. We will check further on this.
The clay for Castle Point will be delivered next Monday.
CHELSEA DOCKS
Mr. Ennesser mentioned that he has received a third quote on the complete dock
system for Chelsea and all the quotes are between 18K and 21 K with the lowest price from the
company in Cold Spring.
Mr. Holt, Mr. Ennesser and Supervisor Smith met with Jack Peluse of Marshall and
Sterling and found that there will not be any problems regarding the insurance as long as we use a
Town vehicle for the Chelsea Dock proposal. Supervisor will be talking with the Town Board
about the dock plan and it will probably will be a go for 1997.
Mr. Ennesser put in papers a while ago applying for a State Grant and hopefully we
will hear something on it soon.
Mr. Ennesser was asked to find out any information regarding fireworks for the
July 4th weekend so we can determine the necessity for the Sheriff Patrol.
ROBINSON LANE
Mr. Friedman mentioned that the batting cages have been completed. He also
asked about the grease trap which was on the roof and Mr. Ennesser said that it is there but is not
the correct one. We actually need a different style. Mr. Holt mentioned that each weekend the
people leave the concession area a mess. There are papers everywhere and the tables and the
surrounding area are covered with ketchup and left over food. It is just sloppiness and Little
4
.'
League should take some time to wipe down the tables and to do a little cleaning up before they
leave. It was suggested that Mr. Friedman mention this to the Little League Board. He mentioned
that letters addressed to the Board go to Mr. Provost and sometimes they are not forwarded to the
other members of the Board. It was then suggested that we obtain the home addresses of the
Board Members and send the letter directly to them. Something has to be done about the mess that
is left out there. If they don't clean up a little better, we will have to see about closing the store.
Mr. Holt mentioned that we should think about putting a new slide for Robinson
Lane in the 1997 budget.
Mr. Holt asked Mr. Friedman to find out from Little League when they would like
to have the clay delivered to Robinson Lane for Memorial Field, Senior League 2, and 1 girls
field. We don't want to interfere with their scheduled games. We also have a P.O. for Martz Field
but we will have to work around the summer camp for that delivery. It was noted that our
maintenance personnel will not be moving the dirt delivered to Robinson Lane. Little League will
be getting a crew together to move the clay. Little League is suppose to put clay on the rest of the
fields.
SUMMER PLAYGROUND
Miss Gutzler mentioned that she had received a phone call from a Mrs.Toulan and
she said that she missed the registration and was upset because her child was the only one from the
area that wasn't going to camp. She wanted to know why we didn't charge more so that we could
add counselors etc., why should she pay all these taxes if she can't get services. Miss Gutzler
asked if someone could send her a letter stating our position. At this point we don't dare take any
additional children until we know that the numbers have decreased. It was suggested that maybe
we should direct a letter to Supervisor Smith asking if we should be sending a letter to the people
on the waiting list stating our position and apologizing that we were unable to register their child.
In the letter it should state that we are working on revamping the program for next year.
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT
Mr. Holt mentioned the following:
1. We haven't heard anything recently about the camera at Spook Hill. Now that
the children are out of school and this is when we see a lot of vandalism. We should be sure that
the tape is being monitored.
2. At Martz Field we have to get the paving done around the building and we also
have to paint the building. We think that there is a little of the graffiti proof paint left from when
we did Spook Hill and hopefully it is enough to paint the one side of the building that faces the
road.
5
. a/
.'
. .
3. We would like to do some fencing work at the barn between our property and
Mr. Fulton's property. Mr. Fulton has a lot of vehicles in the yard and the area looks like a mess.
We would like to run our fence down the line and we will be asking the Town Board for
permission to transfer $3,000.. currently in the A-711OA Montfort Road line of the budget to A-
7110.2 Equipment line to do this additional fencing work. If need be we will do a little each year
until the area is completely finished.. This will be on the Town Board agenda for June.
4. Supervisor Smith gave us permission to hire someone to do some weed wacking
during the summer months. The pay will be approximately $6.00 per hour. Miss Gutzler said that
she might be interested in this and was told to go over to the barn and see what equipment will be
used.
5. The field at Castle Point on the top is not 300 feet and Mr. Holt suggested that
we put up some snow fence or vinyl fencing to stop balls from getting through.
6. We hope that the new lights for Schlathaus will be finished before the concerts
start. They are the ones between the Schlathaus Property and Diesing Property.
The meeting was adjourned at 9: 15 on a motion by Mr. Ennesser seconded by Miss
Gutzler.
Peggy Roe
Secretary
6
.'
BILLS PAID DURING JUNE 1996
A-1620AO CENTRAL HUDSON GAS & ELECTRIC
Long Court 7851-1550-01-0 6.68
Montfort Road 7964-1460-00-5 141.21
Gazebo 7512-0470-00-2 13.26
Rockingham 7902-1435-00-7 44.75
Myers Comers! All Angels 7802-1962-00-2 51.19
Robinson Lane 7690-0670-00-0 504.22
Stage 7802-1960-00-6 13.17
A-1620Al NYNEX
Spook Hill 297-9861 5.59
BarnlMontfort Road 297 -3692 38.39
Schlathaus Park 297-4752 24.94
Quiet Acres 297-7780 5.59
Martz Field 297-9928 4.28
FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS
Robinson Lane 227-9434 20.84
A-7110A Davies Hardware 98.10
Davies Hardware 6.85
Davies Hardware 28.00
Sunny Garden Greenhouses 44.00
Keil Equipment Inc. 3.10
Milton Alley Inc. 16.75
B. & H. Tire Service 10.00
Brady's Power Equipment 22.55
Milton Alley Agway 159.00
Crop Production Services 600.00
B. & H. Tire Service 15.00
Expanded Supply Products, Inc. 42.66
Wappinger Central School 1,237.04
D. Silvestri & Sons, Inc. 1,300.00
Milton Alley Agway 37.15
Milton Alley Agway 36.00
Milton Alley Agway 48.75
Milton Alley Agway 47.00
Dan Zag-Royal Auto Parts 14.28
Hutchinsons Equipment Corp 27.90
..
Page 2 Bills Paid in June 1996
A-711004
Con't
A-714004
Expanded Supply Products
Platts Country Locksmith
Keil Equipment Co. Inc.
Prime Stripe
Wappingers Central School District
Sherwin Williams
Milton Alley Agway
Royal Carting Service Co.
Petty Cash
78.11
126.00
52.71
534.25
368048
24.55
36.50
703.74
3.54
Arthur M. Goldner
Aristocrat Tours, Inc.
Caldor, Inc.
Coaches Unlimited
16.67
500.00
99.50
360.00
A-762004 The Rag Shop 47.73
Petty Cash 63.12
Hobby Hut 42.97
B-731004 EMS Associates 107.81
Deer Hill Conference Center 3,500.00
American Red Cross 1,780.00
Lany Fox & Co., Inc. 237.82
Lyons Safety 94.64
Anaconda Sports 756.00
Wappinger Central School Dist. 2,000.00
A-2001 Olivia Congelesi 35.00
Brian Johnson 15.00
Annette Bonetti 15.00
Carolyn Gordon 25.00
Tina Bender 30.00
B-2070 Brian Johnson 25.00
A-1990.50 Kathi DeLisa 159.54
~
JUNE 1996 REPORT TO THE RECREATION COMMISSION
FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 1996
SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER
May activities at the Senior citizen center included the
regular schedule of arts/crafts, oil painting, exercise,
line dancing, photo club, videos, bingo, puzzles, cards and
games. The center was closed May 27th for Memorial Day.
May was an extremely busy month at the center. The
seniors started out with wheelless Fortune on the 1st.
CindY starke and Lori Reighn from the Fishkill center came
to our center with the game designed by Cindy. The seniors
loved playing. prizes were given to all who participated.
On May 9th, 83 seniors went to the Dynasty Restaurant for
a Mother's Day luncheon. Good food, fun, great day!
on May 15th we had the second Annual senior of the Year
Award and senior APpreciation Day. Over 70 seniors attended
this day and to honor our award winners. Helen socha was
voted as 1996 Senior of the Year. Ruth speedling and
walther Mauthe were awarded honorable mentions. All
received a gift of appreciation for all they do for the
center. Of course there was food for all, cold cuts, salads
etc. and a carnation for each senior. cable News and
southern Dutchess News covered this event.
On May 20th over 125 seniors from the combined centers
from wappinger, Fishkill and Zion church had a Giant Bingo
Day at the zion church. All the seniors enjoyed the day of
bingo, pizza and orange drink <donated by McDonald's). In
fact, they like it so much, another Great Bingo Day is
scheduled for July 15th at the Fishkill center.
on the 23rd, 85 seniors from Wappinger and Fishkill
enjoyed breakfast at the Fishkill plains Elem. school. The
children entertained the seniors, served a light breakfast.
It was super. In the afternoon several seniors went to the
Bardavon theater to see Swing n Sway with Sammy Kaye.
Then on May 29th, we had our first Health and Fitness Day
thanks to our exercise teacher sue Borchardt. sue was
notified of this National Event and suggested that our
center participate. She received info on this. Resource
beverage sent two cases of thei~ drink. sue planned a
scavenger hunt, a poker walk, did a line dancing lesson,
made up some mental games and last the seniors had a water
balloon toss. The day was very successful thanks mostly to
sue. Of course there was food, healthY food like
~
watermelon, fruit, bagels, low fat cream cheese, etc. Next
year the event is scheduled for the 28th and we hope to do
this again.
The trip to Hunt's Landing on the 22nd was a great
success. The next trip is to the candlewood Dinner Theater
on June 13th.
As you can see, it was a very, very busy month!
There are 199 seniors registered at the center and 179 on
the waiting list.
ITEMS TO BE NOTED:
1. Sue parliman's last day was the 17th. A replacement is
needed as soon as possible. If anyone knows of a craft
person who lives in wappinger, please let me know. I will
get an application to them.
2. peg's and my report on the Conference is complete.
3. June events include the 8th annual anniversary picnic on
the 6th and a Father's Day lunch at Mariner's Harbor on the
14th.
JUNE
1996
TOWN OF WAPPINGER SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER: OPEN 10:00A.M.-3:00P.M.
20 Middlebush Rd., Wappingers Falls, NY. 12590 Phone:297-3670 Director: Kathi DeLisa
MON.
FRI.
TUES.
WED.
THURS.
I 3 I
I I
I 10: PHOTO CLUB
110-Noon: arts/crafts
(NOON: LUNCH
112:30-3: cards/games
(
\10
\ I
110:PHOTO CLUB!!!
110-Noon: arts/crafts
INOON: LUNCH
112:30-3:cards/games
I
117 I
( I
10: PHOTO CLUB!!!
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/games!
24 I
I
10: PHOTO CLUB
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/gmes
JUNE BIRTHDAYS:
5 Bette Court
7 Rose Connolly
9 Grace Mitchell
9 Rose Visentin
9 Nancy Conrad
13 Bill MIro
I 4
1 I
110-Noon:OIL PAINTING
110-Noon: arts/crafts
INOON: LUNCH
112:30-3: cards/games
1
11
I I
110-Noon:OIL PAINTING
110-Noon:arts/crafts
INOON: LUNCH
112:30-3:cards/games
I
118 I 19 IGARFIELD's B DAY!
1 I 110-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: OIL PAINTING 10-11: arts/crafts
10-Noon: arts/crafts 11: JIM TORRISI ON
NOON: LUNCH MEDIGAP & LONG TERM
12:30-3: cards/games NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/games
26 I
1
10-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:45-2: BINGO! BINGO!
25 I
I
10-Noon:OIL PAINTING
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/games
22 Dot Wood*
30 Judy Thompson
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO
ALL!!!! !
I 5 I
I I
10-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:45-2: BINGO! BINGO!
12 110-Noon: BLOOD
I PRESSURE!!
10-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:45-2: BINGO! BINGO!
I 6 I
I. I
8th ANNIVERSARY
B B QUE
-FOOD! FUN! PRIZES!
SIGN UP WITH KATHI!
RAINDATE JUNE 7
13 ICANDLEWOOD
IDINNER THEATER
10-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/games
HUG HOLIDAY!!!!!!!
20 I
I
10-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:45-2: BINGO! BINGO !
271MIDDLE CHILDREN'S
I DAY!!!!
10-11: EXERCISE
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: . LUNCH
12:45-2: BINGO! BANGO !
7 IRAINDATE FOR
IBB QUE OR:
10-11: LINE DANCING
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/games
VIDEO
14 I FLAG DAY! ! ! !
110-11:LINE DANCE
FATHER DAY'S LUNCH
MARINER'S HARBOR
LEAVE FROM CENTER
AT 11:30a.m.
CENTER CLOSES 11:30
211
I
10-11: LINE DANCING
10-Noon: arts/crafts
NOON: LUNCH
12:30-3: cards/games
12:30-3: VIDEO
28 I
I
10-11:LINE DANCING
10-Noon:arts/craftsl
NOON:LUNCH BIRTHDAY
PARTY!!! !
12:30-3:cards/games
.'
VJ..A.l?l?Il'fG-E.R.
SEl'fIOR.
l'I":E tV S
By Kathi DeLisa, Director
JUNE 1996
HAPPy 8TH ANNIVERSARY! Yes, the Senior Center is eight
years old this year. How many of you have been at the
Center for all eight years? If you have any pictures from
the first three years of the Center, bring them in the day
of our picnic. I'm sure many would like to see how the
Center has grown, changed, stayed the same or whatever.
Our 8th anniversary B B Que will be on Thurs., June 6th
with a raindate of Fri., June 7th. There will be lots of
food, prizes and fun. Sign up with me as soon as possible
and let me know what you will bring and get your ticket.
There will be bocce, horseshoes, music and just a good
time. Sign up NOW!
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! It seems to have become tradition
that our Father's Day luncheon is held at Mariner's Harbor.
This year the luncheon is on Friday, June 14th. The menu
includes a tossed salad a choice of entrees: l~n Lobster
Bake, English Cut Prime Ribs of Beef with Baked Potato or
Chicken Parmigiana with Linguine, dessert is chocolate
mousse, coffee or tea. Yummmmmmmm! This is making me
hungry! You must sign up with me by June 7th. ~he coat is
$10.00 for current dues paying members. Yes, those on the
waiting list may sign up. For those not current with dues
(you must have paid 6 months dues) the cost is $20.00.
There will be no refunds after June 10th. As in the past,
we will car pool to the restaurant. Those who need a ride,
must tell me when you sign up and I will see that you get a
ride. If you can drive and take passengers, please let me
know, drivers are needed!
On June 19th Jim Torrisi from NY Life Ins. will be at the
Center to discuss Medigap insurance and Long Term Care
Insurance. If you have questions on these issues, now is
the ohanoe to get some answers.
Now for other June news...Blood pressure screening is the
1
over
12th. Birthdays will be celebrated on Fri. JUNE 28th.
Remember, those with birthdays are asked to bring a cake for
the party. We will all help you celebrate.
Bingo days are Wed. the 5th,12th and 26th andThurs. the
20th, and 27th.
The T-Shirt order has been placed. We should have them
in any day. Good news! The cost of.the T-shirts is only
$6.00. It will be fun for all of us to wear them for our
8th anniversary BB Que and even out to our Father's Day
luncheon. We should have the shirts in time for both of
these events so let's wear them!!!! One day we'll even have
a special T-shirt party!
Ronnie Badowski has offered to lead a Creative Writing
Class. This could include short stories, or poetry or even
"Writing Your Memoirs." Ronnie has been writing for several
years as a hobby as well as semi-professionally. Creative
writing can be fun. Ronnie can help you organize your
thoughts for writing. Remember when you told your children
a story at bedtime? We all have a story to tell. It can be
a true story or fictitious. So think about it. Ronnie will
help you put your thoughts on paper. Let me know if you are
interested in this, we will set a day and time for a class.
GO FOR IT!
The WALKING CLUB continues especially now that the
weather is better for us fair weather walkers. We have a
few new walkers. Welcome to our Club!! If you haven't
started walking and would like to join our walking club, let
me know and I'll put your name on the chart and explain the
rules.
If anyone is interested in helping to plan different
Center events and help with the planning, please let me
know. Suggestions are always welcome. As you know, o~r
Center is really too small to do big parties or events. But
with some good ideas and help from you, we can do things
outside the Center or plan smaller events for inside the
Center. I welcome any ideas and help you can give. Maybe
we can have party committees, idea committees or whatever.
Please give me some feed back on this. Thank you.
The Wappinger Lions Club needs old eyeglasses or hearing
aids. If you have any you no longer want or need, bring
them to the Center. I will see to it that they are given to
the Lions Club.
Enjoy the poems by Ed Glick and Sue Bush. I think you
will enjoy the two completely different writing styles this
month. Thank you Ed and Sue for sharing your creative
2
"
~
~
'.
spirit with all of us. The Creative Corner was started so
you all have the opportunity to share your creative writing,
thoughts, drawing or cartoon. Come on Seniors, let's see
what your thoughts are! Don't be shy! Share your thoughts
and creativity with us!!!!I will include these in the
newsletter. We have many talented seniors at the Center.
Some do crafts, some paint or draw, some write poetry and/or
stories, some have wonderful and creative ideas. You may
submit your "writing" or even a drawing or cartoon to me at
any time. Please do not submit preprinted articles etc.
from other sources. I am sure we will all enjoy reading or
seeing the creativity of our fellow seniors.
In regard to paying dues. Many of you are now paying
your dues on a yearly basis and for that I thank you. This
has made bookkeeping much easier and efficient. Many have
chosen to do this as they cannot be at the Center every week
and want to participate in our special events. Yearly dues
is $25.00. Many of you pay on a monthly basis and that too
makes it easier to keep track of. However, there are still
few who insist on paying on a weekly basis. Those paying on
a weekly basis will be asked to pay $1.00 a week instead of
the previous 50~ a week. The reason for this is fairness.
There are many who pay monthly or yearly and do tiot come
every week, but still pay their dues. However, if this is a
financial hardship for anyone, please see me. For those
paying dues by the month, June dues is $2.00. Those on the
waiting list are welcome to pay dues. This entitles you to
join our "out of Center" activities at a reduced cost.
A big hug to you all! Smile!!!
3
.'
CREATIVE CORNER
CASSIE
by
Edward Glick
Beautiful big brown eyes
A wiggly waggly tail
A heart as large as all outdoors
Love given unconditionally
A walk in the morning dew
A joyful bouncy ball of fluff
A sniff, a snuff, a wiff, a woof
Pals in the morning light.
DAVID AT TWO
by
Edward Glick
The sun shining through the window
Waves of golden light
A tiny hand questing for the dancing ripples
Playtime fairies.
4
(over)
WILL I EVER BE AS FREE AS THE BIRDS?
by
SUE BUSH
Will I ever be as free as the birds,
Without you my love?
I can't seem to leave our little love nest,
That I shared with you
Flying all alone,
I try to pick up the pieces and fly to new places,
And see new faces, but I fly right back
To the little nest we called home.
Knowing you are not there
Flying side by side with me,
I find myself floundering alone in space
With out you.
I know I will never be as free as the birds
Flying all alone
It is like flying with a broken wing,
I can't utter a sound or try to sing.
As hard as I try
Nothing makes any sense to me.
There is one thing that I know,
I will never forget my love for you.
Oh, will I ever be as free as the birds,
Flying alone with out you by my side.
5
'.
.'
.'
REPORT ON 1996
NEW YORK STATE RECREATION & PARK SOCIETY CONFERENCE
First we would like to comment on the benefits of going .
to a conference specializing in recreation. The opportunity
to network with others in ihe recreation field is one of the
· ~, '~Ia
most important aspects .of the conferen~~ There really are
others who share the same concerns ana~roblems as well as
positive solutions, ideas and approaches to recreation and
senior centers. We are grateful for the opportunity to
attend these conferences and to share the experience with
our Recreation Committee and those involved in recreation.
There are so many seminars that are helpful, it's always
difficult to choose which to go to. Those of course on
aging were Kathi's choices, while playground safety, legal
updates on summercamp were Peggy's choices. The knowledge
will be disseminated at the Recreation Committee meetings.
Also, over all a lot of useful information is received by
visiting and talking to vendors. This year in visiting a
vendor, Peg found a reusable 1.0. bracelet which could be
used for our swim program to identify swimmers from
non-swimmers. This is a new mandatory ruling from the Dept.
of Health. In talking to vendor, Peg was able to get free
shipping on arts & craft orders. Many new arts and craft
ideas are available. There are also new ideas available for
new surface treatments required by law to be used under
playground equipment.
Just a few notes on some of the seminars follows that Peg
and Kathi attended:
THE OTHER AGING ALTERNATIVE-WELL ELDERLY AS A CAREER:
95% of today's elderly are well and_active. Only 5% are
in institutions and clrnic~l sattings.(Do'we wonder why
ther~ are 179 seniors on our waiting 11st?~ There are over
31 million over the age of 65. The fastest growing group
are 85 + with more and more living into their 90's. The
Baby Boomers are turning 50 this year bringing an Elderly
Boom in the next 15-20 years.
With this growth today and in the future, quality of life
must aocompany this growth. There will be a demand for
services, quality of life recreation and much more. These
growing needs are and will continue to put more demands on
1
municipal settings. Looking ahead 15-20 years while
planning today can help accommodate seniors today as well as
the future. Monies budgeted today for improvements and
expansions of facilities must consider the Elder Boom.
It has been proven that a healthy leisure life style can
help keep seniors out of the 5% that are in clinical
settings. The impact of p!ovidinghealthy, social settings~
reaches beyond today and oU~ own towns., Th~nk of the impact
on Medicare '~lone! Access to educatio~l intormation on
health, nutrition along with other iss~s of concern to
seniors is important. Programs must consider the older
senior who may have special needs as well as the younger
senior who desires more active leisure programs. Programs
need to be dsveloped with no age barriers.
Intergenerational programs keep seniors in tune with the
younger generation and gives the younger generation a
different insight to the elderly.
The "Graying of America" is here! This is a large and
powerful portion of our population. Their needs for
recreation and leisure are increasingly in demand. Senior
Centers are already bursting at the seams. Leisure
activities outside "Centers" such as travel, educational
seminars, intermunicipal recreation and much more needs to
be developed.
This seminar was so valuable and informative. There is
so much to know, so much to learn in this fast growing
recreational field for senior citizens. It was a great
opportunity to network with those working in senior centers.
ARTS AND CRAFTS:
A super workshop! Many of the arts and craft projects
can be adapted for the seniors at the Senior Center.
However, the projects ~re better suited for the summer dav
. .
camp program. The workshop leaders demons~rated several of
the crafts and handed out directions for over 30 different
craft projects. A copy of these have been given to Berni~
Reimer the Recreation Director for the summer program.
INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAMMING:
This seminar focused on a program called Y.E.S. (Youth
Engaged in Service) Program. Very interesting and a program
2
'.
~
.'
worth considering for students 12-18 years old. Students
engage in activities that benefit the community. Ex: going
to nursing homes, making gifts for Meals-on-Wheels trays,
working at community functions doing face painting or
working at community booths, health fairs, tree trimming.
They work with the well-elderly encouraging mutual
activities and/or volunteer work. This is an extensive
program run by the students with adult advisors. Has many
benefits. For the student it fulfills special school
requirements, career exploration and develops talents and
people skills. For Seniors-.it U$es their talents and
experience, i~'s an alternative to the daily~~rind and uses
their free time. It benefits both stud~n.t" and senior by
removing the "generati~n gap", provi~es socialization,
fulfillment, fills a family void (grandparents or
grandchildren)and boosts self-esteem.
CREATIVE PROGRAMMING:
Some fun and interesting recreation programs. The
seminar host was Recreation Director for a municipality.
Spoke about some programs such as a lawn mower and/or
tractor race, roller blading derby and some other fun races.
He spoke on using corporate funding by using the 800
phone book and asking for the marketing dept. He was quite
successful using this for his roller blading derby. A great
tip that i~ worth trying for specific events.
Networking with other communities provide opportunities
for better and more programs. Public relations and
publicity for the town, making the town visible. Residents
love to see positive press about where they live.
This was an informative seminar, lots of good ideas and
hints.
WHAT IS RISK MANAGEMENT?
This seminar focused on several risk management issues:
supervision-what is it ~egally?_; what is professional and
what is an "expert"?; and what nappens if you get sued.
On the playgrounds recreation personnel are the
professionals in place and should know what is going on
regarding facilities, equipment and those using them.
3
Duties include:
1. Duty to warn and inform participants of possible risks.
2. Offer proper instruction
3. Offer proper supervision
4. Supply proper and safe equipment & facilities
5. Offer pest injury care
6. Duty to condition proper~y.
There is much more;" copies cil duties and exa~ples of
~- .... -.
potential ris"ks have been given to Comm~~!ee .members.
Information regarding injuries must be kept forever!!
Four years of injury reports must be available immediately.
Even if a parent has signed off his ~art on an accident, a
child can still come back at a later date.
This seminar certainly focused on the necessity of well
trained staff and safety.
THE AM. RED CROSS LIFEGUARDING TRAINING NEW PROGRAM-THE
IMPACT ON RECREATION DEPARTMENTS:
This was a presentation on the new program changes as
well as the impact on Recreation
When the State Sanitary Code requires "lifeguard
supervision" or a "qualified lifeguard" at a bathing
facility, approved lifeguard certifications specific to that
aquatic environment is required. All lifeguards are
required to possess American Red Cross Basic Life Support
for the Professional Rescuer CPR noted in the 1996 CPR fact
sheet. All CPR certificates must be renewed annually.
Children's camp lifeguards must be at least 17 yrs. of age.
Lifeguard training is approx. 33 hours of time invested
As of 1996, lifeguards must have a new card showing
Lifeguard training and Community First Aid & Safety. 1996
Fact sheets and Code standards have been given to Bernie
Reimer, Recreation Director' to update him on the new
standards.
Each year brings new rules, regulations and standards.
This seminar informed us of these new rules.
NEW YORK STATE CHILDREN'S CAMPS-WHAT"S THE RISK?
This was an overview of reportable incidents occurring
in NY State children's camps. A discussion of the types of
4
'.
"
.-
."
activities and contributing factors which most frequently
resulted camp injury and illnesses.
Lyme disease and other serious illnesses can be spread by
ticks. This continues to pose a health risk in the state.
Focus of this discussion was on training staff and the
campers on how to avoid tick bites .and how to use repellents
safely. .
Safety of,faciiity and e~uipment was,stressed. Also the
importance of staff training and super'fi"~Jon."of chi ldren.
MANDATORY DEDICATION-MAKING IT WORK IN YOUR COMMUNITY
The process of mandatory dedication was altered in NYS by
court decision Bayswater vs. Lewisboro which ruled that
planning boards must present findings which show that the
influx of population caused by a new subdivision will be due
cause to request either parkland or a fee in lieu of
parkland.
The fee in lieu of land must also be the product of
finding that there is a need for parkland, but suitable land
does not exist within the proposed subdivision.
Parks should be a part of the Town's infrastructure just
as roads and sewers. Standards should be developed for
parks & recreation just as police, fire, water. there are
standards and guidelines for Recreation, Parks and Open
spaces;
1. Town should analyze existing parks and open spaces and
create a standard. There should be 10.5 acres of developed
open space per 1,000 population.
2. NRPA Open Space Standards is an excellent resource for
guidelines.
3. Once standards are created they should be adopted by
Town's Planning Board.
**We should not base figures qn.percentage of land in
subdivision, but base them on potentia-I pop.ulation to be
served**
PROPOSED WORKSHEET
1. Evaluate current status of Town rec facilities and adopt
a standard for parks. ex. 10 acres per 1000 population.
2. Is current parks system adequate to handle growth caused
by planned subdivisions?
3. If nat, evaluate potential population of proposed
5
subdivision ex: 120 housing units: about 400 persons.
4. Is there suitable parkland proposed to handle growth-at
least 4 acres.
5. If land is not suitable, what is the per housing unit fee
in lieu of land? Must determine value of an acre of
susitable parkland: ex. $15,000 per acre x 4=$60,000;
$60,000/120 units = $500 p~r unit.
Standard in step 1 & 5 mus~ be predetermined & be part of
f . -,
the Town's policy. This must be reevaluatea as conditions
. -..._ t
change. Monies must be used for capit-a-l expenditures; it
cannot be used for operational and maintenance purposes.
Very informative seminar. Backup info has been given to
Rec Chairman for further study.
.-
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE: HOW YOU COMMUNICATE IS IMPORTANT
Dementia is not organic and it is not always caused by
Alzheimers. Some dementia is caused by thyroid, Vitamin B
Deficiencies, strokes etc. Alzheimer's is a slow process
whereby the nerve cells do not reproduce and therefore they
cannot process information correctly.
This seminar explained how to communicate and also how to
recognize the signs of Alzheimers. The communicating skills
can be easily applied to the ~any seniors in the Senior
Center.
This is a very quick overview of some of the workshops
and seminars Peg and Kathi attended. The conference was
informative, beneficial and very motivating.
If any there are any questions or further info needed,
please feel free to ask Peggy or Kathi.
Peggy Roe
QL~. ~"'-
Kathi
I
- ./
~oi
----~
De Lis a -
'1 "
. //, .If -'--"
I,. ~_ /,,~-
{........ c...~--
6
"
.'
.'
Varbara .Yl. gutzler
5 RUSSET LANE
WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY 12590
(914) 297 - 5212
New York state Recreation and Parks Society Conference
Syracuse, New York April, 1996
Conference I: Mandatory Dedication- Making It Work In Your
Community. Presented by Richard Rose, Town of ~oughkeepsie
Parks and Recreation
, .
PURPOSE: This conference dealt with how to procure useful land
for realistic recreational pursuits within a balanced parks
infrastructure. This is crucial in light of burgeoning
subdevelopments in our communities.
CONTENT: Mandatory dedication is the process of "dedicating"
land for park, recreational, or open space purposes, or fee-
in-lieu of, to meet the leisure time needs of the additional
population created by the new subdivision. Parks MUST BE
RECOGNIZED as a VITAL part of a town's infrastructure. Thus,
in keeping with the Bayswater vs. Lewisboro decision of 1990,
any land or fee requirement must be based on an analysis of
current facilities AND justification that a new subdivision
will create an additional burden.
Towns must adopt the concept. of "rough proportionality": there
must be some reasonable relationship of land or fees to the
needs created by a development (Bayswater). A town I s current
method of "random percentage of land" does not meet this
standard, nor does habitual imposition of fees, without an
analysis of existing facilities and the community's needs.
How can a town accomplish this?
1 . View parks and recreation facilities as an important part
of its infrastructure;
2. Develop standards for such facilities as needed in a
community;
a) analyze existing resources: acreage, location, usefulness;
b) use NRPA Open Space Standards as a guide; .
c) such standards should be adopted by the planning board
as a guide for future development.
The Result:
1 . develop a non-arbitrary formula to apply to all future sub-
divisions; land or dollar value can then be placed on
each unit within a proposed subdivision;
2. Provision of parkland or fee-in-lieu-of should become
automatic, as provisions are made for additional roads,
sewers, and other infrastructure concerns;
3. A town MUST NOT attempt to correct past wrongs by overstating
the value of land or exaggerating the fee-in-lieu-ofi
4. A town should not base its figures on percentage of land,
but on the impact of the population.
Finally, remember that the municipality, via the planning board
controls the acceptance of land or fees. This should be
addressed in the SEQR process scoping sessions.
SUMMARY: For years, towns' 'have based thei:r; parks and recreation
systems on an arbitrary percentage of land required or an
arbitrary fee-in-lieu-of. Such a method has resulted in a system
of unrelated parks that have little, if any, relation to the
subdivision proposed. Towns must now analyze their park
infrastructure and create standards based on the additional
population and need for sewers, roads and ancillary facilities
that a new subdivision will create.
'.
"
c '{/J.L"0V.'~('C IhG~';AJ
/J I . /I
/CcJJ'--<--v\""2..(L.t.-./
" '-'eV/1 .
~-f/
f11
c;::7 / ' .......;-, ?A...- V ~'l...-' ~~-I!~ ~ '_4 J
.: 'rd"~r
WORKSHEET
;5 t413
C7' I
/..J-. t.l.)!..,)
-::;r () ll..
C....)
1. Evaluate current status of Town recreational
facilities & adopt a standard for parks.
ex. 10 acres per 1000 population.
2. Is current' parks systelTI adequate {o handle growth
caused by planned subdivisions?f\/;}
./'
3. If not, evaluate potential population of proposed
subdivision.
ex. 120 housing units; about 400 person increase.
~..?
.----
./. ".-' ..'
4.. Is there suitable parkland proposed to handle the
growth--at least 4 acres.
f'.~ -,,,' ~ ., . --i! /.-
<1-"./......1 '. 1 ~ -'/';';"'<-'- . r;J-.{.A::-
5. If land is not suitable, what is the p~~; h~usi~g unit
fee in lieu of land? Must determine value of an acre
of suitable parkland.
ex. $15,000 per acre x 4 acres = $60,000
$60,000 /120 uIJ-its =$500 per unit.
**Standard in step 1 and fee in step 5 ll1Ust be
predetermined and part of policy--Also must be re-
evaluated as conditions change.
~
v'
Recreation Trust Fund--Usage Policy
Rationale
The Town of Poughkeepsie, as per Town Law 277, is empowered to
seek park land from subdividers as part of the review and plat approval
process. When suitable park land does not exist, or the park land proposed
does not meet the needs of the 'T own, the Town may request a fee in lieu
of park land, to "be deposited into a trust fund to be used by the town
exclusively for park, playground or other recreational purposes, including
the acquisition of property."
Town Law 277 has been revised, effective July 1, 1993, and part of this
revision deals with the rationale which must be used to justify the need for
park land, or the fee in lieu of park land. (See attachment) The bottom line is
that the Plmming Board must now set forth reasons for demanding
~ ~
the park land or the payment in lieu of, based on the factors listed within
section 4 of Town Law 277.
This need for reasons is a result of a recent legal decision. Bavswater vs.
,~ ,
Town of Lewisboro.(See attachment). The key portion of this decision, as it
relates to recreation trust fund usage, is that the funds must be correlated with
an additional demand caused by the subdivision.
Policy
In light of the rationale presente~, I would suggest the following general
policies in the expenditure of recreation trust funds:
1) Whenever possible, Recreation Tnlst fund moneys should be used to
satisfy needs as identified in the Town Master Plan.
2) Whenever possible, Recreation Trust fund moneys should be used to
satisfy rationales for its need, as identified by the Planning Board during
the plat approval process.
3) Moneys must be used for capital expenditures; it calmot be used for
operational and maintenance purposes.
.'.~.~.; ".':"'~ .
. f. .. :.. ~
. . "" . r
-'
..
4) Use of these funds should be for park and recreation areas which are
reasonably proximate to the subdivision which contributed the funds,
unless factors exist which make this impractical or impossible, or unless
this contradicts Policies 1 and 2 as previously stated.
5) These funds must only be used on town-owned recreation sites, or
to acquire lands for recreation usage.
6) Tmst fund Moneys shou.1d be used within a reasonable period of time
from their payment, to benefit the subdivision's res.~dents as soon as is
practical.
7) Use of Recreation Tnlst funds must be approved by the Town
Board, who should consult with the Recreation and Planning departments
for their recommendations and adherence to the policies previously stated.
Procedure
1. Planning Department notifies Recreation Department of a proposed
subdivision.
2. Recreation Department makes a recommendation to the Plannin a
b
Department to seek parkland, fees, or neither, based on the factors
as described in section 4 of Town Law 277.
3. Plat approval process completes; Town receives either land or
fees in lieu of park land.
4. If fees are collected, the Recreation Departmel~t develops a plan for
usage of the fees, following policies as previously listed.
5. This plan is presented to the Town Board for their consideration.
6. If approved, the plan is implemented.
If disapproved, a new plan is developed, based on the existing policies
and the comments of the Town Board.
-'
Barbara Yl. gutzler
5 RUSSET LANE
WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY 12590
(914) 297 - 5212
New York state Recreation and Parks Society Conference
Syracuse, New York April, 1996
Conference II: Wetlands Can Enhance A Park System. Presented
by Don Smith, N.Y.S.D.E.C.
PURPOSE: To review qualifications and uses of wetlands, and
how they can fit in with a town's park system.
,
I
CONTENT: A wetland is defined as an area of/land regularly
covered by water, not including lakes, streams, or rivers.
In New York State, 43 of 54 endangered species need wetlands
to live. It is a town's responsibility to know the legal
controls and options for wetlands. A town must know what
activities are appropriate for wetlands.
In this conference we assessed our own community's needs
and options for its wetlands. I determined what Wappinger can
do with wetland that is part of our park system and possible
to develop as an ecological asset. Following is a summary:
Wappinger's needs:
1. inventory of our wetlands in our park system;
2. determine if the wetland can be used for recreation:
a) type of wetland: just wet or an area of rare vegetation
and wildlife;
b) what needs to be done to make it suitable for recreation:
roads and parking, paths, identifying signs for vegetation,
protection of wetland;
3. feasibility of undertaking these needs: how to study and
by whom?
4. legal ramifications/protections/liabilities;
5. the need for such an undertaking? Do people want it?
6. types of recreation desired/allowed:
a) walking
b) photography
c) bicycling
d) sitting: benches only; di~courage picnicking;
e) reading
f) nature watching
7. who can assist the town at the least expense: Cooperative
Extension, DEC, Institute for Ecosystem Studies, Cary
Arboretum, Vassar College Cornell, BOCES.
8. using a good formula for assuming land from a subdivision,
obtain a reasonable number of acres, or a reasonable fee-
in-lieu of for developing an existing wetland.
,
I
.
!
I
I
?\
"
G. PARKS. RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE
Goal: Provide an open space and recreation system that includes both active and
assive facilities that are accessible and ad uate in size and
eGuipment to accommodate the varied recreational tastes and needs of
pou~hkeepsie's citizens of all ages.
The Town's parks and open space system contains many small neighborhood
parks. However, there is a shortage of facilities for active recreation, such as
adult softball. There is no large recreational complex in the Town to help meet
the Town's active recreation' needs. Access to the Hudson River, a major
potential recreation asset, is limited. Further, there is" no system of open space
corridors to connect recreation sites.
The following recommendations would add at least 60 acres of parkland plus the
preservation of additional open space/conservation lands. Where applicable, the
Park, Recreation and Open Space policies should be consistent with the Land
Waterfront Revitalization Plan (LWRP).
policies:
1. The Town should prepare a detailed open space plan showing existing and
proposed open space lands, recreation sites, and greenway corridors. This
should be used as a guide for planning and development, particularly in
the review of proposed development.
2. As a minimum. the Town should reouire land for parks as development
roceeds in accordance with National Recreation Association standards 2
to 3 acres r 100 dwellino- units or 10 acres r I 000 ulation :
The Town should not accept small parcels for dedication in subdivisions
unless they can be combined with adjacent parcels to create a functional
park of at least five acres. . Instead, the Town should continue to require
cash in lieu of land where parcels are too small for recreation purposes.
The cash in lieu requirements should be re-evaluated on an ongoing basis
to ensure that they accurately reflect the rise in the cost of land that may
have to be acquired due to the lack of recreation facilities in the
subdivisions that do not provide land. In carrying out this policy, the
.There is a generally accepted standard, but the Town can increase this standard to meet its
objectives.
44
'~' '~"':~
.... .
.!..: ,:h~'.~'
. .
~~J;t.\>I.;~~ .~:!
"';{';;f'.f:r,,, i TYPE I .,
~'"; ~~i~;:fr'~~::,
IS
AClion
Suhjccl
10
SEOR?
,
. ~
- .~ ~
'.' ('
~-:'~ - ~
UNLISTED
UNLISTED
ACTION
BY
APPLICANT
TYPE II
EXEMPT
EXCLUDED
FULL
EAF
;..
SHORT
EM
(Full
EAF
OPlional)
...... ......JIIt
',..
.- . .
-
~
I
INFORM
1 AGENCIES
AND
SELECT
LEAD AGENCY
CONDITIONED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OPTION
FULL
EAF
INFORM
AGENCIES
AND
SELECT
LEAD AGENCY
. ~:;. ":"~ ";.
POSITIVE
DECLARA TlON
NEGA TlVE
DECLARA TlON
CONOITIONEO
NEGATIVE
OECLARA TlON
(For Review
nd Commenl)
PUBLIC
COMMENT
PERIOO
30 Day
Minimum
-." .
[IS
EIS. Ac-
SUBMITTED cepled
'to;: ."
EIS NOI Accepled
LEAD
AGENCY
CONSIDERS
COMMENTS
PUBLIC
COMMENT
PERIOD
30 Day
Minimum
SEOR
HEARING
. . OPTION
CONDITIONED
NEGA TlVE
OECLAR(I TION
( Becomes
Final)
FINAL EIS
Prepared and
Flied by
Lead
Agency
"
THE BASIC S:EQ R PROCESS
Implemented November 1, 1978
Revisions Effective June. 1, 1987
fl
rrfJl~~
EaCh
Agency
Makes
FINDINGS
'.
New York State ...
Department of Environmental Conservation ~
A.;.' .I1W~ .-..
New York state Recreation and Parks Conference
Syracuse, N.Y. April, 1996
CONFERENCE III: Parks, Recreation, and Open Space System
Planning. Presented by craig C. Coronato, Landscape Architect,
Ward Associates P.C., Bohemia, N.Y.
CONTENT: This conference stressed that, just as a town has
a master plan for its growth and development, it must have a
plan for its park facilities and recreational programs.
Parks are defined as actual 'units or facilities.
I
Recreation is defined as the all-encompassing programs.
Units and programs can and must be developed and preserved via
an open space master plan. A town first must quantify its needs.
Via the plan, the town will possess a management tool for
providing services. This tool will enable a town to:
1. identify its needs
2. budget properly
3. inventory its facilities: is everything public? Are there
any facilities that are private with easements? Clarify
via the inventory.
4. inventory the programs.
To initiate the study:
1. needs: what does a town wish to accomplish?
2. facilities: public parks, open space, municipal golf course,
public schools private open space, private open space with
easements, private clubs, private recreational facilities,
bodies of water, roads.
3. gather information through site visits (try to keep in-house)
and questionnaires to residents(determine needs and loca-
tions).
Assessments:
1. address health and safety concerns first;
2. enum~rate population, needs, desires
3. create planning districts with a representative.
From here; a town can p'roceed to write its objectives and
formulate a plan. Graphics are-essential "in a plan.
Towns can determine if any services are being duplicated by
the county or state, or if duplication will occur in addressing
the needs of the community.
When dealing with facility improvements, there must be a clear
definition of what is desired? Is one sport declining and
another more popular? Will that popularity remain? Is there
a segment of the population that is left out?
Needs are predicated on the budget for construction and
maintenance; therefore, a fiscal statement must cite the im-
pact on the town budget and the taxpayer.
Submitted by
Barbara Gutzler
~;
-?