Eastern Monroe Regional Park Commission

March 17, 2008

The regular meeting of the Eastern Monroe Regional Park Commission was held on

Monday, March 17, 2008 at 7:30 pm in the Middle Smithfield Township building with the following members present: representing Smithfield Township were Leslie Underhill and Doyle Nelson. Representing Middle Smithfield Township were Al Decker, Pat LaPeter and Judy Summers. Joyce Bush and six other residents attended the meeting.

Doyle moved to approve the February minutes and Pat seconded.

Joyce Bush said that she has spoken with three additional residents who are interested in working with her committee. Joyce asked if they could do fundraisers and the commission said yes. It was also pointed out that John Sip troth’s office could place us in touch with grants for the year 2009. Joyce spoke briefly and then convened her group in another room to begin organizing their committee. Joyce stated that they needed to decide on a name and would report back to Leslie. Leslie spoke on how the dog park idea came about. It is open space money and that Judy Putek was the impetus. Leslie stated that the largest expense facing this committee will be the fencing and gates. The temporary/snow-like fencing might be considered. Leslie also reported that Vince had checked into the checking account and it looks OK. Leslie will follow up with Vince.

Leslie talked about spring clean up at Rivers Edge. She had spoken with Steve Carey and as soon as the ground has thawed and is no longer wet he feels we could start. A Boy Scout troop will assist. Leslie is looking at a Monday thru Friday date toward the end of the month. She also had spoken with Chris Cioni and Frisbee golf needs to be cleaned up and a few areas need some replacements. Some weed whacking, trimming and mowing of the dog park area is needed. Al Decker asked if the dog park has a well. Doyle stated that there is a well but there is no power to it and that his best guess is that it is not usable. If a DCNR grant is sought – what amount might we ask for? The grant request needs to be in by April 25^th.

Doyle reported that he and Al Schwartz cleared out the rest of the trees at Mt. Nebo. Doyle had signed off on Anthony Lapinski as he has relocated. He built the first bulletin board and it still needs plexi glass doors. Doyle also stated that a Boy Scout Troop 83 Eagle Scout candidate James Weisberg is working on erosion control of the open trails.

The commission was introduced to Corey Mendez. As an Eagle Scout candidate he is exploring several possible projects at Mt. Nebo. He is interested in a fire grate at the campsite. Also, he is interested in composite benches which Doyle mentioned need wide bases so they stand erect and are not subject to falling. Corey also mentioned a cover for the camp area and perhaps a simple fence. It was suggested that he speak with Russ Scott and Larry at Mountain Manor to better understand about rot and mold free materials. Corey will be taking these ideas and formulating a plan which he will soon present. Corey also asked if he could pick up the loose ends left by Anthony’s move. Doyle told him that would be fine.

Doyle next brought up our budgeted development monies. How should this best be spent? A lengthy discussion followed. A consensus was that “Open Space” is the best investment. The commission members felt strongly that we should look for beautiful, small or large acreages. The best scenario would be land that abuts park land. Also, passive recreation properties are well suited for open space consideration. Virginia Manbeck will explore a conservation easement behind Wendy’s and report back soon. It was decided that this discussion be tabled until the next meeting when more commission members are present.

Doyle moved to adjourn at 9:20 pm and Pat seconded. The motion carried. Next meeting will be April 21, 2008 at 7:30 pm

Respectfully submitted,

Judy Summers