TOWNSHIP OF LOWER MAKEFIELD
PARK & RECREATION BOARD
MINUTES - JANUARY 13, 2004
The regular meeting of the Park & Recreation Board of the Township of Lower Makefield was held in the Municipal Building on January 13, 2004. Chairman Fritchey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.
Those present:
Park & Recreation Board: David Fritchey, Chairman
Ron Smith, Vice Chairman (joined meeting in progress)
Patricia Bunn, Member
Henry Carpenter, Member
Andrew Newbon, Member
Others: Donna Liney, Recreation Director
Frank Fazzalore, Supervisor Liaison
Absent: John Kuebler, Park & Recreation Board Secretary
Richard Jutkiewicz, Park & Recreation Board Member
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Ms. Bunn moved, Mr. Fritchey seconded and it was unanimously carried to approve the Minutes of December 16, 2003 as written.
AUTHORIZE PREPARATION OF SPECS FOR SLIDE FOR LMT COMMUNITY POOL
Mr. Brad Sharp, Pool Manager, and Mr. Ted Wallover, consultant, were present.
Mr. Wallover stated the slide was budgeted for installation this year, and they would like to
go out for bid. They are showing three potential locations where they could conceivably
construct the slide. Mr. Wallover noted one location which would require relocation of the
fence and might also involve work in a drainage swale. This location would be relatively
close to the existing filter plant which is a source of electricity which is needed to operate
the slide feature. He feels this location would be the most expensive option and it would
also impact the competition racing in the long course. He stated it could cost $10,000 to
$20,000 more to choose this location. From a safety standpoint, he does not feel any
location is stronger or weaker than any other. He stated there will be staff people at the top
and the base of the slide. Mr. Fritchey asked about the depth of the water. Mr. Wallover stated the slide would empty into 5’ to 7’ at this location and could only be used by those who are good swimmers. He does not feel therefore, that this is the correct location for the slide.
Mr. Smith joined the meeting at this time.
Mr. Wallover stated the possible location shown at the center of the Pool complex does
require minimal grade changes, would permit use by all swimmers because of shallow
water splash down, and requires less concrete. It would however block the view from the
Manager’s Office. He stated he would prefer they select the location at the third option
which is the lower site because it does not require demolition and replacement of concrete,
permits use by all swimmers, and has an efficient walk-out area.
January 13, 2003 Park & Recreation Board - page 2 of 6
Mr. Wallover stated they will be closely monitoring the installation of the slide. He stated a
number of firms make this type of product. He stated proper winterization of the pumps
will be required and they will also require maintenance. He noted there is a concrete
component and a mechanical component, and they would prefer to do this as a single
contract as it would give a greater degree of control. It will also be open to the general
contracting field; but because of the project, they would like to invite certain contractors to
bid as well. He stated they hope to have this out February 1 and start construction March 1.
Is should be in place by the time the Pool opens.
Mr. Fritchey stated $124,000 was budgeted in Capital Construction, and Mr. Wallover stated he feels this amount is light. He stated they will bid it as a total package and with alternatives as well. They hope to build the tower and at least one slide this year. He does not feel $124,000 is sufficient to cover construction of both slides. He stated in a subsequent year, they could add the second slide.
Mr. Wallover stated the Township could consider how this slide could bring in additional
revenue. He would recommend they consider charging for use of the slide. He stated this
has been done by other pools, and they have been able to pay off the slide in two years.
Mr. Carpenter asked how this would be administered, and Mr. Wallover stated they could
get a button or wrist band for use of the slide for the day or the season. He stated he could
find out what the going rates are for this. Mr. Fritchey asked that he also find out about
volume of usage. Mr. Wallover stated he can guarantee that it will be well used all day.
Mr. Newbon stated when they sent out the survey to Pool Members to see what they would
like to see at the Pool, he does not feel the members anticipated having to pay an additional
fee for use of the slide. He stated he does feel some additional people may join the pool
because of the slide and they may also get more people coming in to use the pool as a guest
because of the slide.
Mr. Fazzalore stated when they come to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation
they should include a recommendation on whether there should be an increase in the dues
or if they should charge additional for use of the slide. Mr. Wallover stated they could include this in the Membership fees with one fee for slide use and one fee for non-slide use. Ms. Bunn stated as a member of the Pool she would be angry if her child could not use the slide as it was their dues over the years that paid for the construction of this feature.
Mr. Carpenter stated he personally would be willing to pay a higher membership for
permission to use the slide. Mr. Wallover stated this is a significant commitment to the
facility, and he does not feel it is out of line to have people pay more to use it.
Mr. Carpenter stated an annual fee would also be a good idea since those not using this
would be able to pay less than those why are using it.
Mr. Wallover stated the recommended location will not impact anything they may wish to
do in the future with the competition tank and the possibility of enclosing it and making it a
12-month pool. He stated management will also be able to see the entire site at this
recommended location.
Mr. Sharp stated he would be in favor of the location recommended by Mr. Wallover.
He noted there is a guard stand directly across from this location.
Mr. Fazzalore stated while $124,000 has been Budgeted, they could consider going higher
if necessary, within limits, in order to get both slides constructed at this time.
January 13, 2004 Park & Recreation Board - page 3 of 6
Mr. Wallover stated he feels the flume slide would have the most interest although the
speed slide is also fun.
Mr. Fritchey moved and Mr. Newbon seconded to recommend to the Board of Supervisors
that they approve preparation of the specs for the slide at the recommended location in the
northeast corner. Mr. Wallover stated he does not feel they need to get approve from the
Board of Supervisors to prepare the specs since this has already been budgeted.
Mr. Fazzalore stated when the Board of Supervisors approved the Budget, they approved
this item. Mr. Fazzalore stated he feels the Board must award the bid, but the decision to
proceed is up to the Park & Recreation Board.
Mr. Fritchey moved, Mr. Newbon seconded and it was unanimously carried to authorize
preparation of the specs for the slide to be located in the northeast corner as recommended
by Mr. Wallover.
Ms. Liney stated the fees could not be adjusted for 2004 as the memberships have already
gone out. Mr. Fritchey stated they should wait until they see what comes in with regard to
the bids. Mr. Fazzalore asked what Mr. Wallover estimates the cost would be for the entire
project, and Mr. Wallover stated he feels it would be $160,000 to construct both slides.
He stated it would be less expensive in the long run to install both at the same time.
Mr. Fazzalore stated they must remember that the $124,000 being used to proceed with this
project came from the people who were already members of the Pool.
RECOMMENDATION ON LMT PARK & RECREATION POLICY STATEMENT
Mr. Fritchey stated last year an organization was formed due to an individual wishing to
create his own baseball organization consisting of only seventeen players. He stated they
did give that group individual permits despite the fact that the organization did not qualify to
be sanctioned. The individual complained to the Board of Supervisors about not being
given sanctioned status, and he was subsequently given this by the Board of Supervisors.
Mr. Fritchey stated that individual had a difficult time with his operation and did not come back this year. Ms. Liney stated while he did not return for the fall, they may still submit an application for the spring. Mr. Smith stated that individual had promised that he would bring the program back in the fall, and he did not do so. Mr. Smith stated due to this incident the Park & Recreation Board felt they should re-consider their Policy. Mr. Fritchey stated that individual had no distinction between a travel program and an intramural program and there was also not a boys and girls program as required for sanctioning.
Mr. Carpenter stated he does not feel what happened was necessarily a problem. He stated
he feels there was a group of people who were unhappy with the existing League. They
tried to start a program and it did not work. He feels the rules that are in existence worked
perfectly. He stated he feels they should encourage organizations to try to create programs.
Ms. Bunn stated she agrees provided it is a legitimate group with a practical number of
people involved. Mr. Fritchey stated the Park & Recreation Board did follow the rules; and
while they did not consider that organization to be a League and would not sanction them,
they did give him field time so he could make a go of his operation.
January 13, 2004 Park & Recreation Board - page 4 of 6
Mr. Fritchey distributed proposed changes to the “League or Organization Sanctioning
Rules.” Mr. Smith noted Item #11 and stated he feels the percentage of residents required
for the travel program should be 65% Lower Makefield Township residents rather than
50%. Mr. Fritchey stated this varies from sport to sport and the intensity of the travel
program, and he feels 50% is practical. This will help make the teams competitive.
Mr. Smith stated a Township such as Lower Makefield should be able to generate a
competitive travel team in any sport with 65% of the players being Township residents.
Mr. Carpenter asked if the purpose of the Rule change is to protect the existing
organizations or to encourage new programs. Mr. Fritchey stated they want to make sure
that someone who is starting a League is serious and not simply doing so in order to be
able to coach their own child and as a result take a significant amount of field time away
from organizations that have been in effect for many years and service a large number of
players. Ms. Liney stated this change would not stop them from getting field time even if
they are not sanctioned. Sanctioning means that you get priority on fields.
Mr. Fazzalore asked how they monitor residency; and Mr. Fritchey stated the organizations
must submit rosters, and they are dependent on the good faith of the League on the
accuracy of the rosters.
Mr. Smith stated he feels if you are going to apply for sanctioning status, they should give
the Park & Recreation Department a reasonable amount of time and not come in just prior to
the start of the season when fields have already been allocated and expect changes to be
made to accommodate your organization. He feels there should be a date by which they
should submit for sanctioning. Ms. Liney stated they do try to work with the individuals
and since they are volunteers they are trying to work with them and will try to fit them in
where possible.
Mr. Newbon asked if they should add non-sanctioned organizations may apply for field
permits, and Mr. Fritchey stated he feels this is implied; and Ms. Liney does try to fit
people in where there is space available. Mr. Newbon suggested they include a note
indicating Sanctioning means you get priority as to field use.
Mr. Smith moved and Ms. Bunn seconded to recommend to the Board of Supervisors that
they consider and pass the proposed changes to the League and Organization Sanctioning
Rules forthwith. (Copy attached to the Minutes). Motion carried with Mr. Carpenter
opposed.
Mr. Fritchey stated he feels they should also review the Rules and Regulations to see if
anything should be changed and make a recommendation on this to the Board of
Supervisors as well. Mr. Fazzalore suggested that they send all recommended changes to
the Board at the same time. It was therefore decided to hold off submission of the
Sanctioning changes at this time. This will be held for submission until the next meeting to
give the Park & Recreation Board the opportunity to review the Rules and Regulations.
DISCUSSION OF SNIPES TRACT
Mr. Smith introduced Michael DiMaio, Coach of YMS and Facilities Director. Mr. Smith
stated there has been discussion about the Snipes tract and he noted the e-mail sent to
Ms. Liney last evening on this matter.
January 13, 2004 Park & Recreation Board - page 5 of 6
Mr. DiMaio stated he has lived in the Township for ten years and been involved in a number of sports organizations, the last six years with YMS. His latest position is Fields
Coordinator, and he is working with Ms. Liney. He stated there have been concerns
expressed about overuse of Macclesfield Park, and the prospect of using Snipes has been
discussed for some time. He stated he has agreed to be the “point man” for YMS with the
Township regarding discussions as to what could be done at Snipes. He stated they would
like to help with the planning if possible. He noted he does have a planning background
and could help the Township in this way. He is not sure how the funding of getting plans
drawn would work. Mr. Fritchey stated they have had discussions about this tract for
some time.
Mr. Fazzalore stated he personally will not vote in favor of development of any other Parks
until they take care of the Seniors. He stated the Seniors represent 18% of the Township’s
population. He stated he would be in favor of borrowing $5 million to build Park facilities
and a Senior Center. Mr. Newbon stated he did not feel the plan was to build a park at
Snipes, but was simply to lay out some fields with little work involved. Mr. Fazzalore
stated this was already approved some time ago. He stated he has seen children playing on
the Snipes Tract. He noted the Fire Station is going to be constructed at Snipes so that
portion of the ground would not be available for field use.
Mr. Smith stated planning for Memorial Park is still continuing. Mr. Fazzalore stated all
they have approved is the road into the facility up to the Memorial. He stated the Township
does not have any additional money and anything they do they will need to borrow money.
He stated he will not agree to borrow money for operations. Mr. Fritchey stated the Park
& Recreation Board is on record as being in support of a Senior Center.
Mr. Smith asked if they could not proceed with planning for Snipes, and Mr. Fazzalore
stated he has no problem with this. He stated he read that YMS is willing to build Snipes,
but it would then be restricted to use by YMS. Mr. Smith stated they would like to have a
soccer facility, but this does not mean it would be used solely by YMS. Mr. Fazzalore
stated he feels Snipes has been considered all along as substantially a soccer facility.
Mr. Fritchey stated they have also considered a possible skate facility in this location as
well. Mr. Smith stated if YMS had the ability to pay for and build the Park, they would
like to have exclusive rights to the facility. He feels the organization would be very happy
to have it a soccer-only facility as is seen in other Townships.
Ms. Bunn stated they will not be getting public restrooms from the Fire Station at Snipes.
Mr. Smith stated they would still like to see what the impact would be on the site with the
construction of the Fire Station. Ms. Bunn stated last January PCS showed a Plan, and
that is what is being built. Ms. Bunn stated she feels they need to call a Sub-Committee
meeting and review the Plans that were previously discussed. Ms. Liney stated she does
have the information from PCS which indicated the amount of acreage needed for certain
pieces such as the realignment of Dolington Road, etc. Ms. Bunn stated she feels some
of the road improvements will be done once the Fire Station is under construction.
Ms. Liney showed the Plan which was prepared. She stated PCS feels approximately 30 acres will be available after the Fire Station and right-of-way is completed. Mr. Fritchey stated this is a substantial area that could be used by younger players and relieve pressure on Macclesfield Park.
Mr. Newbon stated he feels Mr. DiMaio should be added to the Snipes Sub-Committee.
Mr. Smith stated they will schedule a Sub-committee meeting for Snipes in February.
January 13, 2004 Park & Recreation Board - page 6 of 6
Mr. DiMaio asked if a representative from PCS would be present, and it was noted they
would. Mr. Smith stated Ms. Langtry was also present because of the proximity of Elm
Lowne. Mr. Fazzalore stated they are going to be public sewers when the Fire Station is
constructed, and they will sewer Elm Lowne as well. Mr. Fritchey stated they will also
have to get the area residents involved.
SUPERVISOR LIAISON REPORT
Mr. Fazzalore stated during the year the Board of Supervisors will most likely consider
changing their meeting night from Monday to Wednesday because so many Holidays fall
on Monday. This would not take effect until 2005.
RECREATION DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Ms. Liney stated she is in the process of issuing the required paperwork for upcoming
purchases and projects which were approved in the Operating Budget. All 2003 summer
programs have indicated they will return this year, with several expressing an interest in
expanding their offering. The Township will enroll all Park Board members in the PA
Park & Recreation Society for 2004. Ms. Liney stated Park & Recreation will continue to
provide support in the coming months to insure the successful start up of the Township
Pool as well as ongoing support to the Five Mile Woods Preserve. Ms. Liney staed she is
continuing to track Phase I Memorial Park Garden of Reflection project. The Township is
scheduled to appear before the Zoning Hearing Board next Tuesday requesting a Variance
to construct the roadway entrance and portion of a detention basin berm within the wetland
buffers for Memorial Park, and she will be attending that meeting.
REORGANIZATION OF PARK & RECREATION BOARD FOR 2004
Ms. Bunn moved, Mr. Newbon seconded and it was unanimously carried to elect David Fritchey as Chairman, Ron Smith as Vice Chairman, and John Kuebler as Secretary of the Park & Recreation Board for 2004.
There being no further business, Ms. Bunn moved, Mr. Newbon seconded and it was unanimously carried to adjourn the meeting at 9:35 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
David Fritchey, Chairman