MAY 19, 2004

ATTENDANCE: Fred Bondi, Chairman; Rick McQuaid, Ken Baker, Betsy Bain, Peter Wien, Leona Williams

STAFF: Mike Mocciae, Director of Recreation and Parks

PUBLIC HEARING

Usage of Witch Park – Rowayton

The Chairman called the Public Hearing to order at 7:40 p.m.
He stated they were present to discuss Witch Park and the usage of it and they were here to hear ideas about the 6th Taxing District in Rowayton taking it over and controlling the usage.
He further stated that any person speaking, should limit their comments to five minutes.

The following persons approached to speak:

· Tom Brashear, 186 Rowayton Avenue – asked if there was a petition before the board. Mr. Bondi said no, but there were a lot of e-mails circulated pro and con of the use of the park. However, he pointed out they did approve usage of the United Church several months ago on a temporary basis for overflow of church parking and he felt that’s what started all the controversy.
Mr. Brashear asked if the request was to use the field every Sunday. Mr. Bondi said no, again, it was to be used for overflow and since November, they have used it once and there was a stipulation if there was inclement weather, then they couldn’t park there. He noted that Shakespeare on the Sound used it and when they do, the field gets rutted.

· An unidentified person said the issue started when the church requested the use. She asked if someone could review the parameters. Mr. Bondi explained use was just suppose to be for Sundays and when they had a large service, as well as on Christmas and Easter; and he said he thought the use was only approved for 10 cars.
Mr. Mocciae added there was to be no summer usage at all, as defined as June, July and August. Mr. Bondi said so it boiled down to a three to four month period during the course of the year, so that’s why it was approved. He pointed out the arrangement also took cars off the street and overall, they just tried to be good neighbors since they were letting others park there as well.

· Gillian Marshall, 26 ½ Deepwood Road – stated as for parking in June, July and August, she thought it would a shame if they couldn’t use it for community events; so she would like to see the parking honored in the field when it is appropriate.
· Pamela Proctor, 10 Crest Road – said she lived in the community for sixteen years; but she thought the church wanted to use the parking every Sunday; she didn’t have a problem with overflow parking, but she would like it kept open to the community. She noted she was all for the 6th Taxing District taking it over.
· Cherrie Burton, 21 Indian Spring Road – said that nine years ago, a group had the idea to give back to the community and provide the Shakespeare Theatre Festival. She further read statistics of the number of hours patrons park on the field adding up to approximately 80 hours per year, so she thought they were the largest user, she further emphasized the total hours in a year, to make the point that there are enough left over for everyone to share in the use.
· Julie Shanard, 14 Sunwich Road – said she was not affiliated with any specific group in the community, but she liked the sense of the community and she would hate to see any activity curtailed and overflow to other parts of the community.
· Rebecca White, 10 Roton Avenue – said she had a concern of saving one space of grass on the field for kids, especially since she grew up playing there; so she had a concern of where the parking stops. She said she realized that parking was tough, but she felt that people could walk and doing so would help protect that spot.
· Susan Mansfield, 18 Milton Place – said she grew up in Rowayton and she had fond memories, but she had a concern of the field and keeping the open space intact. And as far as parking there, she felt the could explore other options for Shakespeare on the Sound use. She further felt other alternatives could be explored for the field and she noted a petition was circulated with (150) signatures (she read the petition that was circulated, that basically asked that the field be kept safe. the petition was submitted into the record).
· Frank White, 18 Milton Place – said he had the idea to write the petition and a knew jerk reaction resulted from that. He said there was a history of the neighbors banning together to protect the park, so he thought they should eliminate the controversy and designate it as a park and not allow parking there. He thought there was plenty of parking available at the school two blocks way. He mentioned that he didn’t expect all the support for the idea since it is a great park and there was a lot of concern. He ended in saying he thought the 6th Taxing District should take it over.
· Anne Cagnina, 36 Vanderbilt Road – said she supported the 6th Taxing District because they have a good manager who will be on site at all times and the overwhelming sentiment was that it should come under their responsibility.

At this point during the meeting, Mr. Bondi introduced the committee members consisting of: Betsy Bain who was a representative for the 6th Taxing District; Peter Wien, Ken Baker, Leona Williams and himself.

· Victoria Herbert, 24 Flicker Lane – said it was a wonderful place and a good location and they put a lot of work into the sale of the Christmas trees that benefited the Community Cooperative Nursery School; she stressed to not have use of the field would be a shame, so she would like to keep using it.
· Molly O’Brien, 12 Witch Lane – said the events that were held in the community were great, such as the Christmas sale, Shakespeare on the Sound and the Memorial Day Parade, but she thought what happened was that, the approval for the use wasn’t in writing and it caused all sorts of speculation, therefore, the concerns and value of the land was a concern. She said the people living there were supportive of all that goes on now, but she felt there might be other solutions for parking, rather than diminishing the use of the park.

Tom Brashear said he used the park, but he supported the petition, but he had qualms and although the felt the park should be used as a park, he also thought they should be supportive of Shakespeare on the Sound and the Christmas sale. He pointed out when the grass gets beat up, that it does take time to recover, but when he heard the church wanted to use it for parking, he thought it would be every Sunday, so overall, everyone wants to be supportive, but they were concerned about the upkeep and care of the park and there was a concern whether or not the grass would be cut on a regular basis by the 6th Taxing District. Mr. Bondi said that would up to the 6th Taxing District.

· Charles Langolis, 11 Indian Spring Road – said he was on the board of Deacon’s of the United Church of Rowayton and he and his wife were active members of Rowayton. He said he was here to see use of the parking and he reviewed and recapped the terms of use as they were previously outlined. He further gave a history of the church and the members consisting of over (300) families and (150) children that were enrolled in the Christian program.

Mr. Langolis went on to say the church was granted to use the field as overflow parking on Sundays and they were granted an extension until the end of May for up to eight (8) Sundays for a maximum of no more than fifteen (15) cars. He further pointed out the number of times the field had been used and not used; although it might have warranted use and he noted there was never any intention to pave the field. He further urged Recreation and Parks to continue their existing policy for permitted parking for all events. He explained how the policy yields a benefit to the community and he presented a breakout of the use by the following:
-Shakespeare on the Sound’s use = 16 days
-United Church of Rowayton = limit of 8 days of use
-Christmas sale = 1 weekend
-Rowayton Association = 1 Saturday in July
-Memorial Day Parade = 1 day
so he said, there were (32) days when parking was on the file and this meant less than 10% of 365 days of parking there; but the flip side was that for over 90% of the time, there were no vehicles using the field.

Mr. Langolis concluded that the church believed that continuing the existing policy would result in a fractional number of days that parking takes place, so he felt that Recreation and Parks should adhere to the position that everyone’s interests are served, while still demonstrating viability to the environment.

· Mike Barbas, of the Rowayton Civic Association said they sponsor many activities and they use the field two days per year and if they added everything up, it comes out to 7%, so overall, the usage of the field does provide a net benefit to the community and if the use was banned and restricted activities, this would ultimately affect the 6th Taxing District’s purpose, so he hoped they could continue the use.
· Susan Pruitt said she signed the petition with the understanding it was supporting the park and not a parking lot. She said she was a big supporter of all the events and she would like to see them continued.

Ms. Bain stated the commissioners sent a letter (that she read into the record) outlining the 6th Taxing District’s stance of accepting ownership and control of the land on this parcel and the letter stated that if this was done, the parcel would be kept in perpetuity as a park, but the issue of ownership was never worked out, so now that is why it is being contested of the proposed use of the space, so it was suggested they postpone a solution to allow them to work out a resolution of the problem.

Mr. Wien said the varied opinions seemed divided, but he supported the 6th Taxing District’s taking responsibility of the park.

Ms. Williams said she was concerned about the issues, but in terms of ownership, she was in support of the letter from the 6th Taxing District suggesting they postpone a decision to allow for more time to explore the matter.

Mr. McQuaid agreed they should hold off on a decision to obtain more information from both sides.

Mr. Bondi mentioned that numerous e-mails would be included in the minutes - see below.

Page 1 of 1

Fred Bondi

From: To: Sent: Subject:

"Cherie" <cherie@shakespeareonthesound.org> <fabondi@optonline.net>; <Bain06853@aol.com> Tuesday, May 18,200411:08 AM
Witch Park parking/Old School Field/Sledding Hill

Dear Mrs. Bain and Mr. Bondi:

I wear two hats with this letter.

The first, as a regular Rowayton citizen, who lives on Indian Spring Road and regularly and routinely drives up & down WItch Lane..1 feel as much a neighbor of the Old School Field as anyone. My family and I have been users of the field for sledding,
for playing, for walking, for parking. Never in anyone of those activities have we abused that open space. On the infrequent busy Sunday mornings, we have often wondered why the overflow of cars for the local church wasn't used for parking. I am not a member of that church, but thought it would be a logical way to insure safety for those who have to use Witch Lane on those particular mornings.

With my second hat as Managing Director of Shakespeare on the Sound, I have to say our Board and staff have been grateful for the use of the Old School Field for parking. We use it just 16 nights a year and it is an essential factor in contributing to the safety and convenience of our patrons. This is the first time there has ever been any question as to our use of this space: We certainly anticipate ifs use in the future. And we anticipate this on the basis that what we do is very much part of the warp and woof in our community. We would not expect that there would be any change in the fields/parks condition, other than maintaining its present state. So, we would make our plea for continued usage on the basis of the greater good of the community.

I look forward to the meeting tomorrow night.

Sincerely,

Charlotte Lyeth Burton

Fred Bondi

Page 1 of 1

From: To: Sent: Subject:

<Firefem22@aol.com> <fabondi@optonline.net>; <Bain06853@aol.com> Tuesday, May 18,200412:52 PM
Old School Field

Hello Betsy and Fred,
Just wanted to lend my support to the occasional use of parking in the Old School field, or whatever the proper name is. As a member of the Board of the Rowayton Civic Association, I know that it would be a parking nightmare on the day of the River Ramble, our summer fundraiser, if cars were not allowed to park there. It's difficult for me to believe that the field will end up turning into a parking lot if the United Church is allowed to occasionally use it when it is dry, and it seems to me there are legitimate times when it SHOULD be used for parking.

Thanks, Joan de Regt 853-0842

Fred Bondi

Page 1 of 1

From: To: Sent: Subject:

Fred,

<DHurwitt@aol.com> <fabondi@optonline.net> Tuesday, May 18, 20041:07 PM The Rowayton Park

I'd like to add my voice to the chorus expressing concern about a possible decision to shut down Shakespeare on the Sound in order to preserve the fenced park across from Pinckney. This would be a terrible shame -- a bit like working for years to grow a beautiful garden and being told that no one could see it because that would require their walking on the grass.

SOS is a major asset to Rowayton. The organization should be responsible and accountable for park maintenance and upkeep. But the town must not confuse baby and bath water.

David Hurwitt 3 Cook St Rowayton 853-2717

Fred Bondi

Page 1 of 1

From: To: Sent: Subject:

"Duley Brainard" <duley@snetnet> <fabondi@optonline.net> Tuesday, May 18,20043:58 PM field parking

Dear Mr. Bondi,
As a supporter of Shakespeare on the Sound, I'm writing to ask that all due consideration be given to the organization's need to have a safe place for people to park and walk from. Given that the event is limited to three weeks of performance, that parkers and staffers give to surrounding homeowners and that the event gives a great boost to Rowayton's merchants and citizens, the Commissioners' support seems appropriate and necessary .

Thank you for your attention.

Duley Brainard 23 Raiders Lane Darien

Page 1 of 1

Fred Bondi

From_ To: Sent: Subject:

<Barnwired@aol.com> <fabondi@optonline.net>; <Bain06853@aol.com> Wednesday, May 12, 2004 6:53 AM
land Use, etc.

Good Morning Betsy andFred:

I have been told that the United Church has withdrawn their request to use Witch Park for their overflow parking. I have been told that the United Church has NOT withdrawn their. request to use Witch Park for their overflow parking.

On F February 16, 2004 I wrote my first letter to you about the above subject. Subsequently I have written countless letters to all the members of your
committee, all of Rowayton's Commissioners and the President and Vice President of the Rowayton Civic Association. A short response from Betsy is all the acknowledgment I have received though lam privy to "scuttlebutt" regularly and that's not a benefit to anyone. Yesterday I heard, indirectly from Atty.
K weskin, that there will be a meeting on the subject to discuss the ownership of Witch Park. .

Regardless of ownership, Witch Park is a park. Your Committee granted the Church permission to use the Park for parking and your Committee can rescind that permission. No complicated and time consuming and unproductive meetings are needed and are a waste of time in our busy lives. There must be, or should
be, a community billboard for such communication if responding to letters by
post card is not possible.

For many years Witch Park has been used on a Saturday late Fall to sell Christmas trees as a community fundraiser for the Nursery School. I see no conflict in keep this long-standing tradition. Because the event is held during the winter the grass is dormant and the ground may even be frozen. What is the status of the parking for Shakespeare On The Sound for this year? Have you granted that permission? For one year?

In my letters I have tried to be creative and to suggest an assortment of
ways the Park might be better used but my preference, by far, is just to keep it precious open space. That reminds me of a 1960s Joni Mitchell song about "paving over Paradise with parking lots"? Now we're at it again. Yesterday I heard, via the grapevine, that Rowayton is considering gas lamps and brick sidewalks! Where are our values? We need authenticity and honesty and nature. The United Church might begin to be creative by establishing. a second service on Sunday mornings to alleviate their parking problem as many other churches have had to do. That is not my business, however, the protection of parkland is and
it should be yours, also.

Sincerely,

Barbara K. Garfield

5/12/2004

Community Cooperative Nursery School 4 Trolley Place
Rowayton, CT 06853

May 17, 2004

Dear Mr. Bondi,

Further to my conversation with Betsy Bain on May 13th, I am writing on behalf of the Community Cooperative Nursery School (CCNS) to voice our concerns over the potential future of the Old School Field.

CCNS is a cooperative nursery school currently in our 51 st year of operation. Parents participate on committees in all aspects of running the school including maintenance, purchasing, library, public relations and of course our annual Christmas sale.

We have used the field annually during one weekend in December for the last 6 years as a location for our school's Christmas fundraiser and tree sale. Prior to that we used several other locations around town including the bank parking lot - it became unsuitable when they introduced Saturday hours. In addition to the trees which are purchased and transported by several parents, other volunteers participate by decorating wreaths and garland as well a creating a wide array of baked goods for sale. All the money raised ' from this endeavor is used for our staff bonuses. Our staff does a wonderful job teaching and nurturing our children and this sale provides us with an opportunity to give a little back at this busy time of year.

In order to set up for the event we do drive onto the field to deliver the trees and tent, as well as for the clean up at the end of the weekend. We also periodically deliver trees using a standard sized pickup truck. All customers and parents park on the street.

The availability of the field for our use over the last 6 years has had a great impact on our small school community, We do not have to rely on the generosity of our parents for a location, as was the case one year when we used an office parking area, because it is a public space. It is also a wonderful location for our customers.

We have no intention of increasing our usage of the field but would ask you to strongly consider allowing us to continue using the field for one weekend each December.

Thank you for your consideration. If you have any questions please contact me at 899 0013.

Yours sincerely,

Victoria Herbert
Co-President
CCNS .

Fred Bondi

Page 1

From: To: Sent: Subject:

<AjaxSusan@aol.com> <fabondi@optonline.net> Monday, May 17, 200410:19 PM Witch Park parking

I am a resident of Rowayton and I fully support the use of Witch Park for parking during various community events, such as” Shakespeare on the Sound" and the River Ramble. These events, along with use for overflow parking for the church or occasions such as Easter, are beneficial for the community.

The neighbors of the park are reacting to rumors, such as one that the park will be "hot-topped". They are also reacting 1 petition of one new landowner in the direct proximity to the park.

Susan Schroeder One Captain's Walk

Fred Bondi

Page 1 of 1

From: To: Sent: Subject:

<AjaxSusan@aol.com>
<Bain06853@aol.com>; <F aBiondi@optonline.net> Sunday, May 16, 200410:15 PM
parking in "Witch Park"

I am a resident of Rowayton and I fully support the use of the park for parking during" Shakespeare on the Sound". This park is used by other worthwhile events during the year, many of which contribute to the community, such as the "river Ramble and a Christmas tree sale. The local church also uses it for overflow parking during Easter and Christmas,.

"Shakespeare on the Sound" has benefited the community in numerous ways and banning parking in the park would only cause an overflow elsewhere in Rowayton and/or cause this valuable tradition to be harmed when it becomes too inconvenient to attend.

Sincerely,

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

Susan and Walter Schroeder One Captain's Walk

Page 1 of 1

Fred Bondi

From: To:
Cc: Sent: Subject:

"Gillian Marshall" <tashi-delek@rnindspring.corn>
<fabondi@optonline.net>
"Cherie Burton" <cherie@shakespeareonthesound.org>; "Ezra Barnes" <ezbarnes@aoLcorn> Monday, May 17, 2004 3:02 PM
Fw: Rowayton Field

Dear Mr. Bondi:

This e-mail is to add my name to the list of staunch. loyal supporters of Shakespeare on the Sound - which organization brings this community a priceless wealth of riches during its annual festivals in Pinkney Park. Good for the mind, good for the community, of all ages. The audiences are made up of people who come not only from this community, but from areas beyond. All to enjoy an evening under the stars in Rowayton.

To deny Shakespeare on the Sound use of the field for such a very small portion of the year's calendar seems an unjustified and weighty 'sentence'. The audiences who come into Rowayton bring money into the community. They 1Tequent the restaurants and stores...they get their "Festival picnics" at Rowayton Market - they eat at River Cat - at Rowayton Seafood - at Brendan's - they browse and perhaps purchase art at Rowayton Arts Center -perhaps pick up some items at the Hardware store.

The field serves ALL ofRowayton - and should so continue. The United Church ofRowayton might use it on overflow days (except in inclement weather)...The Rowayton Civic Association uses it during the River Ramble - which. of course, is the annual fund-raiser without
which there would be no Rowayton Civic Association. Like the little engine that could so this is the little field that could and does.
Each vehicular use is fleeting...Shakespeare on the Sound for 16 days...the River Ramble for one...the church - on occasion...the Nursery
School Christmas Tree sale all institutions/events that are woven into the very fabric of this community. The field sustains virtually no
abuse, if any at all.

With all due respect, I urge the Committee of Recreation & Parks to allow the Rowayton field to be enjoyed by ALL in the community...including if /when., from time to time, this includes the parking of vehicles on an exceedingly short term basis.

Yours truly,
Gillian Marshall
26 1/2 Deepwood Lane Norwalk, CT 06854
(203) 853-2017
tashi -delek@mifidsprifig.com

Page 1 of 1

Fred Bondi

From: To: Sent: Subject:

"moss marven" <mmoss36@yahoo.com> <fabondi@optonline.net>
Monday I May 17, 2004 12:39 PM Parking for Shakespeare on the Sound

Dear Mr. Bondi:

Shakespeare on the Sound is an important cultural resource in Rowayton that has enriched the artistic life of the community for nine years and deserves to be perpetuated. The productions are of outstanding quality and they give members of the community direct access to the arts in a festive, family setting. Under the squeeze on parking that already exists, it is
vital that parking spaces in the park and Witch Park be preserved for theater-goers. Sixteen days of use out of the year is not unreasonable, balanced against the benefits for residents 9f Rowayton at large. I
urge you to use your good offices to maintain the existing arrangements.

Cordially,

Marven Moss

Fred Bondi

From: To: Sent: Subject:

"Bill NoUman" <breeze24@optonline.net> <fabondi@optonline.net>; <BainO6853@aol.com> Monday, May 17. 2004 12:56 PM
Use of the Witch Park (Old School field

Dear Fred and Betsy,

I am a resident of Rowayton and, until just recently, a four-year member of the Rowayton Civic Association.

During those four years, I ran the summer concerts in Pinkney Park and I continue to be involved as a volunteer with various civic activities
including the River Ramble, Memorial Day Parade, Rowayton School Carnival and Shakespeare on the Sound.

As a person who has been involved with many local events, I find the opposition of a few residents to the usage of the "Witch Park" field disturbing and disappointing. But not surprising.

For as long as I have lived here, Rowayton has been the haven for the "not in my backyard" mentality. Whether the issue is downtown parking and stop signs or free concerts and theater, we, as a town, have been quick to legitimize the complaints and selfish motives of residents who grossly overstate the negative impact of the local activities and initiatives.

The numerous uses of the field from sledding to church parking to Christmas tree sales to informal sports activities seem to present a very small inconvenience to anyone who resides in the proximity of the field. The numbers of dates the field is used would certainly not exceed 25 days a year (I am not sure how often the Church uses it).

In a town with limited available and usable public space (the largest part of which has been all but ceded to local and out-of-town dogs and their owners) and even LESS public parking, I find it sad that this field is in danger of being taken off the list of available space simply because some people don't want to see it used.

This issue of land use is not about sas or sledding but more about letting common sense and greater good dictate how we maximize our limited land and provide residents with the kind of activities that add value to and enrich
the experience of living here.

I write because unfortunately I work on Wednesday nights and I will be unable to attend the meeting but I ask that you consider whatever decision reflects the best course for ALL of Rowayton before putting too much weight behind the opinions of a few.

Thank you,

Bill Nollman 24 Bryan Road 838-7876

5/18/2004

Page 1 of 1

Fred Bondi

From: To: Sent: Subject:

<Juliebgps@aol.com>
<BainO6853@aol.com>; <fabondi@optonline.net> Monday, May 17, 200411 :25 AM
Parking in old Rowayton School park

I am writing in regards to the issue of whether or not parking will be allowed in the old Rowayton School park (also known as Witch Park). I understand some of the neighbors have complained about the park being used as parking.

I have to be honest. I find their attitude to be selfish and mean-spirited. If every resident of Rowayton complained about community activities there would be none. Rowayton would be a sterile, inhospitable environment.

We have many community activities that can be annoying to others:
I live next to the beach and ball field. What if I complained about the noise?
What about the people who live near the school? They put up with a great deal as far as I can see. Parking for the carnival, soccer games, and various other Community Center Activities that overflow into the street.
Many of us are "inconvenienced" by the Memorial Day Parade.

I could go on, but I won't. I urge you to support the activities that contribute to the community over a few neighbors. Shakespeare. on the Sound is a gift we receive each year. All you have to do is see the wonder on the children's faces as they watch the plays to know this. The RCA supports many events that make Rowayton special. The Nursery School and Church also contribute much more to the community than they "take".

Please do not let a few neighbors spoil these community activities_)for the rest of us.

George ShatTard and Julie Burton ShatTard 14 Sunwich Road

Page 1 of 1

Fred Bondi

Cc: Sent: Subject:

"Marny Smith" <fifteenhats@yahoo.com>
<fabondi@optonline.net>; <Bain06853@aol.com>; <kencbaker@juno.com>; <carvin06854@yahoo.com>; <ricksly56@yahoo.com>; <pwien@juno.com>; <Ieona06854@yahoo.com>
<Bamwired@aol.com>
Friday, May 14,2004 3:45 PM
Discussion of Witch Park on Wed., May 19th meeting of the Norwalk Common Council Park and Recreation Subcommittee

From: To:

I understand that Witch Park or the "Old School Field" as it is locally known, will be discussed at your meeting this coming Wednesday night. May 19th. at 7:30 and I submit the following thoughts for your consideration.

Witch Park is a rare parcel of open space in a part of Norwalk that is largely "B" zone. Huge homes are now replacing the small 'affordable' housing stock that as recently as 10 years ago made up the majority of Rowayton houses in "B" zones. Small houses on 1/5 of an acre meant more open. green areas of yards. Because Rowayton real estate values have soared large homes are now the norm on these tiny lots.

Open space provides breathing room in this new Rowayton atmosphere, now more than ever.

I believe jurisdiction over this small green park should be turned over to the District; that they
should bear responsibility for cutting and maintaining the grass as needed, and make all decisions about when or if the field can be used other than in an informal, passive open space way. It is for Rowaytonites to decide if they want another year of Shakespeare on the Sound with its attendant need for parking; or to allow parking for special local events like the Civic Association's River Ramble fund raiser, The Christmas tree sale for the Community Cooperative Nursery School, or a Memorial day family picnic and informal baseball game. Because of the justifiable ecological concern for pollutants accumulating in the grass and then running of into the Five Mile River across the street after a heavy rain I doubt that any regular weekly parking would be approved. But in any case, that should be a District decision and not a city one.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Marny Smith
25 Witch Lane
Rowayton

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5/18/2004

Mr. Bondi further stated they would not approve the matter tonight and he would put a moratorium on any usage until a decision was made. Ms. Bain said she would not support a moratorium for events already in motion, but she would for any expanded use. Mr. Wien agreed, that since the property was in transition, he thought to put a moratorium on it wouldn’t be really fair to those events already planned and he thought past expectation should be honored. Mr. Bondi clarified that he meant there would be no new usage entertained.

Mr. Brashear stated that after hearing Mr. Langolis speak, he didn’t see any problem allowing the use of parking for fifteen (15) cars and he felt putting a moratorium on any new requests wasn’t a good idea.

Mr. Mocciae spoke to reseeding of the grass that becomes damaged, pointing out this has been done in the past and initiated by the group responsible.

Ms. Bain said it might be appropriate to allow the church to use the field through the end of May and by then, she expected they would have a solution from the 6th Taxing District.

· Susan Mansfield asked if there was an extension from the original request. Ms. Bain said no and they didn’t avail themselves either of all eight weeks.

An audience member asked if other alternative were explored. Mr. Langolis said they were trying to encourage car pooling by the church members and he pointed out they had an incident with a fire truck experienced a problem with access to the site. He further pointed out the original agreement was for use until the end of April, so that was why a 30-day extension was tacked on.

Mr. Bondi clarified there was approval for a trial period of eight (8) Sundays and no usage during June, July and August.

Mr. Bondi thanked all for their comments.

** MS. BAIN MADE A MOTION TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

The public hearing was closed at 8:35 p.m.

Mr. Bondi called the regular meeting to order at 8:38 p.m.

ROLL CALL

ATTENDANCE: Fred Bondi, Chairman; Rick McQuaid, Ken Baker, Betsy Bain,
Peter Wien, Leona Williams

STAFF: Mike Mocciae, Director of Recreation and Parks

APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 21, 2004

Corrections
Page 1; under Attendance, Betsy Baker should read Betsy Bain
Page 3; bottom of page under DISCUSSION, Buschbaum Drive should read Buschbaum Way
Page 4; 2nd paragraph, 1st sentence, where it reads Mr. Baker should read Mr. McQuaid
Page 4; bottom of the page under DISCUSSION, 1st sentence should read Mr. John Karan was strongly opposed to the building of housing on the park space near Colonial Village.
** MS. WILLIAMS MOVED ACCEPTANCE OF THE MINUTES AS CORRECTED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

OLD BUSINESS

-None-

NEW BUSINESS

1. Approve the use of Cranbury Park Pavilion and immediate surrounding grounds by the Norwalk Senior Center for their Annual Picnic on Wednesday, September 8, 2004 from 8:00 am-3:00pm. Estimated attendance 200+

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO APPROVE
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

2. Approve the use of the Showmobile for the 10th Annual Splash Festival on Sunday, June 6, 2004 from 11:00 am – 5:00pm sponsored by the South Norwalk Business Association

** MS. BAIN MOVED TO APPROVE
** MOTION PASSED UANIMOUSLY

3. Approve a fee waiver to enter Calf Pasture Beach by the Norwalk International Little League for Tournament Players for out-of-town teams and their fans for the month of July 2004

The representative for this item was not present.

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO TABLE THIS ITEM
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

4. Approve the use of Veterans Park by the Greater Norwalk Amateur Radio Club for their Annual Field Day Activities to be held on Saturday, June 26, 2004 & Sunday, June 7, 2004 from 8:00am Saturday – 3:00pm on Sunday. Estimated attendance 50 participants

** MR. BAKER MOVED TO APPROVE
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

5. Approve the use of Veterans Park by the Side-by-Side Community School for their Annual Field Day to be held on June 4, 2004 from 9:30 am-3:00pm. Estimated attendance 250

The representative for this item was not present.

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED THAT THIS ITEM SHOULD BE ADDED TO THE COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA FOR NEXT TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2004 AT 7:30 P.M. AND IF A REPRESENTATIVE IS NOT PRESENT, THEN THE REQUEST WOULD NOT BE ENTERTAINED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

6. Approved the use of Calf Pasture Beach specifically for the Beach Grill by Stew Leonard’s for a postgraduate party for Greens Farms Academy on Monday, June 7, 2004 from 12:00pm-2:00am. Estimated attendance 140

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO APPROVE

Ms. Williams asked about the 2:00am finish time for this event and she asked what time the park usually closed. Mr. Mocciae said at 1:00 am or as designated by the Park Commissioner.

Mr. McQuaid commented this was a post-graduate party and the police would present.

Ms. Bain asked if the Director of Recreation and Parks was comfortable with the event. Mr. Mocciae said yes, because it’s been done before by other schools.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

7. Approve the use of the Cranbury Park Pavilion and immediate surrounding grounds by Marianne Castaldo for a Wedding Reception on Saturday, June 12, 2004 from 3:00pm – 7:00pm. Estimated attendance 145

The representative for this item was not present.

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED THAT THIS ITEM SHOULD BE ADDED TO THE COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA FOR NEXT TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2004 AT 7:30 P.M. AND IF A REPRESENTATIVE IS NOT PRESENT, THEN THE REQUEST WOULD NOT BE ENTERTAINED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

8. Approve the use of Taylor Farm by Randy Brody for the Annual “Drums Around the World” to be held Sunday, August 22, 2004 from 2:00pm-5:30pm. Estimated attendance 200

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO APPROVE

Ms. Bain asked if the accommodation was made as it was requested in the letter for additional support. Mr. Mocciae said they provided insurance for the event. The representative present asked if Recreation and Parks could cover the insurance. Mr. Mocciae said no, the organization needed to pay it.

** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY
9. Approve the use of Shady Beach by the Connecticut Yankee Council of Boy Scouts of America for a Citywide Campfire Recruitment Program to be held on Saturday, September 18, 2004 from 6:00pm-9:00pm, with a rain date of Sunday, September 19, 2004. Estimated attendance 300

** MS. WILLIAMS MOVED TO APPROVE

Mr. Bondi asked if this event would affect the boat show or the Oyster Festival. Mr. Mocciae said no.

Ms. Bain asked why the fire department was involved. The response was they would have a bon fire on the beach and they require a fire department watch. Mr. Mocciae also stated they would have to go through the permit process and they should contact Mary Roman at the Mayor’s office.

Mr. Baker asked if the this event would follow the national guidelines of the Boy Scouts. The representative said yes.
** MOTION PASSED WITH FOUR VOTES IN FAVOR AND TWO ABSTENTIONS (MR. BAKER AND MR. WIEN)

10. Approve the use of Veterans Park by the Norwalk Economic Opportunity Now, Inc for a Walk-a-thon to be held Saturday, September 18, 2004 from 10:00am-3:00pm. Estimated attendance 200

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO APPROVE
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO SUSPEND THE RULES TO ADD ITEM 12. REGARDING PUBLIC BATHROOMS AT MATTHEWS PARK
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

Mr. Mocciae said that Devins Place was opening the end of June and part of the grant for the bikeway was out to bid twice and it was expected to go back out again through the Department of Public Works (DPW), so to expedite the bathrooms; they needed to be hooked up to the sewer line and this was the reason for the request, but if they go through the bid process, it will tack on another month, so this was a timely issue.

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED THAT ITEMS 11. A, B, C and ITEM 12. BE TAKEN UP AT THE JUNE 8, 2004 MEETING
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

11. A) Schedule a special meeting for Tuesday, June 8, 2004 at the Common Council Chambers

B) Authorize the Mayor, Alex Knopp to execute an agreement with (name of company to be determined) for the supply and installation of Skateboard Park Equipment for a total not to exceed $65,000.00
Account #09036030-5777-C0263
Account #01016030-5777-C0069
Account #09046030-5777-C0263

C) Authorize the Director of Recreation and Parks to execute a change order of contract not to exceed $5,000.00

Discussion – Witch Lane Park Usage

-None-

Mr. Bondi referred to the letter submitted from Fred Petrini and George Albano regarding the renaming of the softball field diamond as the “Ray Barry Field”. He further explained why this matter should be kept a secret and he said they would have a dinner at the Continental Manor and would make a presentation then and the Norwalk High School class would supply a plaque to be put down in stone, so they were looking for approval tonight with the intention the matter would go on to the Common Council later.

Ms. Bain and Mr. McQuaid felt they couldn’t do that, because it needed to be approved by the Common Council first. Ms. Bain thought they should seek guidance from Corporation Counsel to find out if they were authorized to do this. Mr. Bondi said he would find out if it needed to be on the Common Council agenda first.

Mr. Mocciae asked if the matter could possibly be bought up at the June 8 meeting on consent. Ms. Bain suggested putting the matter on as a special agenda item; she expressed she was uncomfortable with items coming before the committee arbitrarily and then being asked to vote on them at the same time, she felt they should stick to policy.

** MR. MCQUAID MOVED TO DISCUSS THIS MATTER AT THE SPECIAL MEETING SCHEUDLED ON JUNE 8, 2004 PENDING ALL THE INFORMATION SUBMTITED BY MR. MOCCIAE
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

Other business

§ Mr. McQuaid said August 7, 2004 was the dedication date for Buschbaum Way.

§ Mr. McQuaid asked that the discussion for the showmobile be added to the agenda for next month’s meeting.
Ms. Williams questioned why they don’t charge for use of the showmobile. Mr. Mocciae said it was too hard to do; and they only charge for the labor costs now.

ADJOURNMENT

** MR. BAKER MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

The meeting was adjourned at 9:11 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Diane Graham
Telesco Secretarial Services

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