The Rock Port Park Board met Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Rock Port City Park. Members present were Tisha Jackson, Jill Lager, Tawni Ellis, Jennifer Geib, Sheena Roup, Andrea Cook, and Devon Sons. Visitors present were Troy Cook, Jordan Shrader, Ethan Sickels, Emily Schulte, Reagan Griffin, Lisa Farmer, and Amy Thomas.
Tisha called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.
The meeting agenda was approved.
Representatives from the Rock Port Youth Athletics Association (RPYAA), Rock Port R-II Administration and board, Rock Port city office, Restore Rock Port and the Walking Trail members were all invited to attend the meeting to discuss the current and future status of the park.
Early during rec league, there were a few minor needs with mowing and trash services that were remedied, but all in all a great success. This year RPYAA hosted several games as well as two youth tournaments at Memorial Park.
The first year of high school baseball in the park was also a success. Dr. Sickels, Rock Port Superintendent, mentioned that a mound was constructed to meet MSHSAA requirements, the school also purchased a new PA system for the crow’s nest and a tarp for the mound.
The RPYAA spoke to a few projects they are working on including a new backstop that extends higher and increases the sideline fencing to 8’. They are also looking into installing a permanent home run fence on the south field as well as a wireless scoreboard for the north fields.
Park board members voted unanimously to approve the RPYAA’s plans to improve the backstop, protective fencing for spectators and permanent outfield fencing on the south field.
Some further discussion was had in regards to maintenance and repairs at the ball fields. RPYAA said they are willing to continue helping with these needs as long as it is within their means, but further discussions will need to be had to help reorganize or define the expectations and responsibilities of all parties involved at the fields.
Bleacher needs were discussed.
Reagan Griffin shared some information about grant opportunities. He also expressed interest and proposed that the park board join forces with other organizations and groups within the community to complete an upcoming grant.
Amy Thomas shared that the city is still in negotiations with Klosek’s LLC Trash Service. In the past, trash services have always been provided free to the city and park.
Thomas also brought up the vandalism issues from the night of July 3rd as well as more recent events with park property being removed from the park.
The park board appreciates the visitors who attended tonight’s meeting as well as all the efforts from all the organizations to continue to make the park better.
The minutes of the July 13, 2022, meeting were approved. The July 2022 financials were also approved.
The baby pool jets are pushing through pieces of concrete into the pool. This will need to be addressed prior to the 2023 season.
The park board members voted unanimously to remove all the grills around the shelter house.
The replacement part for the broken piece on the large playground equipment has been ordered.
Talk of cameras and fence repair has been tabled until further information is gathered.
Other park project updates were given:
• Tawni and Sheena with the walking trail committee plan to meet with the city council next week.
• Jennifer Geib has visited and talked with surrounding towns that have installed or are installing splash pads.
• Tisha reported that there are serious issues with the pool which could impact future openings.
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.
