HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-17-2019 Regular MeetingMinutes of the Fairhope Recreation Board
The Fairhope Recreation Board met Wednesday, .July 17, 2019 at 5:15 p.m. in the Rec Center at
803 North Greeno Road.
Present: Bob Keyser, Michelle Smith, Cathy Hudson, Corey Martin (arrived at 5:27 p.m.), Derek
Thomas, Vann Saltz, Charlie Langham and Tom Kuhl. Absent: Jay Robinson. Gayle Fogarty took
minutes at the meeting.
The meeting was called to order by Bob Keyser at 5:15 p.m. The minutes of the June 19, 2019
meeting were considered and approved on a motion by Derek Thomas, seconded by Cathy Hudson,
none opposed.
Old Business: There was general discussion among the board members of the baseball fields at
Volanta.
New Business: Tom Kuhl stated that the first round of recreation budget discussion took place
today, he is working to come up with ideas to increase revenue at the mayor's request. He stated
that a master plan for the Rec Center is needed. He added that he is waiting to see what is going to
happen with the property the City is considering buying, he did not have any new updates. There
was general discussion regarding the Rec Center obtaining the ability to set up auto -pay for Rec
Center memberships. Michelle Smith suggested extending the pool hours by one hour, Tom stated
that he and pool staff would review her request. Tom commented that the City is working to create
a park next to the Rotary Club building, and the goal of the park is to open it to the entire
community. There was general discussion among the board members regarding property. Tom and
Bob reiterated the need for a master plan once additional property is acquired. Tom provided an
overview of Recreation requests made in the 2019-2020 budget, which included new lighting at
the high school baseball field, concrete matting to fix the hill, new ozone system for the pool
renovation of indoor pool, plastering, painting and roof (moved from 2018-2019 budget), ADA
compliant — stadium (moved from 2018-2019 budget), two additional clay courts at the tennis
center and expanding the tennis center parking lot, and few other small items. Charlie inquired
about handicap parking near the stadium at volanta, Tom stated that he is working with the
engineer. He expects the driveway at the Fairlope Soccer Complex and resurfacing the track will
take place this budget year.
Cathy Hudson stated that the City Swim meet is set for next week, and high school swim begins
in August.
Michelle Smith stated that Eastern Shore Master Swim is currently in their off season.
Bob Keyser informed the board members that FHS Baseball is requesting $15,000 from the City
of Fairhope to assist in funding to install grandstands behind the high school baseball fields. He
added that they are requesting $15,000 from the Booster Club, and have private funds available to
match these donations, the project totals $75,000. Bob stated that the project is not supported by
the FHS Booster Club or Athletic Director. There was discussion among the board members as to
if this project is premature, based on the recent discussions of a master plan needed for Volanta.
Several board members mentioned that speaking to the Rec Board City Council liaisons may be a
good idea, as they have concerns regarding financially supporting this project.
Being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:15 p.m.