Speedway Increasing Park Shelter Fees

(posted August 24)

Effective January 1, 2009, the Speedway Parks and Recreation Board will charge for a change of date or location when renting park shelters. In order to cover administrative tracking costs and the potential loss of shelter rent, a $25 fee will be charged for anyone changing a date or shelter site less than 21 days prior to their event.

The board also discussed the current cancellation fee policy during the August 18 meeting. A full refund is given if a cancellation occurs 21 days prior to the rental date. A half refund is given for 21 to 14 days notice, none for less than a 14-days.

It was President Ray Lawrence's preference the policy be implemented at the first of the year. He contended it was unfair to the public to change the policy during the year.

The board also approved to accept the quit claim deed of the 30 ft x 300 ft section of property from the school. A survey indicated that part of the east Meadowood baseball diamond and dug out was owned by the school. The park needed ownership to be able to spend bond money for improvements. The School board relinquished the property, stating that it does not serve as a school function, but as a park function.

The board also approved for Park Superintendent Mike Smith to remove the merry-go-round at Meadowood Park. The board did not want to continue spending money for additional maintenance. Smith explained that it would have been the third repair. The board is expected to have new park equipment installed by next year. Board President Ray Lawrence tossed out the idea of having a community volunteer day to install the new park equipment as a means to save money on the $1.9 million bond project.

Smith also inquired about the status of the linear park. Lawrence indicated they would address the improvements at Meadowood and Leonard parks first and then see what funds are left over. At the last meeting, one discussion centered on the park board leasing the linear park from the IMS. The board did not expect to be ready to address the issue again until March.

Charles Bennett, parks program director, said that 322 kids participated in the summer programs this year. Beginning kickball had the biggest enrollment with 84 kids participating.