Special meeting: Tuesday, October 8, 2002 in the City Clerk’s office of City Hall. The regular monthly meeting was rescheduled due to scheduling conflicts.

Meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.

By roll call, members present: John Walsh, Robert Bell, Edward Handi and Matt Cripps. Al Felice, Karen Izzo and David Mikos were excused.

Parks and Recreation Director Dennis O’Connell was present. Athletic Director Kenneth Marcucio was absent.

Without objection, the agenda was accepted, as written.

A motion was made by Robert Bell and second by Matt Cripps. Move to accept the minutes of the meeting on August 12, 2002. Motion carried with Chairman Walsh abstaining.

No one was present and the public portion was closed.

Nothing was presented.

Regulations for the skate park: Mr. O'Connell is continuing to research information from other towns.

Discussion with Open Space Commission: Chairman Walsh indicated that Kathy Norwood, Chair of the Open Space Commission was unable to attend due to a family commitment. The intent of the discussion is for both Commissions to discuss recommendations for the use of Witek Park. Chairman Walsh noted that previously he had informal discussions with then Ansonia Mayor Nancy Valentine to connect the trails established on the Ansonia High School parcel with trails in Derby. Americares, a national organization, could possibly provide the manpower and expertise for this endeavor. Chairman Walsh had expressed this to Ms. Norwood and she welcomed discussion on this joint endeavor.

Other business: Chairman Walsh noted that the family of the youth injured at the Pop Warner game when underground wiring inadvertently electrically charged the perimeter fence has filed a lawsuit. The Parks & Recreation Commission has been named in the suit along with other agencies and the City. Chairman Walsh will communicate with Corporation Counsel on this issue.

It was felt that the Commission should approach the Board of Alderman to open discussions as far as maintenance and liabilities for the facilities. As Public Works provides the service and the day-to-day care of the facilities, their input is also needed. Being that the Parks & Recreation Department now oversees the Derby Veteran's Community Center it was suggested that the City’s insurance carrier be contacted to verify that all necessary procedures and safety concerns are being met.

Mr. O'Connell reported that the Pop Warner regular season is coming to conclusion with only two games left. There will be some teams in the play-offs. Biddy Basketball, boys and girls, are advertising for registration. The High School will be using the Derby Veteran's Community Center gymnasium on Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm. to 5:00 p.m. starting after Thanksgiving. The gymnasium will be in constant use through the winter season with the High School use as well as with the recreational programs.

Mr. O'Connell noted that during the recent windstorm a tree fell into the bleachers at Ryan Field. Thankfully, the facility was not in use at the time and there were no injuries. Concern was expressed as to the condition of other trees in the vicinity of the field and it was suggested that Public Works be asked to have their tree consultant inspect the area trees. There was some damage to the bleachers and an insurance claim has been filed.

Continuing with maintenance issues at the Derby Veteran's Community Center, it was noted that a new floor was installed in the ladies locker room.

Athletic Director’s Report: Mr. Marcucio was not present.

Programs Committee – Nothing was presented.

Facilities Committee – Nothing was presented.

A motion was made by Ed Handi and second by Robert Bell. Move to adjourn this meeting at 7:47 p.m. Motion carried unanimously.

The next Parks & Recreation Commission meeting will be Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. If the Aldermanic Chambers are unavailable then the Veteran’s room will be requested.

Respectfully prepared,

Karen Kemmesies, secretary