The Clinton County Recreation Park Board’s Executive Committee met for the monthly meeting of the board last Thursday, July 27.
A total of six members–including four of five Executive Committee members– were present, along with Park Director Michael Hood. The meeting was brief, lasting approximately 20 minutes, with only general items of business being discussed or voted on.
The board approved minutes from the June meeting. Gina Poore then presented the monthly treasurer’s report, which was also approved by unanimous vote. The ending balance, minus bills pending, totaled $22,249.40.
Board member Paula Little had received prices on two tons of rubber mulch for the park’s playground area, at a total cost of $1,740 for two tonnage bags.
The board, on a motion by Poore, seconded by Randy Speck, voted to purchase the mulch and allow Park Director Hood to rent a pallet jack and fork lift to unload the material.
The board also agreed to have a contractor look at the existing concession stand building and help determine what type of work was needed to renovate the facility.
The board had previously opted to construct a new concession stand, but recently decided to renovate the existing building instead.
The board has $15,000 in ARPA (American Relief Plan Act) grant funds allotted by the Clinton Fiscal Court to go toward the concession stand project. It is hoped the facility can be renovated by next spring’s Youth League season.
The board also discussed two new metal benches to be placed at the rear of the park’s walking track area.
Director Hood told the board he would pick up the benches from Danville one day (this) week and begin the installation process.
The park director also informed the board that a few more spaces, compared to the past few years, had been rented for this week’s 127 Yard Sale, with a few days left for vendors to request a space.
Hood also told the board that Lisa and Randy Shepherd will be donating an American flag to hang at the park.
The board and park director thanked the Shepherds for the donation and noted that any donation or assistance from individuals or groups to the park are greatly appreciated on behalf of everyone who uses the facility.
Although there were no updates on the project to construct a pitching mound on one of the ball fields at the park for Little League baseball play, some board members questioned whether or not the clay type mound should be permanent or moveable, and also exactly which field such a mound would be placed on.
More information on that project is expected to be discussed at the next regular board meeting.
Finally, Poore said a person had contacted her about possibly putting in a “pickle ball” court at the park. The sport is apparently growing in popularity around the region.
The committee and board members present felt such a new sport for the part would be an asset and asked Poore to  invite the interested party to make a presentation to the board.
The next regular meeting of the Clinton County Rec/Park Board is scheduled for Thursday, August 31, at the park and is open to the public.