The regular meeting was called to order at 7:32 p.m. by Mishelle Downtain.

Board of Recreation members in attendance: Denise Urbaniak, Mary Ellen Vichiconti, Heather LaBance, Joyce Brensinger, Carolyn Cacace, and Mishelle Downtain.

Resignation and Nomination of Chairperson:

Mishelle Downtain confirmed that Bill Shapiro had resigned on November 1, as the chairperson of the Board of Recreation. She also stated that Mayor Shortway would like the nomination for a new chairperson to come from within the board.

  • Motion by Mishelle Downtain to nominate Denise Urbaniak as the new Board of Recreation chairperson; motion seconded by Joyce Brensinger. Motion approved unanimously.
  • Motion made by Denise Urbaniak to appoint Carolyn Cacace as recording secretary; motion seconded by Mary Ellen Vichiconti. Motion approved unanimously.

Old Business:

  • Tree Lighting
    • Mishelle Downtain distributed an e-mail from Jeanne Buffalino regarding the activities for the annual tree lighting which will take place on December 8th at 6:30 p.m.
    • There will be caroling around the tree, a bonfire, hot chocolate and snacks, and a bonfire.
  • Trunk or Treat
    • Trunk or Treat was a big success.
    • Next year may move to the VTHS parking lot for additional space.
  • Trails of Vernon Challenge Feedback
    • Mishelle Downtain reported that she had received several positive e-mails regarding the trails challenge. It was agreed that it had been a successful program and will continue to grow in subsequent years.
    • Board of Recreation members voted on the top 3 photos from the challenge. Winners and prizes are as follows:
      • Laurie Detloff 3rd Place—$10 gift certificate from Healthy Thymes
      • Valerie Kerwin 2nd Place—$25 gift certificate to Smokey’s
      • Dr. Idjadi 1st Place—$25 gift certificate to Sculley’s Tavern

Budget Items for 2017:

Mishelle Downtain outlined a few items that partial funding was submitted in the Department of Community Affairs 2017 Budget.

  • Pump track at Veterans’ Memorial Park
  • Digital sign for town events
  • Additional playground equipment at Veterans’ Memorial Park
  • Gravel and cement costs to relocate horseshoe pits
  • Money for Board of Recreation events

New Business:

  • Meeting schedule for 2017—Denise Urbaniak will submit one to Mishelle Downtain.
  • Mishelle Downtain proposed a “Festival of Lights” at Maple Grange Park for winter of 2017-18.
  • Other ideas discussed for next year:
    • Disc golf
    • Snow shoeing at Maple Grange Park
    • Mountain bike paths

Motion to adjourn at 8:45 p.m. made by Mary Ellen Vichiconti; motion by seconded by Mishelle Downtain. Motion approved.

Scheduled meetings for December 2016 have been cancelled.