New Jobs, Projects On Recreation Commission’s Horizon

By Kendra Bobowick

Ending the year with both uncertainties and successes, Parks and Recreation Commission members talked briefly on Tuesday, December 14, about Eichler’s Cove, plans for a community center, a dog park, trails, and other projects.

As the commission phases out the longtime Eichler’s Cover manager and former private marina owner and prepares to run the beach, boat launch and swimming facility on Lake Zoar next season, Parks & Recreation Director Amy Mangold noted that a job opening for a park warden is now posted on the town’s website. At the same time she is reviewing various firms to handle security at the rural location.

“We hope to hire two people” for the warden position, Ms Mangold explained. “We’re in good shape.” She has also “narrowed” her search for security. Both efforts will assume responsibilities and the on-site presence previously established by former owner Carol Marchetti, who had managing the property after selling to the town.

Commission Chairman Ed Marks made note of a recent letter from a longtime slip renter from Monroe, who is pleased to be grandfathered in and that the facility will be staffed and “not entirely abandoned for a security system.” Annual slip holders, including many from neighboring towns, had earlier this year voiced concerns that they would lose their slips as Newtown residents became a priority. They also feared losing a person onsite.

Mr Marks noted recent reconsiderations for the recreation department’s relationship and future use of Newtown Youth Academy. Parks & Recreation members speculated on whether the Fairfield Hills sports and recreation complex would become a home base for the department. There was also talk about finances and programming in light of recent ideas to partner with the nonprofit NYA.

Also moving ahead are plans for a dog park at the end of Trades Lane where the road tapers off into a dirt trail. With some funds raised already, members anticipate they will need roughly $50,000 for fencing to establish the two-acre off-leash park.

Fundraising, according to Assistant Director of Recreation RoseAnn Reggiano noted that fundraising has reached $11,000 to date