Vandalism in the city parks prompted the Trenton Park Board to vote Wednesday evening to seek bids for security cameras to be located at strategic locations within the park system.
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During its regular monthly meeting Wednesday at city hall, the board heard a report from Park Superintendent Jason Shuler on the damage that has been caused to buildings, trees, bathroom fixtures, signage and other items within the park system. He estimated that in the last six months, the vandalism has cost the department $2,000 to $3,000 and said that in the last eight months there has been more vandalism than in the past six years. Moberly Park, in particular, has been hit hard by vandals.
Board members have discussed the issue of security cameras in past meetings and have even heard proposals, some as high as $10,000, for a system that can be accessed on the internet. Other systems can likely be purchased for less money and the board agreed that it is time to seek formal bids for the cameras. It has not been determined exactly where they would be placed, however, the aquatic center, Moberly Park, the skate park and the new restrooms at the Ebbe Sports Complex were suggested.
Board members were introduced to Marla Stratton, who has been hired to oversee operations of the concession stands in the park system this summer. She was hired to make sure all stands, including the one at the aquatic center, are stocked, that prices are uniform, that proceeds are deposited regularly and that complete and accurate records are kept. Mrs. Stratton said that all concession supplies that can be purchased in Trenton are being purchased here, with a few items having to be ordered from out of town.
Board members discussed future plans at Eastside Park, where new 10-foot basketball goals have been installed. The plans also include moving Tot Town and constructing a new shelterhouse. The board also discussed the possibility of leaving the concrete pad where the eight-foot basketball goals are located and expanding the skate park into that area. Lighting in the park was also discussed, as well as the need for a new welcome sign at the park. The improvements to the park have been budgeted and have been included in long-range plans.
Robert Williams, who is involved in activities at the skate park, asked that the board reposition some items in the skate park to make it safer for skaters. Shuler will work with him on making those changes.
In other business, the board heard a report on the aquatic center, which is running smoothly. Board President Steve Muff said he had a concern raised about the price increase, with board members noting that they are keeping prices as low as possible. Shuler said he has moved the concession stand at Lower Moberly Field and reminded board members of the Chillicothe Mudcats Baseball Camp, set for June 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. Board member Chuck Lankheit discussed the need for improvements to the landscaping at the aquatic center and noted that the Master Gardeners will be working on that project. He also said the board will need to start looking at grants for the replacement of trees, which he said is an ongoing project.
Trenton Mayor Cathie Smith, who was present at the meeting, said she will be discussing appointments and re-appointments to the board at the next city council meeting.
The next regular park board meeting is scheduled for July 11, which is a change in the regular meeting date due to the July 4 holiday.