By SYDNEY KENT
The Ossian Parks Department met for the first time this year Monday night. Jeff Osborn was appointed as the president of the board, with Jay Esparza voted as vice president. Michael Dodge was appointed as board secretary; all votes were unanimous.
In an update for old business, the board discussed reconfiguring the ball diamonds in town. Dodge advised there was potential funding with grants available to assist with the infrastructure for the diamonds. Though the funding couldn’t be used for the diamond itself, it could be allocated for purposes such as parking for the field.
In 2022, a quote from Jim Breckler with Engineering Resources estimated the conceptual cost to be between $180,000 and $240,000 that would include extending a road as part of the project.
Osborn emphasized that the overall goal would be that people could find the park. The board also acknowledged that people on either side may take issue with additional traffic in the area. Osborn pointed out that larger events can often frustrate attendees as parking is not available. He suggested the board seek a solution to the issue of parking that would be an alternative to the project, such as a sign redirecting people.
The board questioned where the funds for the sign would come from and estimated the cost to be between $500-$1,000. Crystal Chapman, Ossian town manager, explained that not much money is allocated for the parks department outside of salary.
Michael suggested the Ossian Revitalization Committee could potentially assist with the funds. The board will continue the conversation at a later date.
Planning for the summer concert series is in full swing, with more than half of the dates booked already. The board also accepted a $1,500 grant to be designated for events. They discussed possible fundraising tactics and tiers for people to donate as fundraising will be needed.
Potential dates and bands for the concerts were also discussed.
The board approved a motion to allow Horizon Events to continue to provide concessions at the concerts and collect the funds. The proceeds from the concessions are used to support free local events in Ossian. Additional options for concessions were also discussed, with the potential to sign on with new food trucks or local businesses.
The board also discussed respective roles and responsibilities related to the maintenance of each of the parks in the town. Each member has a park assigned to them to regularly check in and report back on any needed updates.
The next regularly scheduled Ossian Park Board meeting is at 7 p.m. on March 4 at Collier’s.
sydney@news-banner.com
