11.6.2019 Park Board

The Fall River Board of Park Commissioners met on November 6, 2019. Chairwoman Joyce opened the meeting with an apology and personal statement regarding conduct at the previous meeting involving youth soccer leagues, expressing frustration over a perceived lack of administrative backing when enforcing rules and ordinances. A notable presentation came during citizen input from 10-year-old resident Olivia Lebec, who advocated for safety repairs, equipment fixes, and additions at Demaris Playground, backed by a pledged $500 donation from Bill Demaris. The board discussed systemic safety hazards across three city playgrounds (Demaris, Father Travassos, and Columbus) and voted to request funding and pursue inspections.

The board also considered project approvals and updates regarding the Aetna Street Playground renovation and Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall installation, voting to proceed with the project while requesting an itemized breakdown of long-term city maintenance costs and voting to keep access open near an abutting property. Community Preservation Committee (CPC) funding and eligibility protocols were heavily debated alongside Director Chris Gallagher and CPC Chair Jim Souza, clarifying requirements for public hearings, departmental communication, and sign-off authority for park projects.

Additional decisions included the approval of funding from perpetual care for Phase 1 security cameras at Oak Grove Cemetery, granting permission to a London production company filming for the Smithsonian Channel regarding Lizzie Borden at Oak Grove Cemetery, tree removals and prunings, and designating right-side parking along Park Drive on the Bradford Avenue side.

AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Watch the video to verify.