🌳 Parks and Recreation Commission

Composition

The Parks and Recreation Commission consists of five (5) members, each appointed administratively by the First Selectman or First Selectwoman. Members serve two-year terms.

Commission Members

• BJ Popielasz
• Jamie Burns
• Tim Sadick
• Pat Dempsey
• Jamie Yakushewich

Alternate Members

• Curtis Williams
• Jon Lovisolo

Purpose and Authority

The Parks and Recreation Commission serves as the Town’s policy-making body for parks and recreation services. Working cooperatively with the Community Services Department, Public Works Department, and the Board of Education, the Commission ensures the effective management, maintenance, and use of Town parks, recreation facilities, and municipal and school playing fields.

Responsibilities

The Commission’s duties include, but are not limited to:

• Establishing policies for the allocation and scheduling of playing fields and park, with preference given to Board of Education activities
• Posting approved schedules on the Town website
• Maximizing the use of all recreation property, including Town parks, schools, and facilities under its jurisdiction
• Coordinating recreation activities with the Board of Education and other community organizations
• Providing oversight of recreation programs administered by the Community Services Department
• Ensuring recreational programming meets the needs of all age groups, including both athletic and non-athletic activities
• Regularly evaluating programs to ensure they represent organized public recreation of the highest standard and value to the Town

Staffing and Personnel

The Commission is responsible for interviewing applicants for all Department positions in conjunction with the Community Services Department. With the exception of part-time seasonal positions, which may be hired directly by the Commission, the Commission shall submit up to three (3) candidates for each position to the Board of Selectpersons for consideration.

Annually, the Commission shall submit an evaluation of the Recreation Director’s written objectives to the First Selectperson.

Budget and Financial Oversight

• Approves the annual Parks and Recreation budget before submission to the Board of Finance
• Establishes fees for the use of recreation facilities and participation in recreation programs
• Authorizes the issuance of permits for facilities under its control
• Maintains records of all fees collected and submits all proceeds to the Department of Finance for deposit

Legal Authority

The Parks and Recreation Commission exercises its powers, duties, and responsibilities in accordance with the Connecticut General Statutes, as amended, and applicable provisions of the Town Charter. The Commission shall maintain a comprehensive recreation program and appoint staff as necessary to fulfill its mission.