Bethany Parks And Recreation Commission Discusses Lake Reopening, 2027 Summer Camp Plans

BETHANY, CT — The Bethany Parks and Recreation Commission discussed plans to reopen the town's lake for public use in 2027, reviewed next summer's camp schedule and established goals for expanded recreational programming during its Oct. 28 meeting.

The commission also discussed childcare licensing requirements, a possible trail run and the need for additional department staffing.

Lake Reopening Targeted For Summer 2027

Parks and Recreation Director Nicolle Vigneron told commissioners that the Board of Selectmen is interested in reopening the lake for the spring and summer of 2027.

Before reopening, the department would need to develop job descriptions, establish policies and procedures for lifeguards and the public, and prepare a staffing plan specifying operating dates and hours.

Vigneron said she would bring a budget proposal to the commission's November meeting covering the remainder of fiscal year 2027 and future operations.

Commissioners also expect to review draft policies and procedures at that meeting.

No vote was recorded on reopening the lake.

Summer Camp Dates Set, Specialty Programs Considered

The department outlined its 2027 summer camp schedule, with the regular program planned for June 21 through Aug. 13 and a specialty camp scheduled for Aug. 16-20.

Registration is expected to open in January, when the department hopes to announce camp themes.

Commissioners discussed offering two camp options: a traditional program for children in kindergarten through sixth grade and specialty camps for students in fourth grade and above.

Pricing for specialty programs remains under review. The commission also discussed surveying families about their preferences.

Vigneron will distribute materials before the November meeting for further discussion of camp offerings and pricing.

Childcare Licensing And Facility Repairs Discussed

Commissioners reviewed licensing considerations for summer camp and before- and after-school care programs.

The discussion included concerns that portions of town property, including playgrounds, might require repairs to pass licensing inspections.

According to the draft minutes, the Board of Selectmen has not provided clear direction on the issue.

Commissioners reviewed licensing guidelines and discussed compliance with essential requirements, including background checks, fingerprinting and staffing ratios.

No formal action on licensing was recorded.

Commission Sets Goals For Community Events

The commission established a goal of offering three townwide events during the coming year, potentially including a summer concert, a holiday event and a trail run.

It also set a goal of providing one adult recreation program per quarter.

The commission reviewed results from an adult programming survey that had received 50 responses. Officials plan to distribute the survey once more to gather additional feedback.

Vigneron also discussed improvements to the exterior of the Parks and Recreation Annex, including refreshing the hopscotch area and installing new signage.

Another departmental goal is to hire a full-time employee who would divide responsibilities between administrative assistance and childcare coordination.

Trail Run Under Consideration

Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Mike Centoni presented preliminary plans for a possible trail run in spring 2027.

Commissioners discussed potential dates, while member Tom Norton suggested moving the event to October to take advantage of fall foliage.

Centoni will prepare budget proposals, sponsorship information, waivers and other planning materials for review in November.

Other Commission Business

The commission welcomed new member Justin Lopes.

Members also discussed filling the commission secretary position, but no nominations were made.

The matter will be revisited in November. Vigneron will investigate whether a Parks and Recreation Department employee could attend meetings to record minutes or prepare them afterward using meeting recordings. The issue will also be discussed with the Board of Selectmen.

The commission unanimously approved the amended minutes of its Sept. 23 meeting. Vice Chair Jaime Guthrie made the motion, which member Tracy Johnson seconded.

Commissioners reviewed plans for the Oct. 30 Trunk or Treat event and received an update from Vigneron on Bethany Hoops enrollment.

Vigneron also discussed possible grant opportunities for future recreational improvements and programming.

No members of the public spoke during the meeting.

Next Meeting

The commission adjourned at 8:27 p.m. following a unanimous vote on a motion by Norton, seconded by Guthrie.

Its next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 19, at 6:30 p.m.

The Oct. 28 meeting was held at Bethany Town Hall, with Chair Jennifer Galik presiding.

This report is based on the commission's draft meeting minutes, which have not yet been formally approved.