Killingworth Parks Commission Addresses South Field Contract, Approves Fall Field Use

KILLINGWORTH, CT — The Killingworth Park and Recreation Commission reported Aug. 10 that a contractor working on the South Field project at Auer Park had not completed its work and was considered in breach of contract, with the matter expected to be addressed by the town attorney.

Commission member Glenn Johnson reported that he had been unable to find a contractor to install irrigation for the South Field project and the vendor had not finished its contracted work. Johnson planned to contact the contractor again about completing the work before an irrigation contractor is secured.

The commission also discussed several maintenance and improvement projects at town recreational facilities and unanimously approved fall field and pavilion applications.

At Auer Park, Chris Mello was expected to review a bid for sidewalk repairs. Commissioners also said stone is needed around the pavilion and an electrical permit is required. HK Football, meanwhile, was working to secure permits for new building or buildings, according to the minutes. Field No. 1 may also need a top layer of topsoil.

At Rocco Reale Memorial Field, commissioners said fencing near the courts still needs to be completed and topsoil and grass seed are needed nearby. Chair Jim Duffield planned to follow up on that work. HK Little League has been working on the field and surrounding area, while commission member Chris Swiss was assigned to address weeds in the infield.

Commissioners also discussed repairing cracks and resurfacing the tennis courts at Sheldon Park as a capital project. Commission member Donna Clark was expected to contact Hinding about the work. The minutes also identify infield weeds as an issue at Bethke Field.

Soccer, Girl Scout Applications Approved

The commission unanimously approved an application from HK Soccer to use Auer Park fields Nos. 2, 3 and 4 through Nov. 15. The fields are scheduled for soccer use from 5 p.m. to dusk on weekdays and throughout the day on weekends.

Commissioners also approved Girl Scout Troop 62818's application to use the Sheldon Park pavilion and concession area from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 21. The commission discussed whether water would be available and possible weather issues, with Duffield expected to follow up.

Commission member Chris Smalley moved to approve the applications, Jeremy Burr seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

The commission also unanimously approved its bills, including $5,839.50 for Auer Park mowing by Drainscapes, $2,658.33 for Sheldon Park mowing by Langer Landscapes and $1,822.52 for TruGreen. Other bills covered gatekeeping, utilities and expenses at several town recreation facilities.

The commission approved its July 14 minutes with two abstentions, from Bill Burley and Johnson.

The Aug. 10 meeting began at 7:32 p.m. at the Emergency Operations Center and adjourned at 8:10 p.m.