Winter might be the "off season" for activities at Cambridge parks, but it certainly doesn’t equate to a period of inactivity.
Meeting recently, the City Park Commission heard about a number of matters, among them the possible need for a new piece of equipment.
"The ProGator was sent to Kuester Equipment to determine if it could be repaired," reported Park Superintendent Mike Edwards. "After several diagnostics tests it was found to be a loss. The snow equipment has been converted to fit the tractor."
Park Foreman Marty Matthews addressed the loss of the utility vehicle.
"Since the ProGator has been retired a new piece of equipment may need to be purchased down the road," he said, "however, the current equipment is sufficient enough for the time being."
Matthews advised the commission that park employees removed three ash and seven pine trees, all of which were dead and constituted a potential safety hazard. Several more trees will be removed once the weather allows, he added.
Between snow removal duties — which, as of late, have occupied a great deal of workers’ time and efforts — they have painted picnic tables in preparation for the coming season, Matthews said.
Carol Jones with the Salt Fork Arts & Crafts Festival met recently with Edwards and Matthews to discuss the 50th anniversary project. Jones was invited to attend the February meeting to present ideas agreed to by the festival committee to the park commission.
Edwards told the commission: an athletic agreement has been sent to all organizations utilizing park facilities; the backstop at Don Coss Field was removed; Jack Warne Construction will begin the pavilion project once temperatures permit; and a letter regarding field maintenance at McFarland Stadium has been mailed.
Edwards said he plans to contact donors of a $25,000 gift to the Parks Department to discuss how they would like to see the funds used, and whether or not they want to be recognized for the contribution.
The City Park Commission is scheduled to next meet in regular session at 4 p.m. Feb. 13 at the City Park Armory.
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