Back to Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes:February 5, 2009
Call to Order:7:09 p.m.
Members Present: Jones, Thorne, Campbell. Keyes and Bosworth
Acceptance of Minutes: 1/8/2008 Minutes were reviewed and accepted unanimously.
Open Forum: None
New Business: -Sponsored Trip: The Commission entertained a presentation by AAA of New England
regarding the Hingham Recreation Commission sponsoring a 9-day Royal Caribbean cruise from New
Jersey to Bermuda. The trip, if it were to be sponsored, would embark on August 2. 2009. Several
commissioners and guests expressed the view that a 9-day trip for a family is too long. If the trip attracted
10 bookings, the Commission would be granted the equivalent value of one booking. AAA to work with
Director Thorell.
-Field Permit Application: Randy Sylvester from the Hingham DPW provided the Commission with an
overview of his Department's efforts to maintain the Recreation Department's fields. He expressed his
concern that his budget is going to be cut and maintenance levels diminished. He expressed displeasure
with the condition of the fields after games and feels that the league directors and coaches need to do a
much better job policing themselves after use of the fields. Several league directors detailed their efforts
to clean and maintain the fields.
The Commission entertained a discussion regarding field revenue and expenses. Director Thorell
distributed an analysis detailing the 2008 and 2009 balance sheet for the fields. Several commissioners
expressed the feeling that the leagues will need to consider raising their fees in the future to more closely
meet the costs of their use.
-Kick-Boxing: Commissioner Campbell suggested that the Recreation Department should consider
offering kick-boxing classes. Concern was raised as to the violent nature of the sport. It was explained
that there is a type of Kick-Boxing that is aerobic in nature with little or no contact. Director Thorell to
research.
-Zumba: Commissioner Campbell suggested that the Recreation Department should consider offering
Zumba classes. Director Thorell informed him that the Department already offers Zumba classes
-Rugby: Commissioner Campbell suggested that the Department attempt to bring back Rugby as an
offering. A discussion ensued and there appeared to be little interest as the program has drawn little
support in the past.
Old Business:
-School Vacation Activities - Director Thorell explained that he and his staff were working on a number
of programs to be offered during the April school vacation and that he would have more information for
our next meeting.
-Recreation Wagon - The Commission entertained a discussion regarding the Recreation Wagon. Ideas
were shared on how best to ensure that the Wagon becomes successful during 2009. Commissioners
Campbell, Thorne and Bosworth agreed to work with Director Thorell to develop a business plan.
-Road Race Minutes: Director Campbell expressed a desire to review the minutes from the Road Race
Subcommittees 2008 meetings. Commissioner Bosworth agreed to prepare for the Commission review.
Chairman's Report - Chairman's Jones reported that the Haley Field fence had been completely installed
and in good order.
-StriderslFriends of Hingham Recreation - Chairman's Jones reported that a meeting was being scheduled
to discuss a continued partnership and how best to work together.
Directors Report: Please see distributed report. Actions taken:
-Director Thorell authorized to purchase a new treadmill to replace an old and broken machine if the cost
to repair is prohibitive.
-The Commission approved several field permits
-Motion to Adjourn: Made by Mr. Keyes and seconded by Mr. Thorne
Vote: Unanimous 9:25 p.m.