Monterey Parks Commission
December 7, 2016
Present: Julio, Peter, Gary,
Guest: Laura Harner, Berkshire South
Minutes for the November Meeting were approved as written
Lake Garfield Beach
Laura Hamer gave a presentation from the point of view of Berkshire South
regarding the first year of them providing lifeguards and supervision for the
Town Beach. The following information was provided to the Parks Commission:
2016 Lake Garfield Summer Management Report
To the Town of Monterey Parks Commission
By Berkshire South Regional Community Center
Information Provided by Andrew Rada, Waterfront Coordinator
Lake Garfield Usage
Total Park Visits: 11,697
Average daily number of patrons per hour: 26
Average number of patrons per day: 156
Busiest time of the day: 4:00 p.m.
Slowest time of the day: 12:00 p.m
Busiest day of the week: Saturdays
Slowest day of the week: Mondays
Busiest day of the summer: July 3rd
Slowest day of the summer: July 9th (Rainy Day)
Overview
We had an exceptional summer at Lake Garfield this year. The weather was spectacular and we only had to clear the lake area a handful of times due to stormy weather. We had several successful events including Fourth of July weekend, a large memorial for a member of the Monterey community, and Monterey Day which was a great way to capoff the summer. Due to the cooperation and support that we as lifeguards received from the community and specifically the Parks Commission we cruised through the season and received an abundance of positive feedback.
Incidents
This summer went without any incidents with the exception of the occasional scrape that needed a bandage, which is to be expected in any outdoor activity. The area is kept very clean and the in-water rules were enforced diligently by each of our lifeguards which helped the season go by smoothly. There were a few times that people slipped on the boat ramp as it enters the water and while everyone was fine it should be noted that it might be helpful to post a warning either on the ramp or on the fence next to it about the slippery nature of the area.
Equipment
We received fantastic rescue fins this year as well as a safety rope to show the patrons where the water dropped into a deeper area which received many compliments. For next year we recommend obtaining a lifeguard chair for the second lifeguard to sit on because there is currently none available. For next year, we would also recommend purchase of a couple of dive masks to complete the necessary search and rescue equipment.
Suggestions for Years to Come
For next summer I would suggest some signs to be put up pertaining to the boat ramp,
specifically regarding the necessity to inform a lifeguard that you are putting in a boat as well as a caution sign that the boat ramp can be slippery as was mentioned before. Lastly the weeds are always a common complaint from patrons and this year especially many were very adamant that something should be done about them. Obviously this is a large project one but it could be looked into.
Thank you and Next Season
A huge thank you goes to the Monterey Parks Commission for being so supportive of our staff and made the transition to a very different format from years in the past a very easy one. Also to the residents of Monterey for helping create a safe and fun environment.
Overall Summary
The summer of 2016 was a very successful first year for the management and program services. We welcome any and all recommendations and requests on how BSRCC can help support and improve the park program. BSRCC was happy to have the opportunity to provide this management service and hope that it was beneficial to the Town as well. We feel it is truly a strong collaboration to allow the Center to support the Town in a way that relieves burden to the town management, provides safe and enriching work experience for local individuals, provides a safe recreational environment for all
community constituents and allows for the Center to support the community connectedness that
is crucial to our mission.
Respectfully Submitted:
Laura Harner, Director of Programs
Travis Bailey, Aquatics Manager
Andrew Rada, Waterfront Coordinator
The Parks Commission thanked Laura and will consider the plan and our budget prior to next year’s beach season.
Skating Party Presidents Day
The Parks Commission is planning its’ annual Family Skating Party for President’s Day, which will fall on February 20th this year. There is plenty of time to plan the event, but the commission went over some of the basic plans.
Gary to arrange for Hot Choc and doughnuts
Julio to bring Hot dogs, buns, ketchup, mustard and relish.
Gary will contact the DJ and book the date.
Gary will bring tables and a George Forman grill to cook the Hot Dogs
There will not be a Chili Contest this year.
Kayaks and Canoes left at the Lake
Several people have ignored the signs stating that they shouldn’t be left there. Julio will speak with the Police Chief about what the town can do about this. He will report to the Parks Commission at our January meeting.
Submitted by,
Gary Shaw
| 
