Harvard’s Parks and Recreation Commission has worked hard to bring the beach operation out of fiscal hardships, introduced a new self-service boat rental system, navigated through the pandemic and two algae blooms, and planned for upgrades to the docks, rafts, swimming area and an ADA-compliant conversion of the bathrooms. Like other towns and businesses, we are facing a staff shortage. After months of advertising we have not been able to hire a beach director and have interviewed limited staff. We have decided to team up with Mirror Lake in Devens to offer swim lessons for the children and jobs for our lifeguards (see story on page 1). Taking advantage of the lingering effects of COVID, this will be a rebuilding year at the Bare Hill Pond beach. We ask for your support of these upgrades at the May 14 Town Meeting.
In addition to supporting improvements at the town beach, Parks and Rec asks everyone at Town Meeting to support its strategy to improve and maintain our overused playing fields by agreeing to fund more appropriate maintenance equipment (starting with a zero-turn mower), seasonal employees, and an athletic fields study and design.
Lastly, please consider joining our team. Two members’ terms end June 30 and a third member has decided to leave a year early. I’ve agreed to fill the last year of this third member’s term and we are looking for two new volunteers who have the time and passion to focus on field programs. I am happy to meet to discuss our board and its responsibilities if you’d like to learn more.
Bob O’Shea
Harbormaster and Parks and Recreation Commission chair
