Georgetown Divide Recreation District reviews grants and budget

The Georgetown Divide Recreation District board was reminded at the most recent meeting that next year is the 25th anniversary of the district’s establishment and it is looking forward to recognizing and celebrating this special time.

Consultants were on hand to report on a feasibility study to convert part of the Bayley Barn to accommodate some sports, due to the shortage of all playing facilities on the Divide. GDRD received a $500,000 grant for the purpose of creating a ‘”recreation center” but attempts to locate suitable locations have been an ongoing challenge.

A review of the Bayley Barn to fulfill this need indicates that on the physical level the building would require weatherproofing and currently lacks any cooling or heating capabilities. In order to start an upgrade, the building has no special use permit and would need CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) clearance. Due to the fact that the barn is a part of the historic Bayley House, a cultural resources study also would most likely be required. In addition to zoning ordinances that would need to be considered, the parking lot may need to be paved and if this goes out onto Highway 49, a Caltrans encroachment permit would be necessary.

For more than 11 months, an ad hoc personnel committee has been reviewing policies and the board voted to accept the changes suggested. Employees will now have vacation, sick and holiday pay, but on a PTO (accrued personal time off) basis. The district is currently interviewing for two half-time (20 hours) positions: an office assistant and a recreation supervisor. It is anticipated that there will be a field-based administration, meaning that the employees will have a laptop and work from various sites in the area for the convenience of the recreation users.

Hopes and dreams for a local pool have been changed and down-sized many times. The district’s current plan is to use the remaining grant funds for an “aquatic facility” in Garden Valley Park. Permits and a site plan will be necessary for this to move forward.

Adjustments to the GDRD preliminary budget were considered. The board was given several options. Personnel costs will be reduced, which frees up funds for other needs.

The district has more than 30 “Community Partners” which is a win-win situation for all involved, in that the district can offer insurance to these community groups, while those organizations can help support the district, either with a financial contribution or by contributing labor for the upkeep and maintenance of the parks. Every GDRD board meeting has community partners being reviewed (an annual review is required) or new partners being considered.

GDRD has made arrangements with Holiday Market to create a “Banner Park” on the corner of Highway 49 and Highway 193. The site is very visible and much in demand with groups to hang banners. Anyone wishing to advertise in this location must now get clearance from the GDRD (823-9090) and comply with county guidelines.

The district has four seats available in the next election. The time period to file for a seat is open and ends at 5 p.m. on Aug. 10.