Simeon brought up discussion of the grant application as he solicited council approval of the county's recreation master plan, which commissioners adopted in January.

“I'm feeling confident with all the meetings, the support of the community and support of the master plan,” he said after the meeting.

With $25,000 already pledged for the project, Simeon said if the Reynolds grant is approved the city would be able to secure the services of a professional skateboard park contractor. “With $150,000 if fully funded we are looking at a premier skate park that could draw skaters from other areas in addition to local skaters.”

Simeon told council he would know in May whether the grant is approved.

Meanwhile, council unanimously approved the master plan, which Simeon said in his presentation improves funding opportunities for grants. “It's an opportunity for the community to give feedback and it ensures the public wants the programs being developed.”

While the plan addresses recreational needs throughout the entire county, it also gives an overview of the status of facilities in the city.

Emry, Chaloner and Rochelle parks need restroom and parking lot improvements while Ledgerwood has two restrooms that need to be replaced.

There are playground equipment needs in the city's smaller parks and the Jo Story Senior Center has issues, which as a historic building will be expensive to address.

T.J. Davis is need of a heating and air conditioning system and future plans for Kirkwood call for resurfacing the parking lot.

None of the improvements listed in the master plan are items the department is going to immediately ask for, Simeon told council. “I think we offer excellent programs. We continue to work on the skate park and continue to move in a positive direction.”

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