Town of James Island

Recreation and Environment Committee

Meeting Minutes

The minutes of the Recreation Committee of the Town of James Island held on Monday, October 6, 2003 at 5:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 1245 Camp Road at 5:30 p.m.

 After calling the meeting to order, Councilman Bill Wilder gave the invocation.

 Committee Reports: 

Environment:  Sandy Just reported that the Environment Committee sent letters of protest to members of the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) regarding a decision that was rendered at its September 17^th meeting.  Litter continues to be a problem on the island; however, there are many agencies working to help resolve some of these litter concerns.

 Recreation:

Little League:  Mr. Wilder reported that Al Green is continuing to seek funds for uniforms and equipment for his little league teams.  He also spoke about the proposal prepared by Chris Inglese which was presented to the Grants Committee for review.  The proposal was not received well by the Grants Committee. It appears that Mr. Inglese wants to work independently from the Grants Committee. Sandy asked if funding from the Environment Committee could be donated to sponsor a league.  If so, the Environment Committee would be willing to make a donation to the cause. Mr. Wilder said he will meet with Bob Kline (Chairman, Grants Committee), Al Green and Chris Inglese to determine what is needed in order to proceed.  Mr. Lepera asked if anyone had contacted South Carolina Federal Bank or Blimpie Subs.  Both companies sponsored leagues last year.  It may be possible that Mr. Green may be able to get companies to sponsor his teams. It was agreed that Mr. Green should not depend on grants alone, sponsors are needed. Mr. Wilder will ask Chris Inglese to separate grants from sponsorship. 

Parks:  Mr. Wilder said he asked Mike Socha, the Town’s attorney, to meet with the school district and provide clarification of ownership of Riverland Terrace School.  Although it is being used by the City of Charleston, the school is within the boundaries of the Town. Once the Town receives its ruling perhaps the school could be used for different activities for the children and youths of the island. 

Old Business: 

Mr. Lepera asked about the outcome of lighting at Honey Hill Park.  Mr. Wilder responded that the park is in the City of Charleston. Perhaps the Town could enter into a cooperative agreement with the City and use it for various activities. 

New Business:

Mr. Lepera asked if the Recreation Committee plans to look into offering other sports activities next year. Mr. Wilder said he would like to offer other sporting opportunities as well as look into the purchase of a recreation center (property behind Town Hall – owned by Inez Brown-Crouch). Sim Parrish asked what types of activities are planned for the center. A recreation center is more suited on school property, where basketball courts, and ball fields already exist such as the Riverland Terrace School, Bayfront would not be large enough to house a recreation center.

There being no further business to come before the Recreation Committee, a motion to adjourn was made by Sim Parrish, seconded by Sandy Just and unanimously approved.

Next meeting of the Recreation Committee will be held on Monday, November 3^rd at 5:30 p.m.