Community Development Committee Meeting Update

I was able to meet with the City of Bath Community Development Committee again on July 20 about this project and we had another lengthy discussion regarding a new playground in the City. Unfortunately, I did not get an answer to my question as to where we might be allowed to plan and build this project. The Committee has requested of me further summary information regarding where Bath at Play is at, what our goals are, and where we are and are not willing to compromise with regard to our project. The Community Development Committee does not meet in August and may not have time for further discussion of the playground project until October. I plan to attend these meetings to continue this discussion and I hope to have some answers as to where the City feels is a suitable space to build a new playground in Bath sometime in September or October.

Since the July meeting, I have been working towards establishing our non-profit "Bath at Play" so that we can start fundraising as soon as possible as a 501(c)(3) corporation. This will allow us more flexibility moving forward with fundraising for different projects including a much requested splash pad and possible shade enhancements to the existing playground near St. Mary's Church & the Parks & Rec department. I hope to file our documentation with the State this week and have further discussions with the Bath Parks & Rec department regarding enhancements to the existing playground. Many parents have spoken up about the need for a splash pad in town and I want you all to know that I am very much on board with this idea. I hope that Bath at Play can work closely with the City Council and the Parks & Rec Department to make these needs a reality for our children.

As a reminder, the survey continues to remain live and the City is very much interested in seeing more responses from citizens of Bath. Please share with your neighbors and fellow community members so that I can bring more of the voice of the community to the City! The link again is https://bit.ly/BathAtPlay

I also encourage you all to speak with the City Councilor of your ward about this project. If you are unsure as to which ward you are in, please see this map and refer to this list of City Councilors to reach out to them.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, and/or ideas, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Thank you all for your continued support towards the betterment of this wonderful community!

Warm Regards,
John Byram
Director
Bath at Play