By Vicki Johnson
Staff Writer
vjohnson@advertiser-tribune.com
Moving a softball field and reorganization of the lower level of Hedges-Boyer Park was discussed Thursday morning during a meeting of Tiffin Park Board.
After the Little League Football season ends in a couple weeks, Tiffin Park & Recreation Director Steve Dryfuse said the entire area will be regraded to help with drainage. Along with the grading, more tile is being added to alleviate flooding in various spots.
The Charles Dedrick softball field is to be moved and located beside Rodger Young Field, and the new dog park is to be located at the site of the old softball field.
He said the parking area already has been expanded to accommodate use by members of Tiffin YMCA, people who rent shelters and people who use the ball fields.
The meeting took place at Beechwood Park, the latest in monthly meetings at various parks during the summer.
Dryfuse said new playground equipment was installed at the community park in 2009, funded by a grant from Tiffin Charitable Foundation. In 2010, a shelter was built by Tiffin Moose. He said several trees have been planted to provide future shade.
The board set its Nov. 8 meeting for 7 p.m. at First United Baptist Church, 419 Coe St., and encouraged community members to
attend. Because the meeting is after the election, the board plans to discuss election results and how the passage or failure of the city income tax will affect the parks.
"If the income tax doesn't pass, the mayor has said no city funds would be used for the pool or fireworks," Dryfuse said.
At that meeting, Dryfuse said the board also plans to meet with dog park planners Keith Hodkinson and others regarding their plans.
Chairman John Bing said the board must keep in mind that whatever the dog park promoters are planning becomes the property of the city.
"The city is ultimately responsible for its upkeep," Bing said.
Board members were reminded of a Bark Park fundraiser to take place Saturday. Registration for the Dog Day Run/Walk starts at 8 a.m. at the former Rainbow Muffler lot between the Washington Street Bridge and Ralph's Joy of Living. Cost is $25 per person if received before race day, or $30 Saturday.
For a registration form, visit sponsor McClung's Animal Hospital, Brad McClung, 2822 SR 100, or register online at www.tiffinbarkpark.com/registration.
Also, the board heard the annual Fall Fest is to take place 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 26 in shelters 5 and 6 at Hedges-Boyer Park.
