Minutes - October 23, 2019
NOBLE COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 23, 2019 MEETING
Present: Ray Scott, Scott Allen, John Metzger, Jim Haddock, Doug Keenan.
Guests: Kenneth Hughes, Noble County Plan Commission; Lori Gagen, Noble County Economic and Community Development; Matt Getts, KPC Media.
The October 23, 2019 meeting of the Noble County Parks and Recreation Board was called to order by President Ray Scott at 10:00 AM.
The Minutes of the September 25, 2019 meeting were approved as sent.
Old Business: Five Year Master Plan Update: A good discussion was held on the Elkhart River. There are many questions concerning the use of the river, including:
*Who “owns” the river? If landowners own their portion of the river, is it trespassing to use that portion of the river?
*Does the IDNR “control” the river? Do groups need permission to clear log jams and debris?
*Can the Elkhart River become a “Navigable Waterway”? Who would make the determination?
*Can we make the Elkhart River a water trail? Who do we need permission from?
Kenneth Hughes will check on some of the legal matters regarding the Elkhart River. The Noble County Park and Recreation Board would like to invite Sue Glick and Dave Abbott to a meeting to discuss the Elkhart River. Kenneth will also check with the Northeast Indiana Water Trails group for what is involved in being a part of the water trails and getting maps and signage.
Check the Northeast Indiana Water Trails Web Site – neiwatertrails.com.
Lori Gagen noted that the Noble County EDC and the Noble County CVB is willing to publicize information and events regarding the Elkhart River.
IDNR Boat Launch Sites: Kenneth Hughes gave an update on the possibility of a new IDNR Public Access Site on the Elkhart River. The IDNR is still open to this concept, but it may have to be in another location. John Metzger noted that there may be a possible site new Port Mitchell. Elkhart Township may be interested in helping with the Cosperville site.
Website/Spring Photo Contest: The photo contest is completed. Board members contributed to the awards for the Photo Contest winners. Lori Gagen noted that the participants enjoyed sharing their photos of outdoor activities in Noble County.
Noble Trails Program: Scott Allen reported that most of the paving of the trail between Kendallville and Rome City is completed. Dr. Terry Gaff was on television discussing Noble Trails.
New Business:
Resignation: President Ray Scott announced his resignation from the Board. The Board thanked Ray for his years of service and his leadership. The County Council will need to name a replacement for Ray. Scott Allen will serve as interim President.
Meeting adjourned at 11:05 AM.
Next meeting – December 4, 2019 at 10:00 AM.