By 1808Delaware
The Eastern Delaware County Joint Recreation District (EDCJRD) took major steps toward its mission of enhancing community recreation options during a recent meeting marked by action, planning, and optimism. The meeting opened with the official swearing-in of new board member Maria Sobota, reinforcing the board’s growing momentum. After signing her oath, Sobota jumped right into the business of the evening—an agenda packed with policy updates and promising future collaborations.
Building the Basics: Insurance, Banking, and Transparency
Before diving into long-term goals, the board handled the foundational details necessary for operating a functional public entity. Updates on the board’s pursuit of insurance revealed ongoing progress, with several agencies contacted and quotes expected soon. The board also passed Resolution 2025-07, officially designating First Commonwealth Bank in Sunbury as the board’s depository. This move allows the district to begin conducting financial transactions and hiring consultants.
Connecting Virtually, Staying Present
In a nod to accessibility and modern governance, the board unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-08, a virtual meeting policy that allows remote participation under certain conditions. The policy outlines procedures for public participation via platforms like Zoom or YouTube, while emphasizing that significant votes—such as hiring an executive director or proposing a tax levy—must still take place in person. This balanced approach aims to keep board operations efficient while maintaining public accountability.
Exploring a Partnership: YMCA Takes Center Stage
Perhaps the most exciting development of the evening was the board’s deepening dialogue with the YMCA. Representatives from the EDCJRD recently met with the COO of the YMCA of Central Ohio to learn how the organization has successfully partnered with other communities to build and operate recreation centers.
The YMCA has reportedly helped establish seven such facilities through public-private collaborations. Lynn estimated that a market and needs assessment could cost around $30,000—a number that sparked conversation around funding logistics and consultant selection. The board is now planning a formal presentation from the YMCA at its next meeting on May 22, with both the COO and CEO expected to attend.
On the Ground: Facility Tours and Lessons from the Past
Three board members are scheduled to tour the Reynoldsburg YMCA on May 7, with more tours possible. The facility is considered a model for comprehensive recreation services and may inspire future planning.
Additionally, the board plans to speak with former members of a 2006 joint recreation district in the area to understand why that initiative ultimately folded. These conversations could offer critical insight into what to replicate—and what to avoid—this time around.
Looking Ahead: Procurement Policy, Consultant Search, and Timeline Crunch
The board reviewed a draft procurement policy based on models used by other recreation districts. Although joint recreation districts are not legally required to follow strict bidding procedures, the board expressed interest in adopting best practices to ensure fiscal responsibility. A customized resolution will be drafted for potential adoption at the next meeting.
Meanwhile, board member Greg Elliott is collecting consultant proposals to perform a needs and market assessment. Preliminary responses show a wide range of deliverables, making it essential for the board to define its desired scope of work. Members agreed that the upcoming YMCA presentation would help inform that discussion.
The Clock is Ticking
With a deadline to present a report to partnering jurisdictions by October 2025, time is of the essence. Board members discussed the importance of aligning on deliverables, securing funding through their partner jurisdictions (Sunbury, Galena, and Berkshire Township), and communicating early to avoid bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Still in its infancy, the board is transitioning from “crawl” to “walk,” as one member put it, and hopes to be sprinting soon.
Next Steps:
- May 7: Board tours Reynoldsburg YMCA
- May 22: YMCA leaders present to full board
- Consultant proposals reviewed and discussed
- Procurement policy resolution prepared for vote
- Board outreach to Sunbury, Galena, and Berkshire for potential funding commitments
- Continued research into alternative community center models (e.g., Westerville, Powell)
The EDCJRD may still be in the early stages, but the groundwork laid in this recent meeting signals a clear direction: one focused on collaboration, thoughtful planning, and responsiveness to community needs. As discussions continue and decisions take shape, the district is poised to become a cornerstone of recreation and well-being in eastern Delaware County.
Photo: Creative Commons License
