The Harwich Recreation and Youth Commission voted unanimously to abandon a $200,000 restroom project at Memorial Field this week after the primary user group signaled the facility was no longer a priority. Jim Gunning, Commissioner of Cape Cod Senior Softball, told the board that while the league had previously committed $20,000 toward the project, they would prefer to see those funds redirected toward other field improvements. We're not enthusiastic about the bathroom project at Memorial at this point, Gunning stated. We have $20,000 committed, but if it's not $200,000 worth of importance to the town, don't build it on our account.

Recreation Director Eric Beebe supported the league’s assessment, noting the high cost for a facility with limited seasonal utility. I can't justify spending upwards of $200,000 for a restroom used for one tournament. I recommend we rescind the money to the CPC, Beebe said. The decision to return the funds to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) comes at a time when that committee has tightened its oversight of town-funded projects, recently demanding formal grant agreements for all departmental awards. Motion Made by B. Power to rescind the Senior Memorial Restroom project funds. Motion Passed (7-0-0). Member L. Servidori provided the second for the motion.

The league is now pivoting its focus toward safety and expansion, requesting a 60-foot section of protective netting along the right-field line at Memorial Field to protect spectators on the adjacent Potter Field. Gunning estimated the pulley-based system would cost approximately $5,000. While the Commission expressed support, Chair John Losi requested formal plans before committing town resources. My opinion is we need to see a plan and an estimate before we can approve anything for funding, Losi said. He also raised concerns about liability regarding the installation of 30-foot poles on town property, suggesting a consultation with the Highway Department is necessary before the equipment is gifted to the town.

Fee structures remain a point of friction as the department transitions to the MyRec digital management system. Gunning noted that the league’s total costs are approaching $6,000 annually, including a $175 daily fee for their September tournament. The tournament pays for our season; we operate at a loss until September, Gunning explained. Commission members shared some of the league's concerns regarding the added special event fees. The breakdown makes sense, but I have a concern, said F. Crowley. We pay $2,000 for the season. Why do they have to pay for the classic? It should be encompassed. D. Gogan questioned how the math would change if the league only paid for the extra hours used during the tournament rather than a full-day event rate. The commission tabled the fee discussion until June.

In a broader look at the town's five-year capital plan, Beebe identified the Outback Field irrigation system as the department’s top priority. He noted the current system was installed incorrectly with household-grade equipment. The board also categorized a lengthy list of wish list items, moving projects like a lap pool, a seasonal bubble, and a pickleball complex to long-term status. V. Khachadoorian suggested immediate improvements to the tennis backboards, recommending the addition of netting to stop stray balls. Regarding the Community Center hoops, Beebe suggested a joint CPC application with the building’s administration, though F. Crowley argued the Select Board or building director should take the lead on such articles.

Operational changes are also coming to the town’s trail system. Beebe announced he would no longer fund a porta-potty near the Pleasant Lake General Store, as it is not located on recreation property and sits only a tenth of a mile from facilities at Headwaters. It should be the Bikeways Committee, Beebe said. If the Select Board wants it, they can give us more money.

Finally, the department is preparing for the summer season amidst a town-wide shift toward digital services that has caused significant public frustration. Beebe confirmed that beach sticker sales will begin June 2 at Town Hall, with weekend sales at the Recreation Office starting later in the month. Maintenance issues were also noted at the tennis courts, where D. Gogan described a rash of bubbles forming on the court surfaces in the heat. P. Noble added that boat storage at Sand Pond has become an issue, noting, The sculls have invaded the parking lot... there are more units on the beach and tucked in the woods. Beebe committed to reviewing storage and the potential warranty repairs for the tennis courts using the department's revolving fund, which currently sits at $168,368.