FAIRMONT — Public Works Director Matthew York told the Fairmont Public Board there is a record number of people registered for Community Education and Recreation programing this summer.

York said summer programing has officially kicked off for the summer. A total of 62 people registered for park playground programs — a CER record. He said this program is free for families and funded by CER and the city. Makerspace Mondays are held at the SMEC building.

York also reported 10 registered for a hobo-trail fishing activity for parents and children on June 6. More than 50 fish were caught.

On June 24-27, LaserTag will be available for families at the parks. The registration is completed after 16 attendees have signed up to participate, due to equipment supply.

Public Works Superintendent Nick Lardy discussed park board updates. There was noticeable damage from the recent storm on Sunday and Monday in the parks. Due to notable flooding, docks and boats had to be removed from the water, and many branches fell. The Hall Lake dock was removed, with a panel breaking away and sinking. Lardy said they will be able to recover it.

Lardy said park workers have been busy with preparation and clean-up after Interlaken Heritage Days and the Racin’ for the Bacon 5K Triathlon.

He also said the parks are short-handed currently in regards to mowing.

Park board member Vicki Schulte was intrigued by the idea of new water fountains at the Dog Park. The board made the conclusion they need two fountains for the park at $7,800 a piece, which would total to around $16,000. The board wasn’t sure how it would work out.

For 2025 CIP, York suggested renovating for the West Belle Vue playground. In addition, despite it being qualified for playground safety, the merry-go-round in Gomsrud Park is suggested to be removed or renovated to eliminate safety concerns.

The board also discussed donations. Visit Fairmont’s Britney Hartman donated and proposed a mural design for the Fairmont parks. The Park Board altogether had mixed opinions on where to place the mural, and concluded it didn’t belong in a park. Park board members pointed to mural’s graffiti design would raise vandalism concerns.

The board agreed that murals would be good to have at the 5 Lakes Centre vacant JCPenney building. Unfortunately, further options will be weighed, because it is private property. The board said they would follow up on the matter.