News : Randall, Parks and REC Board plan 2011 events, projects

As they normally do this time of year, the Vinton Parks and Recreation Department Board and Director Duane Randall discussed 2011 events and projects during their monthly meeting.

They approved a contract for the Kid Again Inflatables for Party in the Park. They approved a contract for Dr. Pepper, which pays the department to put its products in machines at local facilities. They discussed the Nov. 22 meeting with the Great Places Committee, where they will review Vinton's application for Great Places funding for new park and trail areas. They set a time and date of 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, for the annual budget meeting. They reviewed the fall activities, from the Jack O'Lantern Jump to the Haunted Hayrack rides.

But one thing they do not usually have on their November agenda is "director's position."

VPRD Board President Jeff Peterson summarized that issue with one short sentence. "Duane is not going to take the job in Davenport. Thanks, Duane."

Randall also discussed the 2011 budget. He said he expects to add some more programs for the coming year, and hopes to find funding alternatives for those park areas on the "Great Places" effort.

Also, said Randall, the Party in the Park Committee will begin meeting regularly in January to plan the annual event that takes place the last weekend in June.