Paper Mill Elementary School PTO received a $5,000 grant from the Community Preservation Committee to upgrade their playground. (PHOTO SUBMITTED)
WESTFIELD – The Paper Mill elementary school Parent Teachers Organization made a presentation to the Community Preservation Committee at its teleconference on July 8, requesting a grant to refurbish the school’s playground.
Mike Grady of Eastview Drive, who spoke on behalf of the PTO, said his son will be entering second grade at Paper Mill. He said the playground, which is on school property, suffered significant damage, although the source of the damage is unknown. The PTO is looking to replace a play tunnel, swings, climbing wall handholds and mulch on the play area in front designated for the younger children.
“The children haven’t been able to use the playscape since October,” Grady said.
Grady said the PTO will match 45 percent, or $4,279 of the total cost of approximately $9,500 for the work that is needed to bring the playground up to code, and is requesting $5,223.04 from the CPC. He said the PTO matching funds represent a significant portion of the balance, which is typically used for field trips and field days.
CPC chair Thomas Sharp expressed appreciation for what he called “a model application,” including the matching funds from the PTO.
“I wanted to point out that fundraising opportunities were greatly curtailed last year due to the closing of school; major fundraisers never happened. I applaud your efforts. I’m in favor of it,” said Cynthia Gaylord.
“I think this is great. I know we did something similar at Abner Gibbs not too long ago. I know Paper Mill probably gets even more use,” said Michael Tirrell, referring to its proximity to a Little League field and neighborhood access. “Projects like this are great,” he added.
CPC member Bill Porter asked Grady if the PTO had the money in hand and ready to go, to which Grady replied, “Yes, ASAP if not yesterday.”
City Planner Jay Vinskey said when the City Council appropriates the funds, it will go to the school. “I would suggest rounding up those pennies,” Vinskey said.
Ward 6 Councilor William Onyski thanked the CPC for considering the proposal.”Mike and the PTO did a great job in putting this together, which was very thorough, and came up with the money. I’m just going to ask that you consider going to $6,000,” Onyski said, asking the Commission to consider that the PTO will be using field trip funds to pay for the playground. “$750 could pay a big part for a field trip,” he said.
“I think we better stick with the number that’s been requested,” Sharp said. A motion to accept the proposal passed unanimously.
