Legislation for proposed Sharpsburg parks and recreation commission moving forward

Sharpsburg officials are inching ever closer to forming a group dedicated to improving borough recreational opportunities and amenities.

Council unanimously voted April 28 to advertise an ordinance establishing a parks and recreation commission.

It is expected to be formally adopted at the May 26 voting session with members to be appointed some time in late June.

The commission, which can have up to nine members according to the proposed ordinance, would make recommendations to borough council, similar to a planning commission.

Council would ultimately have to vote on any projects for its parks.

Recreation sites in the borough include Kennedy Park, Heinz Memorial Field, James Sharp Landing, Marion Gerardi Memorial Park and the Linden Gym.

The recreation commission also may have an impact on the Sharpsburg Senior Center and the Sharpsburg Community Garden next to the Sharpsburg Community Library.

Councilwoman Sarah Ishman said prior to the April 28 vote that the commission should be open to working with other borough groups and commissions.

”We want to make the intent clear that the intent is cooperation,” Ishman said. “I think it would be good to cooperate with any non-profit entities that exist in any of these spaces.”

Other council members supported Ishman’s provision as an amendment to the ordinance.

The proposed legislation is spearheaded by Councilwoman Carrie Tongarm and Councilman Peter Adams.

“There is a lot of excitement in the community about this, and I am very eager to see who comes forward to serve,” Tongarm said via email after the meeting. “I am very proud of our town and the amazing public spaces that Sharpsburg has to offer. My hope is to create opportunities for more community engagement in our parks and recreation spaces.”

Those interested in serving on the commission can call the borough office at 412-781-0546 or submit letters of interest at the office at 1611 Main St. during normal business hours.