🏞️ Recreation Advisory Committee
Committee Seeks More Research On Rifle Jack Monument
The Croton Recreation Advisory Committee reviewed a proposed monument for Revolutionary War soldier John "Rifle Jack" Peterson at 119 Radnor Avenue, requesting further research. The committee also reported that Dobbs Park improvements have begun, with playground and basketball court replacements slated for February 2026.
◆ Key Actions & Decisions
- **Resolutions Passed**: None.
- **Resolutions Failed**: None.
- **Applications Reviewed**: None.
- **Public Comments**: None (No public comment period noted in minutes).
- **Reports**:
- **Mayor's Referral**: Discussed a resident inquiry regarding a "Pop-Up Pizza Farm." The committee recommended the individual contact the Croton Business Council.
- **Monument Proposal**: The Village Board sought input on placing a monument for Revolutionary War soldier John "Rifle Jack" Peterson at 119 Radnor Avenue. The committee deferred a decision, requesting additional research, suggesting the Village explore placement at the local Cemetery, and noting member John Bouchard will reach out to the American Legion.
- **Parks Update (John Bouchard)**:
- Dobbs Park Improvements Project has started; infield fence replaced. Infield grass replacement and outfield fence repair/replacement underway. Playground and basketball court replacements tentatively scheduled for February–April 2026.
- New Belgium Blocks installed at the Duck Pond.
- Peace Pole installation at Croton Landing expected by the end of the week of November 10.
- Turf blankets to be placed on all fields after November 23.
- Water shut off at Croton Landing, Silver Lake, and Senasqua.
- **Miscellaneous Updates**:
- Goblin Walk (Oct. 25): Over 250 attendees received treat bags.
- 4th Annual Halloween Dog Parade (Oct. 25): 60 dogs participated.
- Tree Lighting: Scheduled for December 4 at 5 p.m. (lighting at 6 p.m.), rain date December 5.
- Winter Brochure: Available December 2.
Croton’s Recreation Advisory Committee is asking for more historical legwork before endorsing a proposed monument to a local Revolutionary War hero. During Monday night's meeting, the committee discussed a Village Board request to place a tribute to John "Rifle Jack" Peterson at the village-owned parcel located at 119 Radnor Avenue. Rather than issuing an immediate recommendation, the committee agreed that additional research is necessary. Members also suggested the Village explore whether the local Cemetery might be a more appropriate location, and committee member John Bouchard volunteered to contact the American Legion for further input.
On the parks front, residents can expect to see visible progress at Dobbs Park. The Dobbs Park Improvements Project officially kicked off with the replacement of the baseball field's infield fence completed late last week. Over the coming weeks, crews will replace the infield grass and address the outfield fencing. Families eager for the new playground and basketball court will need to wait a bit longer; those replacements are tentatively slated to begin in February 2026, with a target completion date of April 2026.
Elsewhere in the village, a new Peace Pole is slated for installation at Croton Landing by the end of this week, and new Belgium Blocks have been placed at the Duck Pond. As winter approaches, residents should note that water has been shut off at Croton Landing, Silver Lake, and Senasqua, and turf blankets will be deployed across all athletic fields after November 23.
The committee also reflected on a highly successful fall events season. The Goblin Walk and the 4th Annual Halloween Dog Parade, both held on October 25, drew impressive crowds, with over 250 people attending the walk and 60 costumed dogs parading through the village.
Looking ahead, the community can mark their calendars for the annual Tree Lighting on Thursday, December 4. Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m., with the tree scheduled to be lit at 6:00 p.m. (Friday, December 5 is the rain date). Additionally, the Recreation Department's Winter Brochure will be available to residents starting December 2.
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