Syracuse Park Board moved its regular monthly meeting outdoors, meeting in Veterans Park at Crosson Mill Monday night.

Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, reported on a number of projects. Football practice is in full swing at the Harold Schrock Youth Athletic Complex. After football season is finished, there is a possibility of a girls fast-pitch softball tournament being held at the complex Oct. 12.

The trail around the ballpark has been completed and several people are using the trail to walk or jog laps.

AIA is willing to create a “donor tree” in the shape of a lighthouse for the community center. Jonsson explained this would be a way to honor donors who have contributed funds for amenities such as tables and chairs at the community center. The lighthouse will be created out of black and white countertop material and will look similar to the lighthouse that is part of the building. It will be installed in the lobby of the community center across from the park department office. The board approved the idea.

Repair work is done on the gazebo in Lakeside Park. Jonsson reported several boards and finals have been replaced. A bit more repair work still needs to be done and will be completed in the fall when the foliage dies back. Painting of the gazebo will start later this week or next week weather permitting.

Jonsson suggested getting estimates on repairing the pavilion in Lakeside Park while the board looks for a funding to replace it. Several board members asked what happened to the potential donor who expressed interest in helping. Jonsson said he has not heard anything from the potential donor, despite phone calls.

Jonsson suggested repairing the side of the pavilion and the roof. He’s looking for grant funds and hopes the work can be completed either this fall or next spring.

The board reviewed the budget that reflected a 3 percent salary increase recommended by the Syracuse Town Council. In the financial report, the board also approved appropriating $2,000 for the non-reverting fund. This money will be used to help the park department pay for entertainers at the farmer’s market as well as other events such as breakfast with Santa.

The equipment will be moved out of the fitness room later this week so work can start next week on expanding the space. The work is expected to be done in early September and new equipment has been ordered. Jonsson told the board he is looking at a completion date of Sept. 15.

Jonsson updated the board on the trail committee saying a new director has been hired and the committee is working on setting up an office for her. She may have to work out of her home for awhile.

In the program report, Tyler McLead, program coordinator, reported the last day for the Wednesday produce market will be Oct. 8, while the last day for the Artisans and Farmers Market will be Oct. 11. So far this season, 74 vendors have participated.

Tuesday, Aug. 19, will be the last day for canoeing. McLead said there was a lot of interest the first time out, but the weather has not been very cooperative.

Registration for co-ed adult softball is open until Sept. 8. Games will be held Tuesday and Thursday nights. There will be a league meeting Sept. 10 and opening night will be Sept. 16.

The Harvest Festival will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Lakeside Park. The change in location will provide more room. The market vendors will be there will be pig races, a petting zoo, hay rides, carnival games and entertainment.

Board member Mary Hursh asked about putting some type of hitch up for Amish buggy horses. After discussion, a hitch will be installed by the maintenance shed and Jonsson will look into the cost of composting manure.