Park board member David Johnston, left, and Park Superintendent Chad Jonsson talk during the board’s regular meeting. (Photo by Sarah Wright)

SYRACUSE — Syracuse Park Board met Tuesday, Nov. 12, and heard reports on three ongoing projects.

Pulver Construction has been contacted for the Syracuse Community Center parking lot curbing and lighting project. Superintendent Chad Jonsson noted it is hoped the company might be able to work on the project after the season ended, but at the moment, that is uncertain.

A $12,000 Harkless Foundation grant has been applied for, which would go toward this project if approved. “They usually have a meeting in late November or early December on that,” Jonsson said. “We usually receive notification and a check by the end of the year.”

For Laudeman Park, two proposals from Heartland Restoration Services were reviewed. One was for prairie installation in the outer edge of the park while the second focuses solely on the area around the pond, which also included a rock outcropping to allow pedestrians access to the water. Proposal No. 1’s estimated cost is $5,910, and proposal No. 2’s estimated cost is $11,740, largely due to the rock outcropping costs.

He added there is almost $8,000 left from a previous Harkless grant, which helped plan and develop Laudeman Park and  could be placed toward either proposal.

Concerns about the pond’s water level fluctuations were expressed. It was suggested it should be monitored before any work is completed so it doesn’t end up underwater. Other alternatives to the rock outcropping were discussed, including different types of piers.

The proposal for the outer prairie installation was accepted. The pond’s water level will be monitored before plans are established.

“K-21 (Health) Foundation is allocating funds for each community in Kosciusko County for projects,” Jonsson said. “Since (Henry Ward Park playground) is a big project for us, I thought it’d be a great application for their January deadline.”

He shared that he had met with a playground representative who will prepare proposals — possibly three different options — for the December meeting.

In other park board news:

• The tree committee reported all fall plantings have been planted. A magnolia blocking a sign near the Syracuse Community Center’s parking lot will be moved to a spot along Northshore Drive, weather permitting.

• Upcoming park events include a free family movie, “Toy Story 4,” Friday, Nov. 15; a Pinterest Party, Monday, Nov. 18; Holiday Magic, Saturday, Nov. 23; and letters to Santa, which runs now until Breakfast with Santa, Saturday, Dec. 7.

• A letter seeking quotes for a new mower was shared, including the specifications being sought.

• Syracuse-Wawasee Rotary Club’s facility reservation form for its Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament was approved. The event will be held March 14 in the Syracuse Community Center’s gymnasium.