8/10/2015 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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Board of Selectmen Minutes August 10, 2015 Review and discussion of proposal from Freedom Rows Cape Cod to offer a Rowing Pro am at John's Pond Beach: June Richard, founder of the Freedom Rows Cape Cod,a military and adaptive/para rowing program was before the Board of Selectmen to review the need and the approach for this type of military program in Mashpee. Ms. Richard indicated the program is currently being established under the umbrella of U.S. Rowing's"Freedom Rows"program. This is a national program that meets the needs of the military as a form of psychological and physical therapy. Freedom Rows Cape Cod is proposed to serve active and retired military personnel, and their children free of charge. It has been determined that John's Pond is the most suitable site for this program as a result of its proximity to Joint Base Cape Cod. John's Pond offers beach access,parking and soon to be installed restroom facilities. Ms. Richard stated there is a need to store boats, and to provide sand space to construct boat racks at the site location. Ms. Richard has received notification of a grant funding award for this program. However,the specific amount of the grant is not known at this time. Ms. Richard indicated that she will soon apply for non-profit status, and she plans to register officially with The White House Initiative"Joining Forces" in year two of the program. It was noted the proposal was before the Town earlier this year. Rowing insurance will cover personal injury and boat damage,but it does not cover a town. With a complete proposal reflecting long range planning including commitment, exact location, identifying the parties responsible for placing and removing the ramps, and boat storage equipment including proof of liability insurance naming the Town as an additional insured,the project requires the Board of Selectmen's approval. Discussion followed with respect to this regard. After consulting Town Counsel it has been determined that proof of liability insurance naming the Town of Mashpee as additional insured is required of private organizations utilizing or storing equipment on Town-owned property. As the dialogue continued it was stated that it is possible for the rowing organization when securing the 501(c)non-profit status to potentially partner with the Town as it has been organized and accomplished with the new Mashpee Dog Park. However,this lengthy option would provide the Town coverage under the Town's Insurance,but the program would be required to offer the rowing program to the general public. Ms. Richard indicated the date of August 22, 2015 is planned for the start of this initiative. It was noted that rowing on the pond in the absence of storing equipment is open to the general public. The Board of Selectmen agreed to direct the Town Manager to work with the applicant on the requirements associated to the Freedom Rows proposal at John's Pond Beach. There was no further action at this time.