At its May 28 meeting, the Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority (GARA) board discussed financial performance, recent and upcoming events, and long-term planning efforts for park facilities and infrastructure.
GARA finished the first third of the year with a net income of $20,118. Through April, total income was $106,648 while expenses stood at $86,585—figures nearly on par with the previous year. Gettysburg Borough has already released its full annual allotment. Cumberland Township has asked GARA to delay requesting its share so the funds can accrue additional interest. The board agreed to postpone the request until fall.
In a meeting with Borough Manager Charles Gable, Board President Steve Niebler said he was encouraged by the borough’s appreciation of GARA’s efficiency. Gable indicated the borough would release $10,000 in previously pledged capital funds if GARA created a separate account to manage improvement projects. The board supported the move and discussed refining a “wish list” of capital improvements into a focused plan, with priorities including parking lot paving and restroom upgrades.
The board also reviewed the financial success of GARA’s Inaugural Summer Music Festival on May 24. The event raised over $2,200 in sponsorships and an estimated $1,300 in donations and small games of chance. After covering expenses including bands, production, marketing, and supplies, GARA will come out about $600 ahead. Board members praised the event’s community turnout and agreed to begin planning for a second festival next year.
Maintenance updates included restroom plumbing repairs, picnic table improvements, and plans to repaint the bandstand. The board approved removing a long-weathered mural, with a replacement to be designed and painted by students from Vida Charter School under the guidance of professional artists.
Security cameras were discussed as a deterrent to vandalism. Board members voiced support for low-cost, app-connected systems over commercial installations that require monthly fees.
GARA’s relationships with local sports organizations continue to develop. Club soccer representatives have expressed interest in expanding their partnership, and a girls’ softball group is fundraising to upgrade an under-equipped field. The board considered the idea of consolidating ball fields on one side of the park and expanding soccer fields on the other to streamline maintenance and improve usability.
Board members also discussed the long-standing relationship with Lincoln Cemetery, which GARA supports by hosting board meetings, storing equipment, and transporting chairs for events. With the cemetery now in a stronger financial position, some members suggested it may be time to request a donation or reduce in-kind services.
Looking ahead, GARA is preparing for a busy summer season. The July 4 celebration will feature fireworks, live music, and over 20 food vendors. Board members emphasized the need to keep expectations realistic and avoid comparisons to the long-discontinued firemen’s carnival.
The board also plans to apply to the Adams County Community Foundation’s Giving Spree fundraiser. GARA raised about $8,300 through the program last year.
The next board meeting is scheduled for June 23 at 7:00 p.m. in the Charlie Sterner Building.