VILLAGE OF CHAGRIN FALLS
FACILITIES AND SERVICES COMMITTEE
September 22, 2008

Members present: Patton, Milko, Watterson
Also present: Himes, Byron, Brosius, Evans

The meeting was called to order at 7:15 p.m. by Chairman Steven Patton.

WHITESBURG PARK FISHING POND ORDINANCE

Mr. Himes explained that when this was the Trout Club this was always the fishing pond for the kids and when the park was created that tradition was carried on. A sign has been posted requesting “catch and release”. Recently he has received some complaints and problems with people cleaning out the pond of fish. The police are unable to enforce the sign because there is no ordinance backing that sign up. The Village has restocked it from time to time but the administration would like to have some ordinance in place so that they can enforce the “catch and release” provision. He said he reviewed the ordinance with the law director and he had suggested two different approaches. One was “catch and release” and one was that they could set up the regulation that it be fishing for residents and guests of residents only.

Comments were heard and questions were answered. Mr. Patton said they are all in consensus that they should concentrate on “catch and release” and amend the ordinance as it stands now to delete Chapter 507.01 and not require residency only.

Mr. Byron said he will amend the ordinance as requested.

Moved by Mr. Patton, seconded by Mr. Watterson that we alter the legislation as it stands now by deleting 507.01, which prohibits non-residents to use the pond in Whitesburg Park and then renumber paragraph 507.02 to paragraph 507.01, which prohibits the taking of any fish from the pond. The motion carried unanimously.

It was asked how much the fine will be if this is violated? Mr. Byron said a maximum of $500.00 and up to sixty days in jail.

The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

____________________________
Steven Patton, Chairman
lgb