Adams Parks Commission Raises Concerns Over Mask Enforcement
ADAMS, Mass. — The Parks Commission on Monday expressed frustration that they were just learning about allegations that Little League did not enforce mask-wearing throughout its season.
Chairwoman Cynthia Bird told her colleagues that she received reports from the soccer league that mask-wearing among Little League spectators was not enforced during the season.
"They need to be abiding by the rules like everyone else does," Bird said. "The soccer league made sure they were doing everything the right way, and we have this other league where no one is wearing masks."
She said this was a concern of the soccer league, which shared a field with the baseball league. Little League members cross the soccer field and use the same park entrance. Bird said the soccer league actually came before the commission to present its COVID-19 protocols.
Bird said she heard the same story from multiple sources a few days ago, and the season is now over. She said she did bring it up to the code enforcement officer.
"Unfortunately, everything is done now," she said.
Commissioner Jacob Schutz suggested they at least bring it up to the league when they come before the commission for future requests.
"I think it is a good point to note and next time they come before us that can be a point of discussion," he said. "That is really all we can do."
In other business, the Parks Commission discussed the ongoing Russell Field renovation project that although nearing completion, will not be finished until the spring.
Department of Public Works Director Robert Tober said because of weather conditions, the contractor was unable to finish the troublesome infield.
"They are not done with the infield yet. That is what it comes down to," he said. "They think they have to compact it and make it right."
The commission wanted to know if there was a timeline the contractor had to honor and members were concerned about field usage in the spring. Bird said if there is a softball season in the spring the leagues need to be able to plan ahead especially if Russell Field is unusable.
"I don't want to be in February getting field requests and not having some kind of answer," she said. "I want to be ahead of this."
The commission also asked the Office of Community Development to report back on the status of other smaller parts of the park renovation project.
Before closing, the commission said goodbye to longtime DPW Administrative Assistant Marilyn Kolis, who is retiring. Monday was her last night taking minutes for the commission.
"On behalf of the board I want to thank you for your service," Bird said. "I have known you quite a long time, and I want you to enjoy every minute of being able to do whatever you want when you wake up in the morning."
"When I first started on the Parks Commission she was the go-to person," Schutz said. "When you talk about getting stuff done behind the scenes I don't think enough parents and players know what she does to get our kids on the fields ... most of it is all her."
Kolis said her last day is Thursday.
"It's mixed emotions," she said. "I love you all and loved working with you but it's time. It has been a pleasure."
