By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
The proposed addition of a gazebo in one of Rochester’s municipal parks sparked a robust discussion when panelists put the plans under the microscope Monday night.
The village Plan Commission reviewed a proposal to construct a 15-foot hexagonal gazebo structure at Pioneer Park, the green space located at the southeast corner of East Main Street and South Front Street.
Village President Ed Chart, who also serves on the Plan Commission, is serving as the applicant of the planned project. Chart stepped away from the commissioners’ deliberations so there was not a conflict of interest.
Chart said the gazebo construction is inspired by a commemorative Memorial Day celebration planned in the village next year. But he said the structure, which will have an area of 262 square feet in width, will serve as a community facility as well.
“I’m hoping people will use it for their prom or wedding pictures,” Chart said. “It’s a really nice area.”
While commissioners were amenable to the idea of having a gazebo at the park, questions swirled around where specifically the structure would be placed at the site, the color scheme of the structure and whether lighting and other electrical features would be incorporated.
Questions on whether the structure itself should even be a gazebo also were raised during the discussion. During deliberations, several speakers asked if a different sloped roof would be more practical.
Commissioners’ reviews of the plans also went down to a granular level. Several members inquired how people would be able to use the gazebo, once it is functional.
“I think it’s a public place, and it should be that way,” commissioner Patricia Gerber commented. “First come, first served.”
Trustee Mike Weinkauf, who chairs the Plan Commission, said he feared the gazebo could be used for purposes other than those outlined in the proposal.
“I’m afraid it’s going to be a great place to clean your fish and throw your garbage and maybe even use as another toilet,” Weinkauf said.
Pioneer Park is situated along the Fox River and is known as a popular fishing spot.
Trustee Mark Tamblyn suggested commissioners table the request for a month to think through all of the components of the plan.
“I like it, but it has to be simple,” Tamblyn said.
In the end, however, commissioners backed the gazebo plans as they were presented. The details will be forwarded on to the full Village Board this coming Monday, Aug. 10, for further deliberation and action.
Chart said so-called park impact fees — a financial levy placed upon new construction — would be used to fund the purchase and installation of the gazebo. Taxpayer dollar, he said, would not go directly toward the project.
If all goes as planned, Chart said he would like to begin working on the gazebo before this winter.
“As far as the construction part, I’m hoping to have this all buttoned up in three days,” he said. “I don’t want it to be May 15 (next year) and have us pounding nails in.”
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