The Atlantic Parks and Recreation Department received a $150 donation during their meeting, Monday evening. The funds were presented by Brad Rasmussen, the father of Parks and Rec Director Bryant Rasmussen. Brad Rasmussen said he’s a member of a local “Birthday Club,” and when it came time to direct the funds he received, he said “Sometimes I send it to the Alzheimers Association, because my mom died from that. This time I chose the Atlantic Parks and Recreation.”

He said if possible, he would like to see the money used for two swings at Mollet Park on the east side of East 3rd Street Place, in Atlantic, where there are two baby swings, but none for the older kids. Any leftover funds could be used to purchase native plants. The Board was grateful for his donation.

In his report to the Board, Bryant Rasmussen said an engineer from the playground equipment manufacturer will be in town July 31st to oversee the construction of the west playground equipment at the Schildberg Recreation Area (SRA). It’s hoped volunteers will assemble the equipment August 1st, weather permitting. The construction was put-off earlier this year due to the wet weather.

Rasmussen said construction of the bathhouse at the SRA was also delayed by the wet weather, but now that it’s being more cooperative, the walls and other features have been erected or installed, but there’s still some work to be completed. Work on the dock at SRA is being discussed to make the best possible, cost-effect plan. The dock was ripped up from its mooring during the flood earlier this year.

As for the East Ridge Park washout, a bridge constructed by Rasmussen has been installed over the culvert, and accessible to pedestrian traffic. With regard to the Bull Creek Pathway, the parks department has been working with the Street Department, to address a washout just north of 14th Street, but that likely won’t take place until after RAGBRAI. Rasmussen said they’ve planted native plants along a portion of the creek to help prevent erosion and look more attractive. Rip-rap has also been installed to prevent washouts. And, artwork has been added as a feature along the pathway, thanks to Brad Rasmussen. At Nishna Park, crews have been working on the wetlands area for bioswells, thanks to a Water Quality Grant. The goal is to control the flow of water turning periods of heavy rain.

In other business, Bryant Rasmussen said numerous incidents of vandalism at the City Park restroom in downtown Atlantic have him considering closing the restrooms at night. The incidents include an adult diaper being set on fire in the restroom, feces smeared on the walls, and more. The Board suggested Rasmussen speak with Police Chief Dave Erickson about having officers lock the doors at night.

And, Sunnyside Pool in Atlantic will be closing August 10th, due to a lack of available life guards. Rasmussen said memberships and passes to the pool will be honored at the Nishna Valley YMCA.