VERMILION– The Vermilion Parks & Recreation Board met on September 16, 2025, to review upcoming events, park improvements, and community projects. Chair Tina Swinehart presided, with members Liz Elden, Connie Laughlin, Phil Dombrowski, and Karen Viterna present. Mayor Jim Forthofer, Recreation Director Chad Kuhns, and Parks Operations Manager Marc Weisenberger also attended.
Vermilion Lighthouse Named to America 250 Trail
Main Street Vermilion Executive Director Kate Repola announced the Vermilion Lighthouse is now an official stop on the America 250 Ohio Lake Erie to Ohio River Trail, part of the state’s celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The lighthouse joins more than 150 sites across Ohio highlighting the historic role of waterways in shaping communities.
Showse Park Little Free Library
The board heard from Marilyn Brill of the Brownhelm Historical Society, who partnered with the Vermilion Kiwanis Club to install a Little Free Library at Showse Park. The design will replicate the Vermilion-on-the-Lake Clubhouse and include Adirondack chairs and a picnic table. Completion is expected in spring 2026, with maintenance provided by the Kiwanis Club.
Event Approvals
- Ice A Fair 2026 was approved for February 7–8 at multiple downtown parks.
- Market in the Park 2026 received approval for nine dates in July and August at Victory Park, including a possible July 4 market day.
Parks and Recreation Updates
- Recreation Director Chad Kuhns reported a record turnout of about 90 children in Vermilion Youth Football, with games hosted at Varsity Stadium.
- Parks Operations Manager Marc Weisenberger detailed trail maintenance at Sherod Park, ongoing security camera and AED installations, pool winterization, and new playground work. He requested $45,000 from the city’s capital fund for access improvements and civil work at Showse Park, which the board approved unanimously.
Subcommittee Highlights
- Showse Park Revitalization: Final engineering plans for the Veteran’s Memorial Plaza and ADA-compliant walkways are complete. Installation of benches, lighting, cameras, and sports court resurfacing is underway.
- Community Pool: Board member Karen Viterna reported the city pool is expected to break even financially this year, a first in many seasons, with a splash pad planned for 2026.
- Public Art: Fund the Fish campaign is progressing with a new buoy tree sculpture in development.
- Rotary Park: Cleanup completed; a final plan will be presented in October.
- Pickleball Courts: Courts are being used regularly, with rule signage and a paddle system on order.
Resident Concerns
Resident Helen Taft voiced safety concerns over the proximity of the playground to the new Veteran’s Memorial hardscape at Showse Park. Board members assured her that all plans meet ADA and safety requirements and agreed to review final layouts with residents before completion.
Next Meeting
The board adjourned after approving the $45,000 Showse Park allocation. The next meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Vermilion Municipal Complex.
Watch the full meeting here: Watch Meeting Here
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