Vermilion Parks Board Seeks Ban on Fires at Public Beaches Amid Growing Safety Concerns

The Vermilion Parks & Recreation Board convened on April 15, 2025, for a meeting packed with significant votes, spirited debate, and community-driven initiatives. Chief among the topics: a growing concern over unauthorized fires on public beaches, which led the board to recommend a city-wide prohibition of beach bonfires.

Crackdown on Beach Fires

Fire Marshal Rodney Johnston addressed the board, citing a rising number of calls regarding illegal fires on the sand. He urged the board to formally recommend that Vermilion City Council amend Section 268.01(b)(2) of the city’s Codified Ordinances to clearly prohibit fires on all public beaches.

“The parks crew is left cleaning up after these fires, and there are real safety concerns,” Johnston said, noting that Ohio’s open burn laws also restrict burning during key months.

The board agreed unanimously, voting 5-0 to recommend the ordinance update. Chair Tina Swinehart emphasized the liability and cleanup burden associated with the fires, adding that existing signage already prohibits such activity. Council action is expected in the coming weeks.

Playground Project Moves Forward at Showse Park

The board approved two key funding motions totaling $70,000 to bring new playground equipment to Showse Park this season. Funds were reallocated from Sherod Park restroom reserves and capital funds after a detailed review by the Budget & Finance Subcommittee.

According to Parks Operations Director Marc Weisenberger, installation will take place later this year and is fully funded when combined with existing donations. The vote was unanimous.

Girl Scouts Approved for Lending Library Project

Girl Scout Troop 50768 presented their “Care-to-Share Recreational Lending Library” project—an interactive equipment-sharing station to be placed at Showse Park. The green-painted box, measuring 3’x3’x3’, will hold jump ropes, balls, frisbees, and more. Troop members committed to regular maintenance and long-term stewardship of the box, even after their troop disbands.

The board praised the presentation and approved the donation 5-0.

Community Events Approved

Two community use permits were approved:

Main Street Beach Dedication, May 18, 12–8 PM
Senior Sunset at Main Street Beach, May 27, 7–10 PM
(Note: Loud music limitations will remain in effect, as in previous years)

Summer Amenities and Facility Updates

Weisenberger gave a detailed update on seasonal prep efforts:

Main Street Beach Comfort Station: Scheduled to open by month’s end
Patio Construction: Ongoing in front of comfort station, aimed for May completion
Sherod Park Restroom: Installation projected for fall, aided by county grants
Pickleball Courts at Rotary Park: Blacktop completion expected by early summer, with full playability projected for late June or early July

The Vermilion High School track team also earned praise for their volunteer cleanup efforts across city parks, removing nearly 45 bags of debris and filling a 20-yard dumpster.

Pool Season and Sponsorship Campaign Underway

Board member Karen Viterna and Swinehart highlighted new efforts to promote the Vermilion Community Pool, including a QR-code Easter bubble giveaway and a push for local sponsorships. The board approved the campaign unanimously, and donors will be recognized with signage and banners.

Recreation Programming Director Proposal Debated

A proposal by John Ross to hire a part-time Recreation Programming Director (30 hours/week, $55K without benefits) prompted significant discussion. Ross argued that a dedicated staffer could expand programming beyond core youth sports and fill gaps left by volunteer-run initiatives. Others, including Recreation Director Chad Kuhns, expressed concern about redundancy, cost, and efficiency.

Kuhns noted that duties could be absorbed by existing staff like part-time assistant Laura Lawton, who currently works 10 hours/week in recreation. Swinehart and Viterna said more clarity was needed before moving forward. The matter was tabled for further review.

Contract with School District Nearing Expiration

Dr. David Hile noted the existing contract between the city and the Vermilion Local School District is set to expire at the end of December 2025. The board acknowledged the need to revisit the terms and clarify expectations going forward, particularly regarding joint programming and facility use.