Charlton Recreation Commission Defers Irrigation Vote, Flags Scorer's Tower as Safety Hazard

CHARLTON — May 19, 2026 — Charlton Recreation Commission defers irrigation vote, flags scorer's tower at Maynard Field as safety priority. At its May 19 meeting, the commission heard a report from grounds contact Nick that Economy Sprinkler assessed the dormant irrigation system at Allen Field and Little League Field — last used about eight years ago — and found it repairable for between $1,900 and $2,300 for both fields combined, with a $400 assessment already paid from the grounds maintenance budget. Members unanimously supported moving forward but stopped short of voting, saying they need to confirm the balance in a recreation reserve account with the town's finance director before committing funds. The commission also unanimously approved $660 in monthly port-o-potty bills from Slims covering three field locations. Members flagged the scorer's tower at Maynard Field as a more urgent concern, with one member saying the door was "busted" and open during a recent visit and describing the structure as dangerous enough that "somebody needs to say it's safe enough" before the August football season begins. The commission set its next meeting for June 8, when both the irrigation vote and a deferred board reorganization are expected to be on the agenda.