Plymouth Park Board deals with AC outage, hears request for memorial sign, and learns of new story walk

The Plymouth Park Board met Monday, July 6th, for its monthly meeting, addressing a recent office air conditioning failure, a donor's request for a memorial sign, and the addition of a new Story Walk in River Park Square.

Park Superintendent Mike Hite informed the board that the air conditioning unit in the main park office went out nearly two weeks ago, leaving staff working in temperatures reaching the mid to upper 80s — including during last week's stretch of extreme heat. It took over a week to secure a replacement unit. Hite reported that the AC has since been replaced and office temperatures are back to normal.

The board also heard from Jud Rouch, who donated two small lots at the end of South Plum Street along the Yellow River to the City of Plymouth and the Park Department in October 2023. Rouch made the donation in memory of his late wife, Betty Jean Rouch, with the hope that the city would create a canoe launch, fishing spot, or small park at the location. He also requested a sign honoring his wife's memory.

While the Park Department placed a metal sign at the site, Rouch had envisioned a wooden carved sign similar to those found in Indiana state parks. The Park Board took his request under consideration.

Board members were also informed about a new Story Walk in River Park Square, provided by the Plymouth Public Library. The current story ties in with the America 250 celebration. It is the library's second Story Walk in Plymouth — the first is located near the Young Amphitheater off Randolph Street.