Perry County parks board votes to trial reopening of Eagle's Bluff while pursuing gate funding

The Perry County Parks Board voted to trial reopening Eagle's Bluff park 24 hours a day and monitor the site for two to three months while the board seeks funding for an electronic gate.

Speaker 1 moved to open the park "that we keep it open 24 7," and members discussed timing for the change and how to manage security and costs. Speaker 2 said the board had talked with county sheriff Dave Falkenberg and county police chief Lee Hall, who "agreed to have officers at night when they're up that direction" to check for overnight camping or parties. Speaker 3, who oversees field maintenance, said he had checked the park's solar lights and found them working and undamaged, reporting, "The solar lights are still functioning ... they're nice and bright, and then nobody's damaged and there's nothing missing."

Why it matters: Opening the park increases public access but also raises recurring operating costs and potential safety concerns. Board members flagged likely increases in utility and trash collection expenses and said the parks budget lacks funds to cover the extra overtime for the two‑person parks staff. Speaker 2 told the board a gate that can be timed would reduce staff trips and enforcement costs and called an electronic gate "a blessing." The board has applied to the county visitors bureau for a $15,000 contribution and received a contractor quote for gate installation of $14,309; the visitors bureau indicated it would consider a partial contribution and asked the parks board to identify other funding sources.

What the board approved and next steps: The board approved the immediate trial opening (members moved and seconded the motion and voted in favor). The group agreed to a trial review at the April meeting and discussed May 1 as an evaluation milestone; one member said, "By April 1, our meeting date in April, we should have some idea of what's going on." The board also asked staff to research riprap and slope stabilization at a steep section of Eagle's Bluff and to consult the county highway superintendent about materials and possible assistance.

Budget and operational details: During discussion Speaker 2 cited an annual figure of about $5,500 for water, sewer and electricity related to park operations as an example of recurring costs; another participant read a line from the budget as "$1.75" (as stated in the transcript). Board members characterized those budget figures as estimates and said the parks fund had required adjustments in prior years.

Security and signage: The board debated whether to take down or cover existing hour signs during the trial; staff offered to remove bolts and store the large sign if the board returns to earlier hours. Members said officers would "swing up" on routine patrols to check the park at night but did not assert any formal enforcement contract; Speakers cited Indiana statute arrest powers for sworn officers when discussing jurisdictional questions.

What remains unresolved: The gate installation depends on securing additional funds; the visitors bureau indicated partial support but not full funding. Exact projected increases in trash collection and utility costs were discussed but not finalized; the board asked staff to provide tighter estimates for the April review.