Parks board approves Mary Mary’s Miles 5K, equipment waiver for Gus Macker tournament

The Muncie Parks and Recreation Board approved two event requests on March 17: a permit for the Mary Mary’s Miles 5K at Westside Park and an equipment‑waiver request to support the Southside Neighborhood Association’s Gus Macker basketball tournament.

Parks staff said Mary Mary’s Miles is scheduled for Aug. 8, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., expects about 200 participants, has provided proof of insurance and requested use of two shelters and restroom access. Chair noted an existing restroom at the site is not ADA‑compliant and recommended offering one accessible portable toilet while asking the organizer to cover any additional portable‑toilet costs. The board moved to approve the event; members recorded ayes and the motion passed by voice.

The board also approved a request to borrow three sets of bleachers and folding tables and chairs for the Gus Macker tournament, and discussed an in‑kind sponsorship model (advertising recognition in exchange for equipment and fee waivers). Staff said other city departments are coordinating potential donations and sponsorship tiers worth roughly $1,000 in equipment value; the board approved the waiver and asked staff to confirm final logistics and any interdepartmental support.

Nikki, the parks programming lead, said summer internship hiring is underway: staff received 116 applicants for 50 internship slots and will hold interviews next week. She also previewed National Kids to the Park Day (May 16) and other summer programming being redesigned to respond to recent budget cuts.

The board instructed staff to finalize logistics, ensure ADA access at events, and return any fee‑waiver details or sponsorship documentation to the board if additional approvals are required.