Madison Beach Commission Reviews Surf Club Planning, July 4 Pass Sales Changes

MADISON, CT — The Madison Beach and Recreation Commission earlier this month reviewed the town’s athletic field use policy, received an update on the Surf Club Master Plan and discussed several items tied to the upcoming summer season. The meeting was held May 5 at the Madison Senior Center Conference Room.

Commission members present were Ed O’Malley, Randy Howe, John Konstantino and Sue Lutz, according to the meeting record. Mark Steffen was absent. Also in attendance were Bruce Wilson of the Board of Selectmen and Austin Hall, director of beach, recreation and senior services.

During public comment, the commission recognized the passing of Joe Oslander, identified in the record as the longtime chair of the Rockland Park Commission. Members reflected on his leadership and contributions to Madison and said Rockland Preserve would not have become what it is today without his dedication and vision.

Under new business, the commission reviewed the current athletic field use policy. There was not a vote on that item.

The commission also received an update on the Surf Club Master Plan process. According to the meeting record, the consultant is meeting with the Board of Selectmen and Beach and Recreation staff to gather additional input. A special meeting is scheduled for May 20 at 7 p.m. to review potential plan concepts and options.

As part of summer beach season updates, the commission reviewed plans and scheduling for town beaches ahead of Memorial Day and the peak summer period. Residents were reminded that beach passes will not be sold at the park during the July 4 holiday period from July 2 through July 5. The meeting record states that residents are encouraged to buy passes in advance online or in person before the holiday weekend.

The commission also reviewed plans for a Madison Bicentennial event at Garvan Point at the Surf Club. According to the meeting record, the celebration will include food trucks and live music on June 27 from 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A rain date of June 28, 2026, was also announced.

In another summer-related item, the commission reviewed merchandise plans for the Surf Club store. No vote was listed in the meeting record.

Hall also reported that an additional automated external defibrillator, or AED, was donated by Defibtech and installed at the tennis and pickleball courts. The commission expressed appreciation to Defibtech for the donation.