MCDONALD — Village officials are planning to renovate and improve Woodland Park, the community’s central recreational space.

Mayor Ray Lewis said as part of the effort, the village will focus on upgrading the park’s basketball, tennis and pickleball courts with new surfacing, painting and equipment through an application to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources NatureWorks Program.

In addition to physical improvements, Lewis said officials are exploring the creation of structured sports programming during the summer months.

Lewis said potential offerings include youth skills camps, competitive tournaments, and health and wellness education.

“These programs would build on our existing partnerships to offer engaging and meaningful opportunities for residents of all ages,” he said.

Lewis said he and other McDonald officials recognize that for many families, access to summer programs and camps can be cost-prohibitive, so through investing in Woodland Park, McDonald intends to utilize the space to include and engage residents of all ages.

“We believe these improvements will help enhance quality of life for our residents and make McDonald an even better place to live, play, and raise a family,” he said.

Residents are invited to share their questions, ideas or concerns to help the village move forward with the initiative.

“Community engagement is paramount to McDonald’s ability to strategically pursue improvements in the interest of residents of the village. Your input is valued and appreciated as we work to strengthen our community together,” Lewis said.

The public comment period will be open until Wednesday. Residents can contact the village offices at 330-530-5472 or mcdoffice@zoominternet.net.

In other business this week at the Wednesday meeting, council:

•Hired Alexander Williams as a new firefighter.

•Gave second reading to placing a renewal of the 1.5 mil, five-year tax levy on the November general election ballot to generate $28,000 for the general fund. The levy generates funds set in 1977 with no increase in taxes.

•Passed a resolution to seek financial institutions to serve as active depositors.