LOCKPORT — Planning for a busy summer season at Riverview Park and the township boat launch took top spot in discussion during the Woodward Township Board of Supervisors meeting on June 16, as officials finalized arrangements for several major annual events — and a few new ones expected to draw visitors to the area.

Supervisors approved requests for use of township facilities and provided updates on Riverfest, the National Canoe and Kayak Championships and the annual Labor Day Regatta.

The board approved a request from the West Branch Susquehanna River Regatta Association to utilize the boat launch and park areas for the Labor Day Regatta, scheduled for Sept. 4-7. Supervisor Kyle Coleman noted the request is a yearly formality and has become a staple event along the river.

Supervisors also approved a request from the YMCA gymnastics team to reserve pavilion No. 3 at Riverview Park for a cornhole tournament on Aug. 1.

Officials noted the event will be taking place at the same time as the garden paw market, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; however, supervisors are hopeful the events will complement each other and additional activities planned at the park that weekend and potentially attract additional visitors.

Much of the evening’s recreation report centered on preparations for Riverfest, which township officials said continues to grow.

Recreation Committee members reported that planning is underway for vendors, entertainment and event logistics, including the sale of Duck Derby tickets.

One of the biggest attractions this year will be the return of Jet Ski racing during the festival.

“The Jet Ski racers will be coming this year again, and they’re going to do the races during our Riverfest event,” Coleman said. “We’re hoping that’s going to bring more people in and be a new attraction during Riverfest.”

Last year’s Jet Ski event filled the large parking lot at the boat launch, an area that is typically heavily used during Riverfest. To address anticipated crowds, the township is considering using nearby grassy areas for overflow parking and may seek assistance with traffic control and parking operations.

Riverfest serves as a joint fundraising event for the township recreation program and the Dunnstown Fire Company, which operates a food stand during the festival.

The board also met with organizers Deb Glover and Jeff Snyder, of the National Canoe and Kayak Championships, which will be held Aug. 6-9.

According to Glover, Aug. 6 will feature youth competitions, while adult marathon races will take place Aug. 7-9. The marathon course will begin at the township boat launch and travel upriver, covering approximately 13.5 miles over two laps.

Glover reported that several campers have already reserved sites at Riverview Park and requested permission to use the same camping area utilized during previous championships.

“We’re excited about the fact that they’re still able to stay there next to their boats,” she said regarding competitors camping at the park.

Additional portable restrooms will be placed at the site, and township officials agreed to provide access to electricity and ensure restroom supplies and garbage service are maintained throughout the event.

Glover also requested permission to begin setting up vendors Tuesday, Aug. 4, before the competition begins, to accommodate registration activities and public events leading up to the races.

Supervisors encouraged organizers to communicate any additional needs as the event approaches.

In other recreation-related business, progress on repairs to the township’s pickleball courts after winter vandalism damaged the playing surface was reported. The township has secured materials needed to repaint the courts and is evaluating drainage improvements after water began collecting between the two courts.

Supervisors said they intend to meet on-site with contractors and township employees before determining the final repair plan.

Residents also discussed park operations during public comment.

One resident questioned whether the township receives revenue from events held at Riverview Park and the boat launch.

Coleman explained that, while nonprofit organizations are generally permitted to use the facilities without charge, pavilion rentals for private events carry fees and organizations using township property must provide proof of insurance.

Supervisors shared they are hopeful that by allowing nonprofit events to use the facilities at no cost, it will help promote the township and can strengthen partnerships when seeking grants and outside funding for recreation projects.

With multiple river-related events, tournaments and community gatherings planned throughout the summer, supervisors said Riverview Park and the township boat launch are expected to remain active destinations for residents and visitors alike.

Additionally, in one of the meeting’s most significant announcements, Woodward Township Police Chief Stephen Falotico informed supervisors he will retire effective July 31 after a 40-year law enforcement career, including 17 years serving the township.

“When I first started my law enforcement career here at Woodward Township, I never imagined my journey would span 40 years between two departments (Lock Haven and Woodward),” Falotico wrote in a letter to supervisors.

Falotico thanked current and former supervisors, township employees and residents for their support throughout his career.

“It was an honor and a privilege to serve the people of this community,” he said.

Coleman praised Falotico’s service, saying the township appreciated everything he had done for the community.

In other business, supervisors:

— Provided an update on a burned structure on South Allegheny Street. Township Solicitor Tom Rosamilia reported that notice had been sent to Rocket Mortgage regarding the property and will reach the 30 day response limit.

— Voted to continue the process of amending township ordinances involving small accessory sheds. The proposed shed amendment would reduce the need for property owners to seek zoning variances for smaller storage buildings with a 2-foot setback.

— Voted to continue the process of amending township ordinances involving institutional residences. The proposed update will remove institutional residences and/or group homes from low-density residential areas.