Council_Minutes_1973_08_13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilman Baumgartner then presented the Council with a petition which had been presented to the Recreation Commission by Jackie Coplin and held the signatures of eight persons which live near Woodcrest Park. The petition requested a name change of Woodcrest Park to Nelson Memorial Park due to the recent tragedy of the death of the two Nelson boys. MS (Baumgartner- Johnson) To change the name of Woodcrest Park to Nelson Memorial Park. Mr. Robert Haake asked to be recognized and proceeded to state just why he was against such a change. He replied that he was not unsympathetic with the tragedy the family had to endure and when he first heard of the plan to change the name, he thought it was a good idea. But, on further thought he had changed his opinion. He believed that it would set a precedent and that the Council would have to face similar situations in the future which would involve the Council ii tryifig<to decide who was worthy of such a distinction. The parks had been named for the area in which they were located and he felt it was best to leave them with their original name. Mrs. Isabelle Willie, 7911 Spring Lake Road agreed with Mr. Haake and suggested that instead of changing the name of the park why not make a memorial in the park such as dedicating a flag pole or some such thing. Mrs. Betty Wall, 5425 Quincy Street explained how they treated such things at Unity Hospital since she is a hospital board member. A plaque is placed in the chapel as a memorial. Mayor Neisen said that he had received some calls from people south of the park and they had stated that they were not against it, but they really weren't for it either. Mayor Neisen agreed that possibly some item could be dedicated to the Nelson boys since they had helped alot with the hockey rink in Woodcrest Park. It was then suggested by Mrs. Haake that possibly the hockey rink could be dedicated to the boys and naming it Nelson Rink. Mrs. Wall asked if the parents agreed to having the name of the park changed. Councilman Baumgartner stated that the parents had said if there was any opposition to drop the matter. Councilman Johnson asked for alternatives, and suggestions were those of naming the rink after the boys, dedicating a flag pole or drinking fountain with an engraved plaque attached. Councilman Baumgartner then withdrew his motion and Councilman Johnson with- drew his second. The issue was tabled until there could be further action agreeable to all. Councilman Pickar's Report At the Lakeside Park Commission meeting of July 26th the results of swimming registration were discussed. 283 children had registered for swimming this year. Thu Commission also voted to tie in with Spring Lake Park High School when looking for a life guard. Councilman Pickar said the price was right as they were doing it free. Mayor Neisen stated he received some calls on disturbances by groups of