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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 in trying 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. The 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