During a recent Southport government meeting, community members voiced strong opinions regarding the proposed location for a playground designed for disabled children at Taylor Field. Susan Dieterle, a special education veteran, expressed concerns about the unpredictability of children with disabilities in potentially chaotic environments, urging officials to reconsider the site for safety reasons. She emphasized the need for a calmer location to prevent distress for both children and their families.

Peggy Poppers, president of Downtown Southport, highlighted the contributions of her organization, DSI, which has invested over $200,000 in community improvements since 2007. However, she noted a recent shift in public sentiment, with some residents blaming DSI for the deteriorating condition of Franklin Square Park, despite its long history of maintenance challenges.

Several residents, including Becky Bowles and Janine Browning, echoed Dieterle's sentiments, advocating for alternative locations for the playground. They suggested parks with more space and better facilities, such as Smithfield District Park, which they believe would serve the community more effectively. Elaine McBride and Pam Rainey also stressed the importance of preserving open spaces for recreational activities, arguing that Taylor Field should remain a field for community use.

Karen Boyan raised concerns about the practicality of maintaining the proposed playground, questioning the long-term financial implications for the city. She suggested exploring partnerships with surrounding cities to find a more suitable location for the playground that would benefit all of Brunswick County.

The meeting underscored a community divided over the future of Taylor Field, with many advocating for a thoughtful approach to the playground's location that considers both the needs of disabled children and the preservation of community spaces. As discussions continue, residents are eager for a citizens' workshop to further address these concerns and explore viable solutions.