During a recent city council meeting, community concerns regarding public safety and recreational amenities were brought to the forefront. Acting City Manager Dan Reese opened the session by acknowledging feedback from resident Colette Guyette Hempel, who expressed gratitude for the police and fire departments' response to a recent dog attack. She proposed that referendum questions be placed on the November ballot to garner citizen support for a new fire station and enhancements to the community center, including the addition of a pool and gym facilities.

Hempel emphasized the importance of recreational spaces, stating that a community pool would greatly benefit residents and called for opportunities for swimming lessons and lifeguard training. She also highlighted a troubling incident at Noble Sports Park, where gunfire erupted during a gathering of approximately 400 youths, underscoring the need for more structured activities for young people in Brooklyn Park.

In her remarks, Hempel urged the city to hold the Osseo School District accountable for the lack of after-school programs, which she believes negatively impacts student attendance and community safety. She stressed the necessity of providing safe spaces for youth and called for community engagement in planning future initiatives, suggesting that referendums may need to be considered as early as next spring to meet Hennepin County's ballot measure deadlines.

The meeting concluded with a call for further public input, as the city council seeks to address these pressing community issues.