Southgate board reopens Garish Walkway question, approves multiple facility purchases

The Southgate Community School District Board of Education on Aug. 12 agreed to reopen discussion of the Garish Walkway and directed staff to gather pricing and city input, and it approved a set of routine facility and grounds purchases and school handbooks.

The action followed public comment from residents and two Southgate city council members urging the board to reverse a July 15 decision to rescind prior approval for the pathway. Board members voted to have staff return to the board at the next meeting with concrete and asphalt cost options and with outreach to city officials before the board considers an action item.

Resident Joseph Casper, speaking during public comment, appealed to the board to reconsider the rescission, saying the path "has become a real public asset" used by generations for walking, jogging and bicycling. City Councilman Ed Dollick and Councilwoman Karen George also told the board the community values the walkway; George said residents "do want it open."

Board member Dr. Pomponio told colleagues she had initially supported rescinding the prior…