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Third‑grader's presentation prompts Roanoke to schedule Highland Park repairs
Summary
Third‑grader Jackson Gunter told council about broken playground equipment, a damaged fence and failing brick walkways at Highland Park; city staff confirmed orders for parts, scheduled fence work with Power Fencing and said brick repairs are being scoped, with the interactive panel cost under $5,000 to be split with schools.
Jackson Gunter, an eight‑year‑old third‑grader at Highland Park, presented photos to Roanoke City Council on Dec. 15 showing broken playground equipment, a damaged fence and crumbling brick walkways, and asked for litter signage, more trash cans and benches.
Mayor Cobb introduced Jackson and said the city had received his presentation; Deputy City Manager O'Brien reported back to council that the interactive panel part being replaced costs "right under $5,000" and that cost will be split with Roanoke City Public Schools. O'Brien said a volunteer clean‑up with more than 60 students had taken place in the fall, mulch had been added in November, fence replacement has been scheduled with contractor Power Fencing, and brick walkway repairs are being scoped although the disturbed bricks make the work a moving target.
Council members praised Jackson's civic engagement and several offered neighborhood association help for future cleanups and partnership with the schools and Parks & Recreation. No formal council vote or appropriation was made at the meeting; staff said they had already sent Jackson's request to the city manager's office and would follow up on the repairs.
