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Resident objects to proposed caboose in Shawarma Park, cites cost and liability questions
Summary
Kelly Hall of the Saint Marys Heritage and Preservation Group criticized the group's caboose proposal for Shawarma Park, saying renovation costs, timelines and ongoing upkeep were not provided and raising concerns about removing a grant-funded fitness court without clear council approval.
Kelly Hall spoke at the public-comment period about the Saint Marys Heritage and Preservation Group's proposal to place a caboose in Shawarma Park. She commended the group's work but criticized the proposal's handling: she said the group had not presented renovation cost estimates or a timeframe and that the proposal included passing ownership and upkeep to the city without clarifying liability, security or maintenance costs.
Hall also raised concerns about the proposed removal of an existing fitness court (installed with grants and private donations) to make room for the caboose. She said the removal had not been voted on by council as previously stated and that donor/grant obligations (she cited Penn Highlands and other donors) needed to be considered before removing the facility.
Councilors responded by saying the fitness court had not been removed and that further research into costs and legal/maintenance responsibilities would be needed. Council discussion indicated the idea of a caboose remains under consideration but would require more details on funding, liability and donor communication before proceeding.
