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Commissioners discuss park incidents, tree programs and caution that parks are not driving ranges
Summary
A parks update described an incident where loose horses were safely captured and reminded residents parks are for general recreation—not golf practice. Commissioners also discussed Arbor Day plans, shifting 'tree talks' to fall and potential limited equestrian access under the 2040 plan.
A parks update announced the Park Board will meet Aug. 3 in the annex room and recounted a recent incident where loose horses in a park were safely handled by neighbors and officers. The speaker urged residents to enjoy the parks but avoid using them as a substitute for a driving range: "We do not have a city golf course... the park is not to be substituted for that," the speaker said, describing conflicts between golfers and other park users.
Commissioners also reviewed tree-board work and Arbor Day planning, with Commissioner Pippen noting Arbor Day is tentatively set for April 10 and the board plans to move some educational "tree talks" to the fall. The commission discussed, but did not change, the 2040 plan’s previous conclusions about equestrian use at Smith Park—members emphasized any revisit would be cautious and would not contemplate overnight boarding or a staffed horse facility.
