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Volunteers and nonprofits urge council not to cut parks; group seeks support for women's memorial
Summary
Multiple speakers urged the council to protect parks funding and support local projects: Cheryl Anderson highlighted 5,212 Butterfly House visitors last year; Lisa Arnold described fundraising for a Women's Memorial Monument with a hoped unveiling in 2028.
Speakers during citizens input asked council to resist cuts to parks and to support volunteer‑led attractions.
Cheryl Anderson, manager of the Tom Allen Butterfly House and president of a local wildlife group, said the Butterfly House served about "5,212" visitors last year and described parks as essential to residents' mental and physical health. "People need nature," she said, urging the council to avoid cutting parks and recreation budgets.
Lisa Arnold, a 28‑year combat veteran and president of Sisters in Arms of Cape Coral, asked for council support for a proposed Women's Memorial Monument at Ecological Preserve Park and said she hopes for an unveiling in 2028. Council members acknowledged the projects; Council member Lastra said she has met with Ms. Arnold and expressed support and willingness to consider donations and other assistance.
The council said it is still working on the budget and options to avoid service cuts, including reviewing unfilled positions and interest income, and encouraged residents to stay engaged as staff develops proposals.
