by Katherine Preble
A shared commitment to creating safer and more accessible parks and trails for everyone in the city highlighted the Sept. 22 City of St. Joseph Park Board meeting.
The board’s commitment to providing attractive, well-maintained park space and trail systems that are safe and accessible to one and all was woven throughout the discussion led by Parks Director Rhonda Juell and Parks Board President Elijah Stenman. Safety was the overarching theme, highlighted by several key issues.
A significant portion of the discussion revolved around enhancing safety at Klinefelter Park. Concerns included that park’s inadequate lighting, especially during evening use. While the board wholeheartedly supports improved lighting, it was determined this project requires city council approval and further budgetary and neighborhood considerations. Adam Schnettler, who was present at the park-board meeting as a liaison of the Sartell City Council, contributed to the discussion.
A large portion of the meeting focused on the dangerous behavior of scooter, e-bike and dirt-bike riders within the park system. Board member Adam Rennecke spoke of his safety concerns, noting reckless vehicle use and stressing the need for increased safety measures. The board discussed bringing that matter to the city council’s attention with an intent to urge swift council action.
The topic of expanding access during inclement weather rounded out the evening’s business. Recognizing the need to provide safe, enjoyable park experiences year-round, the board engaged in a brainstorming session exploring possibilities for cold-weather activities and events. “Snowfest,” winter’s seasonal celebration, was reviewed for ways to ensure its success, even during inclement weather.
The park board’s dedication extends beyond the confines of the boardroom. Its members are committed to a hands-on approach, occasionally holding meetings within the parks themselves to gain a firsthand understanding of residents’ needs and concerns. Meetings are also held at the St. Joseph Government Center.
Those meetings are open to the public, held every fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Check the park board’s website for meeting locations, some of which might take place in one of our city parks. Upcoming events are also publicized in the Newsleaders.
These are just some of the rocks that adorn the edges of a section of the walking-biking path of St. Joseph’s Klinefelter Park. The cheerful, colorful rocks are meant to symbolize “Hope.”
