• Commercial Developers approached the City of Webster City to buy East Twin Park. They believe this is the perfect location for a new Dollar General. The current DG store is on a lease and they don't really want that building. The City offered other options, but the Developers did not budge. They were willing to pay a little extra for the land in East Twin Park.
• The City Council seems to be in support of this project because:
  
  • Will add to their tax base
  • Are hoping that one or two additional development projects will come of it.
  • This park is located in prime commercial zoning
  • This park is underutilized (according to their opinions but no actual facts have been presented to support this view)
• However, it is important to note that:
  • East Twin Park is parallel to West Twin Park
  • It houses a skate park
  • Offers a small shelter
  • Has a BMX Bicycle Dirt Track
  • Has a basketball court (that's old and in need of repair)
  • Has swings in a sanded, playground area
  • Picnic areas
  • Webster City has 9 parks
• While it is true that this park needs some work, it should not be the case that we get rid of it simply because a commercial developer wants this land.
  • This land belongs to the people and should be the case that the people of Webster City make the choice.
• The City Council SHOULD NOT arbitrarily make the choice to sell the land WITHOUT taking in consideration the impact that selling this park would result in.
• Economic development is IMPORTANT, yes, but so is the well-being of the residents of Webster City.
• WC City Council should not take the small view that ANY business is good business. There are always consequences to actions, and taking off a park is something that SHOULD NEVER be taken lightly. Discussions with the residents should have been their NUMBER ONE priority.
• Furthermore, once this park is gone, it will be gone forever.
  • What park will be next? And then, can anyone with the right amount of money buy ANY park that they want?
• While I don't know the right answer, I propose that Webster City residents vote on this issue somehow. I do not think is right for City Council to make this decision without really taken in consideration our opinions. I pay taxes and should have a say in how my city is managed.
  
  • There will be a meeting on Monday to discuss this, but it's starting to feel that the deal is basically done, which would be unfortunate and unfair.
  • Money isn't everything.

Disclosure:
I personally own property (my home) in Webster City and have a vested interest in seeing that all parks do well. I love the Webster City Parks and are part of the Parks and Rec Commission.