My name is Victoria Carrington and I am a concerned resident of Selden, NY. Since moving here in 2016, I've come to cherish the community as well as its shared spaces - especially Magnolia Park. Recently, I became a mother to my daughter and envision her growing up and playing on the park's playground with other children as my step children do to this very day.

Magnolia Park is more than just a park; it's where our community comes together! It's where friendships are formed on its playground, where families celebrate milestones at its picnic tables, and where children learn about nature firsthand.

However, our beloved park faces threats that could change its character forever! Last night we (the residents and tax payers of Selden, N.Y.) received a letter that states "After a thorough analysis (one of which no one was provided data) by the Town's Parks Department and Environmental staff, we have decided to remove all playground equipment from Magnolia Park..." The town has decided to, yet again, take action and strip our park of its playground leaving an empty lot in our development without option of a residential vote. I fear that taking away our communities playground will result in an increase in criminal activity and drug use. We must act now to ensure that future generations can enjoy this precious space as we have!

Parks with playgrounds not only provide recreational opportunities but also contribute significantly to local economies by increasing property values and attracting businesses. -(Trust for Public Land). According to an Article made by Newsday, November 21 2021, Magnolia Park is one of the many reasons to why property values have increased, drawing in starter families to want to move to our community. This article was headlined with an image of Magnolia Parks playground specifically! Furthermore, studies show that access to playgrounds with green spaces improves mental health (American Journal of Preventive Medicine).

We urge the town of Brookhaven to prioritize preserving Magnolia Park in its current state. I am appalled that our towns councilman could consider that leaving an abanonded/unmaintained lot in our neighborhood and slapping the name "nature persevere" on it would be beneficial to our community. If residents are concerned about issues within the park then let us work together towards a sustainable development that respects both our needs today and those of future generations!

Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving Magnolia Park playground for our children and grandchildren. Don't let our town officials take anything else from us!! 

Feel free to contact our Town councilman, Neil A. Manzella (631)451-6647 or CouncilmanManzella@brookhavenNy.Gov in regards to this subject. LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD!