|
The value of the wading pools, in addition to being a fun
place to spend a hot afternoon, is their proximity and convenience, which
results in a walkable destination for many families. If some of the pools
were closed (in my southwest neighborhood), we'd need to pack the kids in a car
and travel further. The cost of driving is not paid for by the Park Board,
but is shouldered by all of us as taxpayers (as recently debated in the Issues
List). Minneapolis' goal is to become a more walkable, transit oriented
(less car dependent) metropolis. This requires urban amenities within
walking distance for all residents. The City's parks are such an amenity
and should not be atrophied in a time of budget cuts. Perhaps
there is an in expensive way to collect a small fee ($1 per
visit) for the use of the pools.
Jeanne Massey
Kingfield
|
