Barrow's Comments Undeserved

In the Tribune article mentioned earlier about Cunningham Road, I have some concerns over comments made by City P&Z Chairman Jeff Barrow. As noted in the 10/26/08 article, Mr. Barrow voiced support for removing Cunningham from the City's long range road plan and for leaving the park in a natural state. The park land was donated by the Garland Russell family and is commonly known as Bonnie View Park.

"This is a remarkable opportunity for the city," Barrow said. "We need to keep an eye on the parks and rec. That profession wants to meet multiple uses and turn everything into something they can take to a conference. I don’t want to disparage them for that ambition, … but there is a chance for a natural park, a natural animal center, where people are just visitors. I think it would be appropriate to remove a" planned "road running through it." (Tribune, 10/26/08)

What Mr. Barrow probably didn't know was that our department had conducted multiple planning meetings, including a detailed citizen survey to develop four park master plan options for the development of the Bonnie View Park. All development options call for the park to remain fairly natural keeping with the intent and desires of the Russell family, citizen survey results and public meeting comments. Park master plans may be seen at the Russell/Bonnie View Park website.

For Mr. Barrow to imply that our department just wants to turn everything into a "conference" showcase is completely out of line. We take pride in our efforts to solicit public input in all of our park master plans. When tax dollars are used for park purposes, we feel that it is important to meet the needs of the citizens. Leaving the park untamed with no development would mean that the park becomes just a backyard extension for those that live adjacent or near the park. We also recognize the importance of meeting the needs of special interest groups such as the various athletic leagues and environmental organizations. There has to be a balance between the "flatten it for fields" groups and the "tree hugger" groups that want it left untamed.

All four park master plan options call for a natural park, yet they provide enough developed areas to allow all Columbians a chance to visit the park. We're glad that Mr. Barrow is keeping an eye out for us but just wish he would pay closer attention to what we actually do. Maybe then he won't feel the need to disparage us in the Tribune.