| COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ADVISORY For Immediate Release: July 12, 2011 For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 |
Councilmember Klein Takes Steps to Increase
Safety at Columbus Parks
(Columbus)-- Columbus City Council will soon consider legislation that will make parks and properties surrounding parks safer places for families and residents. Currently, parks facilities are closed from 11:00 pm to 7:00 am, with the exception of those wishing to fish in city owned ponds. City Councilmembers are interested in crafting code that all requires all city parks will be closed to public, regardless of activity, during the same hours, unless written permission is granted from the parks director. Zach Klein, chair of the Recreation and Parks Committee, will discuss proposed changes during his committee meeting Wednesday, July 13 at 5:30 pm.
“These changes will create a clearer definition of when our parks are open to the public,” said Councilmember Klein. “The current rules are ambiguous and create situations that negatively impact our parks system and the ability of our residents to enjoy programming Recreation and Parks Department has to offer the community.”
The proposed changes are also in response to an increasing problem at city owned ponds, the large scale harvesting of fish in nets and buckets for commercial purposes. This leads to a depleted fish stock, an unbalanced ecosystem, and loss of a recreational activity for residents of all ages. The legislation being discussed, 1065-2011, will ensure that fishing can still be done early in the morning and late at night in reservoirs, creeks and rivers; but parks with smaller bodies of water, like ponds, will be closed except upon written approval by the director.
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