(Atlantic, Iowa) – A handful of citizens turned-out during the Atlantic Parks and Recreation Department Board of Director’s meeting, to voice their concerns over the possible dismantling of the elected Parks Board. The Atlantic City Council will take up the matter during their meeting Wednesday evening, at City Hall. Atlantic resident Vicki Nordskog was the first to speak during the public forum, Monday evening. She voiced her opposition to the proposed elimination of the Parks Director’s job, and the Parks Board.

Cathy Booth has lived in Atlantic for 55-years. She praised the Board for their efforts and diligence.

She said solutions to the issues leading to the proposed dissolving of the Board should be made with input from the public. LaVon Eblen was the final person to address the Board. She said her concern is that the Board will be divided.

Parks Board member Jeremy Butler said the Board was informed of the proposed changes, but they were not a part of the discussion. He said also, the Board doesn’t have a say in the outcome, and they can’t vote to dissolve the Board. Atlantic Mayor Grace Garrett spoke during the Parks and Rec Board meeting, Monday. She said, with regard to a recommendation on the proposed future plans for the Department, it’s anticipated the Council will elect not to replace the Director’s position at this time.

She said also, Assistant Parks Director Jeff Christensen’s job title will change to “Coordinator,” and he will report to Public Works Director Kirk Knudsen.

Garrett said there is a balancing act between having nice, maintained amenities, economic development and code enforcement.

If the Council decides to proceed the disbanding the Parks and Rec Board, the process doesn’t end, Wednesday. As previously mentioned, there would be a public hearing on August 2nd, followed by the first reading of the ordinance within 30 days, and a second and third reading. One suggestion coming out of Monday’s Park Board meeting, was to have an “Advisory Board,” and a newly formed group called “Friends of the Parks,” who are passionate about the City’s parks. That group could be comprised of appointed representatives from various organizations (Like the Master Gardeners, Nishna Valley Trails and others), who would not be elected.

Assistant Parks Director Jeff Christensen said a “Friends” group could be instrumental in helping with various program, including Summer Recreation.