South Street Park meeting tomorrow
By KATHRYN MARTINEZ news1@kilgorenewsherald.com

"We need to know what the residents want in the city's parks," Joe T. Parker, Kilgore mayor, said about a public meeting scheduled Saturday morning, to discuss the future of South Street Park. "The question is 'Do they want us to improve the park, or leave it alone?'."

Parker said Kilgore City Council has been discussing the future of South Street Park for years and now seeks direction from inhabitants of the area surrounding the park.

Rev. Alvin Mayfield, Bates Street resident and Martin Luther King Street business owner, said he would certainly like to see the park improved.

"This is a thriving community and some park improvements are needed," Mayfield said. "I can remember when that park was always full of children, now it is over grown and the playground is void of children."

Mayfield said as long as the park is run down, residents do not want their children to play at South Street Park.

"A lot goes on there and the police are often called out there to resolve the situations that arise, or to run off those who do not belong there."

Some park improvements slated for discussion include clearing lots, better lighting the park and adding restrooms.

Mike Green, director of community services, said the city has had a surplus of playground equipment stored behind city hall for approximately two years.

"We would like to see it put to use," Green said. "There is no use in buying this equipment and letting it sit unused."

Another topic of discussion is the possible addition of a spray park.

The meeting is scheduled 9 a.m. Saturday at South Street Park Community Building, located at 1003 Martin Luther King Street. +