The Baxter Council approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute lease negotiations to reopen the old Baxter Park property.
Mayor Danny Holmes said the property owner, Janice Austin, requested the park be roped off until a formal lease agreement was established between her and the city.
“You know I’ve had, trust me, I’ve had a lot of calls on that Baxter Park, a lot of people uses that,” Holmes said. “And so I’m going to leave it here to the council to tell me what you want me to do.”
Holmes said the proposed agreement would allow the city to lease the park for $500 per year on a five-year interval. Holmes said the total cost for the initial five-year term would be $2,500, at which point both parties could decide whether to renew the lease.
“I’m all for keeping the parks,” Councilman Greg Phillips said. “I mean, I hate to see the park go.”
Holmes said the city does not intend to install new equipment on the property because the land is privately owned. Holmes said the park remains a popular destination for local students and residents who utilize the existing pavilions and picnic tables for the shade provided by the trees.
“I feel like that’s a big thing for the community,” Councilman Willie Allison said. “I feel like we need to, we need to pass this lease.”
Holmes said the city previously removed a boat from the playground area because it was considered dangerous. Holmes said the county has historically assisted the city with the maintenance of the park grounds.
“Our children use this and I feel like it’s,” Allison said. “I’m all, I feel like that’s a big thing for the community.”
The council also honored Allison during the meeting for his 16 years of service as he prepares to leave the board. Holmes said Allison was one of the council members who originally hired him as police chief in 2010.
