What do you think?
The Lions Club wants to know the public’s thoughts on establishing a park at Browns Point in Pictou
A local group hoping to build a park in Pictou wants to know if the public really wants it. Peter Boyles of the Pictou and Area Lions Club said the club will host an open house Saturday, Aug. 12, from 10 a.m. and noon at the quarry pond to gauge public interest in such a park being established within town limits. “We are asking anyone who is interested in having this turned into a park,” he said, adding if a large crowd does turn out to the open house, it will proceed with its plans, but if there is not much interest, it will not continue with its plans. The club’s plan is to enhance the property by adding a walkway all around the pond, benches and tables, barbecues and electric service. It would also like to plant a variety of greenery. It is also interested in hearing from other non-profit groups that might be able to make use of the park for its own needs. Currently the local archery club has a section set up for its use. The club wants to enter a 10year lease with the town for the property and if this is agreed upon, the club will start applying for grant money to help with the upgrades. The town had expressed concerns in the past about insurance issues and being able to use the land in the future if a commercial development opportunity comes along, so it drafted a set of conditions it feels covers all these issues. It has stipulated that the lease would also roll over from year to year unless either group gives 90 days’ notice to end the agreement. Boyles said earlier this spring that local businesses and nonprofit groups have already come forward wanting to support the project. The park would also be accessible for people with disabilities. “If we get a small turnout, we will back away because the people don’t want it,” he said. He said there will be book for people to sign to show their support and where they live in the county. The Lions Club is hoping there will be a strong presence from Pictou West at the open house meeting. “We are saying to the people, ‘if you want it, show us. If you don’t want it, we will walk away and there won’t be anything else done.”