Council has had enough of 'boarders' garbage

Published 1:04 pm Thursday, December 11, 2008

By Kevin Hanson

The Courier-Herald

Those who enjoy the newly-expanded skate facility at Dwight Garrett Park are in danger of being locked out - and it's all because of an apparent inability, or unwillingness, to put their garbage where it belongs.

Earlier this summer, the city of Enumclaw added components to the skate park, which is a favorite for skateboarders and those who prefer their stunts on bicycles.

Attendance at the park immediately jumped when the city added new components, but so did the problem with litter. Despite two trash cans at the site, garbage was typically strewn about the grounds. At one point, it was so bad city crews were dispatched to the skate park every morning to pick up trash.

Things have gotten better recently, according to John Keates, head of the city's Parks and Recreation Department. But the problem persists, and members of the Enumclaw City Council have taken notice.

The mess has been discussed at two council meetings and prompted some to wonder if shutting down the facility - temporarily, at least - will be necessary to send a message.

"If things don't get better, council could close it for a while, to make a point," Keates said.

Keates isn't keen on taking that drastic step, yet. He notes the problem has eased a bit. And he's scheduled a meeting with a group of skateboarders, hoping a direct appeal will start the ball rolling toward more cooperation.

Working from a list of 'boarders who helped with the design of the park expansion, Keates has invited a small group of young people to chat prior to the Aug. 19 meeting of the Enumclaw Parks Board. He plans to explain the city's concerns, ask the young park users for their help and let them know the potential consequences.

"We're trying to make them see the light," Keates said.

Kevin Hanson can be reached at khanson@cmg-northwest2.go-vip.net/courierherald