Boating Access to Remain Open at Central Park During Study of Issue

The following is a copy of a letter sent by Highland Park Deputy City Manager Ghida Neukirch to the Park District regarding the question of boating access south of the water treatment plant:

This is a follow‐up to the Park District Board of Commissioners meeting on September 23, 2014 and our conversation last week. The City is committed to maintaining public access to the south beach property at Central Park. Although it is best to enter into a formal lease arrangement as soon as possible, because the Park District’s Boating Task Force is anticipated to begin meeting in late October or early November, we will refrain from drafting a lease extension until the Task Force has completed its review and recommendation.

The City will allow continued public access to the south beach area of Central Park while the Task Force conducts its meetings, subject to the provisions in this letter. It is our anticipation that the Task Force will conclude its work by April, 2015.

In the interim, the City’s staff has identified the following provisions for use of the south beach area:

1. Public access will remain accessible to the south beach area as permitted by Park District

2. The Police Department must have access to the structures on the premises at any time if there is a security concern

Again, we are committed to allowing continued public access to the south beach. We look forward to working with the Park District officials, staff, and residents on the Task Force. As always, we look forward to your feedback and recommendations so we can explore solutions that meet the needs of our community including enhancing security at the Water Plant.

Should you have any questions or concerns with the bullet points noted herein, please contact me. We look forward to receiving information from you when the Task Force agenda is developed and a meeting is set.