BOONE, Iowa—The Boone Park Commission expressed disappointment Thursday evening for not be included in the announcement that McHose Park was being considered as a potential site for a proposed recreational center. The topic was added to the Park Commission Agenda for their special meeting set to discuss applications that had been received for the Parks Director and Urban Forestry position, but the majority of the time was centered on Monday’s announcement at the Boone City Council meeting. City Administrator Bill Skare told the Commission that Monday was the first time the Council had been told about a potential site, which came up as the result of the sale of property in downtown Boone that had initially been considered for a Recreational Wellness Center Project. Chad Houston submitted a letter to the Parks Commission apologizing for not communicating the interest in McHose Park as a potential site. Houston is part of a citizens group that is supporting a multi-phased effort to improve and enhance recreational opportunities locally. City Attorney Jim Robbins told the Commission that he is just beginning the research of information about the donation of the land to the city by J.B. McHose to see if there are any restrictions that would remove the site from consideration. A motion to oppose the construction of any facility in McHose Park was made by April Burch and seconded by Emily Cole but failed on a 2-3 vote. Cole and Commission member Kevin Pearson will be serving as Park Commission representatives at future meetings considering the site. The matter is next expected to be on the agenda at the Boone City Council meeting on November 21st.
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