Benton to Decide Fate of Habitat Park
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Updated: December 3, 2012
The Benton City Parks Committee is slated to figure out Monday night what it will do about a small park that is not within federal guidelines for accommodating handicapped people.
At issue: Habitat Park.
A volunteer last year with Habitat for Humanity of Saline County spearheaded the effort to build the park which includes a playground for children and families who live in nearby houses built by the non-profit group.
The problem is that is lacks wheelchair ramps, handicapped parking spaces and has a wood chip ground covering.
In a letter to the committee, the city attorney raised his concerns the city could get sued if the park is not within standards set for by the Americans With Disabilities Act.
The committee must decide whether it will require the local Habitat for Humanity chapter to make the changes.
At issue: Habitat Park.
A volunteer last year with Habitat for Humanity of Saline County spearheaded the effort to build the park which includes a playground for children and families who live in nearby houses built by the non-profit group.
The problem is that is lacks wheelchair ramps, handicapped parking spaces and has a wood chip ground covering.
In a letter to the committee, the city attorney raised his concerns the city could get sued if the park is not within standards set for by the Americans With Disabilities Act.
The committee must decide whether it will require the local Habitat for Humanity chapter to make the changes.
