ELYRIA — Residents did their part Tuesday night in discussing what they see as the deficiencies in the operation of Cascade Park and would now like to hear from the Lorain County Metro Parks before they can make a decision about turning over the city’s prized possession.

However, they will have to wait for that piece of the puzzle as city leaders have said they have not made a serious inquiry to the park system.

“I think I can confidently talk about the Metro Parks and say that they do not want to be involved in something that is seen as adversarial,” Mayor Bill Grace said. “They are not going to come in and insert their power in our city without knowing that this is something the residents want.”

Instead, the parks board said Tuesday’s meeting was a time for Elyrians to speak about the future of the park. The meeting was the result of Grace’s declaration in early July that Cascade Park was in “grave condition” and was in need of a plan of action by the city, its residents or another entity.

“This is not the end,” said the Rev. Carl Small, parks board president. “This is the beginning. We want to hear from you, the citizens. We hope the thoughts and ideas will spark additional dialogue, which will give the board the information needed to make a recommendation going forward.”

Still, when the floor was opened for questions, many said they had already made up their minds that the Metro Parks was the way to go and openly queried about the Metro Parks’ absence.

“I think I speak for a lot of people who are not happy that the Metro Parks is not here,” resident Dave Timko said.

After listening to a number of residents speak, Timko said he still had a lot of questions about what the Metro Parks could really offer the city.

Councilwoman Mary Siwierka, D-at large, said having the Metro Parks at the table during discussion could be important in the decision process.

“We are basically talking about getting engaged to or possibly marrying the Metro Parks with some kind of agreement, but we have to at least start dating. We can’t ask residents to make an efficient, effective decision without hearing from them.”

Grace said before that can happen residents need to know what the city is up against. A number of improvements have been made due largely to grants and outside efforts by groups like the Elyria Rotary Club and Friends of Cascade Park.

Yet erosion is a huge concern, with paved walkways sliding into the river and hillside slopes pulling downward. The cost to stabilize the erosion will be expensive.

“As much as we have done, there is still much that needs to be done in the way of maintenance,” Grace said. “We have been scratching and clawing to do minor improvements in the park. But of all we have done, we have only scratched the surface of the underlying issues facing this park.”

No one talked cost or put a price tag to the city keeping Cascade Park.

In the face of expensive, needed improvements, residents said it’s time for city officials to admit they cannot lead the charge to turn the park around.
“Cities are not set up to manage large natural parks,” resident Tom Bowen said. “There is no other solution for Cascade Park.”

The sentiments were echoed by Councilman Larry Tanner, D-1st Ward.

“I can’t understand why anyone would say the Metro Parks is not the way to go,” Tanner said. “It will still be Elyria Cascade Park. It’s not going to change names.”

Park historian Jim Smith said he is opposed to the idea of Elyria handing over operation to the Metro Parks. The historic significance alone is worth preserving. Cascade Park was given to the city by citizens and every major improvement has been spearheaded by citizens.

“Right now, conditions in the park still allow you to enjoy the park the natural way,” Smith said. “Just walk it. That’s what it was designed for.”

Next meeting

The next public meeting to discuss the future of Cascade Park will take place 7 p.m. Aug. 30 in City Council chambers.

The Elyria Parks Board will hear from residents and use the discussions in making its decision, which should come during the Sept. 8 board meeting.

Elyria parks competing in Coca-Cola contest

• What: Hilltop Park on Gulf Road and Cascade Park are both in the running to receive as much as to $100,000 in cash for park restoration.
• How to help: Vote at www.livepositively.com for their park.
• Prizes: Top award is $100,000; the second-highest vote getter receives $50,000; third place wins $25,000.
• Contest ends: 11:59 p.m. Sept. 6.

Contact Lisa Roberson at 329-7121 or lroberson@chroniclet.com.