LELAND — Residents of Leland are “moderately” satisfied with the town’s parks, facilities, and programs, according to recent survey results.
The town is in the process of approving its Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan.
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Leland received 253 survey responses that have been studied to help inform the town’s Parks and Recreation Department, which celebrates its 10 year anniversary this year.
The town currently operates three parks: the municipal park, Cypress Cove Park (formerly Sturgeon Creek Park) and Westgate Nature Park.
A future Sturgeon Creek Park is currently in the works. In total, the town has acquired 34-acres on the south bank of Sturgeon Creek meant for the planned park. Council recently approved a $104,901 contract for environmental services to address old structures on the town’s property. Some buildings have been burnt during fire department training activities and some structures still need to be demolished.
Demolition work is expected to begin this month, according to Leland’s Parks and Recreation director’s report.
The Master Plan
Leland’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan is intended to guide the Town’s actions over the next decade. The plan finds that “more of almost everything is desired.”
“The Town is growing, and citizens recognize that staff is stretched thin on most aspects,” the plan states.
Still, Leland will not be able to fund all the improvements its residents desire on its own. Financial mechanisms are being researched as the town works to identify operational partnerships. “The Town of Leland cannot build alone,” the plan states. In addition to financial backing, the town identified the need to improve its relationship with its neighbors.
“In particular, there is [a] strong need for better relationships with all surrounding municipalities,” the plan states.
Survey respondents indicated a lack of historical preservation in Leland. The town identified a desire to identify and encourage historic culture. According to the plan, long-term residents feel left out of Leland, as new residents move in with little knowledge of the area.
Leland’s Parks and Recreation Board will vote on Sept. 5 to approve the 2018 plan.
Send tips and comments to Johanna Ferebee at johanna@localvoicemedia.com
