Naperville park leaders weigh in on garden plots

Naperville Park District commissioners joined the debate Thursday over whether garden plots should be relocated to make room for athletic fields.

Several had their own questions and concerns following three well-attended community forums in recent weeks.

The park district and Naperville Unit District 203 have been soliciting comments on four options to solve Naperville Central High School's shortage of athletic fields. The one receiving both the most praise and criticism is to relocate some of the West Street garden plots to DuPage River Park or Southwest Community Park, both on the south side of the city.

Many parents of athletes have expressed support for the plan because it would provide field space close to the school. However gardeners have balked at the idea of giving up plots they have been working on for years.

The other three options are to move athletic teams to a third field at Knoch Park used by youth football leagues; move Central teams to another District 203, park district or leased site; or create athletic fields at DuPage River Park or Nike Park.

Commissioner Ron Ory said the district needs more information as to the demand both for fields and garden plots, and he believes the district needs to establish its priorities.

"Right now we've got the community pitted against itself, and that's not good for us and that's not good for the community," he said. "But we as a board have to come together, establish what we're trying to do, justify what we're trying to do, set those goals out there."

Commissioner Andrew Schaffner wants the district to review its current agreements with both District 203 and neighboring Indian Prairie Unit District 204, part of which is also within the park district.

"I want to make sure this is focused on dollars, not participation numbers," Schaffner said. "I want to know actually what have we spent and what have we received from both of the districts."

Commissioner Mary Wright opposes options that cost the park district money and said she is also concerned about being fair to District 204.

"I'm not sure it's fair for a resident in a subdivision down south to subsidize this development up on the north part of town," Wright said.

The school board will decide which plan it prefers when it meets Dec. 15. That proposal will then go to the park district for approval. If it involves the garden plots, city council will also get a vote.