Another solution to garden plot debate

My wife and I were commenting on the ongoing discussion regarding the Naperville Park District garden plots vs. Naperville Central High School athletic fields. In our discussion she came up with an idea that might help with the concerns being expressed. As a former garden plot participant and as a former Naperville 203 educator and coach, I realize the importance of having adequate practice fields. I have read the pros and cons of moving some of the garden plots to DuPage River Park and can empathize with wanting the plots to be centrally located. for the central Naperville people as we tend to often be forgotten in the process of "making Naperville better." I have read the concern that the soil at DuPage River Park is not the rich farm soil of the present garden plots.

Here is my wife's suggestion: 1) Build the athletic fields on the least-desirable portion of the present garden plots. 2) Relocate some of the garden plots to DuPage River Park to accommodate the southernmost gardeners. 3) Have the park district and the city jointly purchase a portion of the property at the southeast corner of Mill Street and Bauer Road for garden plots. Here is why this would make sense: a. This property has been on many of the city council agendas regarding redevelopment concerns. Purchasing some of that property could provide a buffer for future development. b. It is presently being used as a farm, so the soil should be of adequate condition for garden plots. c. It would provide a closer alternative for gardeners than going to DuPage River Park. With this plan, there would be three areas for gardeners: south, central and north.

Bill Gommel

Naperville