Lindenhurst considering peace garden

For three years, Randi Scheurer has been pushing for a garden to be built in Lindenhurst that she believes will enhance the village and promote peace.

“I have always been an advocate for peaceful communication and nonviolent conflict resolution. I believe a peace garden in my community would be an asset for lifting up and creating a healthier community,” the 33-year village resident said.

Scheurer went before the village board Monday to discuss plans for the peace garden, and officials agreed to research potential sites that might suite the project.

“We need to do research and figure out what areas we own and what may be suitable for this concept,” Village Administrator Matt Formica said.

The land options will determine whether the board will go ahead with the project, he said. It is expected to be up for discussion at the next village board meeting in two weeks.

If all goes according to plan, Scheurer said she would like to see the peace garden finished by summer 2012.

To maintain it, Scheurer hopes to start the Lindenhurst Peace Garden Club that would be open to village residents.

The village board would not have to fund the garden, as it would be solely funded by community donations. She has collected $170 in donations so far.

Scheurer said she has a vision for the garden, but hopes if it is approved by the village that residents will help shape the project.

“Depending on what the land of the garden will be will determine how the peace garden will look. It can range from many different features: bench, steppingstones, ornamental plants that people would contribute, plaque that will read ‘peace garden’, maybe a little bridge that someone could build. It can range from simple to ornate depending on how the community wants to express themselves,” she said.

Village staff will prepare information on the potential sites available for consideration, and what options the board has for a facility use agreement for a peace garden club to use the property.