By Amira Van Leeuwen
KYLE — Kyle City Council unanimously approved the installation of two pet waste stations, a “slippery rocks” sign by the waterfall and an additional trash can by the Peace Garden at Heroes Memorial Park on Tuesday.
According to Parks and Recreation Director Mariana Espinoza, the cost of these items will be $2,704.07.
Council member Daniela Parsley introduced the item because she noticed that people go to the park with their pets, and there are no pet stations.
“The last thing I want to see is the park filled with dog waste,” Parsley said. “I saw online discussion about kids getting in the water, which they can do, but I would like to make sure that they know that the rocks are slippery.”
Interim City Manager Jerry Hendrix chimed in to say that the city already has a plan for each of those things. “Just like to state for the record though, it is not ok to swim in the pond,” Hendrix said.
Mayor Travis Mitchell motioned to direct staff to install the signs, trash can and pet waste stations as discussed, which Parsley seconded.
Council member Michael Tobias said he had several conversations with residents about these issues, including with a veteran.
“They were pretty disheartened that animals and pets were actually at this park because of the fact that it is considered a memorial park,” Tobias said.
“The idea of having children that might be running around, or, which is fine, I mean it’s a park, but playing or getting into the rocks and the water, which is already an accident waiting to happen, a lawsuit waiting to happen, but just the whole respect of it all,” Tobias continued.
Council member Yvonne Flores-Cale thought Tobias brought up a valid point.
Parsley said the last thing she wanted was for residents to not be able to pick up after their pets.
“I believe we shouldn’t be controlling who shows up in there with a dog,” Parsley said. “I have seen people skateboarding at the park, and I enjoy it because it’s their taxes that are paying for this park. It is a memorial, and we have beautiful things that we are displaying, showing the respect we have for law enforcement and all veterans and first responders. I don’t believe that that shows any sign of disrespect, but that’s just my personal opinion.”
Mayor Pro Tem Robert Rizo, who was a part of the original design team, said they wanted to make the park interactive and emphasize the educational aspect of it.
“This is a very unique park,” Rizo said. “Not only is it a memorial, but it’s also a park, so the programming was designed to bring families and residents out to learn about our first responders, our veterans, people that have paid the ultimate sacrifice, people who serve as well.”
