Councilman entertains public discussion at Morrison Park

Commentary from Shelbyville Mayor Scott Furgeson at the May 5 Common Council meeting regarding discussion with the Boys and Girls Club of Shelbyville about privatizing a portion of the city’s oldest park sparked a flurry of social media takes.

The long-standing youth club located at 710 S. Miller St. is considering expansion into the adjacent Morrison Park at 801 S. West St., which is surrounded by neighborhoods. The club would operate some of the park’s property for more outdoor activities.

To do so, safety concerns in the park would need to be addressed. 

The mayor’s comments brought dissent from many that live in the area and those not happy with a city park more than 115 years old being privatized for club use.

Shelbyville city councilman Chuck Reed (R-at large) hosted a public meeting Monday at one of the shelter houses in the park. Several city council members and city parks board members were in attendance, along with a group of approximately 40, to discuss the misinformation that has spread throughout the community. 

Reed read a prepared statement from the parks board that unequivocally stated there is no proposal on the table to sell or transfer any land in Morrison Park to the club.

Reed confirmed city officials were approached in December for discussion on an idea that had no significant plans.

”This is not a slam dunk done situation,” said Reed (seated on picnic table).

Because of the club’s location and the park’s location, there are safety concerns within the park — an idea several people asked about but went unanswered as to why the city is not addressing the problem.

Others asked about limiting hours of use in a city park for use by a private entity that requires a membership fee.

”We are way ahead of ourselves right now,” said councilman Thurman Adams (R-5th ward). “The city wants your opinion. Your concerns are super important.”

Boys and Girls Club of Shelbyville Executive Director Scott Spahr was unable to attend Monday’s meeting. The club was represented by local attorney Jeff Bate, who has been affiliated with the club for more than two decades.

”We are in this together. We want to help the park, but we don’t have all the ideas,” said Bate to the crowd.

Parks board president Gary Nolley guaranteed when there is a proposal to consider, public input will be gauged.