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Skate Park concerns addressed at City Council

DAVENPORT - The future of Davenport's skate park was a key topic of discussion at the City Council meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 22, as community members voiced concerns over issues surrounding the facility.

Shane Gilthvedt, a property owner adjacent to the skate park, addressed the council during the public comment period, citing ongoing problems with illegal activities and property damage.

Gilthvedt told the council he had contacted the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office numerous times but saw no resolution.

He proposed relocating the skate park to the Sports Complex or closing it entirely. He also expressed interest in purchasing the property if the city decided to sell it.

Jessica Strite, a local resident, raised concerns about moving the skate park, noting the potential impact on children.

"As a mom, I'd be worried about kids having to walk all the way to the Sports Complex," Strite said.

She suggested increasing police presence at the current location instead.

Mayor Jonathan Chapman recommended the Park and Cemetery Committee review the matter.

The committee scheduled a meeting for Saturday, Feb. 8, at 6 p.m. to discuss potential solutions and draft agreements regarding the skate park's future.

In other business, the council reviewed ongoing projects.

Chapman reported that the city is waiting for weight tickets from Schneider Farms to finalize the price of hay under the terms of a farming contract. He also announced that a revised application for a streetscape grant had been submitted after an initial denial.

The council approved $6,500 in tourism grants for the Lincoln Historical Society, including $1,500 for the Visitor's Information Center and $5,000 for HVAC system repairs at the museum. A separate grant application for Vintage Harvest was denied.

Council Member Cory Hollis reported on the condition of the city's snowplow trucks, recommending repairs over purchasing new equipment.

Hollis said the trucks have low hours and could remain operational for another 20 years.

The council approved the fourth-quarter 2024 financial reports and authorized the payment of $51,775.31 in claims.

The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m. after a motion by Council Member Lance Strite, which Council Member Robert Jenkins seconded.

Davenport City Council will formally meet again Wednesday, Feb. 12, for a regular meeting.

Author Bio

Olivia Harnack, Managing Editor

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Olivia Harnack is the award-winning managing editor/photographer/videographer/columnist at the Lincoln County Record-Times, with offices in both Davenport and Odessa, Wash. She is a University of Idaho graduate and a U.S. Army National Guardsman.

 
 

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