by Matt Wright
As part of the city-wide master planning process, a public input meeting has been scheduled so residents can provide feedback for parks and recreation programs. According to Lakeland Parks and Recreation Director, Pat O’Mara, the meeting will be held on January 11, 2022, at Lakeland Preparatory School. The input meeting will be conducted by consulting company Kimley-Horn and will begin at 6:30 pm in the school cafeteria.
According to officials the purpose of the meeting is to collect feedback from Lakeland residents about their desires for parks and recreation programs. Mr. O’Mara told Lakeland Currents, “We are excited to move into the public input phase of the master plan. This phase lets the public join the conversation and tell staff and our consultants what they would like Lakeland Parks and Recreation to look like in 2031.”
Mr. O’Mara says that includes input on things such as the completion of the new athletic complex on Memphis Arlington Road. It would also include the public vision for IH park, a recreation center, or adding additional youth sports programs. “The most helpful part of the master plan is setting a priority from the community. It gives staff our roadmap for development, expansion, and improvement to the resources and offerings here in the City of Lakeland,” Mr. O’Mara said.
Vice Mayor Michelle Dial, who is also the BOC liaison to the parks and recreation board, said she hopes to see the public attend so they can receive good feedback about future expansion. “Come voice your opinion for the vision of Lakeland Parks and Recreation. We welcome your input and ideas,” Ms. Dial said.
Postcards will be mailed to residents as a reminder of the meeting.
