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Councilmember Litten added that many people were in attendance to talk about the <br /> proposed skate park improvements. <br /> Chairman Bullock stated that the committee was not seeking to make final decisions that <br /> same day and that feedback was needed from city hall directors on the various projects. He <br /> then directed the conversation to the skate park. <br /> Councilmember Litten shared that the intent of his skate park proposal was to enhance it <br /> with adjacent space. He noted that skating's popularity has soared and that Lakewood <br /> skate camps often fill up very quickly. He added that there has been an increase in adult <br /> participation,which has enhanced supervision of the park, and potential improvements <br /> could make the park more accessible to aging skaters. The project is expected to cost <br /> around $300,000 and a public group consisting of area skaters has committed to raising the <br /> funds for 25% of the cost of the project. <br /> Public Comment <br /> Vince Franz- 1455 Waterbury Ave. -Mr. Franz shared the history of the skate park's <br /> development going back to 2003. He noted that many users of it have bought homes in <br /> Lakewood due to relationships built at the skate park. He drew comparisons to other <br /> community skate parks and noted the strong sense of community and recreation that the one <br /> in Lakewood has helped build. <br /> Benjamin Kretz- 1255 Hathaway Ave. -Mr. Kretz spoke to the thriving skating community in <br /> the Cleveland area and how the sport can foster community and teach life lessons. <br /> Jack Haberman -2146 W. 401h St. Cleveland, OH-Mr. Haberman stated he has been using the <br /> skate park facility for a dozen years and that while it was ahead of its time, it is no longer at <br /> the forefront facility wise. He added that developing the park would further sharpen users' <br /> skills. <br /> Dr. Shane McNamee- 14611 Lake Rd. -Dr. McNamee stated that there are more people <br /> collaborating and exercising at the skate park than anywhere else in the city. He has not seen <br /> any problems there and that the bonding on at the skate park is why his family moved to <br /> Lakewood and pays taxes there. <br /> Jorge Help -Mr. Help shared that he worked for the city of Los Angeles on developing skate <br /> parks and giving skating lessons, noting the increased popularity the sport hasgained over <br /> the years. <br /> Jenna Masterdomato -Ms. Masterdomato shared her lifelong experience skating at the park <br /> and traveling around the state in search of skate amenities. She added that the skating <br /> community provides a comfortable space for non-binary individuals. <br /> 2 <br />