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WEIRTON -- Members of Weirton Council met in a work session Thursday evening to continue discussion on possible improvement projects at Marland Heights Park, although they all agreed more funding will be needed before any major work can be accomplished.
"Marland Heights Park is a very utilized park, not just by the residents of Marland Heights," explained Ward 5 Councilwoman Flora Perrone, who led much of the work session.
Perrone previously had put forth a resolution to allocate $260,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds toward some of the proposed projects at the park, with council tabling the action at its February meeting until further discussion could be held.
While most of council agreed work is needed at the park, the consensus appeared to be not enough funds would be available to address the wish list included in Perrone's resolution or the Phase 1 list previously proposed by the Weirton Park Board. It also was noted only about $240,000 was remaining in the city's ARPA allotment.
One area of focus, and agreement for many, was the need for new restroom facilities. Perrone had suggested handicap-accessible restroom facilities in her resolution, and Parks Director Coty Shingle had included new restrooms as part of a proposal for a new all-season shelter in the plans for Phase 1.
Ward 4 Councilman George Ash, though, felt other priorities should be established if improvements are to be made in the city's recreation.
"We have legacies with Starvaggi and the Millsop Center," Ash said. "That's what we should be focusing on."
Ash added he wouldn't support any project until improvements at the Weirton Municipal Building, including restroom repairs and issues with the locker rooms in the police department, were addressed.
Shingle, however, noted Marland Heights Park had just as much of a legacy, having initially been developed through the support of the Weir family and Weirton Steel. It was initially dedicated in 1934, while the Millsop Center opened in 1952 and Starvaggi Pool and Park in 1968.
Ward 7 Councilman Terry Weigel, while agreeing work is needed at the other locations, said care also is needed at Marland Heights."
"That's a black eye," he said of the possibility of ignoring the park. "That's irresponsible."
Other improvements would have to wait until funding is available, potentially through a levy being proposed and drafted by the Park Board with plans for it to go on the November municipal ballot.
"I'm with you on the restrooms," Ward 6 Councilman Enzo Fracasso said. "We'll let the people decide on the rest of it."
To be enacted, the levy would need at least a 60% approval from votes cast in the municipal election.
Perrone said the resolution will be on the agenda for council's March 11 regular meeting.