Three barks for getting that skate park built

How much can one man and many young skaters take?

YMCA Chairman Larry Nokes has been working for years to get a

skate park in Laguna Beach. In 2002 the city approved a plan to build

the park at Bark Park. Then, in March 2003, the city decided to

switch the site to Big Bend on Laguna Canyon Road.

At that time we asked that the park not be delayed so long that

those hoping to enjoy it would be off in college by the time it’s

ready to roll.

On Tuesday, the YMCA learned once again that plans to move the

proposed park from the previously agreed Bark Park to Big Bend are

now stalled. Previously agreed upon? They already have an agreement

to put the skate park at Bark Park. Well then, that seems like a

pretty good place for a skate park.

Big Bend never really was a good idea. It’s just not a safe

location for a busy teen-magnate.

But Bark Park ... some say the dogs and skateboarders won’t be a

good mix. But dogs are pretty social creatures and teenagers, well

they usually like dogs OK. It may be the dog owners who need to

adapt, but for the love of the dogs, we’re sure they can learn to

cope.

And, uh, why? Why is the city working with the YMCA in the effort

to build the park? Because we need as many answers as possible to the

age-old excuse for drugs, drinking and other vices: “There’s nothing

to do around here.”

Some kids have the beach, school activities and sports and some

choose skating. Let’s give them somewhere to go and encourage such a

healthy activity. Not to mention, teens are part of the community and

it’s the City Council’s job to try to better the city for all its

residents. We have art in public places, which benefits artists and

residents who just want a pleasant-looking town. What’s the harm in

giving some teens and their parents a safe, fun place to be?