Westlake to hold public workshop on recreation

Early morning fog rises from the Westlake Recreation Center pond. The city's parks and recreational offerings are part of a master plan review; resident input is sought in an Oct. 21 community workshop. Photo by David Weisbarth

Westlake residents, now is your time to be heard. Many of you have great ideas concerning your city, but simply don’t know how to express them or whom to tell. Now is your time. Your city leaders want to hear from you.

Recently, the City of Westlake embarked on a Master Plan Study for parks  and recreation, and it will be the focus of attention on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 7 p.m. when a community workshop is held at the Recreation Center.

The master plan, which kicked off in May, is being formulated by Brandstetter Carroll Inc. and they are conducting a comprehensive land/facility use management plan. They are working closely with a steering committee comprised of concerned residents.

From the kickoff, the group and consultants have worked together to analyze existing data, assess and review future needs, evaluate feasibility and funding mechanisms for new facilities, identify major recreation issues and come up with possible ways to resolve those issues.

In the meantime, Westlake officials have been conducting online surveys, direct mailings, held an initial public workshop, and have participated in various community events, all in an effort to determine the best use of city tax dollars for parks and recreational services. Residents can still participate in the online survey at www.livewellplayhardwestlake.com  

Westlake’s Director of Recreation, Bob DeMinico, pointed out that there are no age or other restrictions on who can fill out the survey. “We have had over 2,000 unique visitors hit the website, many with new and innovative ideas on the future plans for parks, recreation, facilities and open space.”

No idea is a bad idea; come to the public workshop on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 7 p.m., in the Westlake Recreation Center, 28955 Hilliard Blvd. Put on your thinking caps, jot down your thoughts and be part of the discussion.