There needs to be a better location for the proposed building. I do not like the idea of taking away so much open public space.

Why not do something about all the empty buildings around Marlborough instead?

What about the youth football and cheer program that uses Ward Park as their practice space?

What about some infrastructure improvements? For instance the horrible roads.

I read somewhere they're going to move the football program because after building the center there wont be enough room for them at the park. Which is interesting because under Massachusetts General Law the city is required to "maintain at least one public playground conveniently located and of suitable size and equipment, for the recreation and physical education of the minors of such city or town".

Ward Park meets all these requirements. It's legal designation is "Playground" not "Park", it is conveniently located for sure, that's why they choose taking it's land for the Senior Center. By moving the football program it is clear that they feel it would no longer be "of suitable size". I wonder why Marlborough can use the land and not be in violation of state law? Maybe they've received some kind of wavier or something?

Resident...they will say Ghiloni Park meets those requirements...but soccer pretty much uses those fields all fall and spring..when they are even in shape to use. Marlboro is limited with the number of fields as is...never mind the terrible shape most of them are in. To take away Ward Park even if its only during construction would be a shame. I heard the option of using neighborhood fields more often....Simpson, Milham, etc....have any city officials taken a look at those fields lately? Are they planning on putting bathroom facilities at those fields not just outhouses? The football/cheer program practices for 2+ hour stretches....I really think the City council is so quick to please the seniors for political gain that they are losing sight as to the effect this would really have on our youth in ALL sports programs. Yes I agree we need something for the seniors but spending almost 8m and displacing youth sports irresponsible. Before the city moves forward I feel they should share the plan on how they are going to "work" with the sports programs...not having these conversations and band aid solutions After they break ground.

Concerned Mom,

.>they will say Ghiloni Park meets those requirements<

I don't know if I'd agree with them. The legal requirement is for the city to maintain a "playground" conveniently located and of suitable size. State law makes a legal difference between park and playground. If Ghiloni is truly designated as a park then it can't meet the playground requirement. But maybe it is also a "playground" who knows? Nobody is giving a chance to ask. I wouldn't call Ghiloni convenient, certainly not as convenient as Ward Park (which is designated a "playground") especially to downtown. Finally I would argue that Ward Park would no longer fit the "suitable size" requirement after putting up a 13,000 sq foot two story building. It seems to me a legal area that could rightly be challenged.

As you say, it would be a shame to take away a portion of Ward Park. I feel the spirit of the state laws are to ensure a playground (or park) remain in use as a playground for future generations of the City's youth and that Cities shouldn't be allowed to encroach on this land for other purposes.

>I really think the City council is so quick to please the seniors for political gain that they are losing sight as to the effect this would really have on our youth in ALL sports programs. <

Well put. Not to mention the affect it would have on the small and residential area surrounding the park. I would encourage people to contact the city council and ask them just to slow down a bit. Take time to consider all these concerns before spending $500,000 of our money. Email the council at citycouncil@marlborough-ma.gov

>Before the city moves forward I feel they should share the plan on how they are going to "work" with the sports programs<

Yes! And also how they would "work" with the neighbors to ensure quality of life issues like traffic, noise, and parking, before, during and after construction. I can't believe they are rushing this through without any discussion with residents!

Resident - I agree with you and encourage you and any friends who feel the same to write to the city council and Mayor about these concerns.

I hear there is a City Council meeting tonight at 8:00 where it's possible they will will final approval to fund the first $500,000 and move the Mayor's idea forward. If anyone wants to even just slow this down for a bit they should write
citycouncil@marlborough-ma.gov today to ask them to postpone the vote.

There's an online petition to stop the taking of Ward Park land. Go to www.savewardpark.com to learn more and sign.