Jackson needs to provide park for skateboarders

To the editor:

I am writing to express the need for a skate park in Jackson. Being a skateboarder, I know the hardships we face. Jackson has an ordinance against the use of skateboards on public streets, sidewalks and private property where permission is not obtained. When a skateboarder gets stopped by a police officer, the skater is told he can only skate in the city park, his driveway or on private property where the skater has permission. The second time, the skateboard is confiscated and the skater is taken to the Jackson Police Department where parents are called and talked to about the situation. The skaters are referred to juvenile authorities and released to his parents. The third time the skater is automatically taken to juvenile authorities and the skateboard is confiscated and does not get returned.

A few days ago, two friends and I were stopped for skating on a public sidewalk and were taken to the Jackson Police Department where our parents were notified and came to pick us up. Isn't it a bit hypocritical that rollerbladers and bicycle riders can ride on city sidewalks and streets, yet skateboarders cannot? I think this is unfair to the skateboarders who just love what they do and want to practice their sport like any other.

I think Jackson is in a great need of a skate park.

ALEX THIELE

Jackson