Cape City Council to swear in Ward 3 rep, discuss skate park

The swearing in of the temporary representative for Ward 3 and a presentation for a new skate park will take place at the Cape Girardeau City Council's regular meeting tonight.

The council chose Patrick Koetting at its last meeting to take over the seat formerly held by Trent Summers, who moved out of the district. Koetting will serve on the council until a representative is elected in the fall.

After the council's newest member is officially sworn in, it will hear a presentation about a new skate park plan from Chris Hutson, who was part of efforts to build one three years ago.

The fair board has approved a location at East Rodney Drive and Hawthorn Road, near Arena Park -- the proposed location for the last skate park plan -- and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has approved the conceptual plan. Arena Park has been suggested by those in favor of the park as an ideal location because of its visibility and proximity to the Cape LaCroix Trail.

Because no funding is allocated in the city or parks department budget, money must be raised for the park. Hutson is expected to spearhead those efforts, according to a parks update from the city's parks and recreation department.

The council also will consider ordinances approving the demolition of structures around the city. Buildings at 1751 Luce St., 219 N. Middle St., 1022 Perry Ave. and 513 William St., would be demolished should members approve.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

401 Independence St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.