But it needs something more than your everyday park. Board members said both suggestions have been discussed before at length but were rejected for various reasons, in the case of frisbee golf the potential for non-participating park visitors to be injured. Park Superintendent Jim Miller said at one time Hawthorne offered street hockey, but interest lagged and it was discontinued. Also, large areas that appear to be vacant space and suitable for either skateboarding or frisbee golf are needed in August for the Chesterton Art Fair, he explained. Board member Nancy Whisler said skateboarders damage park equipment, like benches, using them for stunts.
Nobody has any place to go.
Skateboarders would bring their own ramps and equipment, which they would remove upon leaving. Park Administrator Stephanie Miller cited Hawthorne's 20-acre size. One park can't hold everything. Each park is different. According to Park Board President Bud Tilden, some of the board's new ideas, like ice skating, have failed, so it must proceed cautiously.