The Free Press, Mankato, MN

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April 30, 2012

Our View: Changes for Hiniker Pond are justified

The Free Press

— A former Mankato parks director once referred to Hiniker Pond as a “jewel” — a largely undeveloped swimming hole where restrictions were few.

Indeed, anyone who’s been in the area for a while likely has fond memories of “the pit” as a place where teens and young adults could hang out, soak up the sun, take part in some courtship ceremonies and drink beer without too much worry of being hassled.

So there is some dismay that the City Council seems poised to tame Hiniker Pond and make it “family friendly.”

The idea grew out of a problem-solving process related to the city’s new focus on community policing. Several city employees from different departments spent the past year studying problems at the pond and last week made a proposal to the council during a work session. The council will formally take up the matter May 14.      

The proposal — which drew general support from the council during the work session — would ban alcohol from the water and the beach-front area of Hiniker Pond Park, essentially limiting alcohol to the parking lot and shelter. The council is also being asked to fund a park ranger who would be able to provide enforcement. There was also a suggestion that smoking be banned in the same areas that alcohol would be barred.

The idea is to try the new restrictions for a year. If they don’t tamp down problems, the city would look at banning alcohol everywhere in the park.

The concept deserves support.

Anyone who’s spent any amount of time at the pond in recent years knows that things have changed significantly. The level of aggressive behavior, trash and foul language have increased to a point more and more people feel unsafe and unwelcome and where few would want to take their kids.

Most all the bad behavior is, of course, alcohol fueled.

If the restrictions pass, there will be resistance, resentment and a cat-and-mouse game as people try to circumvent the rules. Enforcement will be difficult and important.

Some alcohol restrictions are needed, whether they’re the ones initially proposed or slightly different.

The council and police should do what they can to preserve some of the atmosphere that has made Hiniker Pond special. But in the end, it will be up to park users to police themselves and each other to show the pit can be a special place that is also tolerant and welcoming to everyone who visits.

 

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