Why is Boettcher Park in bad shape?

Editor,

Flathead Lake is a huge draw for tourists to visit Polson in the summer months. Our community depends on those tourists, so doesn't it seem that the City of Polson, and its residents, would want to maintain the image of a destination town?

Why, then, has the city and its residents allowed Boettcher Park to lapse into such deplorable disrepair? This park has an idyllic setting with commanding views. The lovely lawns and ample shade trees, along with available concessions, make this an ideal spot for summer recreation. Why, then have people destroyed all but one swing? Why is the merry-go-round so unsafe that there needs to be yellow caution tape wrapped around it?

More importantly, why have I seen, on several occasions no less, children ripping the tape off so they can access it, while their parents watch nonchalantly or pretend to ignore this? Why have some seen fit to break off the ladders from the dock, leaving sharp rusty metal to scratch bathers?

If Polson truly wants to entice summer visitors, and local residents alike to stay in town for summer recreation, then something needs to be done to fix up Boettcher Park. At the very least, perhaps more patrols in the park would limit the amount of vandalism that is destroying what once was a beautiful place.

Caroline Hanke

Polson