During a recent government meeting, a passionate resident of Kingston expressed gratitude for the improvements made in Kirby Park, while also highlighting ongoing safety concerns and the need for further investment in the area. The speaker, who has deep personal ties to the park, shared memories of growing up there and emphasized the positive changes, such as new lighting and the cleanup of a previously hazardous campsite.

However, the resident voiced serious concerns about safety, recounting experiences of encountering drug use and violence in the park. They described a traumatic history of living near the park, including threats from individuals carrying weapons. The speaker urged city officials to focus on enhancing safety across all areas of Kirby Park, not just the cleaned-up sections, as they believe the park remains dangerous and difficult to patrol.

Additionally, the resident criticized the state of the Market Street Bridge, a historic site dedicated to World War I veterans, which they described as being covered in graffiti and overgrown vegetation. They called for immediate action to restore the bridge and surrounding areas to preserve their historical significance and improve public safety.

The speaker also highlighted the rich Native American history associated with Kirby Park, advocating for federal funding to support preservation efforts. They referenced successful cleanup projects in nearby areas and stressed the importance of recognizing the park's historical role in the formation of the Haudenosaunee Nation, which they described as a significant aspect of local heritage.

Overall, the meeting underscored a community member's commitment to advocating for both the safety and historical preservation of Kirby Park, calling for collaborative efforts from city officials to address these pressing issues.