The Morris City Council meeting held on December 23, 2024, focused on the proposed development of a new destination playground, with significant discussions surrounding its location and community support. The council addressed concerns regarding the feasibility of placing the playground at Eastside Park, with several residents expressing doubts about the park's size and safety.

Jay Fear, a long-time city engineering inspector, was unable to attend but had previously indicated that Palm Beach Terre Park could be a more suitable site for the playground, suggesting it would not incur significant additional costs. The council acknowledged the need to slow down the planning process to ensure proper funding and site selection.

Community members voiced their strong desire for a playground, emphasizing its importance for local children. However, many raised concerns about Eastside Park's capacity, citing its history as a flood-prone area and the potential for vandalism. Mary Elizabeth Bizanssen, a resident near Eastside Park, highlighted the park's limitations and suggested that funds might be better spent improving existing facilities, such as the band shell.

Ken Hodgson, another community member, pointed out a logical fallacy in the discussions, arguing that the council seemed to limit the playground's potential locations to only two options, one of which was deemed too expensive. He urged the council to consider more possibilities for the playground's placement.

The council members acknowledged the community's input and expressed their commitment to making a well-informed decision. They emphasized the importance of collaboration and ensuring that the playground meets the needs of all residents, particularly families with children. The meeting concluded with a call for continued community engagement as the planning process moves forward.