The Milwaukee County government meeting on June 13, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding the future of senior centers and their impact on local parks, particularly McGovern Park. Community members voiced strong opinions against a proposed project that would involve the construction of a new senior center within the park's boundaries.

Dane Maddox, a resident and advocate for senior services, expressed his opposition to the project, arguing that it presents a false choice between maintaining a senior center and preserving park space. He emphasized the importance of both senior centers and parks, stating that the community should not have to sacrifice one for the other. Maddox highlighted the lack of thorough analysis regarding the environmental impact of the proposed construction on the park, which he described as unique and valuable to the community.

Another speaker, Michael Carrier, reinforced Maddox's concerns by pointing out that the proposed senior center would occupy approximately 9% of McGovern Park's total area. He criticized the focus on financial feasibility studies over environmental assessments, suggesting that the park's ecological and community significance has been overlooked in the decision-making process.

The discussions underscored a growing tension between the need for senior services and the preservation of public green spaces. Community members called for more comprehensive public engagement and analysis before moving forward with any plans that could alter the park's landscape. The meeting concluded with a clear message from residents: the importance of balancing community needs with environmental stewardship must be prioritized in future decisions.