The Lexington Urban County Council meeting on July 3, 2025, highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the use of public parks for military training by the University of Kentucky's ROTC program. Community members voiced their apprehensions about the impact of such activities on public safety and mental health, particularly in light of recent gun violence incidents.

During the meeting, several residents, including Dina Mullins, a gun violence survivor, expressed their fears about ROTC cadets conducting drills in parks like Hysel Park and Bridal Park. Mullins emphasized that even the sight of training with rubber rifles can trigger anxiety for those affected by gun violence. She urged the council to consider the emotional well-being of the community, advocating for the preservation of parks as safe spaces for families and individuals seeking peace.

Chuck Eddy, another resident and volunteer for gun violence reduction, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the ROTC should seek alternative training facilities, such as Bluegrass Station, which could provide a more suitable environment for their exercises. He argued that military training in public parks could inadvertently distress families enjoying a day outdoors.

Anita Courtney, a local resident, reinforced the importance of maintaining parks as tranquil environments, citing research that supports the mental health benefits of natural settings. She urged the council to limit the ROTC's use of public parks, advocating for a solution that respects both the needs of the military program and the community's desire for peaceful recreational spaces.

In response to these concerns, Vice Mayor Wu noted that the council had postponed discussions to allow the ROTC to explore alternative venues. The current proposal under consideration is a one-year agreement allowing the ROTC to use Hysel Park for training once a week, while they seek other options for future training needs. This agreement includes provisions to ensure that only non-lethal training aids are used, addressing some community fears.

The council's deliberations reflect a broader conversation about balancing military training needs with community safety and mental health. As the council moves forward, the outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the relationship between public spaces and military activities in Lexington.