The Prestons left Butler County with one of its greatest assets, Preston Park. Many people appreciate walking there. Butler Township has the responsibility to care for Preston Park, and to take careful consideration to determine if proposed projects are the best use.

The local citizens want to participate in the decision-making process. A few days ago, homeowners who live along the border of the proposed parking lot say they found out only when they questioned workers taking soil samples and digging at the edge of their property.

How do we properly gather the input of citizens to ensure the preservation of jewels like Preston and Moraine State Park?

The plan the supervisors are discussing is a lot for 200 cars.

Obviously, this will destroy another large area of precious habitat. Many feel strongly that this is a park for nature to be preserved for the enjoyment of residents, to be maintained accordingly, and not an area for overdevelopment or large events.

The current parking lot is never full unless there is an event, which is not often, so we wonder why there can’t be alternatives to overflow parking.

Homeowners on the border of the proposed site, and all concerned citizens of the local area, are encouraged to attend a special meeting to discuss this proposed project. There will be two important meetings as I understand, on Tuesday, July 5 at 6 p.m. (planning meeting) and Wednesday, July 6 (board of commissioners) at 6:30 p.m. at the Butler Township building.

Tammy Owens, Butler