Diamond Park is one of two clear signs that you have entered the City of Butler from the south. The other is right across the street: the Butler County Courthouse.

As a visitor’s potential first impression, the site should look its best; and the park has been in need of a face-lift for years.

Butler County commissioners voted Sept. 9 to advertise for bids to renovate Diamond Park. Plans involve relocating the 1,600 memorial pavers, removing the water fountain and replacing it with a sustainable water feature. landscaping; and installing new amenities, including a loading area for events, an upgraded sound system, new concrete sidewalks.

The park is a county-funded project, but one that represents the county seat, the City of Butler. It’s important that people get a good impression of the city and county. The park that sits right across the street from the county offices is a representation of both.

The park itself is an amenity intentionally designed for outdoor enjoyment, and as a memorial to military personnel who have died while in service. Anyone can enjoy it, but it has to be a space worth enjoying and maintained for people to want to enjoy it.

Even though the project may come at a cost to the taxpayer living in Butler County, its hopeful the results can be enjoyed for a long time.

— ET