A used car lot that has appeared near the entrance to Dan Nicholas Park has caught the attention of the Rowan County Parks and Recreation Commission.
Parks Director Jim Foltz provided pictures of the car lot to the commission at its meeting Monday evening.
Foltz said it started with one car for sale parked in the yard of a home just south of the park entrance on Bringle Ferry Road. Then six more cars appeared. By Monday, the yard had more than a dozen cars and other vehicles for sale.
“It’s an eyesore,” said Foltz.
“Is there anything we can do about it?” asked commission member Don Bringle.
County Commissioner Leda Belk, who serves on the panel, questioned whether the person responsible has a business license or a dealer’s license.
Commission members quickly agreed that Foltz should look into the issue and ask county planners to take action if the car lot is illegal.
In other matters:
- The board learned that Dan Nicholas Park will host its largest-ever corporate family outing this weekend. Corning, based in southern Cabarrus County, has bought 3,000 tickets for rides and events at the park to be distributed to its employees and family member.
Attendance and revenue continue to grow, Foltz said.
- The commission voted unanimously to name a trail at the park the “Rowan Ramblers History Trail.” The group known as Rowan Ramblers has provided funding for development of the trail, which starts near the campground.
- Officials reported that work is continuing on hiring a consultant to redesign the Nature Center. Two of three final bid proposals have been received. A committee has interviewed three consultants and will make a recommendation to the commission.
- Foltz reported that the newly opened Eagle Point Nature Preserve is drawing a constant stream of walkers.
The opening ceremony earlier this month drew many supporters as well as several local officials. Brown said many of those attending the dedication walked the trails despite the hot temperatures.
- Foltz said parks staff and volunteers are gearing up for a fund-raiser for Nick’s Playground, an area designed for handicapped children.
The aim is to sandwich the fund-raising efforts between major community drives. The project will cost around $150,000.
- Commission members discussed a part-time worker at Sloan Park who was injured when he apparently fainted. John Baumgarder suffered several injures when his head hit a rock.
Responding to questions, Foltz said injuries to park employees are rare these days.
“At one time we had a rash, but we took care of that,” said Foltz, with education and training to prevent accidents.
- The commission meets next on July 23 and will elect a chairman and vice chairman.
A nominating committee will make recommendations.
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