If we accept that sewers will be in place at least in the core commercial area and the Freeland Sub Area Plan (FSAP) has been adopted by the County, how do we address the following issue? The Parks & Gathering Places Work Group is charged with the responsibility of finding solutions to the following questions.

Our community needs places for people to meet, to have fun, socialize, and relax

1. What kind of spaces do we want for the Future?
2. Where will we locate these facilities?
3. What happens when all appropriate land is used for something else?
4. How can we balance economic needs with residential demands and social needs?
5. How will we pay for it?

Where do people get together today when they want to have meetings?

1. Our community Churches
2. Freeland Hall
3. Freeland Library
4. Our Homes
5. Where else can we gather to discuss issues?

Where do people gather for fun?

1. Our community beaches
2. Freeland Park
3. Restaurants
4. Our Homes
5. Do we need recreation fields?
6. How about a recreation center?
7. Would an outdoor restaurant seating in a park like setting be fun?

Where do people get together today when they want to socialize?

1. Our community Churches
2. Freeland Hall
3. Freeland Library
4. Island Athletic Club
5. Where else can we gather to socialize?
6. How about a performing Arts Center?
7. What if we had a central Town Plaza?

Where do people get together today when they want to relax?

1. Our community beaches
2. Freeland Library
3. Our Homes
4. Where else can we gather to relax?
5. What about Pocket Parks?
6. Do we need more Contemplation Benches?
7. Ball Fields

What opportunities do we have?

1. Friends of Freeland Wetlands for walking and contemplation of nature
2. Vacant parcels of property in town
3. Buildings that can be acquired and renovated
4. Expand our current open spaces, parks and wetlands while protecting and preserving them for the future
5. How do we expand what we have?
6. Identify new areas?
7. Implement?

How can we pay for it?

1. Formation of Local Improvement District?
2. Grants?
3. Working with Service Organizations?
4. Working with the Port of South Whidbey?
5. Working with Island County Parks Dept?
6. Donations from individuals and businesses?
7. What other ways can we pay for future Parks, park expansions and open space?

If these topics are of interest to you, and you would like to be a part of the the solution for the issues listed below, please contact Steve Shaprio at 360-730-4266 or shapiro@whidbey.com