Friday, August 31,
2001
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Duncan Park tug-of-war continues By JOHN
THOMPSON
Fairburn's Duncan Park has turned into a political football that is being kicked back and forth between the city and Fulton County. During Monday night's council meeting, Fairburn officials said they wanted to meet with Fulton County about the park, but just have not been able to work out a schedule with the county. But City Administrator Tony Cox reiterated the position that Fairburn cannot take over costs of the park and the situation is in Fulton County's hands. Fulton officials have cited a state law that states when a municipality reaches 5,000 in population and annexes parks into its municipalities, it must start picking up the costs. But Cox is not sure the law is being interpreted correctly. "I think Fulton County's got a problem," he said. "That park doesn't just serve Fairburn." Councilwoman Frankie Arnold agreed and said during Little League season, children from all over the south side of town use the park. But Commissioner Bill Edwards said the law is clear and he met with residents at Duncan park last night to try and explain the county's position. He said he has already poured $1 million into the park and can't put anymore money into it. The pool at the park has been closed because of mechanical problems, and Edwards said Fulton County can't pay to fix it. He also said phase two of the park expansion includes a gymnasium, but that's on hold until the funding dispute is settled. "I'm willing to meet them halfway, but they have to do something," he said. Edwards pointed to recent news articles showing how rapidly Fairburn is growing and suggested placing a recreational tax on the citizens to pay for the facility. Edwards said he can't pay anymore for the facility, since it would set a precedent for future municipalities who annex parks into their city limits. He said the situation has to be resolved soon. "I've got a lot of constituents with a lot of needs and this will be settled soon," he said.
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