Survey is open for park improvement plans

Speak now, Esko residents, or forever hold your peace. The Thomson Township board of supervisors wants to hear from you regarding future development of Northridge Park.

Township residents have until Jan. 5 to respond to questions in an online survey that will guide the use and design decisions for the park. Residents and others can answer the 14-question survey, which asks citizens to prioritize park amenities such as picnic tables, pickleball courts, trees, a fishing dock, soccer fields, cross country skiing, open space and more. Respondents are also asked to rank what they’d most like to see emphasized at the park, including active sports, green environments, community gatherings, pet-friendly, year-round use, passive open space, all-inclusive amenities, health and exercise. A ranking of the top three park improvements comes in question 5, and the importance of environmentally friendly and sustainable features is question 6. Other questions cover how the respondent uses the park and other basic information. Names are not included.

Find the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/northridgepark. A paper copy of the survey can be obtained at the Town Hall or by calling 218-529-7516.

The project aims to “enhance access to recreational opportunities, foster a more welcoming and accessible community space, and stimulate community development,” said Josh Bergstad, a planner with the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission.

ARDC is collaborating with the township and Aune Fernandez Landscape Architects in the planning and design process. The ARDC will use the survey results, in conjunction with input from the town board and the landscape architects, to develop preliminary designs for the park and its facilities. Designs will be presented to residents next year, providing another opportunity for feedback.

In other news, Thomson Township supervisors voted to change website providers at last week’s meeting, a move that should offer the township better services at a lower cost. The township is also changing its phone system.

Supervisors received a draft of the township’s 2024 budget Thursday, and plan to vote on next year’s budget and tax levy at the board meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21.