ASHLAND — Lincoln Park (not the rock band version) seems like it’s primed to make an appearance in Ashland.
The Ashland City Schools Board of Education heard an update on the Lincoln Elementary School property at its board meeting Monday, ahead of a purchase agreement that’ll appear on the board’s March 24 agenda. The board meets at 5:30 p.m. on March 24 at its central office on Claremont Avenue.
Last week, Ashland City Council unanimously approved the purchase of the 1.4-acre lot for $1,000. The intention is for the property to become a park — an idea that gained momentum again in December.
Ashland City Schools Supt. Steve Paramore told the board Monday a large population of students remain in the area where the Lincoln property is located.
“Ashland sparkles on many levels, and that will be another opportunity for that to happen,” Paramore said.
He also addressed confusion he’s seen about the purchase. Paramore said he’s heard from community members who’ve conflated the property sale with a recent board discussion about funding.
“That ultimately would go into (permanent improvement),” Paramore said. “That’s not paying salaries and benefits, so appreciate everybody’s feedback as always and this is a partnership with the city.”
What’s in a name?
Mayor Matt Miller told council March 4 he hoped the park would adopt the school’s name and be referred to as “Lincoln Park.”
The school board heard public comment from one Ashland resident, Tom McNaull, Monday.
McNaull offered a brief history about Lincoln Elementary School, and suggested the school board consider referring to the park as “Lincoln School Park,” rather than “Lincoln Park.”
He added adopting that name would still pay homage to the school, while avoiding confusion with other cities’ similarly-named parks.
