Citizens group seeks money for park in Hurt

Danville Register & Bee
Published: February 5, 2008

CHATHAM - A Pittsylvania County group wants funding to operate a park in Hurt to attract more activities.

Debra Davis of Concerned Citizens of Northeastern Pittsylvania County asked the Board of Supervisors Monday for $10,000 in annual funds to maintain Wayside Park in Hurt. The nonprofit organization wants to tidy up the park, set up a portion of it as a rest stop/picnic area, and enable softball teams to play there.

Davis said the plumbing, electricity and the softball park needs repair. 

“The potential for the park is endless,” Davis said.

She added that the use would be a welcome change from drug activity that has taken place there. 

“The more (family) activities you have in the park, the less likelihood of drug activity going on in the park,” Davis said.

County Attorney John Light said the county would not be able to draw up a lease with Concerned Citizens until a review from the U.S. Department of Interior. After that, a public hearing would have to be held before the county and the nonprofit could sign a lease. 

Supervisors voted unanimously to pursue drafting a lease agreement.

In other matters, the town of Hurt received a tract of land after getting approval from supervisors to adjust its boundary.

Supervisors unanimously voted after a public hearing to let the town incorporate 600 acres where Klopman Mills is located. Hurt Mayor Lillian Gillespie said Hurt will benefit economically with the plant within town limits.