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Special City Council Meeting <br />February 13, 2001 <br />Page 5 <br />Wilson advised that he was not in favor of just another subdivision, or in <br />favor of building all homes around the lake, but felt that the city could <br />continue to use the area where there are currently recreational facilities now, <br />and as far as the developers, they have to put in water and sewer all the way <br />to the necessary facilities for the City of Paris, with no cost to the city. They <br />could be required in their bids to include the water and sewer cost of the <br />recreational area. Mr. Wilson pointed out that the city would not be <br />spending money to develop the recreational park, it would be part of the <br />developer's cost. <br />Julann Boatner, 3065 Mahaffey, came forward stating that she was the first <br />president of the Parks and Recreational Board of Paris Texas, which no <br />longer exists. Ms. Boater said she placed in front of the City Council some <br />twenty years ago exactly what you are proposing to do today and nothing <br />has been done in twenty years. Ms. Boater stated that she has a personal <br />feeling about recreational development and natural wildlife to stay there, but <br />it is going to take compromise from both sides to get something <br />accomplished, because she does not want to wait another 20 years to see <br />something productive at Lake Crook. <br />James Smith, 39 E. Long Avenue, came forward telling the City Council that <br />he would like to see the lake used for recreational purposes. Mr. Smith said <br />he was not in favor of developing the lake areas for residential use. <br />Johnny Hawks, Bogota, Texas, appeared representing the East Texas <br />Equestrian Trail Riders Association consisting of 36 counties in East Texas <br />and also represents an organization in this area called the Red River Valley <br />Trail Riders. Mr. Hawks said they ride at Pat Mayse Lake, Caddo <br />Grasslands, and other areas and they would like to see Lake Crook <br />developed for horseback riding. Mr. Hawks said it would not cost the City <br />of Paris anything because they can get a grant to put a horse camp in and <br />develop the riding trail. Mr. Hawks pointed out that there are a lot of retired <br />people that enjoy trail riding. Mr. Hawks said when they develop the trail it <br />will be good for hikers, bikers, bird watchers, and boy scouts who could use <br />them. Mr. Hawks said they have trails at Pat Mayse Lake and one in the <br />Caddo Grasslands. <br />Ed Seidle, 1363 Pine Bluff, appeared stating that he supported Don Wilson's <br />concept and believed that the city needs to have a nice facility as he <br />described for Lake Crook. Mr. Seidle said he also believes there is room for <br />the recreational facilities. Mr. Seidle pointed out that the city has fine <br />