Some social media users were irked by a post that stated the unauthorized use of Carpenter Park in Plano could result in criminal charges.
Plano Police reposted a comment from the Parks and Recreation Department that stated, “We have received reports of people hopping the fence to gain access to Carpenter Park’s athletic fields. Please know individuals attempting to gain access to these closed off areas can result in criminal trespassing charges by the Plano Texas Police Department.”
The post also reiterated the park department’s stance that limiting use helps eliminate wear and tear and the need for costly repairs.
“Carpenter Park is designated for scheduled use by local athletic organizations and the general public to conduct games and practices in a variety of sports,” the post states.
One of the responders from the public wrote on the post that it’s “super lame to send this threat to Plano taxpayers.”
Another commenter stated that in 2020 or 2021 her daughter wanted to roll a ball on turf for five minutes for a science project. She was told it would cost $100 because the parks are only rented by the hour, according to the parent.
“She didn’t use turf in her project,” the parent wrote.
The series of comments prompted a response from the Police Department that stated, “Dang y’all are feisty tonight. We are just the messenger.”
In recent weeks, the Plano City Council has examined demand levels for the city’s Parks and Recreation field reservation program. City leaders have also looked into ways to offer the general public greater accessbility.
During a December the city council learned from parks staff that 96 percent of reservations are set aside for leagues and 4 percent are set aside for reservations by the public.
