The Carbondale City Council is holding a special meeting on Thursday to discuss the process of exploring a merger with the Park District.
City Nanager Gary Williams said the meeting will help the council define what exploring a merger would look like. He says the city is having this discussion as a response to voters.
"With over 70% of Carbondale voters saying that they think it's a good idea that the Park District and the city at least explore the idea, we feel obligated to do our due diligence and do what the voters asked for us to do," said Williams.
Park District Executive Director Kathy Renfro said she hopes both entities can work together to best serve the community and help Carbondale citizens have more access to recreation.
"I think it's safe to say what everybody wants is better parks," Renfro said. "And so we're hoping the city could assist the Park District with that effort."
The council meeting will be held at 6 pm on Thursday at the Carbondale Civic Center.
