Lawrence Parks Department — Attraction in Lawrence

I’m very disappointed in Lawrence Parks system: I called to reserve the Sterrett Center. After downloading and filling out the contract I called about a few concerns. The “contract” never mentions the price. I was told they would add it at the bottom. I asked you mean AFTER I sign it? That’s really not how contracts work.

Then the lady that answered the phone proceeded to tell me ALL the things that weren’t in the contract. For example, in order to rent the Sterrett Center, I must use one of their three “preferred” required caterers and can’t bring food in. So I asked if one of their three white owned caterers knows how to make authentic African Cuisine. She says they know how to make a variety of cuisines. In order to make authentic African food, you have to be a native.

Instead of trying to figure out how to help me still have an event there she proceeds to tell me how they have “contracts” with the caterers and can’t allow outside food. I’m thinking, yeah since Lawrence seems to know so much about contracts. Seems to me that Lawrence Township is more concerned with its preferred caterers than the actual community. Otherwise, it would be written in the contract that if there was a specialty food that was required that the renter could bring it in. Now, once again, I am not offered the same opportunities to have my event at the Sterrett Center because I don’t want the type of food that they require me to eat. I was also told that a variety of different businesses were offered the opportunity to bid. Well I know several minority restaurant owners in Lawrence Township and none of them were asked. Seems like more effort should have been made to secure a variety of different caterers.

I’m just so frustrated with the constant and oblivious exclusion. But also the refusal of the staff or City to try to make it right with me. Shame on...

He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. Psalm 33:5 This is a nice park that is usually quiet and clean when I visit. This is a good place to walk the trail for exercise, walk your dog or have a picnic. There's a skate park, a giant hill for sledding in the winter and plenty of parking. There's picnic tables and baseball fields. There's also a park for children. This park is free and I do see police vehicles drive through but Like with all places stay alert of your...

I love this park! Depending on the time of day, it's a great place to play with your dog, as long as you clean up after your dog. It's a great place to go for a run, or play a game of softball, baseball, or basketball. An awesome sledding hill in the winter, and the community center is a fantastic spot to hold special events. And the skate park is...