Does Pumptrack bring noise and vandalism?

The municipal assembly of Erlinsbach AG said yes to a loan of 1.5 million for a generation park on Friday.

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The planned generation park in Kalkhof mobilized: 213 (of 3018) voters were at the Gmeind. And the opinions were well made. On the one hand the skeptical residents of this park, on the other hand those who see the Generation Park as an opportunity to bring together the young, the old and those in between. The council idea. And Mayor Monika Schenker represented them with vehemence.

Pumptrack raises fears in neighborhood

It’s not the children’s playground that stirs people’s spirits, or the meadow with the football goal, which is also in need of renovation. And it’s not the Pétanque Club either. Fears are fueled by the planned pump track, a playground for physical activity. This is a specially built circuit of waves and curves for bicycles and other roller sports equipment. The main fear: noise. Namely those that can arise from driving on them, but above all several people expressed the fear that disturbed sleep, littering and vandalism could impair their quality of life. The logical consequence: moving the pump track to the periphery, to the sports facilities.

The square should bring something to all generations

Monika Schenker found clear words for the municipal council’s idea: “It’s about a place for everyone, not just the pump track.” A place to be together for all age groups: exchange ideas, move. Hence the shaded areas and promenades provided. And, at the pétanque club, a bistro or kiosk where people can meet.

The fact that the municipal council is aware of the risks shows that clear rules of conduct must be applied: night’s rest from 10 p.m., pump track open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., ban on mopeds, loud music, barbecue activities, dogs.

Looking for a conversation or calling the police?

Opponents have pointed out that enforcement of these rules is the problem. There are different reactions to violations. Some try to talk to the young people, others call the police right away. Monika Schenker referred to the cooperation with the police and Securitas, but is aware that the absence of disruptions cannot be guaranteed. One speaker said that there are so many bans and that young people are turned away wherever they meet. And another, whose son does pump track, received applause for her vote that if young people are always playing games, it’s not right, and if they play a sport other than football, it’s not right either.

Rejection application had no chance

Local resident Andrea Isler asked for an alternative location for the pump track to be examined. In addition, the municipality should not build, finance and maintain it, but, as in other municipalities, a supporting association. Your rejection motion did not find a majority with 41 yes to 165 no votes, but the municipal council’s motion with a loan of 1.5 million francs for the generation park did: 155 yes to 42 no. A referendum can be held against this, as against all other resolutions. Monika Schenker’s final words on this subject: “We will do everything to ensure orderly operations.” By the way: Erlinsbach SO intends to make a contribution of CHF 65,000. However, the municipal assembly still has to say yes, because the amount has to be budgeted. And Erlinsbach AG can hope for a contribution from the canton; it is a maximum of 50 percent.

The fusion of the disposal system with Erlinsbach SO, including new waste regulations and uniform bags and fees for both Erlinsbach, was undisputed. Erlinsbach SO decides on this merger at the community meeting this Monday evening. There was also a clear yes on Friday for a loan of 250,000 francs for the BNO audit, loan statements and naturalization.

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