Under the tall shade trees in Moor Park, families and neighbors came out to enjoy the night. It was the first Summer in the City neighborhood meeting of 2023, put on by the City of Coon Rapids.
"We are so glad that you are here tonight,” Mayor Jerry Koch said as he addressed the crowd. “And we hope you learn a lot of new information about our wonderful city."
Neal Livermore shared his experience on the Parks and Rec Commission with residents, and invited those interested to join in and serve. If a resident had a question about city operations, there was someone with an answer.
"My message today is emerald ash borer," City Forester Tom Schibilla told residents.
Schibilla talked about the plight of ash trees, and shared his urgent message, while standing at a table under a towering ash tree.
"So the big idea is just to be aware and to have a plan in order that is for treating the tree or removing it or planting a new tree," Schibilla said.
Coon Rapids resident Paul Weber brought his family out to Moor Park for the free ice cream, water and fun.
"This is a really good opportunity to see some neighbors,” Weber said. “And you know, our kids ran into some schoolmates here. And so this is a really good opportunity for our community just to come together and learn about the services available to us."
There are two more Summer in the City neighborhood meetings coming up. The next one takes place Tuesday, June 27 at Woodcrest Park, and then Tuesday, July 11 at Boulevard Plaza. You can join in on the fun, on either date, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more information, check out the city's website.