Ortonville- The Village Skate Park will remain open.
Despite recent news that a grant to fix problems at the park has been denied, the village council heard good news at their Monday meeting.
Bob Roerink, recently hired to monitor the Skate Park from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and noon-8 p.m. on Saturdays, said he has not had any issues with kids at the park. The only problem he sees is the need for a gate in the fence.
‘The kids have been pretty good,? said Roerink, a 65-year-old retiree from GM Truck & Bus.
‘The parents are tickled to death I’m there. I haven’t had a bad kid yet. Once I get one, I’ll take him out.?
Roerink’s comments came after a motion by Councilmember Harold Batten to request the township remove their equipment from the park. The motion ultimately failed, 2-5, with Batten and Dan Eschmann the only councilmembers in favor.
Roerink, a Clarkston resident, is engaged to Elaine Duerden, and is the father of six children. He has 25 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Roerink earns minimum wage, $7.14 per hour until July 1, when his salary will increase to $7.40 per hour. He is a temporary part-time employee and will work until Oct. 1 when the skate park closes for the season. His salary comes from the park fund.
‘I think he will be an asset to the skate park,? said Village Manager Ed Coy.