City Beach plan offers opportunity

To the editor:
Over the years our family has camped at a number of city campgrounds. We have fond memories of the communities who invited us into their ‘backyards’.
My husband and I often lamented over the fact that International Falls did not have a comparable city campground. When we heard about the planning committee for City Beach, my husband gladly agreed to be part of it.
The committee had moved thoughtfully and slowly through the process of enhancing the area. Significant improvements have been made, including the presence of a host couple who maintains a watchful eye.
I was disappointed to learn of the controversy regarding the addition of camping. In particular I feel compelled to respond to Dana Hartje’s question and comment in her letter to the editor, Thursday, June 26 (what difference does it make to the city if there are 10 people at the beach or 100? You make no money either way.)
The point of this entire effort is to give more people the opportunity to enjoy this playful, peaceful place, not to generate revenue. The difference between 10 and 100 is 90 — 90 more beachgoers who could have an adventure, make a memory or simply take a break. By allowing camping, perhaps some local children can have an overnight experience with their parents and visitors can spend a night or two in our ‘backyard’.
Nancy Johnson
International Falls, MN