City council candidates divided on legion park proposal

GAINESVILLE - With the Gainesville City Council apparently hopelessly deadlocked 2-2 on whether to turn some American Legion land into a city park, some people are wondering how the candidates for the lone vacancy on the council stand on the idea.<br> <br> Three men running for the post vacated by Mark Musselwhite earlier this year when he resigned to run for the state Senate.<br> <br> Danny Dunagan minced no words: he opposes to the plan as it now stands &#34;based on the master plan for parks and recreation and the parks and recreation (board&#39;s) recommendation for denial and the budget.&#34;<br> <br> Joe Diaz doesn&#39;t like the plan, either, but doesn&#39;t want to shut the door on the idea just yet. &#34;I don&#39;t think it&#39;s been fully explored and there are better choices we need to get on the table.&#34; Diaz also notes the opposition to the idea from some Island Drive residents and others who live in the area.<br> <br> Ashley Bell says he would be inclined to vote for it - if it can be done without a tax increase because &#34;I feel that the citizens are not willing to have another tax increase for another park.&#34;<br> <br> Council raised taxes this year to help pay for the Frances Meadows Community Center.<br> <br> The election is November 7.