Forsyth considers legal action over Bethel Park decision

CUMMING - In response to the recent decision by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to award use of Bethel Park to the YMCA, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners has directed its attorneys to file a Freedom of Information Act request to determine the basis for the decision.<br /> <br /> In addition, the Commission has directed legal counsel to begin preliminary steps toward possible legal action against the corps.<br /> <br /> '"It has always been the belief of the Board of Commissioners that the local government would be afforded the right of first refusal in the event that the corps opted to lease their parks," Commission Chairman Charles Laughinghouse said in a statement issued Friday. "We believe it is our obligation to act in the best interest of the citizens of this county. Our intent has and will continue to be preserving access to this park for the citizens of<br /> Forsyth County."<br /> <br /> The corps announced Wednesday it had approved the YMCA's plans for the park, which sits on the shores of Lake Lanier. Forsyth County had made a counter-offer for the operation of the park.<br /> <br /> The commission is expected to discuss the matter further during a meeting on Tuesday.