Commissioners hear report of reckless vehicle activity at Markland Park; U.S. Army Corps contacted

During new business on April 20, 2026, John Kniola reported public-safety concerns at Markland Park after receiving a call from a deputy sheriff about trucks and jeeps gathering and performing high-speed 'donuts' on park property.

Kniola said the park is open 24 hours a day with free access and that the deputy wanted the behavior stopped as soon as possible; he said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had been contacted about the situation. Kniola also reported a separate incident in which someone was camping at a shelter and driving on walking paths.

The matter was reported to the board as information; no formal motion or vote was recorded addressing enforcement or changes to park access during the meeting. Kniola also mentioned local coordination regarding a graduation party at the Patriot boat ramp, which included requests to rent a stage for a band and obtain an additional portable toilet.

The board did not take formal action at the meeting; the record indicates county staff and law enforcement have been notified and may pursue further steps outside the board session.