Shawndrea Thomas, Fox 2 (St. Louis), September 17, 2014

A petition to permanently close the basketball courts at Tilles Park started about 4 weeks ago at a Tilles Park Neighborhood Association meeting. Some thought the visitors at the court were creating a hostile environment filled with intimidation, profanity, public urination and drug use. FOX 2 asked 23rd ward Alderman Joe Vacarro if the move was racially motivated he says it not. Vacarro says problem has been sparked by visitors violating the park curfew.

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Petitioners want the basketball court replaced with more family friendly games like volleyball and shuffleboard. Alderman Vaccaro also says at least 80 people have signed the petition so far. The next step is to present the signatures at the next neighborhood association meeting set for November 25th. After that it goes on to the St. Louis City Parks department for review.