A group of Springfield residents wanting alcohol in city parks is growing.

More than 400 people are signed up for the Facebook group titled "Legalize Alcohol Sales in the Springfield, MO Park Board System."

The group's organizer says it would be a great way to bring revenue into the strapped-for-cash city.

"Golf courses and the ice rink; events like that.  There is certainly going to be some profit realized form the sale of alcohol, and obviously the tax dollars as well," said Karl Kime.

A similar measure already failed back in 2002, but Kime says he wants to take a different approach this go round.

"It doesn't even have to be an open deal for all times, it can be venue and event specific," said Kime.

Here's something unusual for you.  You might not think tortoises at the Dickerson Park Zoo would benefit from alcohol in the parks, but Friends of the Zoo say  its biggest fundraiser is currently held off-site because alcohol is not allowed.

The annual "Ball of the Wild" is a chance for the zoo and its donors to come together, but currently those donors can't see where they are spending their money.

"We can not showcase the beauty, and all of the progress Dickerson Park Zoo has made to the donors and supporters who support us throughout the year," said Melinda Arnold with Friends of the Zoo.

Yet, while there may be some positives, Greene County Prosecutor Darrell Moore, who is on the DWI Task Force says he's afraid the idea will get out of control.

"We all know we don't have enough police officers.  So if you want to interject alcohol into softball games, and people already losing tempers, people will get into a brawl or fight, and will expect prompt response from the police.  So, I think it's a dangerous mix," said Moore.

He says he doesn't see why anyone playing softball or tennis would need to drink, but is willing to discuss the issue with those in favor of it.

Kime says his group of supporters welcome that and want the effort to be a joint one, no matter which side of the fence you stand on.

The group hopes to present its plan to city council down the line, but is still in its planning stage right now.

To view the group on Facebook click here.

Story ideas or comments?  Email me at wcarter@kspr.com