2) Only way to tell is to get Force Tested. Ask around, both the NR and the Empire have people who can do that, though it's up to them if they want to help.
Parks and fountains affect moral, crime, and a few other things that can affect how much money you make off your facilities in the area. To much crime or to low a moral and NPCs don't work hard and you don't make alot of money off your taverns, etc.