Alonzo Carranza, 10, takes a break from baseball and sits on the pitcher¿s mound Wednesday evening at Mack Park in Holtville. (Eric Miller) |
HOLTVILLE — The plan to renovate Mack Park through a community volunteer effort was discussed and supported Monday by the City Council here.
The plan was put forward thanks to a letter from resident and Little League Advisory Board member Pepe Larios, said City Manager Alex Meyerhoff.
The city voted in early June to approve the improvements of Mack Park, which includes putting concrete walkways, sports field lighting systems, parking lot improvements, picnic tables and a playground, among other things, according to a report to the City Council. These improvements will cost about $1.1 million, the same report reads.
Yet, the passing of a law in late June that eliminated redevelopment agencies “froze” the project, Meyerhoff said.
The idea now is to encourage local construction companies that have received contracts from the city to “put money back into the community,” Meyerhoff said.
“It’s a brilliant idea,” said Mayor David Bradshaw.
A resident present supported the idea, while at the same time questioning the scope of the project.
The improvements of Mack Park have “grown into this huge monstrosity,” said resident Christina Toten.
“Let’s just keep it simple,” she said adding that some residents look at the City Council’s plan for the park as an obstacle for any improvements.
Councilwoman Colleen Ludwig responded that the improvements in the project were put forward by parents in the community who signed petitions.
“It’s not just something the City Council is doing. It’s the community that is involved,” Ludwig said.
Resident Betty Predmore suggested that utility companies such as the Imperial Irrigation District get involved in the project.
She also said that most residents support the idea and are frustrated with the timing of the project.
“Let’s start a fund and see how far we can get,” said Councilman Mike Goodsell. “If we can’t get there nothing is lost.”
Councilman Jerry Brittsan agreed.
“I would hate to put water on the fire the community is trying to build,” Brittsan said.
“We better do something than nothing,” said Bradshaw.
To support the project doesn’t require any commitment from the city, yet it allows staff to “start talking to people,” Meyerhoff said.
“You got some direction to go forward,” Bradshaw said to Meyerhoff.
Staff Writer Alejandro Davila can be reached at 760-337-3445 or adavila@ivpressonline.com
The plan was put forward thanks to a letter from resident and Little League Advisory Board member Pepe Larios, said City Manager Alex Meyerhoff.
The city voted in early June to approve the improvements of Mack Park, which includes putting concrete walkways, sports field lighting systems, parking lot improvements, picnic tables and a playground, among other things, according to a report to the City Council. These improvements will cost about $1.1 million, the same report reads.
Yet, the passing of a law in late June that eliminated redevelopment agencies “froze” the project, Meyerhoff said.
The idea now is to encourage local construction companies that have received contracts from the city to “put money back into the community,” Meyerhoff said.
“It’s a brilliant idea,” said Mayor David Bradshaw.
A resident present supported the idea, while at the same time questioning the scope of the project.
The improvements of Mack Park have “grown into this huge monstrosity,” said resident Christina Toten.
“Let’s just keep it simple,” she said adding that some residents look at the City Council’s plan for the park as an obstacle for any improvements.
Councilwoman Colleen Ludwig responded that the improvements in the project were put forward by parents in the community who signed petitions.
“It’s not just something the City Council is doing. It’s the community that is involved,” Ludwig said.
Resident Betty Predmore suggested that utility companies such as the Imperial Irrigation District get involved in the project.
She also said that most residents support the idea and are frustrated with the timing of the project.
“Let’s start a fund and see how far we can get,” said Councilman Mike Goodsell. “If we can’t get there nothing is lost.”
Councilman Jerry Brittsan agreed.
“I would hate to put water on the fire the community is trying to build,” Brittsan said.
“We better do something than nothing,” said Bradshaw.
To support the project doesn’t require any commitment from the city, yet it allows staff to “start talking to people,” Meyerhoff said.
“You got some direction to go forward,” Bradshaw said to Meyerhoff.
Staff Writer Alejandro Davila can be reached at 760-337-3445 or adavila@ivpressonline.com
