Title
Discuss Commissioner Assignments to Observe Parks and Programs
Body
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Recreation and Park Commission
From: Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director
Re: Discuss Commissioner Assignments to Observe Parks and Programs
BACKGROUND
In previous years, the Recreation and Parks Commissioners discussed the need for true engagement with the community and the Alameda Recreation and Parks Department (ARPD) programs. Previous Commissioner efforts and initiatives included:
• Attend events, Council meetings, Planning Board, Disability Commission and other key city meetings where parks interests are involved. Speak at City Council meetings on issues when the whole Commission approves a message.
• Make sure parks are represented and communicate the message that parks and this Commission are relevant in the community. This was done through a “Commission Roadshow” in which Commissioners made presentations about ARPD programs and the Commission to various Alameda service organizations.
• Better understand infrastructure of parks system and programs.
• Truly represent the people who use the parks and programs. Be stronger representatives of those users.
• Be involved with parks, projects and recreation programs. Attend ARPD events and visit various parks and programs.
DISCUSSION
Below is a list of specific parks and programs that Commissioners may sign up to attend and visit. Commissioners would then spend time there, observe, talk to people and report back at meetings on what Commissioners observed and learned.
Below is the list of specific parks, programs and facilities for Commissioners to choose for their assignments:
Parks and Facilities
• Lincoln Park (including Harrison Center)
• Washington Park (including the dog park)
• Littlejohn Park
• Franklin Park
• Woodstock Park
• Krusi Park
• Leydecker Park
• Encinal Boat Launch Facility and Grand Street Boat Ramp
• Bill Osborne Model Airplane Field
• Cityview Skate Park
• Alameda Point Neighborhood Park
• Bayport Park
• Chochenyo Park
• Estuary Park
• Godfrey Park
• Sweeney Park
• Marina Cove Park
• Towata Park
Programs
• Mastick Senior Center
• RAP (Recreational After School Program)
• Tiny Tots
• League play at Alameda Point Gymnasium (starts in November)
• Aquatics Programs at Encinal and Alameda High Schools
• Special Interest Classes
Events - (October - February)
• Pumpkin Patch Pool Party
• Annual Holiday Boutique
• Thanksgiving Turkey Dip or Roll
• Elks Hoop Shoot Competition
• Breakfast with Santa
• Storytelling and Drumming Festival
• Dance Party
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact from this discussion.
RECOMMENDATION
Discuss Commissioner assignments to observe parks and programs.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director