Council considers automated gates and restroom locking for Sierra Bella Park security

The City Council meeting held on May 7, 2025, in Corona focused on enhancing security measures at local parks, particularly through the installation of automated gates and restroom locking systems. Parks and Trails Manager Moses Cortez presented options for improving safety at Sierra Bella Park and other locations, responding to community concerns about loitering and unauthorized overnight parking.

Cortez outlined the need for a 30-foot rolling gate at Sierra Bella Park, which would cost approximately $45,000. This gate would help secure the parking lot after hours while allowing park users to exit if they are still present when the park closes. The proposal also included the potential installation of similar gates at six additional parks, with an estimated total cost of $423,000 for all locations.

In addition to the gate proposal, the council discussed options for restroom security. Currently, some restrooms are manually locked by park rangers and security services. Cortez suggested an automated locking system for restrooms, which would cost around $14,800 for nine locations. This system could save the city approximately $96,000 annually by eliminating the need for security services.

The council was presented with three options for restroom security: maintaining the status quo, installing automated locks, or relying on park rangers for manual locking. Each option has its pros and cons, including cost implications and potential security risks.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public input, highlighting the community's interest in park safety and security enhancements. The council is expected to deliberate on these proposals in the coming weeks, aiming to improve the safety and accessibility of Corona's parks.