Commission reviews Concerts in the Park feedback; seeks clearer no-smoking and alcohol signage and addresses e-scooter safety

The Estacada Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed feedback from the recent Concerts in the Park series and discussed steps to reduce noise impact, post clearer park rules and address safety risks from electric scooters near park events.

Commission members said turnout was similar to past events and that local bands drew positive feedback; commissioners also discussed volume and placement adjustments that made later concerts more pleasant for attendees and nearby residents. Members noted canopies stored at Wade Creek proved convenient for event setup and recommended continued use of that storage arrangement.

Several commissioners raised concerns about smoking and vaping in parks and asked staff to post “no smoking/vaping” and “no alcohol” signage near event areas. A staff member noted that park rules already prohibit alcohol and smoking, and the commission said signs at event locations — not only by the skate park — would make rules clearer for visitors.

Public-safety issues at events were also discussed. Commissioners reported incidents of children and other riders operating electric scooters at high speeds on sidewalks and nearby streets, including a reported rider traveling at an estimated 30 miles per hour on Eagle Creek Highway without a helmet; one commissioner said they filed a report with authorities. Commissioners discussed contacting police about trespassing and enforcement in the skate-park area where nonlocal groups had caused problems earlier in the season.

Ending: The commission directed staff to check posting locations for no-smoking/no-alcohol signage, continue use of Wade Creek storage for canopies and coordinate with law enforcement on scooter and trespass complaints.