Marina council postpones decision on Los Arboles courts resurfacing until school-district agreement, liability review

The Marina City Council voted unanimously to postpone action on a staff proposal to spend up to $115,000 to resurface and restripe upper and lower tennis courts at the Los Arboles/Dunes site, citing outstanding questions about ownership, liability and coordination with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD).

Staff explained initial construction quotes for rehabilitating all courts exceeded budget (about $250,000). A revised scope limited to the two upper courts produced lower estimates; the developer (city staff) proposed a staged approach to address the most immediate safety and playability concerns. Council members pressed for a written agreement with MPUSD clarifying maintenance and liability before the city proceeds, and several members said they wanted the school district to confirm whether it will contribute to improvements or consider transferring ownership if it will not participate in maintenance costs.

Council Member Biella asked staff to ensure project descriptions and staff reports use consistent park names (City Park at Seahaven) and requested clarity on scope: the current proposal covers only upper-court surfacing and step replacement, not fencing, walls or landscaping. Staff said a future budget cycle could include a phased capital project to address lower courts and surrounding repairs.

Motion and outcome: Council Member Viola moved to postpone resurfacing until the city and MPUSD reach an agreement addressing liability and ownership; the motion passed unanimously (4-0).