Corte Madera highlights new skatepark, pickleball courts and summer events guide

Parks and recreation staff told the commission on March 24 about recent project openings and upcoming events.

Staff said the ScottAlab skatepark grand opening was well attended and praised collaboration among donors, public works and recreation staff. "If you haven't been by, please go by," a staff member said, describing the site as “a beautiful part of the town park” and noting the expansion improved circulation and reduced noise concerns.

The department has launched an online reservation system for tennis and pickleball courts at Granada Park and Towne Park. Staff explained courts are released weekly (the Sunday before) and residents may reserve up to three times per week; permanent signage with a QR code will be installed to help users access the reservation system. Staff told commissioners the initial rollout went smoothly and that users have adapted to rotational play and reserved time slots.

Staff reviewed the summer activities guide. The guide lists community events including a summer concert series (scheduled to run from mid-June through late August), youth and adult classes, youth sport camps and two outdoor movies: one at Towne Park on Aug. 20 and another at The Cove on Sept. 20; staff said the earlier movie will likely start around 8:30 p.m. when evening light makes screening feasible. The guide also promotes a family campout tied to a movie night; staff said about 40 people had already signed up.

Staff described recent special events: a Bridal Ball in February with 105 attendees and plans to hold a similar fall event; and the department’s use of contracted custodial services and new equipment to improve operations. Staff also noted that the department began fingerprinting and formal contracting of seasonal instructors and coaches this year.

Rebecca (staff) told commissioners the town will hold a volunteer fair on Saturday, April 19 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the community center to connect residents with boards, commissions and community service organizations; staff said school-district and youth volunteer opportunities will be part of the fair and that the town will promote the event through social media, newsletters and partner outlets.

Staff also announced a Menke Park renovation and accessibility community outreach meeting scheduled the following day at 5 p.m.; the outreach meeting will collect input that staff and consultants will use to refine design options and return to the commission in a future meeting.

Consent item: the commission approved the Jan. 27 meeting minutes in a roll-call vote. Commissioner Bodeman abstained because she was not present at the Jan. 27 meeting; Commissioners Koenig, Rose, Stoller, Hitchcock, Vice Chair Charlie and Chair Miles voted to approve the minutes, and the motion carried.