Council approves $15 million‑plus for Parnell Park renovation after public objections over tree removals

The Whittier City Council approved a supplemental appropriation of $15,000,398.754 for construction of the Parnell Park renovation project as part of the consent calendar, despite extensive public comment opposing removal of mature trees and the park layout.

Several residents used the public comment period to press the council to preserve the park’s mature canopy and to question other design elements, including installation of artificial turf, a new track and concentration of multiple soccer fields in one location.

"First, of course, is the trees. The loss of a 175 beautiful, mature trees is horrible even to contemplate," said a resident speaking during the public comment period. Connie McCormack, a 29‑year resident, called it "insulting" that the bid award and the $22,000,000 Parnell Park renovation project were included on the consent agenda rather than discussed in more detail, and she urged the council to address community appeals and petitions opposing tree removal.

City staff told the council the appropriation is included in the consent calendar and is intended to fund construction and improvements for the Parnell Park project. During the consent calendar roll call, council members approved several budget resolutions including the supplemental appropriation for Parnell Park. The consent items adopted at the start of the meeting included: a resolution terminating the local public health emergency related to waste hauling disruptions; a supplemental appropriation of $69,366 for emergency operations upgrades; the $15,000,398.754 supplemental appropriation for Parnell Park renovation and improvements; and a supplemental appropriation of $216,392 for the Youngwood Drive Slope project. Council members Warner, Pacheco, Dutra and Mayor Pro Tem Martinez recorded aye votes and the mayor registered aye as well when the roll was called.

Public commenters said the city previously removed a large track and field, and referenced a decades‑old site called The Groves where residents had expected preserved playing fields. Several commenters said petitions opposing tree removal included more than 7,000 signatures; commenters gave two close but differing counts of trees to be removed — speakers cited both 175 and 178 mature trees — and asked the council to revisit design options.

The action taken tonight was a budget adoption through the consent calendar; the council did not hold a separate, detailed public hearing or vote on the project design at this meeting. Staff and the city manager said project implementation steps, including construction contracts and schedules, will follow the adopted budget and applicable procurement and environmental review processes.

What happens next: With the appropriation adopted, staff will proceed with construction procurement and project implementation steps for Parnell Park consistent with the adopted budget and city procedures. Community members opposed to the design may pursue the Historic Resources Commission and other administrative avenues if they seek further review or appeals.