Pacifica commissioners report on parks, emergency preparedness, beautification, open space, economic development and library programs

Representatives of Pacifica—s volunteer commissions presented annual reports and briefed council on programs ranging from beach safety to economic-development promotions.

Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission Chair Gail Benton Shoemaker highlighted a city life-buoy (life-ring) program and a parks inventory effort. Shoemaker said buoy stations were installed at multiple beaches after Coastal Commission approval and that commissioners compiled park assessments to produce both internal maintenance guidance and a public-facing catalog of park amenities.

Emergency Preparedness and Safety Commission Chair Gregor Blackburn reported on the city—s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. Blackburn said more than 350 residents have completed CERT training and that volunteer-created earthquake and tsunami preparedness classes have trained community members to support family and neighborhood resilience during disasters. Blackburn noted the city—s five-year hazard-mitigation-plan review is due in 2026 and offered his FEMA experience for grant planning.

Beautification Advisory Committee Chair Gail Benton Shoemaker (also reporting for the BAC) and other volunteers described community-sponsored planters, Palmetto Streetscape planting and bioswale efforts with school partners; the committee said sponsors such as the Rotary Club helped maintain planters and that volunteer workdays have increased public participation.

Open Space and Parklands Advisory Committee (AUSPAC) Chair Ellen Nattasen reported on trail workdays, invasive-species removal, a newly funded kiosk for the Ani Trail and a recently installed hand-carved bench moved by volunteers. Nattasen said volunteers have improved trails through regular monthly workdays and that a PG&E settlement provided several thousand dollars for AUSPAC work.

Economic Development Committee Chair Sean Thompson previewed the committee—s third annual Blues & Brews event (June 21) and said committee initiatives include a Sharp Park/trail map, promotional signage templates for events and a SHOP Pacifica campaign to retain local spending. Thompson said the committee is moving toward a ticketed "stroll" to encourage visitors to visit local businesses.

Library Advisory Committee Chair Tina Wermeister summarized outreach and engagement, including a bookmark and sticker art contest for children, new virtual book-club programming and planned Sharp Park branch tours. The committee noted partnerships with school districts, the Pacifica Friends of the Library and senior groups.

Each commission and committee invited county and community engagement with volunteers and noted opportunities for council assistance with signage, parking and grant applications.

Council did not take action on any commission reports but thanked the volunteers and staff.