Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!

Council accepts 9.52 acres for future park and basin; community members press for canal trail and erosion control

April 19, 2025 | Los Banos, Merced County, California


This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »

Council accepts 9.52 acres for future park and basin; community members press for canal trail and erosion control
The City Council on April 16 accepted the dedication of about 9.52 acres at Southpointe at Regency Park for use as a public park and stormwater detention basin and authorized the interim city manager to execute the required documents.

Public Works Director and City Engineer Charles Burson said the dedication was a condition of development and that the subdivision has completed almost all phases. The triangular parcel lies on the city’s east side, north of Pacheco High School, along a canal. Staff presented aerial images to show the basin footprint, existing concrete detention infrastructure and a short existing sidewalk; they said the site will be in Light & Landscape District 11 for future maintenance and that erosion control along the basin’s edges will need attention if the site is used for a park.

Council and staff discussion focused on the site’s recreational potential and constraints. Councilmembers asked staff to pursue a community meeting in the summer to solicit ideas about amenities. Staff suggested possibilities include a canal‑side pathway connecting to Meadowlands Basin and other north–south canal segments, erosion control and a gravel or paved loop trail around the basin where safe. Councilmembers cautioned that a basin is functionally a storm‑water detention facility and that much of the parcel may be unsuitable for active turf or play areas; a commissioner said the city should prioritize pocket parks across neighborhoods while recognizing the detention function.

Developer representative (Himes) provided drone photos to illustrate topography and a modest flat area near the narrow tip of the triangle that might accommodate a small amenity. Staff said a future community meeting would refine the city’s approach and consider phasing — for example, adding a path and limited improvements initially and reserving larger amenities until funding is available.

The council adopted resolution 6922 to accept the grant deed. Staff listed a follow‑up action to schedule public outreach, evaluate erosion control and consider costs for a path along the canal and cooperative funding options.

View the Full Meeting & All Its Details

This article offers just a summary. Unlock complete video, transcripts, and insights as a Founder Member.

Watch full, unedited meeting videos
Search every word spoken in unlimited transcripts
AI summaries & real-time alerts (all government levels)
Permanent access to expanding government content
Access Full Meeting

30-day money-back guarantee

Sponsors

Proudly supported by sponsors who keep California articles free in 2025

Scribe from Workplace AI
Scribe from Workplace AI
Family Portal
Family Portal