San Benito supervisors back Operation Greenlight, hear widespread concerns about safety at Vets Park
Get AI-powered insights, summaries, and transcripts
Sign Up Free
Summary
The board approved a resolution supporting Operation Greenlight and recognized VFW Post 9242 and American Legion Post 69. Multiple park users and the Veterans Park Commission urged the county to restore funding and complete lighting, striping and resurfacing at the heavily used Vets Park for safety and emergency access.
The San Benito County Board of Supervisors on Nov. 4 unanimously approved a resolution endorsing Operation Greenlight (Nov. 4–11), directed county buildings be lit green, and issued certificates of recognition for VFW Post 9242 and American Legion Post 69.
Veterans Services Office staff described local outreach, claims work and benefits obtained for veterans; staff highlighted outreach opportunities including a college tuition‑waiver program and partnerships with Human Services. Supervisor Sotelo led the Operation Greenlight item and encouraged residents to show support by changing outdoor bulbs and using yard signs sold by local veteran organizations.
Public commenters and members of the Veterans Park Commission urged the board to address substantial safety concerns at Vets Park in Hollister. Speakers — including youth sports organizers — said the park is the county’s most heavily used facility, hosting Little League, Babe Ruth, Hollister Heat softball, tremors and other programs, and reported that plans for lighting, restriping, resurfacing and a second emergency entrance have been planned but paused. They said lighting and striping are immediate safety concerns because parking areas and walk routes are dark during evening hours and there is constrained ingress/egress for emergency vehicles.
Supervisor Rosa Curl asked staff for an agenda item and update on park improvements and creative funding solutions, including grants and impact fees; the Veterans Park Commission chair and sports organizers said plans and bids had been prepared in prior years and urged the county to reallocate or approve existing funds so work can proceed.
The board also presented certificates to local posts. Bernie Ramirez, commander of VFW Post 9242, said the post distributes yard signs and light bulbs and provided a contact number for residents seeking supplies.
No formal motion was required for the presentation; the Operation Greenlight resolution and related actions were approved by roll‑call vote 4–0. Supervisors asked staff to promote the resolution and encourage residents to purchase bulbs and signs from veterans’ organizations where possible so proceeds remain local.