Board greenlights donation of excess rocks, tables maintenance equipment purchase for later review

During public comment the Veteran Park Committee asked the board to donate surplus rocks from a district site for landscaping and to support park memorial displays. Committee member Luis Ramirez described a $1.2 million grant to improve the park and requested the rocks to help landscape around donated vehicles and exhibits. The board discussed the district policy on excess property and, following a motion, approved donating the rocks and tasked facilities staff with coordinating access for pickup.

Later in the meeting Director of Maintenance Jesus Barb presented a needs assessment proposing the purchase of a skid steer loader (estimated $45,000), bucket ($2,253) and a sweeper ($22,493.89 total purchase cost presented) to improve efficiency for sand removal and site projects. Trustees raised multiple alternatives: renting equipment, using attachments on the district’s recently purchased tractor, purchasing blowers (including 3‑point hitch or backpack units) and local fabrication of forks. Concerns included pavement damage caused by skid steers, tire wear and whether existing implements could meet the need.

After extended discussion the board moved to postpone (table) the maintenance equipment purchase to allow staff to research attachments, rental options and lower‑cost alternatives. Trustees asked administration to provide an inventory of existing tools and a clearer plan for daily use before returning the item for action.