Agency approves five-year agreement to preserve free parking at Santa Rosa Valley Park for Hill Canyon Trail users

The Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency voted 5-0 to authorize a five-year agreement with the Ventura County Parks Department to continue providing free public parking at Santa Rosa Valley Park to support access to the Hill Canyon Trailhead.

Staff said the action is not a project under CEQA and described the agreement terms: a payment of $8,694.56 in the first year with a 3% annual increase in subsequent years and a five-year rollover option subject to both parties' agreement. "So everybody likes free parking," Mr. Stark said while presenting the recommendation.

Board members asked about crowding at the Arbalest/Wildwood entrance and efforts to redirect users to Hill Canyon. Staff said usage at Hill Canyon has increased, that complaints at the Arbalest lot have declined since the peak during the COVID period, and that outreach (including targeted social-media posts) had been used to encourage alternative parking. Directors discussed donation-box or QR-code options for voluntary contributions; staff said coin-box or staffed collection may not be cost-effective and that CASA/Foundation has been previously contacted about QR-code donation ideas.

Directors described the agreement as a beneficial partnership that improves access to Wildwood Park while relieving pressure on nearby lots. The motion to approve staff recommendations passed by roll-call vote 5-0; staff will execute the agreement in form approved by the agency attorney and the county.