Commission approves 2026 meeting calendar; staff report progress on parks, events and capital projects

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted to approve its regular meeting calendar for 2026 after staff presented the proposed schedule and noted customary July and December breaks. The motion passed by voice vote.

Park maintenance and project staff reported recent completions and upcoming openings. Park manager Wallace said Measure M funds were used to replace a playground net at Riju Park, delaying a full replacement by seven to ten years, and to refurbish the Beeler Park entry landscaping to improve police visibility.

Park planner Nemo Gonzalez reported Magnolia Phase 2 is complete and adds nearly six acres, including bocce courts, a gazebo‑style shade, a second basketball court and satellite picnic facilities. Nemo said Alamo Creek Park improvements — a full‑size basketball court, new picnic tables, table tennis elements and refreshed decomposed granite paths — have opened to the public and that Trower Park construction is expected to finish in January with an establishment period and likely public opening in March. He added Sierra Vista Park construction has started and is anticipated to continue through mid to late summer.

Nemo also said city staff will facilitate a kids’ fishing event in partnership with scouts and Fish and Wildlife, and he noted the Play For All project continues with ballfield and dog‑park elements in review.

Recreation staff reviewed 2025 event highlights that drew large attendance: Dia de los Muertos (estimated 1,500–2,000 people), Fight Night (22 bouts) and Merry Maid on Main (estimated 15,000–20,000 attendees). Staff said the department used new elements to expand capacity and accessibility and will continue to coordinate with Visit Vacaville and other partners.

Director Mulder announced administrative items of interest to commissioners: the commission has a current vacancy to be filled through the regular recruitment process (appointments opening that week); commissioners whose terms end in March must reapply; the city’s strategic planning sessions will be Jan. 16–17 and the staff intends to fold arts‑plan priorities into that process; and a City Council hearing on development impact fees is scheduled for Jan. 13. He encouraged attendance at an East of Leisure Town planning community meeting on Jan. 29 at the Eulatis Community Center.

The meeting ended with a ratification of the chair serving as liaison to the Vacaville Performing Arts Theater show selection committee and adjournment to the next meeting on Feb. 4, 2026.