Residents press council on digital signage and locked ADA swing at Beachfront Park

During public comment the council heard competing views about a proposed digital off-site sign and an extended appeal from disability advocates about access to an inclusive swing at Beachfront Park.

An unidentified resident defended a proposed 32-square-foot digital sign on US-101 as a business benefit for out-of-town travelers, saying roughly 750,000 vehicles use the corridor and that the sign would inform visitors about local dining and services. The commenter also raised procedural questions about changing the city’s newspaper of record and noted such a change might require superior-court action.

Steven Jackson, an advocate for people with disabilities, told the council the wheelchair swing at Beachfront Park is being kept locked, with the key located at the municipal pool and staff available only during some hours. Jackson said the practice effectively denies use to the people the equipment was intended to serve and asked the council to (1) stop locking the swing immediately, (2) adopt a clear policy ensuring ADA features are available, and (3) include people with lived experience in forming long-term solutions. He warned the city risks litigation if access is not restored.

City staff said they have discussed the issue with Mr. Weir and suggested liability and vandalism were part of the operating concerns, but staff acknowledged the ADA standard requires accessibility; staff and the city manager said they would continue working on a remedy. The council did not take immediate action at the meeting but was asked to address the policy and bring back options.

Both issues were raised during the public comment period and will inform future agenda items on signage/ordinance work and park operations.