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Coos Bay approves $75,000 defensible‑space plan for John Toppett Park
Summary
Council approved a staff plan using a $75,000 grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal to create defensible space in and around John Toppett Park, with a staged approach and possible equipment purchases if grant amendments allow.
The Coos Bay City Council approved a defensible‑space work plan for John Toppett Park that relies on a $75,000 grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office.
Fire Chief Atkins told council the city has completed work on the park’s western and northern sections and is preparing a plan for the southern portion. The recommended approach identifies buffer zones ranging from roughly 30 to 100 feet depending on location, with larger buffers requested adjacent to apartment complexes and areas with access concerns. Atkins said about $25,000 has been spent to date and staff will seek an amendment to the grant to allow purchase of equipment to support future maintenance.
Councilors raised questions about preserving natural character, leaving clusters of huckleberry bushes where practical, and the potential to reroute some trails so that buffer work does not overly degrade visitor experience. Councilor Matthews suggested the parks commission consider trail realignment to maintain recreational quality while improving safety.
The measure passed by voice vote. Staff will complete the work plan as scoped and, if savings permit and the state amends the grant, pursue equipment purchases to aid long‑term maintenance.
