City community services outlines spring events, programs and hiring plans

Community services staff presented a multi-item director’s report detailing spring events, program expansions and operational items.

Jeremy Swan, community services director, announced Arbor Day will be observed Thursday, March 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Blaisdell Park with a single ceremonial tree planting. Earth Day is scheduled for Sunday, April 19 at Shelton Park from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with exhibitor booths, information about an electric leaf-blower rebate program, native plant giveaways and walking tours. A household hazardous waste and e-waste roundup is scheduled for Saturday, March 7 at the Gateway Corporate Center near Diamond Bar. Swan also noted a PVTA and Agape Mobility workshop on March 25 at the Joslyn Center to collect community input on transportation services.

Swan reminded the commission that the Pooch Park will close for turf restoration from April 1 to May 1. He reported reforestation work is underway with approximately 140 new trees on the planting list this season; planting will continue into April depending on weather and funding. Swan also highlighted the Project Adopt program, which links volunteer groups to monthly litter-cleanup responsibilities in parts of the city, and previewed several open and upcoming bids including on-call sewer repair services and a sidewalk rehabilitation program.

Melissa Velaro, recreation and human services director, added that Camp Claremont registration opens March 29 and the summer camp will return to an eight-week schedule; the department is expanding its junior counselor program and hiring seasonal rec leaders and park rangers (application deadlines mid- to late-March). Velaro also told commissioners about senior programs, a Scam Stoppers breakfast, and a spring egg hunt with a special-needs area on April 4 at Memorial Park.