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Council approves temporary 'tennis-only' sign at Rainier Trails Park and allocates up to $15,000 for July 4 parade safety trial
Summary
Council approved a temporary sign encouraging tennis-only use at Rainier Trails Park and, after amendment, authorized up to $15,000 in city funding on a trial basis for July 4 parade safety measures (barricades and staffing); council members debated parking, logistics and longer-term purchase vs. rental options.
The Enumclaw City Council voted to place a temporary sign at Rainier Trails Park encouraging tennis-only use and later approved a separate motion to allocate up to $15,000 on a trial basis for additional safety measures for the July 4 parade.
Discussion on the park sign began after Community Services committee members reported resident complaints about noise, parking and public urination at Rainier Trails Park. Council member Smith (speaker 6) moved to place a sign indicating the court is "for tennis only" and to direct staff to include language encouraging users to use the newly resurfaced Dwight Garrett courts. Council member Swarden (speaker 3) seconded the motion. Speakers debated whether such signage would be enforceable, could create expectations of future restrictions, or might burden businesses if parking were taken for barricades. Parks staff and legal/administration staff advised the sign could be deployed as an "honor system" temporary measure and that codifying restrictions would require additional policy steps and possible reimbursement for prior investments in striping if play were limited.
Despite concerns, council approved placing a temporary sign and directed staff to design verbiage that encourages tennis and lists alternative courts. The motion to install a temporary sign passed on voice vote.
Later in the meeting Council member Martinell (speaker 4) proposed the city provide $30,000 to the Chamber to fund safety infrastructure for two parades (barricade rentals and security staffing). Council member (speaker 3) moved to amend the request to authorize up to $15,000 for the July 4 parade only as a trial, with administration, police and the Chamber determining the exact safety measures. The amendment was seconded and passed. On the final vote the amended motion passed 5–1.
Council members asked staff to pursue more cost-effective or permanent options, to coordinate logistics with businesses and public works, and to report back after the trial.
