Facilities committee flags vandalism, drainage and signage needs at Monte Rio parks

The Facilities & Safety Committee met Jan. 7 and reported multiple maintenance and safety issues across district properties. Committee members said the lower beach parking lot lock has repeatedly been cut to permit vehicles to enter and do 'donuts' and recommended either a more secure lock or relocating the gate to increase visibility. Leslie Hofelich said 'No Parking from dusk to dawn' signs should be posted at Koret Park, and committee members flagged dirt-bike and electric-bike use of the skatepark; the committee recommended signage limiting the facility to skateboard use.

Staff and committee members also described storm-related problems: culverts and sinkholes have appeared in district areas following heavy rains and will be addressed with staff and assistance from the Fire Department, which offered extra gravel for parking-lot repairs. The committee noted other maintenance needs including fascia and trim painting, a spring power-wash and seal of the Creekside deck, replacement of weather-worn signs, installation of informational maps at Creekside in coordination with Regional Parks, and removal of a dying Monterey pine. Russian Riverkeeper will handle garbage pickup at key sites on Mondays and Fridays.