Michael Caulfield, who had presented the council with a petition containing over 600 signatures earlier this year, read a letter from college student Mike Vega focusing on the positives of the sport, including giving a person an “opportunity to shine as well build their character. . .”Main Street merchant Richard Garcia said it’s time to get the kids off the sidewalks and into a park: “. . .we have to do something for kids, Santa Paula is the last city to do something like this.”“My opinion is Santa Paula is second best, we fall behind when it comes to dealing,” with the needs of citizens, said Carlos Juarez. The effort to have residents shop Santa Paula is harmed when people drop their kids off at an out of town skateboard park and then go shopping, and “there’s got to be a way to fast track this. . .”The timing of the hearing - which as hours passed saw many skateborders leave the council chambers - was disturbing, parent Laura Phillips told the council. The Santa Paula Association of Skaters (SPAS) has over 75 members dedicated to building a cement park and she urged the council “take one more step,” by approving the concept to allow fundraising to begin.Councilwoman Laura Flores Espinosa said the city should make creation of a park a top priority. Councilman John Procter said a park would enhance public safety.Chief Bob Gonzales noted the sport has been the basis of many complaints, but a park could attract hazards, including a criminal element, alcohol and drugs.“We wouldn’t have to reinvent the wheel,” but rather use input from other cities, said Vice Mayor Ray Luna, who urged conceptional approval for a park.But Councilman Rick Cook said more detail on location and possible funding sources would have to come first.Yanez noted that the feasibility study covered many aspects of park creation. “You gave us a wish list,” said Cook, but Yanez noted he presented what was requested by the council.“We all have to be on the same track,” said Cook. “They’re good ideas but how are we going to raise the money. . .”
Creation of Santa Paula skateboard park hits a bump
March 28, 2001
Santa Paula News
The creation of a skateboard park in Santa Paula hit a bump after testimony by kids, city officials and advocates did not result in City Council endorsement, although several members voiced support.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe creation of a skateboard park in Santa Paula hit a bump after testimony by kids, city officials and advocates did not result in City Council endorsement, although several members voiced support.Instead, the matter was referred back to the Recreation Commission, as recommended by Community Services Director Brian Yanez in his feasibility study.Bryce Belgum, 11, told the council that skateboarding is a sport “You can do everyday; you don’t need a team and you don’t need money. . .”Youth Recreation Commissioner Casey Eastlake addressed what other cities have done to accommodate skaterboarding, the fastest rising sport in the country.“We need a park in Santa Paula,” said 10-year-old Hugo Guevara, who also offered statistics about skateboarders and parks.Local schools would be supportive of a park, said Jesse Leidig, 14, as it would cut down on damage to campuses.Going to Ventura or Camarillo to inline skate is a “big nuisance,” noted another speaker.Derek Luna, 12, noted that street skateboarder is potentially fatal, and a park could include tables and benches for parents to watch the action.“I don’t like being treated like a delinquent or criminal,” said 10-year-old Quinn Pawlick, and another speaker noted that the sport is being considered for the Olympics.
