CLEARLAKE — About a dozen young skatepark-users were present Thursday, June 26 to catch the wrath of the Clearlake City Council during a discussion regarding the Andrew Johnson Memorial Skatepark.
The skatepark has been closed for more than two weeks now. It was originally closed because youngsters were once again not following the rules; however, the facility has remained closed due to damage sustained on a couple of ramps.
The discussion entailed options and conditions for reopening the park and the council was quite adamant in its demand for gaining compliance from the youngsters who use it.
“You have to start taking some responsibility. You have to wear your helmets,” Councilmember Joyce Overton said. “If you don”t do that, we have the power to shut (the skatepark) down. Take pride in what you”re getting.”
Last December, the council decided to allow dual use of the facility by skateboarders and bike riders on the condition that they would not use it at the same time. An alternating day-schedule was devised to accommodate both sports. “As you know, the purpose of the helmets and not allowing joint use is to avoid someone getting seriously hurt and to reduce our liability if someone is injured,” City Administrator Dale Neiman stated in his report to the council.
About 25 to 30 skatepark-users were included in the December discussion. The youngsters had agreed to self-police and promised they would use the facility according to the rules agreed upon. According to Neiman, the facility is still being used by both skateboarders and bike riders at the same time.
“We”re trying to help you and you”re giving us nothing back. We care about your safety and the liability of the city,” said Councilmember Judy Thein. “I have no problem closing (the skatepark) for violations.”
Throughout the efforts to keep the skatepark open and usable, the youngsters have received continuous support from two individuals in particular. Parent Michele Bush and local educator and youth advocate Ken Savin have stood by the riders from the beginning.
Bush, who is a familiar face at the skatepark, has spoken on behalf of the riders on countless occasions. She has also sought resources and expertise for repairing the park as well. She said she has contacted Mike Krnaich, owner of Ramp Rats in Petaluma, who is a professional BMX rider and has expertise in ramp construction. Bush reported that Krnaich is willing to take a look at the damage at the skatepark and provide suggestions for optimum repair. She requested access to the park this weekend when Krnaich will be in town. Neiman said he was willing to coordinate with Bush to allow Krnaich access to the park.
Savin has acted in the same manner and reported Thursday that he is seeking a grant from the Redbud Healthcare District to possibly fund the repairs currently needed at the park.
“You have two people who are working really hard for you,” Mayor Curt Giambruno told the youngster present, “and you”ve slapped them in the face more than once.”
Savin expressed optimism in receiving the grant from the healthcare district, which is in the amount of $5000. Current repairs to the park are expected to cost $3300 in materials and $2700 in staff time (Public Works personnel). The consensus of the council was to spend the money now and hope for reimbursement from the healthcare district in the future.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
