Meeting Report: San Elijo Hills Parks Enhancement Project
By Ed Philbrick, Realtor and Publisher of San Elijo Life
Date: October 25, 2023
Location: San Elijo Hills Community Recreation Center
Present:
- Representatives from The San Elijo Hills Foundation including Jason Simmons, San Elijo Hills resident, local land use planner, and developer, who has been involved in Eden Park.
- 20-25 San Elijo Hills residents
- Members of the pickleball community
- Concerned stakeholders
- City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation
- Board members from San Elijo Hills Community Association (HOA)
Agenda: Discussion of the San Elijo Hills Parks Enhancement Project, funding sources, project priorities, and community feedback.
Meeting Overview: On October 25, 2023, the San Elijo Hills community gathered at the Community Recreation Center for a meeting to shape the future of our city-owned San Elijo Hills Park. The primary objective was to discuss potential funding sources, project priorities, and gather community feedback concerning the San Elijo Hills Parks Enhancement Project. One of the key topics under discussion was the jurisdiction and roles of The San Elijo Community Association-HOA, the City of San Marcos, and The San Elijo Hills Foundation in this endeavor.
Funding Sources: The San Elijo Hills Foundation has identified the following funding sources for the project:
- Fundraising: Engaging in community-driven fundraising efforts to support the enhancement project.
- Grants: Exploring opportunities to secure grants for park improvements.
- HOA Funding: Leveraging Homeowners’ Association funds to contribute to the project’s budget.
Project Priorities: Discussion focused on cost estimates and priorities for different aspects of the project:
- Dog Park Improvements: Deemed the most cost-effective option for enhancement.
- Pump Bike/Skate Park: Followed the dog park in terms of cost.
- Pickleball: Ranked third in terms of cost, considering the cost of retaining walls and court. The current horseshoe pit is also a potential location.
It was noted that water district lines posed limitations as they cut through the park and transition across the church/preschool lot. The Foundation is not considering additional lighting for any of the potential improvements. An artificial turf replacement at the upper soccer field was mentioned, with cost estimates ranging from $1 million to $1.5 million.
Community Feedback: Feedback from the 20-25 San Elijo Hills residents in attendance revealed mixed opinions about the enhancement project. Primary concerns raised by the community included noise, security, maintenance, and overall project cost and funding sources. Although the park is city-owned and operated, there are no upgrade plans. However, The San Elijo Hills Foundation aims to facilitate these enhancements through grants, HOA funds, and fundraising efforts. For example, the current shade structure over the playground in San Elijo Hills Park was funded by the San Elijo Hills Foundation in 2007. Some discussion touched on the jurisdiction of the HOA, the City of San Marcos, and the role of The San Elijo Hills Foundation in managing this project, as well as the new HOA test of private security and the potential cost to residents for such security; HOA security would not patrol City-owned park.
Specific Community Requests: Several specific ideas and requests were voiced by the attendees:
- Members of the pickleball community expressed their need for local court space.
- Alternative locations for park enhancements were discussed, including the currently underutilized BBQ picnic area next to the entry arch for a potential pump track, horseshoe pit for a potential pickleball court, and a potential redesign of the upper softball field proposed by members of the audience.
- Improving and leveling the dog park received considerable support and was identified as a popular focus among residents and a long-standing request of dog park users.
Next Steps: The San Elijo Hills Foundation, in collaboration with community stakeholders, including HOA board members, will continue to explore funding options and prioritize enhancements for the parks. Some funds could be allocated to ensure ongoing maintenance of the improvements.
Conclusion: The meeting marked a starting point in the San Elijo Hills Parks Enhancement Project, with the community actively participating in discussions regarding funding project priorities and expressing their concerns and suggestions. The Foundation will use this valuable input to further refine plans for park upgrades, ensuring alignment with the needs and desires of the San Elijo Hills community.
The San Elijo Hills community’s collective effort and engagement will play a crucial role in making our parks even more vibrant and enjoyable for all residents. Further updates and actions will be communicated as the project progresses. For any additional inquiries or to stay updated on the project’s progress, contact The San Elijo Hills Foundation.
This Website, San Elijo Life, is independent of the San Elijo Hills Association, The San Elijo Hills Foundation. HOA updates are provided as a service to our readership. …Enjoy Life in The Hills.
