Alameda Recreation and Park Commission Meeting – November 13, 2025

The Alameda Recreation and Park Commission met on November 13, 2025, to receive updates on teen programs, the Leidecker Park playground replacement, and a proposed revision to the 2026 recreation and park fee schedule. The meeting also included a director's report highlighting significant infrastructure needs and upcoming community events.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Non-agenda public comment: None.
• Item 6C – Fee schedule: Five speakers addressed the commission, all opposing the proposed pool lane rental increases for adult nonprofit groups. Speakers including Ann Delp, Annie Horn, Stephanie Lapichet, Kristen Koblik, and Maria Ducy (online) represented Alameda Aquatic Masters, which has 136 members (50% seniors, 54% women). They argued that the 46% increase was unsustainable, requested the same 3–10% increase applied to other user groups, and called for a single nonprofit rate equal to the youth team rate. They warned the hike could force the team out of operation.

Discussion Items

• Director’s Report (Justin Long): Provided an overview of upcoming events (winter lights celebration, coastal cleanup, Breakfast with Santa) and project updates: Estuary Park phase 2 construction started (one-year timeline), skate park expansion (70–80% design), Lincoln Park fencing/netting, and preliminary surf pool discussions with the developer. Reported on a city council study session about infrastructure needs: $220 million in deferred maintenance across 35 parks (including $43.5M for park amenities, $5M ADA, $19M rec centers, $18M specialty buildings). Future unfunded parks total $66M (excluding sports complex at $65M). The department seeks inclusion in a potential bond measure.
• Commissioner Communications: Commissioners shared observations from attending community events (Pride, holiday boutique, dive-in movie) and highlighted the importance of funding. Commissioner Robbins urged residents to support bond measures. Commissioner Robins noted inequities in field rental fees between youth sports (e.g., soccer/baseball at $11/hour) and tennis/swimming.
• Item 6A – Teen Programs Update (Ashley, Recreation Assistant): Presented a range of free and fee-based programs including the Underground Teen Center, Teen Haunted House (600 attendees on a rainy Sunday), AYC food booth, teen volunteer programs, and “Every Act Matters” single-event volunteering. Commissioners praised the programs and suggested adding financial literacy and entrepreneurship components. No motion was required.
• Item 6B – Leidecker Park Playground Update (Eric Volnar, Acting Parks Manager): The playground, built in 1991, is overdue for replacement. A survey with 650 responses (5% return) guided design preferences. The community selected Option B (hybrid traditional/modern with a nautical island theme). Total cost for removal, installation, and surfacing is just under $300,000. Expected completion: April 2026 (12-week delivery plus 1 month installation). No motion was required.
• Item 6C – Recreation and Park Fee Schedule for 2026 (Director Long): Proposed fee increases of 3–10% for most programs, with larger increases for pool lane rentals as part of a three-year plan to reach market rates by the time the new aquatic center opens (2027). Adult nonprofit lane rates would increase 46% (from $5 to $7.50 in 2026, then to $10 in 2027), while youth rates increase less. New fees introduced for storage containers ($50–$150/year), portable battery units ($300/event), and ADA wheelchair lift ($1,000/event). The department’s scholarship fund has $20,000; Director Long said doubled funding would be fully utilized. Commissioners discussed equity, with Vice Chair Schwartz questioning the adult/youth rate differential not seen in other cities. Public comment opposed the pool increases.

Key Outcomes

• Approved minutes from September 11, 2025 (4–0–1, Commissioner Alexander abstained for absence).
• Received teen programs update (no action taken).
• Received Leidecker Park playground update (no action taken).
• Approved revised recreation and park fees for calendar year 2026 (motion carried 4–1, Vice Chair Schwartz dissenting). Fees take effect January 1, 2026. The new fee schedule includes incremental pool lane rental increases, new storage and equipment rental fees, and overall 3–10% increases for most other programs.
• Next meeting: December 11, 2025 (agenda to include a coastal shoreline adaptation report).