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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/28/2005 B A K E R S F I E L D Jacquie Sullivan, Chair Sue Benham Irma Carson Staff: Alan Christensen MEETING NOTICE COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE of the City Council - City of Bakersfield Monday, November 28, 2005 1:00 p.m. City Manager's Conference Room - City Hall 1501 Truxtun Avenue, Suite 201, Bakersfield, CA AGENDA 1. ROLL CALL 2. ADOPT SEPTEMBER 26, 2005 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT 3. PUBLIC STATEMENTS 4. DEFERRED BUSINESS A. Staff report and Committee recommendation on the proposed 200-acre park in the southwest- Hoover B. Staff report and Committee recommendation regarding 40-acre park tenant - Hoover C. Staff report and Committee recommendation on skateboard parks - Hoover 5. COMMITTEE COMMENTS 6. ADJOURNMENT S:~AC~05 Community Services~cs05nov28agen.doc B A K E R S F I E L D ~ ~ JacquieSullivan, Chair Alan Tandy, City Manager Sue Benham Staff: Alan Christensen Irma Carson AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMrR'EE Monday, September 26, 2005 - 1:00 p.m. Suite 201, City Hall, 1501 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 1. ROLL CALL Called to Order at 1:12 p.m. Present: Councilmembers Jacquie Sullivan, Chair; Sue Benham; and Irma Carson 2. ADOPT FEBRUARY 28, 2005 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT Adopted as submitted. 3. PUBLIC STATEMENTS 4. DEFERRED BUSINESS 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Staff report and Committee recommendation on amphitheater seating at The Park at River Walk City Manager Tandy provided a progress report on the construction work at The Park at River Walk on Stockdale Highway. It is a large 32-acre park being built on different elevations with an amphitheater in a beautiful, stunning setting. There will be shallow water flowing through with large boulders, and lights and water jets in front of the amphitheater stage. While touring the construction and looking at the layout, it has become apparent to staff there is a need for more seating for the amphitheater. Recreation and Parks Director Hoover reported that staff came up with the following recommendations to increase the seating capacity: Agenda Summary Report DRAFT Oommunity Services Oommittee Meeting Monday, September 26, 2005 Page - 2 - 1. Change the seating on the second level and instead of just seating with blankets or sitting on grass, reducing the-step width to 2.5 feet, and add permanent curbs on the grass with bench-type seating on the curb. This change would cost approximately $250,000 and would add seating for an additional 1,200 persons. 2. Purchase portable bleachers that could be placed on the flat landing at the top of the hill during major events. Four 30-foot, trailer mounted,' portable bleachers would cost approximately $112,000 and provide additional seating for 720 persons. As the bleachers are trailer-mounted, the bleachers could be used at other locations for other events throughout the City. City Manager Tandy explained for the more high-profile acts, there will be a nominal charge, perhaps $5.00 per person to cover the costs involved and the extra seating would help to bring in more revenue to cover costs. There will be free events as well. Staff has also reviewed several options to fence the amphitheater area for crowd control and safety during large events and ticketed events. Staff recommended placing approximately 600 feet of 6-foot permanent vinyl coated chain link fencing between the north side of the amphitheater hill and the bike path. Staff also recommended purchasing 700 feet of 4-foot high temporary fabric fence, which can be put up during events only. In addition, staff recommended purchasing an enclosed trailer to haul and store the temporary fabric fencing. The permanent fencing, temporary fencing and storage trailer would cost approximately $35,000. The estimated cost to construct additional seating, purchase portable bleachers, permanent fencing, temporary fencing and trailer is approximately $400,000. City Manager Tandy stated due to the fast pace of building in the area, revenue from Park Development fees is higher that anticipated and will cover the cost of the additional seating and fencing recommendations. Committee Member Benham made a motion to accept staff's recommendations for additional seating and fencing at a cost of $400,000. The Committee unanimously approved the motion. Ben Wageman, Castle and Cooke, spoke regarding parking and cleanup after events. City Manager Tandy also noted that Recreation and Parks Director Hoover is shopping naming rights for the amphitheater. If this comes through, staff is suggesting the money be placed in a performance endowment to cover costs of putting on acts. The City may make money on some events and lose money on others. An endowment set up with money from the naming rights would avoid running expenses or revenue from the amphitheater through the General Fund. Agenda Summary Report Community Services Committee Meeting D AFT Monday, September 26, 2005 Page - 3 - Public Works Director Rojas stated the contract for construction of The Park at River Walk should be completed in late October 2005. Recreation and Parks Director Hoover explained the newly planted grass will need time to get established before crowds of people walk on it, so the grand opening will be planned for late March or April 2006. B. Review and Committee recommendation regarding planning for the next skateboard park Recreation and Parks Director Hoover gave a report on possible locations for future skateparks: 1. Skateboarding 'is a sport with various skill levels. As there is already a skatepark in Beach Park, another more challenging level could be added to the existing skatepark. This is a central location easily accessed by the bike path. 2. The new housing development off Taft Highway between Buena Vista and Allen Roads is 'proposing a skatepark in one of their larger parks. Much more discussion with the developer will follow on this location. 3. Another location to consider would be at the Mesa Marin baseball fields. This location could serve the northeast. 4. Another location to consider would be the large 40 acre soccer park being proposed off Jewetta Road and Stockdale. At this time the use for this park has not been determined and there may be room for a skatepark. This location would serve both northwest and southwest residents. Committee Member Benham expressed she would like to see a skatepark at the 40 acre park. The Committee was in agreement that with the population growth in Bakersfield, future planning to expand the skatepark at Beach Park and for at least two or three more skateparks to provide recreation for skateboarders should be considered. There is no funding in the budget for skateparks at this time. An average skatepark is about 20,000 square feet and the construction cost is about $30 per square foot, and this does not include land-acquisition, lights, fencing and ongoing maintenance. City Manager Tandy explained three of the locations are in different Park Development areas, so the funding source will be different for each of those locations. ' Agenda Summary Report Community Services Committee Meeting D[ AFT Monday, September 26, 2005 Page - 4 - Committee Chair Sullivan expressed before deciding on expanding or new locations, there needs to be a projected plan with tentative time frames on when the locations may be available. The Committee requested staff to come back to the Committee with time frames when each location may be ready for development, as well as a report on funding future skateparks. 6. COMMITTEE COMMENTS The Committee requested staff to cancel the Committee meeting scheduled for October 24th due to scheduling conflicts. 7. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 2:12 p.m. Staff attendance: City Manager Alan Tandy; Assistant City Manager Alan Christensen; City Attorney Ginny Gennaro; Public Works Director Raul Rojas; Recreation and Parks Director Dianne Hoover; Finance Director Nelson Smith; Public Works Civil Engineer Arnold Ramming; Public Works Civil Engineer Nick Fidler; and Facility Planner Ken Trone. Others: Ben Wageman, Castle and Cooke cc: Honorable Mayor and City Council S:~,C~05 Community Services~cs05sept26summary.doc B A K E R S F I E L D Department of Recreation and Parks Date: November 18, 2005 To: Alan Tandy, City Manager From' uia~me Moove~, Director Subject: 40 acre park on Jewetta Avenue Since the local AYSO organization backed out of their intent to operate a soccer facility at the 40-acre site, we have had several ideas and recommendations on what to do with the property. After the article appeared in the paper, several groups approached me with requests to have the facility as their own location for their respective sports. The groups included AYSO soccer unit #359 who currently play at Liberty Park, the Bakersfield Brigade which is the local semi-pro soccer team, the Kern County Athletic Association representing Rugby, Golden Empire Youth Football, and Bakersfield Southwest Baseball Inc. In addition, the local MitsubishilBMWISuzukilMazda dealer was interested in naming rights if it became a soccer complex. Only two groups actually followed through with a proposal which included their group's history, the numbers and make-up of the Youth that they serve, and their intent to assist in building and maintaining the park over the long term. The two groups were Golden Empire Youth Football and Bakersfield Southwest Baseball. A summary of the pros and cons of each proposal includes: Golden Empire Youth Football/Golden Empire Cheer Pros: · Currently serve about 2000 youth ages 8 - 14. · The geographic area includes most of Kern County, with 7 of the 12 areas being in the city. · Has 501 c3 status. · One of the largest youth football programs in the state. · Has no one place to call "home" due to using high school fields in various locations. · Relies on over 400 volunteer coaches to run the teams. · Operates under a 2S-member board of directors, providing stable leadership for the league. · Relies on gate receipts, concession sales, and sponsorships to maintain the expenses needed. · Received letters of support from the schools, and from Assemblyman Kevin McCarthy. Cons: · Relatively young organization. · Football is primarily a fall sport. Bakersfield Southwest Baseball Pros: · Serves over 2000 youth ages 5 - 18. · Has an inclusive philosophy of"everyone plays"; no try-outs. · In existence over 20 years. · Governed by 28 member board. · Plays in the spring and fall, with an additional summer league available. · Strong community support and ability to raise funds through concessions, tournaments, sponsorships and naming rights. · Could use temporary fencing to allow for other uses of fields. Cons: · The city is planning fields for BSWB at the 200 acre southwest site in five to six years. Common to both groups: Both groups indicated an ability to raise funds, garner community support and use various board members, coaches and parents for possible in-kind services. Neither group was willing to commit a dollar amount until they were sure an agreement with the city was eminent. Both groups understand that an agreement would include long term maintenance of the facility as well as assisting with building the facility. I am confident that either group could meet this part of an agreement with the city. Both proposals are available for review at any time. Additional use of property: In addition to the sports fields, the Community Services Committee of city council has recommended that we put in a skatepark at this site as it is ideally located in a large park next to the existing parkway, further reducing the availability for playing field space. Recommendations: Bakersfield Southwest Baseball has been established in the city for over 20 years, and will soon be out of a home base at California State University. Once they are asked to leave, there are no other fields available for play. The Jewetta site is centrally located for their operations. Golden Empire Youth Football has grown through the years, but they are accustomed to playing on various fields throughout the city and will not be displaced soon. The city, however, would need to consider working with Golden Empire Football as they will need additional places to play and to hold tournaments in the future. My recommendation would be to plan the 40 acre site in cooperation with Bakersfield Southwest Baseball. AMERICAN YOUTH SOCCER ORGANIZATIO" ~----~~~ ~ ~ world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives October 7, 2005 City of Bakersfield 1501 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 Attention: Alan Tandy Re:. Development of Soccer Facilities with American Youth Soccer Organization, Region 73 Dear Mr. Tandy: For several months the City of Bakersfield and Region 73 of the American Youth Soccer Organization ("Region 73" herein) had been involved in discussions and negotiations regarding the development and use of a soccer complex and related facilitie~ on properties held by the City and designated for the creation of recreational and park facilities. In that regard, you presented the City's vision for the development of a new 200 acre sports and recreation complex on the north side of Taft Highway between Gosford Road and Ashe Road, which would have a significant portion of land available (50-60 acres) which could be devoted to the development of a first-rate soccer complex in cooperation with Region 73 ("Bakersfield Soccer Complex" herein). We became, and remain, excited concerning this development for a number of masons. For over 25 years, Region' 73 has operated a premier soccer and child development program for the benefit of thousands of children from the Bakersfield area on the grounds cf the California State Uni-:ersity at Bakersfield .(',CSUFI" herein). Recently CSUB has elected to develop dormitories and other related facilities on the grounds now used by Region 73, and, as a result, have advised Region 73 that its use of the property at CSUB will be ended over the next two (2) years. The development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex provides a tremendous opportunity for the City and Region 73 to develop a soccer complex which will allow Region 73 to continue to offer its program to the families and children of Bakersfield, while, at the same time, providing facilities which can be offered for use by other compatible programs and for tournaments on a local, statewide and national level; all to the benefit of our mutual constituents and the community of Bakersfield. The only drawback was that the time horizon for the development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex could be a minimum of five (5) years, · depending upon available funding and the speed of development of surrounding areas.. it ail starts here IPA IP AMERICAN YOUTH SOCCER ORGANIZATION I ~ world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives ~~ Bakersfield ~hfion: Alan Tandy ~: Development of Soccer Facilities with AYSO, Region 73 October 7, 2005 Page 2 Recognizing that the development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex might not solve the immediate needs of Region 73 for the intervening years, the City presented the opportunity to lease and utilize soccer fields to be developed by the City at the northeast comer of Jewetta and Stockdale Highway. The City indicated that these facilities could. be ready within two years and would be available for lease to Region 73 during the interim period while the Bakersfield Soccer Complex was developed. Although the Jewetta facility is too small to accommodate the Region 73 program on a long term basis, it would certainly have provided a workable short term solution while awaiting the completion of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex. Inasmuch as Region 73 currently pays CSUB in excess of $60,000.00 per year for the use of fields and related parking facilities, we feel that funding is available to support such an arrangement, and we were thrilled that the opportunity would present itself to continue 'the program in a cohesive manner, while working towards the ultimate development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex. Accordingly, Region 73 was-and remains prepared to move ahead with the proposals outlined by the City in our initial meeting(s). Unfortunately, you subsequently advised Region 73 that, due to budgetary constraints, the City did not have sufficient funds to develop the Jewetta facility; and,.that Region 73 would have to fund the development of the Jewetta fields, as well as participating in the development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex, if we wished to use such facilities. Needless to say, Region 73 was surprised and disheartened at the suggestion that the development of both of these facilities would have to be at Region 73's expense. Although Region 73 has nearly 3,000 children who participate in its soccer program on an annual basis, it is a volunteer-based charitable organization which is self- funded through player fees, sponsorships and donations. While Region 73 has affected the lives of thousands of families and .'players. in. Bakersfield, 'and has a significant economic and resource base to draw from, funding and participating in the development of two of such complexes, concurrently, would be more than Region 73 could reasonably ask of our donors, volunteers and participants. Therefore, given the City's inability to fund the development of the Jewetta facility and the limited size of such facility, Region 73 has advised the City that it must respectfully decline the opportunity to develop the Jewetta facility. Instead, Region 73 will focus all of its resources in working with the City, on a positive and aggressive basis, to develop the Bakersfield Soccer Complex at its earliest possible opportunity. In that regard, we will be advancing, through our many constituents, a request to the City, its Council Members and staff, to make every effort to move forward and advance the ~-- ~~ ~ ~ world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives ~ntion: Alan Tandy Re: Development of Soccer Facilities with AYSO, Region 73 October 7, 2005 Page 3 development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex and related facilities as quickly as possible. Region 73 remains optimistic that with the cooperation of the City, a positive long term arrangement can be reached to the benefit of all concerned for the timely development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex. Region 73 is in the process of celebrating its 30th year in Bakersfield. During that time thousands of children and their families have benefited from the program offered by Region 73 and AYSO. It takes but a few moments at the Region 73 fields on any game day to witness the tremendous benefits that this program offers for our community and to discover the enthusiasm of the participants, both volunteers and players. We trust that the City will work with us on a positive basis in the future to maintain these benefits for our .community. Sincerely yours, CATHY FARR, Regional Commissioner AYSO Region 73 Cc: Harvey Hall, Mayor Irma Carson, Councilperson Susan Benham, Councilperson Mike Maggard, Councilperson David Couch, Councilperson · Harold .Hanson,' Councilperson Jacquie Sullivan, Councilperson Zack Scrivner, Councilperson Diane Hoover, Director - Recreation and Parks Donna Nelson, AYSO Area A Director Paula Berriz, AYSO National Board Memeber .... it all starts here Bakersfield Southwest Baseball, Inc. PO Box 21374 Bakersfield, CA 93390 (661) 664-1234 September 30, 2005 Ms. Dianne Hoover Director of Recreation & Parks City of Bakersfield - 900 Truxtun Avenue, Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA 93301 RE: Proposal for Recreational Uses on city owned property at northeast corner of Jewetta Avenue and Stockdale Highway Dear Ms. Hoover: On behalf of Bakersfield Southwest Baseball, Inc. (BSWB), I would like to submit the enclosed proposal for the use of city owned proPerty at'the northeast comer of Jewetta Avenue and Stockdale Highway. BSWB has a proud history Of supplying a high quality recreational opportunity for children in Bakersfield. While the Board of BSWB does have some concerns with the status of the site as a water recharge area, we believe these concerns can be mitigated through further discussions with the city. Please accept this letter and brief proposal as an official interest by BSWB in pursuing further discussions with the city. If you have any questions I can be reached at (661) 330-0568. Sincerely, Jeremy T. Tobias BSWB Board Member Enclosure: Proposal cc: BSWB Board Members Bakersfield Southwest Baseball,, Inc. Proposal for Usc of City Property Located on Jewetta Avenue September 30, 200~Y Bakersfield Soufl~wcst Baseball, Inc. PO Box 21374 Bakersfield, CA 93390 (661) 664-1234 BSWB Proposal for Usc of CiO' Property on Jewetta Avenue Summary Bakersfield Southwest Baseball, Inc (BSWB) is submitting this proposal to the City of Bakersfield with the intent of ultimately obtaining use of city land for recreational purposes. The site under consideration is located at the northeast comer of Jewetta Avenue and Stockdale Highway. BSWB would like to develop the site as a complex for youth baseball. Although the BSWB Board has general concerns regarding the "water recharge" issue, we are hopeful that this issue can be potentially mitigated through further discussions with the city. History and Overview of BSWB BSWB was established on March 12, 1984 and currently serves over 2,000 children between the ages of 5 and 18 years. Participation in BSWB includes both spring and fall baseball leagues. Most of the high schools in Bakersfield use the current BSWB complex for their Summer League program. BSWB'is considered a feeder league for many of the high schools in Bakersfield. BSWB is open to both boys and girls. There are no "tryouts" required for children that wish to participate in BSWB. Each child is placed on an appropriate aged based team. No child is turned away (i.e. cut) based on their skill level. In fact, BSWB offers two (2) leagues at each age group for children ages 8 through 12. This enables each child to be placed into a league that best matches that child's skill level. Over the years BSWB has developed a 20 acre site located on the campus of California State University Bakersfield (CSUB). The current complex at CSUB includes 10 fields, snack bar, parking and other ancillary uses. This site has hosted numerous large events such as Cal Ripken ten year old World Series, and Babe Ruth regional tournaments. Unfortunately, due to higher enrollment and a potential move to Division I athletics, CSUB has given notice to BSWB to eventually vacate the site. While no exact deadline has been given, the previous multi-year lease has been renewed only as a one-year lease, thus leaving BSWB with no choice but to find a new location in an expeditious manner. -1- BSWB Management BSWB is a non-profit corporation comprised of twenty-eight (28) volunteer board members. Each member is selected to the board at the BSWB annual meeting in October. The large number of board members provides BSWB with varied backgrounds ~rom across the city of Bakersfield. BSWB Goal It is the goal of BSWB to secure a location for the construction of a new baseball facility' that includes ten (10) baseball fields. After initial site visits and discussions with city staff, BSWB is of the opinion that the city owned site at the northeast comer of Jewetta and Stockdale Highway has the potential to provide an excellent location for the new facility. Although the BSWB Board has general concerns regarding the "water recharge" issue, we are hopeful that this issue can be potentially mitigated through further discussions with the city. It is the understanding of BSWB that the city will lease the site at a nominal lease rate. The new 10-field facility will also include a snack bar, parking and other ancillary uses. BSWB will continue to offer Spring League from March through June and Fall League from September through November. In addition, the new complex location and design will allow BSWB to offer tournaments to "travel teams" throughout California during the summer months. BSWB notes that the location offers other positive amenities, 'with the nearby Kern River Parkway, new amphitheater, bike path and the future Riverwalk commercial complex. BSWB will consider these features when working through potential designs and layouts of the new facility. Financial Plan General industry estimates place the cost to construct a baseball complex at approximately fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) per field. In addition there is the cost for the snack bar facility, parking and landscaping. The current BSWB site located on the CSUB campus was constructed at a minimal cost due to the fact that most materials and labor were donated. BSWB derives operational funds from several sources including: user fees from participants, sponsorships, snack bar revenues, and donations. Assuming that an attractive and nominal lease arrangement is made with the city, current lease expenditures will be available to leverage into funding to potentially assist with construction costs and maintenance. BSWB may also consider larger sponsorship deals such as field naming rights. Many of the parents of the children participating in BSWB are prominent members of our community. In keeping with past tradition at BSWB, these parents and many other members of the community have expressed a sincere interest in helping BSWB construct a new complex. At this time it is difficult to announce exact dollar amounts, as many of these contributors would prefer a BSWB site resolution prior to public commitments. -2- BSWB has exi~ressed an interest in obtaining grant funding for the new facility. For example, BSWB has submitted paperwork to the Major League Baseball Tomorrow fund as well as the Musco Lighting grant for additional funding options. BSWB is open to any suggestions the city may have as far as grants or other funding sources. Conclusion The Board of BSWB is requesting consideration as the potential recreational user by the City of Bakersfield on the city owned site on Jewetta Avenue. Additional details can be made available should the city wish to discuss this proposal further. -3- Existing & Proposed BSWB Locations itiliJ~iiillllllit Legend Roads / Arterial · Collector ~ Highway Local ~' Ramp Unpaved . . . I't County of Kern Proposed BSWB Location Assessment Parcels Aerial Photography June 2003 ,Existing BSWB Location I'~i ~:,i~.,~ ~f~-~'~l~!~l~'~- .... ~ Scale: 1 :23,821 This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is ~or general reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be accurate, current, or otherwise reliable. THIS MAP IS NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION. ' .:~;~'i~b-~'~;.~ GOLDEN EMPIRE YOUTH FOOTBALL ,:}~ ~",1~: :~'; BOARD OF DIRECTORS ~, .: ? RON L. WHITE- ~GUE PRESIDENT ~. CHRIS RESENDEZ -VICE PRESIDENT ~'~>" ~ :~' '"':.-:..~. s,~c, ~,,,,~.,,,,,~,,~, ~Q.'.':, -':~'-. ..... TIM MIL~R-TR~URER ~R~ ~ANEVAREZ-SECRETARY E~INE A~HO~ - A.R. SUPE~SOR MARK WATERS - A.R. SUPER~SOE 5630 Di~RI~ BLVD. · SUffE 123 BAKERSFIE~ · CA 9~3~3 · (66~) 837~93 ..... GOLDEN EMPIRE YOUTH FOOTBALL /~/ %",., I E :~: BOARD OF DIRECTORS ~{: V~ '~ RONL. WHITE'L~GUEPRESlDENT ' CHRIS RESENDEZ "VICE PRESIDENT STACY MINNIE - FUNDRAISER TIM MILER - TR~SURER LORET~A N~AR~ - SECR~ARY E~NE ~ONY - A.R. SUPE~ISOR MARK WATERS - A.R. SUPER~SOR 5630 DISTRI~ BL~. · SU~ 123 BAKERSFIELD · CA 93313 · (661) 837~3 September 30, 2005 Subject: Land Consideration To: Diane Hoover' Director City of Bakersfield Recreation & Parks, Thank you for allowing us to introduce our organization, Golden Empire Youth Football to you and the City of Bakersfield. Golden Empire Youth Football was established in December of 1998 as a local non profit · organization. In May of 2004 Golden Empire Youth Football officially became an incorporated 501 c3 organization. Golden Empire Youth Football's main purpose is to provide competitive football to the youths of our community. The positive impact that our organization brings encourages outstanding athletic performance, sportsmanship, discipline and team unity. We are the High School feeder program. With our continued philosophies, we believe our program will not only help produce some outstanding individual athletes, but also build character and leadership which will carry them though out their entire life. Golden Empire Youth Football has grown as the premier football league in Bakersfield. We have also been labeled as the largest independent youth tackle football program in the state. This has been made possible by our strong commitment from our governing board of directors. This board consisting of 25 individuals with executive' positions. Golden Empire also consists of thirteen area representatives, which represent geographic areas through out Kem County. The geographical areas are as follows: Arvin (Arvin high School district) Wasco (Wasco High School District) Shafter (Shafter High School District) Tehachapi (Tehachapi High School District) Central Bakersfield (Bakersfield High School District) Northeast Bakersfield (Highland High School District) Far West Bakersfield (Liberty High School Distric0 Northwest Bakersfield (Centennial High School District0 Far North Bakersfield (North High School District) Southwest Bakersfield (Stockdale High School District) Southeast Bakersfield (Ridgeview High School District) Far East Bakersfield (Foothill High School District0 - Graces (Graces High School District) - Each above area is comprised of(4) teams with approximately 30 participates per team. Our program is designated for' youths between the ages of eight to fourteen years of age. Golden Empire cheer is also comprised of (4) cheer teams per area consisting of (8) participates per team. Our cheer program consists of participates between the ages of eight to fourteen. Annually, Golden Empire Youth Football and Cheer register approximately 1,560 football players and approximately 416 cheerleaders. This totals nearly 2,000 youths. Golden Empire Youth Football relies on 400 volunteer coaches for their organization. As you can see, the size of our organization is large. This creates many valuable resources in the way of parent support and participation. Currently all of our designated areas are required to solicit corporate sponsors and donations. These monies are in mm used for league necessities (field costs, maintenance, league office, and storage warehouse rents, official's fees, equipment, etc). Our gate revenue and concessions each week help generate needed funds for league expenses. We as an organization feel fundraising by area has proven to be a valuable source of generating additional revenue to help meet incurred costs. Golden Empire football is a year round operation which meets twice a month to prepare for our upcoming season. We have assembled a special committee to spear head our land necessities so we can continue to have a secure home for our organization to participate. This special committee has taken on the tasks of complex development, securing all resources to help in developing the land into fields, ongoing maintenance of complex, and community branding and marketing of this complex. Next to A.Y.S.O., Golden Empire Youth Football is the largest youth sports program in Bakersfield. Geographically other sports programs in Bakersfield have multiple playing fields and facilities. Unfortunately football is not included at any of these facilities. Through our multiple line of revenue and with strong community support (which already exists), we feel strongly about our capabilities, not only to continue to plan for our short and long term goals with our league, but also to establish a secure home for our youths of today and tomorrow. Diane, Thank you for all your help and consideration. President G.E.Y.F. Vice President G.E.Y.F. GREATER BAKERSFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Beau tiful Ba. kersfz'eld CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION Presented 1o: for your outstanding contribution to our community C GREATF~~,~ER OF COMMERCE /,~.,M~o;~ ,,5"~~ June 30, 2004 Chamber President/CEO Date P.O. BOX 942849 ~1~ 4900 CALIFORNIA AVE., SUITE 140A (910) 319-2032 ~'~[{~[ ]~ ]~[~['~1'~'~ (061) 395-2995 FAX (916) 319-2132 FAX (661) 395-3883 E-MAIL ~ WEBSITE assemblymember, mccarthy@ assernb!y, ca.gov http://www, assembly, ca.gov/rnccarthy KEVIN McCARTHY October 3, 2005 ASSEMBLY REPUBLICAN LEADER THIRTY-SECOND DISTRICT Dianne Hoover Recreation and Parks Director City of Bakersfield 1501 Truxtun Ave Bakersfield, CA 93301 Dear Dianne: I have recently learned of a request for consideration by Golden Empire Youth Football for use of land currently known as the "40 Acre Park" located at the intersection of Jewetta Rd. and Stockdale Hwy. GEYF is a tremendous organi.zation that has made great strides since being established in 1998. In May of 2004, GEYF officially became an incorporated 501c3, and it currently involves nearly 2,000 boys and girls, and over 400 adult volunteers every year. This organization is now the second largest youth sports program in Bakersfield. However, unlike AYSO youth soccer and Bakersfield Southwest Baseball, Inc. youth baseball, there is no permanent home for youth football. And although youth soccer and baseball will eventually be displaced from the CSUB campus, I am aware that the city now plans to build a huge, multi-use soccer, baseball, and golf complex on 250 acres at the intersection of Taft Hwy and Gosford Rd. This exciting new facility will provide a wonderful new home for AYSO and Bakersfield Southwest Baseball, Inc. Therefore, the "40 Acre Park" seems like the logical future home for Golden Empire Youth Football. At this time, I would like to offer my support for GEYF's request to develop and utilize the property known as the "40 Acre Park". Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance in this matter. Sincerer, KEVIN McCARTHY Assemblyman, 32na District KJ~J:zs Printed on Recycled Paper E I~ T E R T A I N M E N T September 26, 2005 Dianne Hoover Recreation Director, City of Bakersfield - 900 Truxtun Ave. Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA 93301 Dear Dianne, I was just recently talking to Chris Resendez and Ron White of the Golden Empire Youth Football Program and they mentioned there was a chance the GEYF could purchase a block of land from the city to build their own facility. I believe this would be a great idea. GEYF is the biggest youth football program in the State of California. They are Bakersfield's second largest youth program behind AYSO. I believe the city would be doing the youth of Bakersfield a great service allowing GEYF to purchase the available land. I have talked with Mike Keese of the Kem High School District and the Bakersfield City School District, providing them with their own facility would reduce the wear and tear of facilities in both districts. High Schools are used for games; City Schools are used for practice. Youth programs are going faster than our facilities that is why we desperately need this deal to succeed. Sincerely, Rick Van Home Board of Education Bakersfield City School District P.O. Box 1806 Bakersfield, California 93303-1806 / p 66 t .324.PUCK [7825) / f 661.324.6929 P.O. Box 2687 Bakersfield, California 93303-2687 / p 661.716.BLITZ (2548) / f 661.324.6929 www.bakersfield-sports.com / www.bakersfieldcondors.com / www.bakersfieldblitz.corn KERN HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT ~~~)~ Connie Wattenbarger, President  Larry Starrh, Vice President Bob J. Hampton, Clerk Sam Thomas Chad Vegas DONALD E. CARTER, Ed. D., SUPERINTENDENT 5801 SUNDALE AVENUE · BAKERSFIELD · CALIFORNIA · 93309-2924 · (661)827-3100 · FAX: (661)827-3307 JOE THOMPSON, Ph.D. Assistant Superintendent, Instruction September 20, 2005 Diane Hoover Recreation Director, City of Bakersfield 900 Truxtun Ave, Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA 93301 This letter is written to support the Golden Empire Youth Football League in their quest for acquiring land to be used for their youth football program. I have dealt with Golden Empire Youth Football (specifically Mr. Ron White) for the past six years and know them to be a very worthwhile organization whose sole purpose is to operate a youth football. program for children in Kern County. I have heard that there are possibly 40 acres that could be used for youth sports activities near the corner of .lewetta and Stockdale Highway. This would be an excellent location for this group to conduct youth football activities. Currently, the Kern High School District rents field space to three youth football organizations: Golden Empire, .lack Frost Football and North Bakersfield Recreation Department. The land possibly available on Stockdale Highway would be a tremendous boost to the Golden Empire Football Program and would greatly help in creating play areas for the youth of Kern County as our population continues to expand. Any consideration the City of Bakersfield could give to the Golden Empire Youth Football Organization in this endeavor would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Mike Keese Director of School Support Services MK:ag AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER E N T E I:::1T A I N M E N T March 23, 2004 Re: Golden Empire Youth Tackle Football Program Dear Ron White, I just want to take this time and tell you and your whole organization what a wonderful job your staff has done over the last several years. Without your time and committment, the youth of Bakersfield would not have the finest youth tackle football program in the state of California and possibly the nation. Ron, you have spearheaded this program from the ground up. I don't think people have any idea the amount of time you spend each year on making your program the best. Again, thank you for improving the quality of life for the youth of Bakersfield. Sincerely, Rick Van Horne Bakersfield Blitz Head Football Coach P.O. Box 1~06 Bakersfield, (laliforniu 933113-I~06 / P 661,3.~.PUtK (~'~z~l/F 661.3~4.69~9 P.O. Box 2687 B~kersfield, I~alifornia 93303-26~7/'P 6M.~16.BLITZ 1254~1 / F 161.324.69~9 www. bakersfield.sports.com ./~'ww.b~ktrs[ieidcondors,c~m/www. b~ker~firldblitz.com For Youth through Junior High "When parents ask me about helmets, I tell them the Schut~~' Youth Ad- vantage® is a great choice. The kids love them because they are light and comfortable. I like them because they are easy to fit and maintain, It gives us everything we are looking for in a helmet." - Ron White, President Golden Empire Youth Football Bakersfield, CA MOLDED STANDARD COLORS STANDARD PAINTED COLORS GOLD i,: GRAY~' COLUMBIA DALLAS 04 BLUE BLUE GOL~ SILVEI 217 217 224 275 Department of Recreation and Parks Date: November 22, 2005 To: Alan Tandy, City Manager From: Di~er, Recreation and Parks Director Subject: Skate Park Development Current Service Level The City of Bakersfield currently provides one skate park, centrally located, and adjacent to the Kern River Bike Trail at Beach Park. The facility was constructed in the year 2000 at a cost of $170,000. It is approximately 14,200 square foot in size and is considered a beginnedintermediate facility. Use of the facility is not supervised by city staff. Maintenance of the facility is provided by city staff and has been mostly uneventful with the exception of increasing levels of vandalism. North Bakersfield Parks and Recreation previously provided a portable skate facility at Standard Park that shares space with a hockey rink. The County of Kern Parks Department provides a few skate parks within the county but none within greater Bakersfield. Service Level Determination A widely accepted standard rate of population to skate park facility could not be determined. However, an average size facility was determined through conversations with designers at 15,000 square feet. City staff recommends the appropriate level of skate parks be determined as a result of size, location and accessibility. The population of Bakersfield in 2020 is. projected to be 500,000. Considering the existing Beach Park facility to be centrally located and appropriately sized, an additional 4 facilities would be necessary to serve the population at a ratio of 1/100,000 in the year 2020. The location of these facilities should be placed somewhat central to future population growth in the four quadrants of the city made up using Freeway 99 as the north/south boundary and Freeway 58/Stockdale Highway as the east/west boundary. The locations should also be adjacent to trail linkages for pedestrian accessibility. Potential Future Skate Parks · The current skate park at Beach Park could serve as the central facility and could possibly be expanded with funding. A 5,000 square foot addition is estimated at approximately $150,000. · The proposed master park plan for the Old River Ranch Project includes a 19,000 square foot skate park in the design. This could serve as the location for a southwest facility. The skate park could be developer provided in 3-5 years at no cost to the city. · The city is reserving 50 acres from the proposed sell of farm land south of treatment plant #2 for park purposes. This could serve as the location for a southeast facility. A funding source is undetermined and development is likely more than 5 years out: A 15,000 square foot facility is estimated at $495,000. No land cost, lighting or fencing is included in the estimate. · The city currently owns 20 acres along Paladino Drive just east of Morning Drive for park purposes. The property should be expanded to about 30 acres as surrounding development occurs. This could serve as the location for a northeast facility. A funding source is undetermined and development is likely more than 5 years out. A 15,000 square foot facility is estimated at $520,000. No land cost, fencing or lighting is included in the 'estimate. Estimate is 5% higher because of soil conditions in northeast. · North Bakersfield Recreation and Parks District could be responsible for providing the facility in the northwest. They currently own several future park sites that could support a skate park. The city can encourage the development of a skate park on one of the sites using park impact fees as a funding source. p:Skate Dev