Ventura County Grand Jury • 1995-1996

Investigation Update New Parks Department

Published: April 16, 1996 3 pages
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Findings 9 findings

F1
Because additional management time and money are required as Channel Islands Harbor redevelopment and growth plans are implemented, a separate Harbor Department will become effective July 1, 1996. The Director will report to the Board of Supervisors and the Chief Administrative Officer.
F2
The Board of Supervisors adopted the recommendations that "the existing Parks and Harbor Commission will remain in place for an appropriate period of time to evaluate the subsidy transition between the Harbor and the Parks." The Parks Department will continue in the GSA, and receive a subsidy of $1 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 1996/97. Future years' subsidies will be adjusted according to the amount of new revenues generated in the Parks Department.
F3
The current Deputy Director for Recreation plans to continue with the Parks Department, which is undertaking major projects to become self-sufficient in the next 5 years. Currently, about $3.5 million is spent annually, and $2.5 million is received from rent and 47 fees.
F4
Park rates are established each November by the Board of Supervisors for the following year.
F5
Recreation Services has taken the first steps toward lease arrangements for developments at Toland Park and Camarillo Regional Park.
F6
For FY 1996-97, the Reorganization will result in net savings of $190,500, due to a net reduction of 5 positions.
F7
One function listed by Recreation Services for 1995/96 is to "Market and promote recreational facilities at Harbor and regional parks."
F8
The Cultural Heritage Board, for which Recreation Services provides staff support, is being transferred to the Resource Management Agency, Planning Division. There will be an annual subsidy of $30,000 from the Harbor Department.
F9
Dennison Park, adjacent to California Highway 150, was renovated and reopened in November 1995, after being closed for eight years.

Recommendations 4