Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting (2026-03-24)

March 24, 2026 Page 1 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes City of Gilroy Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes March 24, 2026 I 6:00 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Javier Martinez called the meeting to order at approximately 6:00 PM, noting the presence of a quorum and welcoming Commissioners, staff, and members of the public. 2. ROLL CALL 3. FLAG SALUTE Vice Chair Miller led the Pledge of Allegiance 4. SECRETARY'S REPORT Secretary reported that the meeting agenda and packet were posted on March 18, 2026, in compliance with the Brown Act. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion: Approve the minutes as presented RESULT: Pass MOVER: Vice Chair Emily Miller SECONDER: Commissioner Luis Ramirez AYES: Commissioners Felios, Martinez, Brinton, Jimenez, Ramirez ABSENT: Commissioner Bozzo 6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 6.1 Approval of March 24, 2026, Parks and Recreation Commission Special meeting agenda The Commission reviewed the agenda for the March 24, 2026 meeting. Motion: Approve the March 24, 2026 agenda as presented RESULT: Pass MOVER: Commissioner Ramirez SECONDER: Commissioner Felios AYES: Chair Martinez , Vice Chair Miller, Commissioners Felios, Martinez, Brinton, Jimenez, Attendance Attendee Name Present Javier Martinez, Chair Emily Miller, Vice Chair Luis Ramirez, Commissioner Andrew Brinton, Commissioner Greg Felios, Commissioner Jesse Jimenez, Commissioner Absent Salvatore Bozzo, Commissioner

March 24, 2026 Page 2 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes Ramirez ABSENT: Commissioner Bozzo 7. INTRODUCTIONS Staff introduced Ryan Osenton, Project Manager with Public Works, who would be presenting the Civic Center Master Plan item. 8. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA Mila Krupa– Community Member Expressed ongoing concerns about lack of shade at playgrounds, noting increasing temperatures limit usability for children. She encouraged adding natural shade trees in addition to structures and identified Carriage Hill and Sunset Parks as examples. Malachi Diaz – Community Member Presented a proposal for a disc golf course with a defined loop layout, signage, and safety guidelines. He proposed a community kickoff event and requested staff collaboration to refine the plan. 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1 Civic Center Master Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Report Update Presenter Ryan Osenton – Public Works Project Manger Mr. Osenton presented the Civic Center Master Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Report. He explained that the existing plan was adopted in 2002 and that significant population growth has created increased demand for updated civic facilities. He reviewed conditions of existing buildings, including City Hall, Wheeler Auditorium, the Senior Center, and the Annex, noting that these facilities are aging and require substantial reinvestment. He explained that one factor prompting the plan update was the cost of major system upgrades, including multi-million-dollar estimates for building systems such as HVAC. Mr. Osenton outlined proposed redevelopment elements including: • New City Hall • Multi-generational facility • Recreation facility with aquatic components • Civic park space He clarified that the police station and library are not part of the redevelopment scope. He also stated that the public comment period for the Environmental Impact Report remains open through Friday. Public Comment Alicia – Community Member Alicia provided comments regarding the pool design and encouraged the City to review facilities in Morgan Hill, specifically noting preference for centrally located stairs and channel features.

March 24, 2026 Page 3 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes She also encouraged the City to consider inclusive programming, referencing Mitchell Park Community Center and Ada’s Café in Palo Alto as examples of spaces that provide opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. In response, staff noted that the project remains at a very early stage and that programming for the buildings has not yet been developed but agreed that the idea was a valuable one to consider. Commission Discussion Commissioners asked questions regarding project scope, timeline, and community use. 9.2 Update of Las Animas (Oaks) Restroom Installation Presenter Matt Jones – Deputy Public Works Director Matt Jones reported the replacement of a 30-year-old restroom with a modular CXT unit, completed largely in-house over 6.5 months (336 labor hours). He credited John Souza for leading the project and noted a target opening date of April 10. Commission Discussion: Commissioners asked questions regarding: • the anticipated installation timeline • long-term maintenance requirements • durability and performance of modular restroom units • how the new facility will improve park usability and accessibility Staff responded that the selected unit type has performed well at other locations and is expected to provide a reliable long-term solution for park users. 9.3 Discussion and Recommendation Closure of El Roble Tennis Courts Presenter John Doughty – Public Works Director / Staff Liaison Mr. Doughty stated that the El Roble courts are in extremely poor condition and described them as unsafe and no longer playable. He noted ongoing complaints from the public and stated that the courts present liability concerns. He explained that repair is not feasible and recommended closure and eventual removal, with the possibility of relocating courts to a more visible and appropriate area. Public Comment Allison Robinson – Community Member Ms. Robinson emphasized the importance of maintaining recreational space and stated that local families already lack access to sufficient courts. She encouraged the City to replace or repurpose the courts rather than eliminate them and suggested basketball or pickleball as alternatives. Commission Discussion

March 24, 2026 Page 4 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes Commissioners discussed safety concerns, liability, and potential future improvements, including replacement options such as basketball or pickleball courts. Motion: Close the El Roble tennis courts due to safety concerns MOVER: Vice Chair Miller SECONDER: Commissioner Ramirez AYES: Vice Chair Miller, Commissioners Felios, Jimenez, Ramirez NAYES: Chair Martinez, Commissioner Brinton ABSENT: Commissioner Bozzo RESULT: Motion Passed (4–2) 9.4 Discussion and Recommendation on Potential Reopening of the Wayland and Hanna Parking Lots Staff presented background regarding the continued closure of the Hanna and Wayland side parking lots at Las Animas Park. The presentation included discussion of prior Council direction, safety concerns, operational challenges, ADA-related issues, pavement and lighting conditions, and neighborhood impacts. Staff explained that the Hanna Street area had previously been barricaded in advance of July 4 due to concerns about fireworks and other problematic activities. Staff also explained that the Wayland lot is a unique site adjacent to a planned unit development and has generated recurring concerns from nearby residents. Public Comment Mario Maciel – Community Member Mr. Maciel, a long-time Gilroy resident living adjacent to the parking lots, expressed opposition to reopening them. He stated that nearby residents experience ongoing impacts related to crime, homelessness, and disruptive behavior. He referenced past incidents affecting his household and emphasized that the park should remain a safe and positive asset for the neighborhood. Joe Pagoaga – Community Member Mr. Pagoaga stated that he moved to the neighborhood during a time when significant issues were occurring at the Wayland parking lot, which impacted his quality of life. He noted that he works in park operations and is familiar with similar challenges. He shared that nearby residents remain concerned and referenced a letter submitted by a neighbor who was unable to attend. Letter read by Joe Pagoaga on behalf of Shannon Glasper – Wayland Court HOA Treasurer – Community Member Ms. Glasper expressed opposition to reopening the Wayland parking lot, citing ongoing impacts to nearby residents, including safety concerns, disruptive behavior, and reduced quality of life. She emphasized that the burden of these impacts falls primarily on adjacent homeowners and noted that alternative parking options remain available. Alicia – Community Member Alicia expressed concerns regarding reopening the Wayland and Hanna parking lots, citing potential impacts to neighborhood safety and quality of life. She encouraged careful consideration of long- term effects and balancing public access with resident well-being. Daniel Medina – Community Member

March 24, 2026 Page 5 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes Mr. Medina expressed support for reopening the parking lot, citing concerns about loss of public access, aesthetics, and emergency access. He also noted issues related to overflow parking and safety in surrounding areas. Skip Bloom – Community Member Mr. Bloom expressed opposition to reopening the Wayland parking lot, citing past issues including noise, disruptive behavior, and safety concerns. He stated that conditions improved following the closure. Daphne Deithcman – Community Member Ms. Deitchman expressed support for keeping the parking lots closed, citing personal safety concerns and improved conditions since closure. She noted that reopening could negatively impact neighborhood safety. Araceli Vaquera – Community Member Ms. Vaquera expressed concerns about reopening the Wayland parking lot, citing prior negative impacts to neighborhood safety and quality of life. She supported maintaining the closure and prioritizing resident well-being. Commission Discussion Commissioners discussed the tradeoffs between neighborhood impacts and public access, as well as safety, enforcement, emergency access, parking demand, condition of the lots, possible future resurfacing, lighting, and the need for broader community input. Motion: Recommended City Council keep the Hanna and Wayland parking lots at Las Animas Veterans Park closed pending further evaluation and community input MOVER: Vice Chair Emily Miller SECONDER: Commissioner Luis Ramirez AYES: Chair Martinez , Vice Chair Miller, Commissioners Felios, Martinez, Brinton, Jimenez, Ramirez ABSENT: Commissioner Bozzo RESULT: Motion Passed Unanimously (6–0) 9.5 Update on Maintenance Efforts at Los Arroyos Park Presenter Matt Jones – Deputy Public Works Director Mr. Jones provided an update on maintenance and sidewalk repair efforts, noting a more targeted and proactive approach due to staffing and operational constraints. He reported that staff have been identifying and addressing trip hazards in phases, prioritizing high-use areas, including a location near the KinderCare preschool. Commissioners asked questions about prioritization, long-term maintenance, and how staffing levels affect the pace of repairs. 9.6 Discussion and Possible Action to Affirm Formal Parks and Recreations Commission Tabling

March 24, 2026 Page 6 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes Staff introduced the item regarding Parks and Recreation Commission participation in community outreach efforts, including opportunities for Commissioners to engage with the public through tabling and event attendance. Staff explained that participation in community events provides an opportunity for Commissioners to connect directly with residents, share information about parks and programs, and gather feedback from the community. Staff also discussed the possibility of coordinating logistics for tabling, including staffing, materials, and scheduling, and emphasized the importance of ensuring consistent messaging and representation when participating in public events. Commission Discussion Commissioners discussed: • interest in participating in community events and outreach efforts • the value of engaging directly with residents to better understand community needs • opportunities to increase visibility of the Commission and its role • coordination with staff to identify appropriate events and expectations for participation Commissioners expressed general support for increased outreach and indicated interest in participating in future events as opportunities arise. Direction to Staff The Commission provided general direction to staff: • identify upcoming events suitable for Commission participation • provide additional information regarding logistics and expectations • coordinate future opportunities for outreach and engagement No formal action was taken. 10. OLD BUSINESS 10.1 NONE 11. DEPARTMENT UPDATE 11.1 Public Works Park Maintenance and Operations Updates Staff provided updates on ongoing park maintenance efforts, including repairs to park infrastructure and addressing safety-related issues such as damaged amenities and general upkeep. Staff noted that maintenance work continues across multiple park locations and is prioritized based on safety, usage, and available resources. 11.2 Recreation Division Updates Staff provided updates on recreational programming and community activities within the park system. Staff discussed ongoing and upcoming programs and noted continued efforts to provide opportunities for community engagement through park-based activities.

March 24, 2026 Page 7 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes 11.3 Parks CIP Updates Staff provided updates on current and upcoming park-related projects, including coordination and progress on improvements discussed throughout the meeting. Staff noted that project timelines and priorities continue to be evaluated based on available funding and operational capacity. 12. COMMISSIONER PARK REPORTS AND COMMENTS Commissioners provided updates regarding park conditions, recent site visits, and community feedback. Commissioner Jesse Jimenez shared observations related to park conditions and noted the importance of ongoing maintenance to address issues before they become larger concerns. Vice Chair Emily Miller discussed recent community interactions and emphasized the importance of maintaining clean, safe, and accessible park spaces. Commissioner Luis Ramirez provided observations regarding park usage and noted continued activity at various park locations. He emphasized the importance of maintaining amenities such as restrooms, lighting, and seating areas. Commissioners also discussed: • general park conditions across multiple locations • maintenance needs and response times • safety-related concerns, including lighting and trip hazards • the importance of maintaining high-quality park facilities for the community Commissioners acknowledged recent maintenance efforts and emphasized the importance of continued communication with staff regarding park conditions and improvements. 13. DIRECTOR’S REPORT John Doughty provided updates on ongoing projects and coordination efforts within the Parks and Recreation Department. Mr. Doughty reported that a fully executed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Story Walk at San Ysidro Park has been received. Staff noted that coordination with the school district and final site logistics are ongoing, and installation is anticipated in May. He also discussed opportunities to align the project rollout with upcoming community events, including Party in the Park at San Ysidro Park, to enhance community engagement and visibility. 14. FUTURE COMMISSIONER INISTIATED ITEMS Commissioner Jesse Jimenez asked about the appropriate process for bringing forward future discussion items and whether commissioner-initiated topics should be included under this section. Staff clarified that this section is intended for identifying future agenda items and that coordination with staff would be needed to schedule items for upcoming meetings. Commissioners also discussed the value of including a more structured opportunity on the agenda for Commissioner report-outs, including participation in meetings, events, and other related activities.

March 24, 2026 Page 8 of 8 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Meeting Minutes Staff indicated that adjustments to the agenda format could be considered to better capture Commissioner updates and feedback. Commissioners also discussed follow-up related to the disc golf proposal, and staff noted that additional review and coordination may be needed before bringing the item back for future consideration. 15. ADJOURNMENT Meeting ended at 8:38 pm