Minutes for the Parks, Recreation and Human Services Commission
1 Civic Center Circle
Brea, California 92821
March 25, 2026
Roll Call: (The following members were in attendance)
1. General Session
1.A. Call to Order
Chair Mason called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.
1.B. Pledge of Allegiance
Chair Mason led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1.C. Invocation
Chair Mason asked for a moment of silence.
1.D. Student Advisory Board
Students for the Student Advisory Board provided an update on recent activities at the Junior High and High School.
1.E. School Board Representative
Brea Olinda School District Representative Amber Duong Gonzalez provided an update on the athletic expansion projects, including a larger pool, turf on the football field and gym floor replacement.
1.F. Matters from the Audience
None.
2. Action
2.A. Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Realon noted one correction to the minutes. Commissioner Realon then made a motion to approve the minutes for December 3, 2025, and February 25, 2026; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Rifilato.
Motion passed 5-0.
Ayes: Mason, Son, Higgins, Realon, Rifilato
Nays: None.
3. Discussion
3.A. Go. Serve. Brea.
Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion and Community Services Special Events Supervisor Kristin Steyerman provided an overview of Go. Serve. Brea., including project solicitation, outreach, and event planning. Ms. Steyerman noted that submissions opened February 2 and remain open, with approximately 18 projects secured for the April 25 event. Staff highlighted the importance of sponsors and volunteers and invited Commissioners to participate.
3.B. Parks and Trails Update
Public Works Supervisor Edgar Esparza reported that some plants in the Civic Center plaza had been identified as looking dead or unkempt. Staff has begun replanting and infill efforts, with additional plants on order from the nursery to complete the project.
Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion provided an update on the Arovista Park project, highlighting recent progress and new features. She noted the installation of seven flower-shaped shade structures over the playground, added in response to community feedback emphasizing the need for shade. The play area will include a central zone with slides and climbing features, as well as swings and other interactive elements. Installation of play structures is expected to begin in the coming weeks.
Ms. Colacion also described a new gated playground entry designed as a welcoming gateway, with a low fence to enhance safety and support visitors of all abilities. Additional improvements underway include flatwork for courts and walkways, shade structures in picnic and sports areas, and upcoming installation of sound wall cladding. While an opening date has not yet been finalized, staff will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
4. Reports
4.A. Park Ambassadors
Commissioner Higgins stated he was contacted by a resident regarding concerns at the soccer field. He noted tree roots encroaching into the playing area, creating a potential trip hazard, and recommended evaluation and possible mitigation, such as careful root pruning by qualified professionals. He also raised concerns about trees growing into the field lighting, which may impact visibility, particularly during winter months. He suggested staff review both issues and report back on potential solutions.
4.B. Golf Course Ambassadors
Deputy Director Sean Matlock provided an update on Birch Hills Golf Course. He reported that the driving range ball machine has been replaced with a new self-service system allowing users to purchase balls via credit card, which has received positive feedback. Sand bunker renovations are over halfway complete, weather permitting, and prior drainage issues at the driving range have been evaluated and require only minor maintenance.
He also noted that roof repairs have been completed, and plans are in place for a golf cart path project pending insurance approval. Additionally, a paver project, in coordination with the Friends of the Tracks at Brea, is planned to reduce debris in high-traffic areas and is anticipated to occur during course closure for aeration, with a tentative timeline of September. Overall, operations continue to perform well.
4.C. Art in Public Places Committee
Commissioner Rifilato reported she has an upcoming committee meeting on March 30 and she will report back at the next meeting.
4.D. User Groups
No updates.
4.E. Pickleball Ad Hoc Committee
Commissioner Realon and Vice Chair Son provided an update on the Pickleball Ad Hoc Committee, noting the success of the recent survey campaign. The Committee is developing proposed court usage guidelines and will present them to the Commission in April.
5. Informational
5.A. Information Memorandum/Staff Updates
Community Services Special Events Supervisor Kristin Steyerman provided updates on the Spring Craft Boutique and Pet Expo. She also shared that the first cultural event in partnership with Sister Cities will be held on May 2, featuring performances and food trucks. Additionally, she provided updates on the Country Fair steering committee’s efforts to secure sponsorships for the July 4 Country Fair event.
5.B. Commissioner Requests
Commissioner Higgins requested to have an update on the Park Development Fund at a future meeting.
Commissioner Realon expressed concern that the “Coffee with a Cop” event was not communicated to the Commission and noted he only became aware of it by checking the website. He requested that events shared with the City Council also be communicated to the Commission to ensure awareness and support their role as community ambassadors.
6. Adjournment
Chair Mason adjourned the meeting at 6:37 pm.