Chair Rifilato called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.

Motion to approve made by Commissioner Realon, seconded by Commissioner Higgins. Motion passed 5-0.

Ayes: Rifilato, Mason, Higgins, Realon, Son

Nays: None

Community Services Manager, Jennifer Colacion provided an update on the Arovista Park project. She shared updated images of the Arovista project, noting significant progress, particularly with retaining walls. Approximately $5 million of the project budget is allocated toward walls, making it a wall-intensive project. One retaining wall is being constructed near the playground bowl area at Elm and Sievers, while another is located near the amphitheater, just past the restroom. Foundations and footings are actively being poured and inspected. The project remains on track for fall completion, though staff acknowledged the tight timeline. The contractor is working to increase manpower to meet the deadline. If delays are anticipated, the Commission will be informed.

Deputy Director Sean Matlock shared an update on the Birch Hills Golf Course tee box realignment project at Hole 6, supported by visuals prepared by Public Works Supervisor Edgar Esparza . This project has been in discussion for some time and is now underway. The current tee box, shown in red on the slide, is being shifted forward to avoid disrupting ongoing play during construction. The realignment aims to reduce the likelihood of golf balls veering toward nearby homes. The updated direction of play is represented by the yellow arrow in the second slide. While work has just started, it is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Staff will continue to provide updates and will meet with the golf course team tomorrow to monitor progress and address any issues.

In a separate update, Deputy Director Sean Matlock shared a preliminary concept proposed by Bill McMillan (who was unable to attend due to his flight schedule). Staff met with Mr. McMillan at Birch Hills Golf Course to discuss a potential partnership between the Friends of the Tracks at Brea and Home Depot. The concept involves enhancing sections of the cart path that cross over the tracks by installing brickwork to improve durability and reduce wear to the existing DG surface. Photos were shared showing one area with existing brickwork and three without, where significant DG erosion is occurring. The proposed improvements would extend the brick treatment to those worn areas. Staff will speak with the golf course operator to explore next steps. If the project moves forward, the golf course operator would likely coordinate directly with the Friends of the Tracks, leveraging their Home Depot relationship. The Commission's Ad Hoc Project Committee for Birch Hills (Vice Chair Mason and Commissioner Higgins) would help select materials, such as brick color. This is a very early-stage discussion, with the project estimated to be at least six months away. Staff welcomes any initial feedback and will keep the Commission informed as conversations continue.

Commissioner Realon noted that Home Depot offers a program in which certified individuals volunteer their time for community improvement projects. Through a partnership with the 501(c)(3) organization Friends of the Tracks of Brea, this could be a feasible arrangement. He emphasized that the work would be completed by trained professionals—not volunteers trying to figure things out—ensuring a high-quality result. Additionally, this partnership presents an opportunity for cost savings, as the labor would be donated thanks to Home Depot’s generosity.

Deputy Director Sean Matlock provided an update on parks and playgrounds, with a focus on ongoing community interest in Country Hills Park. Public emails and responses have been shared with the Commission for transparency. While no formal Commission direction has been given since the last discussion, staff continues to explore options, especially in light of $5.5M in upcoming park development fees from two new eastside developments.

A meeting was held with residents Janice Yoon and Ted Gribble to discuss their questions regarding:

•Fundraising efforts and how they could partner with the City

•Allocation and use of park development fees

•Cost estimates for a new playground

Staff explained that while a basic playground may cost $50K–$100K, installing one on school property could cost $350K–$550K due to additional requirements from the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and ADA compliance. Staff plans to respond to the residents’ inquiries this week. Country Hills is not currently prioritized for major improvements, as other parks have more urgent needs. However, the Commission will revisit this topic during the goal-setting workshop in August.

Park tours are being planned for July to provide context ahead of the workshop. Tours will involve small groups visiting a sample of parks across the city to observe varying conditions and recent upgrades. Staff will follow up with scheduling options.

City Hall Park has had the tops of the trash cans removed due to repeated misuse. All trash can lids have since been removed as a preventative measure.

Chair Rifilato remarked that while some of the items had already been discussed, it’s important to include everything to keep everyone informed about the types of feedback the Commission receives. She shared a positive message from Sam’s mother, who expressed how much her son enjoys the after school program and even sent a photo. Chair Rifilato noted that it’s refreshing to receive positive feedback, as much of what comes through can often be focused on concerns or complaints.