Volunteers Sought for Parks Program

The Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks is looking for volunteers to help monitor a massive parks improvement program.

The Volunteer Neighborhood Oversight Committees will monitor projects funded by Proposition K, the ballot measure passed last fall that allocates $776 million over 30 years to refurbish city parks.

Hundreds of projects at neighborhood parks will be funded, from after-school child care to soccer fields.

Valley sites scheduled to receive Proposition K funds include Granada Hills, Studio City and Tarzana recreation centers; Sepulveda Park West; Deervale and West Hills parks; Hansen Dam and North Hollywood Multi-Purpose Center.

The committees will advise on the design and priority status of $299 million in projects, said Lee Nichols, spokesman for the city Department of Recreation and Parks.

Each committee will have seven members, made up of volunteers and City Council appointees. Other officials, such as council members and park directors, are also expected to attend meetings, Nichols said.

“They’re looking for people in the community who know what people’s needs are in the community,” Nichols said.

Interested volunteers are urged to contact their local park director or call the Valley recreation and parks regional office at (818) 756-9404. Volunteers will be selected after an interview with recreation and parks officials.