More recreation programs planned for Costa Mesa

Andrew Glazer

COSTA MESA --The City Council will look into expanding and creating new

city recreation programs as soon as this summer.

The Recreation Division has proposed having a free summer concert series,

a water Olympics, a roving recreation van filled with children’s

activities, a junior golf program and science, marine biology, sports and

arts camps for children, according to a report prepared by the city’s

recreation staff.

Recreation Manager Stacia Mancini presented the proposals to an

enthusiastic council at a study session Monday afternoon. Mayor Gary

Monahan was unable to attend the meeting.

Funding for the programs would come from the city’s portion of last

year’s increase in greens fees at the Costa Mesa Country Club. Mancini

predicted the golf course would bring her department approximately

$168,000.

Registration fees from some activities also would help fund the programs.

“It’s very exciting,” said Councilman Joe Erickson. “Residents are going

to enjoy participating. And these activities will help create a sense of

community. People will say ‘This is my town, my community.”’

Mancini said the concert series would have four shows, featuring ‘50s

rock ‘n’ roll, salsa, and music from two other genres.

The city would kick off the series on July 4 and then continue the

following three Fridays -- July 14, 21 and 28, staff reports said.

Mancini also proposed holding a water Olympics at the end of the summer

for local children who participate in the city’s free recreational swim

programs. Events will include tube floating, underwater endurance, races,

jumping and diving competitions. Winners will be awarded ribbons.

But the most unique activity proposed is the “Mobile Recreation Program.”

In the summer, a van would travel to different residential streets and

close them to traffic for about three hours a day.

The van would be filled with basketball hoops, balls, children’s games,

and arts and crafts supplies. Recreation staff would organize inclusive

activities for neighborhood children four to five days a week.

Mancini said the van would be a fun, innovative way of getting children

involved in the community.

“It’s truly a way of taking it to the streets,” she said.