Salinas is asking for input on how to build more engaging programs and facilities

Salinas recreation officials said when the economy tanked they had to take away some of their programs and offerings. Now that we’re coming out of the recession it’s time to start building for the future.

“I’m very interested in my city, I want it to thrive,” said Kallah Bumba of Salinas.

An open house in Sherwood Hall was the kick off of a series of meetings diving into what Salinas residents want to see and experience in their community.

“I would like to see facilities and things maintained,” said Salinas resident Albert Fong. Beautify the city and make it a safe environment for families to have different kinds of activities.”

The city is asking attendees to weigh in on redeveloping existing and new libraries, recreation centers, sports fields and facilities, along with parks and open spaces.

“There’s other trends that are out there for recreation and outdoor recreation,” said Steve Duh, with Conservation Technix. “Some ideas that people have or have seen from other communities might lend themselves well for Salinas.”

Locals expressed in groups and on paper ideas for a more vibrant, safe and educational Salinas. Their input will be used to put together a ten year master plan, which Salinas currently does not have.

“It will help us set priorities so that we really have a direction of where we’re going,” said Kristen Lundquist, City of Salinas Recreation and Community Services Superintendent. ‘It also hopefully might allow us to obtain additional funding though grants and private funders to help fund programs and facility improvements as we move forward.”

Other than the meetings, organizers said they want more input. They plan to send out surveys through the mail and online.

“We need to be social, that’s a real important part of our life,” said Bumba. “If we just stay home and look at our four walls, that doesn’t fulfill one’s life.”

The next public meeting will be held March 13 th at Cesar Chavez Library from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Sports fields and facilities will be the focus.