Last week’s announcement that state parks have been given a
reprieve from closure through at least the end of the fiscal year
is a good news-bad news scenario for local advocates.
Last week’s announcement that state parks have been given a reprieve from closure through at least the end of the fiscal year is a good news-bad news scenario for local advocates.
The good news is that the San Juan Bautista Historic Park and Fremont Peak will remain open at least through June, a reversal of rumored plans to immediately shutter one or both of the San Benito County venues to save money. The bad news is that the state is facing a continuing fiscal crisis next year, so there’s a chance that the closure idea could be revisited next summer.
Last Friday, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced that instead of closing more than 100 parks as expected, the state would reduce routine maintenance at more than 200 facilities and not purchase new vehicles or equipment; an estimated savings of $12.1 million. Furthermore, $2.1 million will be saved by reducing staffing as well as limiting hours or days of operation for some parks.
“It’s a conflict for us,” said Gavilan Sector Superintendent Eddie Guaracha, who oversees Fremont Peak and the historic park. “On one hand, you’re happy that the parks are staying open, but you’re still concerned about the maintenance of the historic buildings.
“It does give us reason for hope that we’re still open and hopefully something will be worked out so that becomes permanent.”
For the full story, see the Pinnacle on Friday.
