Committee forwards $12.4M Jackson Park grant and sends storm emergency resolutions to full board without recommendation

The Budget & Finance Committee on Nov. 1 advanced three related items for the Recreation and Parks Department: authorization to accept and expend approximately $12.4 million in cash and in‑kind support from Friends of Jackson Park for a multi‑year renovation (item 6), and two emergency‑declaration resolutions related to March winter storm damage at Stern Grove and the Trocadero Clubhouse (items 7 and 8).

Tamar Barla, assistant director of partnerships for Recreation and Parks, described Jackson Park’s concept plan, community engagement (10 community meetings), and a funding mix that includes $10 million from the 2020 Health and Recovery Bond, development impact fees, general funds and the $12.44 million private pledge. She said Friends of Jackson Park has raised $2.8 million so far toward the private pledge and plans further fundraising for architectural and construction costs.

Supervisors asked about in‑kind architectural services donated by private firms, how those gifts affect procurement and community control of design, and whether in‑kind services bypass competitive bidding. Rec & Park staff said pro bono design hours are part of the private contribution and that the department will manage project managers and community engagement to ensure designs meet neighborhood needs.

Antonio Guerra, Rec & Park director of administration and finance, presented the emergency declarations for Stern Grove (tree removal and debris with estimated cost later clarified to $2.1 million) and Trocadero Clubhouse (estimated $1.85 million for roof, finishes and fire suppression). BLA recommended setting and clarifying a not‑to‑exceed amount and noted the department did not submit required resolutions within 60 days under Administrative Code section 6.6; the committee agreed Rec & Park should adopt written emergency procedures and provide a report within 30 days.

Public comment included many neighborhood residents and Friends of Jackson Park leadership urging approval, describing high usage by children and after‑school programs, and stressing the importance of restrooms and safe facilities. The committee forwarded item 6 (Jackson Park grant) to the full board with a positive recommendation, amended the emergency resolution to clarify Stern Grove emergency work not-to-exceed $2.1 million, and forwarded items 7 and 8 to the full board without recommendation while directing staff to submit a corrective emergency‑procedures report.

Quote: "We respectfully request that you authorize the general manager of the Rec and Parks department to enter into the grant agreement with Friends of Jackson Park," Tamar Barla told the committee. BLA recommended adding clearer limits and reporting for emergency authorities.

Next steps: Item 6 will go to the full Board with a recommendation; Rec & Park will return a written emergency-procedures report within 30 days and staff will clarify funding timelines and fundraising status for the private pledge.