Local residents urge city to clean Jack Smith Park and reconsider beach day-use fee

Sheila Miller, of 2021 Cardi Circle, told the City Council that Jack Smith Park’s beach is frequently left littered after weekends and that local residents feel compelled to pay a $5 day-use fee to access the shoreline. "If our tax dollars paid for Jack Smith Park, we shouldn't have to pay to use the beach for a day use," Miller said, and asked the city to schedule regular cleanup crews — at least once or twice a week — to remove glass, diapers and other hazardous debris.

Miller described finding overflowing trash cans and large items left at the beach after holidays, and said city crews responded only after repeated calls. The council did not take immediate action during the meeting, but council members later reiterated public-safety reminders and discussed signage and maintenance schedules in other agenda remarks.

The request came during the public-comment portion of the meeting. The city manager later reported broader park investments and new drinking fountains planned for Jack Smith and other parks; council members also asked for follow-up about service schedules and whether weekend staffing can be increased.

Next steps: Miller’s request will be forwarded to staff for follow-up and potential scheduling of additional cleanup service; council asked staff to report back on maintenance frequency and any cost implications.