Staff outlines $261,000 state grant for Catalina Park, warns of shoreline permitting hurdle

Parks staff told the commission the city has a $261,000 state grant for renovations at Catalina Park and the marina, but cautioned that shoreline permitting and associated costs will be a significant hurdle to using the funds.

Park supervisor Brandon Cable said the grant will be used to explore improved connections to the marina, renovate existing play structures and add amenities intended to attract more visitors to the park. "We are looking at some connections and just higher-level ideas right now that we're figuring out how much that's going to cost to run, some utilities and renovate some of the existing play structures down there," Cable said.

Cable said much of Catalina Park lies within the shoreline area and that activities near the high-water line will require shoreline permitting. "I don't want to spend $261,000 on permitting," he said, noting staff will try to scope work to avoid overspending the grant on permit-related costs. Staff are compiling cost estimates and will return with more detailed numbers for council consideration.

The commission asked whether the parcels under consideration are city-owned or would require partnerships or purchases; Cable said options include a mixture of city property, partnerships and possible acquisitions. He said staff will share interactive maps and cost estimates with commissioners as they become available.

No formal action was taken; staff requested input and will continue to develop designs and cost estimates for future budget cycles and council review.