Neighbors and volunteers say Little John Park is too small for 10–12 Little League play; commission to revisit allocation

Residents, volunteers and a former commission chair told the Alameda Recreation and Park Commission on May 14 that Little John Park is not appropriate for 10–12‑year‑old Little League play and urged staff to follow the department’s field allocation process.

"It is a beautiful field...but ultimately it's not a great place for our majors division — the fencing is not necessarily high enough to be safe," Adam Garfinkle, a volunteer and the Little League fields director, told the commission during non‑agenda public comment.

Jay Ingram, a former commission chair, said the recent changes at Little John — including combining two half courts into one and infrastructure work — have altered use patterns and that the neighborhood views the park as dedicated open space. "I feel strongly that Alameda Little League didn't negotiate in good faith with the city," Ingram said, and asked that any agreement be reviewed by the commission and that Little League follow the field allocation process.

Jill Ingram, a nearby resident, described safety problems from vehicles parked in red zones and said neighborhood notification by flyer had been the most effective outreach. Commenters asked for a loading zone, clearer signage (including no‑dogs‑on‑fields rules), and better parking enforcement.

Director Justin Long told the commission staff is working with Little League and said the issue will be brought back to the commission with information about site options and background for public discussion. Commissioners asked that staff engage neighbors and return detailed options at a future meeting.

The commission did not take formal action at the May 14 meeting; staff indicated the item would return at a subsequent meeting for further consideration.