County approves three AB 1600 park and recreation grants totaling $185,009.86

County staff summarized the AB 1600 Park and Recreation Capital Improvement Program awards and recommended three projects that advance the county's recreation and resiliency master plan. Shivati Garki Pearl reviewed benefit‑zone funds and eligibility requirements and said the total recommended award is "$185,009.86" for three projects that will unlock partner funding and advance public access and safety.

The projects include a covered outdoor education pavilion on the Wildfire Ridge Preserve (Variable Land Trust / Timber Farmers Guild), an approximately 1.7‑mile equestrian/pedestrian single‑track connector to reduce conflicts (Gold Country Trails Council Hoof Trail), and an ADA‑accessible downtown pocket park adjacent to the Doris Foley Historical Library (City of Nevada City North Pine Pocket Park). The board took separate motions for each award and unanimously approved the awards and authorizations to execute agreements.

Public comment raised a concern about mature trees near the North Pine site and asked for an arborist review as a condition of approval; staff said city review and local permitting would address site‑level concerns.