All candidates supported improving facilities at Allan Witt Park, including the revitalization of its skate park.

Matt Garcia expressed his support to restore the skate park. 'They just want a place to go and feel safe,' Garcia said. 'What I am for is kids to go there and feel safe.' Jack Batson said the skate park has seen wide community support and that security is set up to keep those interested in using the skate park safe. Two cameras overlook the area, Batson said.

Candidates discussed whether increasing police patrols or having security guards was best for the park.

When asked whether the candidates supported opening the pool and baseball fields to the general public, the City Council hopefuls agreed it would be ideal to do so but addressed the $13.5 million needed to open it. 

Student Arley Verdugo said having a bowling alley and skating rink could provide a safe, fun activity for youth and asked whether the candidates supported bringing those facilities back to town. All candidates supported the notion, but many added that the services are private businesses and that the city council can only encourage those businesses to come.

Student Darrel Williamson asked whether the candidates felt it was right for police officers to stop and ask groups of teens to go home at night before curfew.

Candidates said the question is, what are teenagers doing out at night?

'If you're not doing anything positive at night, you shouldn't be out there,' Garcia said.

Reach Nika Megino at 427-6953 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Daily Republic
October 26, 2007