Be on the lookout for future park improvements in Ione. Council Members and Ione’s Park and Recreation Commission took a tour of local parks and evaluated what the needs are for each. This tour included Grover Park, Oak Ridge, and Howard Park. A public hearing was held regarding Oak Ridge with “good input” provided by those who live around the park. However, this is just the beginning of the surveying process. Staff are currently working on obtaining public input through various outlets. A public hearing at the Oak Ridge park mentioned the need for a play structure, much like the one recently installed at Bryson Park.

Another consideration could be a park that looks similar to Ione’s Train park. A request for authorization for staff to purchase a play structure for the park at no more than 10 thousand dollars was added to the Ione City Council agenda. City Manager Kim Kerr reminded the council that a play structure would be considered a fixed asset, and would ideally be installed by July 1st if approved. The 10 thousand dollars includes the purchase of the structure but does not incorporate the cost of prepping the ground and installation. The instillation goal for the entire project would require “get as much volunteer work as possible” and Council intends to look into utilizing crews from Mule Creek State Prison. The Council approved the funds for the Oak Ridge Play Structure unanimously.