Vaccination center approved by Wasco Parks and Rec

The Recreation and Parks District has voted to allow the state to open the veteran’s hall as a vaccination center.

The board voted to approve the center at a special meeting on Feb. 19.

Juan Bernal also provided a report at the regular meeting on Thursday, Feb. 18 on the district’s research into the costs of construction of a new salt water swimming pool. The district is close to finalizing the grant application for the pool.

“The final reviews can be submitted over the next week or two,” said Vice Chair Kayla Castillo. “The authorizing resolution needs to be resigned.”

Board member Erica Marin also mentioned to the board members that the city has a budget for the district of $350,000 this year from Measure X funds as well as $350,000 next year that could go toward the pool.

Board Chairman Sharon Sharp said since Wasco does not have a bowling alley, theater, or other activity outlets for residents, it’s important that the district provide as much in activities as it can for all age groups. Sharp suggested a slogan for the district such as “Getting Moving Wasco.”

The board members brainstormed on being creative with different activities. Castillo emphasized that the parks are where social outlets are available for everyone and are big central locations in town.

Bernal then reported the current programs at the district are: Trailblazers (cross country) with 35 participants, girls’ baseball, and a coach training program.

“The district is still working on getting coaches,” he said.

Castillo added that she noticed a skate park was very popular at another park in the county and she said there were a lot of kids at the skate park. She said Wasco should consider a skate park

At the conclusion of the activity discussion, Sharp reported that the fire extinguishers had all been updated. Additionally, she mentioned that the park lighting is almost completed.

“We need to spend more time on irrigation,” she said. “The district is looking into artificial turf.

Castillo then asked Chris to meet with the city to see if a joint venture could be reached between the Recreation and Parks District to share the cost of a part-time safety employee.

In other board business, Marin brought up changes that need to be made with the district manager job description. The board voted to change some of the wording of the description to read “Bachelor’s degree preferred with a starting salary of $80,000.”