The San Marino City Council Wednesday night prevented the shuttering of the Recreation Department after scores of supporters that emotionally addressed the council, saying it’s the soul of the community.
It was Mayor Steve Talt who finally halted any discussion of shutting down the recreation department programs that include daycare, preschool, senior events, and the July 4th festivities, to name just a few of the activities offered by the department.
“It would break my heart (to shut down) the Recreation Department,” Talt said. ‘I think if we do that, we lose part of our soul.”
Talt recommended a blue-ribbon committee be formed and co-chaired by him and Councilman Ken Ude. The committee would also have five community members. Also, the committee will be able to spend up to $30,000, if needed, for a consultant to help in re-envisioning the department.
The blue-ribbon committee was unanimously approved by council, 5-0.
The committee will be formed in the next 10 days and will present its final report during a joint meeting with the School District Sept. 12.
