HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Report - February 1, 2023 PublicCommentC-11 Adopt Resolution U dating City Staff Signers on City of Lodi Farmers -a Merchants Bank Accounts (ISD),
Adopted Resolution No. 2023-28 updating City staff signers on City of Lodi Farmers & Merchants Bank accounts
H. Regular Calendar
Mayor Hothi announced that due to the high number of individuals that wish to submit a public comment on non -
agenda items, that portion of the meeting will be moved to the end of the meeting.
H-1 Receive for File the Fallowing Reports and Financial Statements Submitted by The Pun Group, LLP and
Finance Department for Fiscal Year 2021-2022, Including the GANN Limit and Single Audit Report (ISD),
Vanessa Burke provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the GANN limit and Single Audit Report for the Fiscal
Year ended June 30, 2022. Specific topics of discussion included Scope of Work - Financial Statement Audit,
Compliance Audit, and agreed upon procedures; and audit results - GANN limit, Single Audit, and historical audit
results.
Council Member Khan made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to receive for file the following
reports and financial statements submitted by The Pun Group, LLP and Finance Department for Fiscal Year 2021-
2022, including the GANN Limit and Single Audit Report.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Khan, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Hothi
Noes: None
Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Craig
ROLL CALL VOTE
The City Council held a ROLL CALL vote (all voiced their votes).
E. Comments by the City Council Members on Non -Agenda Items
Council Member Nakanishi stated that residents have expressed concerns regarding high speeds at the
roundabout and crosswalk at Lodi Avenue and Rose Gate Drive, near Rose Gate Park.
Mayor Hothi conveyed his condolences to the family of the dog, Enzo, thanked the Chief of Police for conducting an
internal investigation and requesting an independent review by the District Attorney's Office into the incident, and
asked the public to give the officers and their families space.
Council Member Khan conveyed his condolences to the family of the dog, Enzo, noted a recent shooting incident in
Tracy, thanked the Police Chief for conducting an internal investigation, and thanked the Police Department for
protecting the City every day.
Council Member Bregman conveyed his condolences to the family for the dog, Enzo, thanked the Police
Department for conducting an investigation into the incident, and shared a letter from resident, Gary Brand,
regarding the City office closures every other Friday.
F. Comments by the City Manager on Non -Agenda Items
City Manager Schwabauer provided a brief explanation regarding the history of why the City started the office
closures every other Friday.
Chief of Police Sierra Brucia provided a statement regarding the incident between a police officer and a dog named
Enzo, during which the dog died.
D. Comments k?y the Public on Non -Agenda Item5 ItemTHE TIME ALLOWED PER NON -AGENDA ITEM FOR
COMMENTS MADE BY THE PUBLIC IS LIMITED TO FIVE MINUTES.
Mayor Hothi announced that due to the high volume of participants wishing to submit a public comment on a non -
agenda item, public comments will be limited to two minutes per person.
Mary Fuhs provided public comment regarding her and her husband's water bill.
Bill Fuhs provided public comment regarding his and his wife's water bill.
Aaron Spears provided public comment regarding the Kofu Skate Park.
Pat Byron provided public comment regarding Kofu Skate Park and provided a Supplemental document (filed).
Chelsea Taylor provided public comment regarding Kofu Skate Park.
Jose Samaniego provided public comment regarding Enzo the dog.
WHY PREFAB PARKS ARE NOT ADEQUATE
Skatepark construction boomed in the 90s and early 2000s in response to anti skateboarding
ordinances " Companies were quick to capitalize on this emerging market and began mass -
merchandising prefabricated structures that could be easily installed on an existing slab for a fraction
of the cost. Business boomed as municipalities largely viewed skateboarding as a passing fad.
When the fad died, the skatepark could be easily dismantled. Fortunately (but unfortunately for those
towns that bought prefabricated skateparks), skateboarding wasn't a fad and these skateparks
proved inferior, unpopular, and unable to withstand the rigors of daily use. Most of the companies
responsible for these products went out of business within a few years. One can find occasional
skateparks still in existence that are made from wood, Skatelite, and steel, but they are frequently
renovated using concrete. — public skatepark guide https:/Ipublicskateparkguide.org/
This cannot be emphasized strongly enough: a steel, wood, or polymer -surfaced material is not an
adequate material for a municipal skatepark. These skateparks are heralded by their sales teams as
an inexpensive option to "expensive" cast -in-place concrete skateparks. Prefabricated skatepark
companies have been dabbling in municipal skatepark design for about a decade. Thankfully, most
of these companies are no longer in business. Those that remain have developed bold new tactics
for swooping into unsuspecting communities that are considering a new skatepark and selling them
their product based on bold promises. When you hear these phrases, you should be on alert that
what you're being sold is a shoddy imitation of a permanent, sustainable skatepark:
"For a fraction of the cost of custom concrete..."
This is a phrase that many companies will use to posture their product as an inexpensive
solution for an equitable product. The fact is that their ramps and above -grade structures are
not sustainable. The skateboarders' skills quickly outpace the limited design characteristics
of these "back and forth" designs. Furthermore, the cost of creating the facility is a mere
fraction of the cost of operating and maintaining that facility over 10 years. Above -ground
ramps and prefabricated structures, particularly polymer, wood, and steel materials, have a
long, ugly record of escalating maintenance concerns. Many of these skateparks are closed
after a few years due to safety concerns. Consider your total cost of ownership when you
find yourself attracted to a low up -front cost.
"Generous 20 -year warranty..."
None of the structures these companies are providing this incredible warranty for have been
in existence for 20 years. They simply don't know how long their products last, but they're
apparently cheap enough to create that they can afford to come in every few years and
replace elements. Overly long warranties are a good sign that something is amiss.
"Free design..." (or "free consultation...")
For permanent skateparks, design includes a full public workshop, geotech surveys, and
construction documents. If a company is offering "free" designs, they're probably pulling
something off their shelf, moving a few things around, then supplying you a drawing of a
skatepark. This is not a design; this is a concept drawing. What the company hopes to do is
to develop a relationship with your city decision -makers and become the front-runner for the
construction bid. The "free designs" offered by these companies will have specifications that
only that company can meet. In business terms, this is known as a "loss leader." In other
words, they take a bit of a loss on the front end and recoup those costs in the high profits
made on the back end. If someone contacts your community with the offer of a "free design,"
ask them if that design can be built by anyone. Better yet, shop around and talk to lots of
different designers. This is an important community investment, so take your time and do
your homework.
66`, hat the pros prefer..."
Y.ou may have some professional skaters in your community, but your public skatepark is
going to attract ordinary, non-professional skateboarders. While pro skaters like Aaron
WHY PREFAB PARKS ARE NOT ADEQUATE
Homoki are jumping down 18 -foot drops, most skaters are happy with a nice 18 -inch ledge
and a few banks. In other words, you're not designing a skatepark for professionals. What
the pros prefer does not mean it is appropriate for the local skaters. Pro skateboarders have
access to some of the best skateparks in the world and what they prefer is top-quality
skateparks that don't skimp on care and attention to detail. So what kind of skateparks do
Bucky Lasek and Tony Hawk have in their back yards? Custom concrete.
"...can be rearranged..."
Most modular, prefabricated skatepark structures are like cheap, build -it -yourself
bookshelves. They go together easy, they look pretty good when they're done, but as soon
as you try to move them they faff apart. For years, prefabricated ramp companies have used
the "rearrange" sales pitch for their product, yet in the history of skateparks we are unaware
of a single skatepark to ever literally try to rearrange the facility. Here's a better direction:
design a skatepark that doesn't need to be rearranged in order to retain the public's interest.
"... to angler -resistant..."
If they need to tell you that it's tamper-resistant, there's a good chance that it's not worth
considering for your public facility. One prefabricated ramp company famously used 3/8ths-
inch lag bolts for all its railings. The skatepark didn't feature any tall drops for skaters to go
off, so the skaters began routinely removing the railings from the elevated decks. The Parks
Department was perplexed. The ramp company had used the same size bolts as a
skateboard truck's kingpin. So if a kid was likely to have any tool at all, it would have fit the
railing fixtures perfectly. That company is no longer in the skatepark business. Concrete is
always "tamper-resistant."
"9,000 PSI concrete..."
This is a favored sales pitch from prefabricated concrete companies, sometimes called
"precast." While precast companies boast that their concrete is stronger than ordinary
concrete, few cast --in-place skateparks suffer from issues resulting in low-grade concrete. In
other words, this claim solves a problem that doesn't exist. It sounds important but it isn't.
Any skatepark is only as strong as its weakest element. Whenever a structure uses a steel transition
plate to bridge the surface of the slab with the surface of the ramp, it doesn't matter how strong the
ramp is. The transition plate will be the point of failure. No skatepark should ever feature transition
plates.
Prefabricated ramps are ideal for temporary, private or residential applications, such as a backyard
ramp, but have demonstrated a pattern of failure when used as municipal facilities. Concrete is
unequivocally the only material you should be considering for your public municipal skatepark. -
public skatepark guide haps://publicskateparkguide.org/
What's better: Concrete or Modular skateparks?
Concrete is by far the better solution for skatepark construction. The benefits of concrete eclipse
those of wood or steel ramp -style parks in every way.
Design: Concrete skateparks, particularly custom designs (as opposed to precast concrete),
deliver a unique facility that your skateboarding community can be proud of. These skateparks
reflect the unique qualities of your community.
Cost: While the initial design and construction expenses of cast -in-place concrete are higher
than prefabricated ramps over the life of the facility, the cost is quickly recouped in durability.
With more than two decades of experience to draw from, prefabricated skateboarding ramps
(wood, steel and/or composite) have demonstrated a lifespan shorter than concrete. Though
prefabricated skateparks can be a faster development process and relatively cost-effective when
WHY PREFAB PARKS ARE NOT ADEQUATE
utilizing an existing slab, the maintenance costs of these structures grow cumulatively larger until
the ramps themselves are retired. Eventually, communities across the nation may face needed
repairs to their aging prefabricated skateparks (or even full replacement). It is worth noting
composite ramp surfacing is often the preferred choice for vert ramp construction.
Appeal: Action sports participants generally prefer concrete. The appeal of the new concrete
skatepark will incubate pride in the facility. There are few instances where prefabricated wood or
steel ramps are the best solutions for a heavily -trafficked outdoor public skatepark. — the
skatepark project a.k.a tony hawk foundation https:Hskatepark.org/faq/
_ WHAT ARE SKATEPARKS "3
WHAT ARE SKATE PARKS?
A skatepark is a specially designed & purpose-built space designated and equipped
for "action sports" such as Skateboarding, BMX ridin , Wheelchair Motocross, Roller
[Quad) Skating, Inline Skating on Scootering.
When best Practices are followed:
SKATEPARKS ARE:
SKATEPARKS ARE NOT:
PUBLIC................................................................
RESTRICTED
CONCRETE........-----.-----...•
............................_.... PREFABRICATED
PERMANENT.....................................................•.
• TEMPORARY
UNIQUE TO LOCATION
............................................ REPLICATED
QUIET........................................................
............ . LOUD
CENTRALIZED..........................................................
ISOLATED
ACCESSIBLE............................................................
REMOTE
INCLUSIVE.........................................................
EXCLUSIONARY
Al I RAC T IVE............................................
---------- UN A-11 11 RACTI V E
SELF -GOVERNING ....................................................
LAWLESS
SAFESPACE ..... :.................................................
... DANGEROUS
AN ASSET ........................
A LIAR°CITY
��� SKATEPARK BEST PRACTICES GUIDE
BENEFITS OF SKATEPARKS v
BENEFITS OF SKATEPARKS
"Skateparks encourage youth to develop healthy, active lifestyles. Research
shows that skateboarding and the communities that form at skateparks help
young people build connections that benefit their sociaemational wellbeing.
Skateporks are also havens of diversity, where youth of all backgrounds
gather and connect through their common love of the sport." - Tony Hawk
FACTS AND FIGURES
Skateparks can be,a part of the solution for a happier and healthier community.
Take this information and apply it to your project's community awareness campaign.
A skatepark is a safe place for individuals and groups to challenge themselves, to encourage and be encouraged, to set
and achieve their own goals while learning to manage risk along the way. N's a place where people build healthy habits like
self-directed exercise and creative expression. It's o place whs,re people learn how to persevere and the value of persistence.
A place to experience accomplishment and build confidence. A skatepark is an attractive, accessible and safe recreational
facility for oil. A community gathering space for skaters, families and the entire community.
The benefits of skateparks are becoming more clear as research shows the physical
and socioemotional benefits of the activity and the space.
X111' . 1 ,
Skateboarding is the third most commonly reported interest for high school students (24% of girls, and 170%
. of boys). (•,spen imi lute National Student Survey Anolysis 2021)
There are 8.8 million skateboarders in the US. Up 34%from 2019. This does not account for the many other
skatepark users: BMX riders, roller/quad skaters, inline skaters, Wheekhair Motocross riders (WCMX), scooter
riders and more. (Sports & Fitness Industry Association 2021 Single Sport Report an Skateboarding)
The Skatepark Project has seen a 700% increase in skatepark project support requests from advocates and
municipalities since the inclusion of Skateboarding and freestyle BMX in the Olympic Games. (skatepark-org)
Skateparks are the fourth most used recreation space in terms of total weekly use hours. They were
found to be more popular than sports fields, play areas, fitness zones and dog parks when comparing the total
weekly use hours. (The First National Study on Neighborhood Paries - ImpliLutions of Physical Activity)
Covid-19 has unleashed and amplified a number of simultaneous personal, social medical, political, and economic
wises. (Young People Hit Hardest By Loneliness And Depression During Covid-19)
��`� SKATEPARK BEST PRACTICES GUIDE
BENEFITS Of SKATEPARKS
MENTAL HEALTH
ISSUE: IMPACT:
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Skateboarding improves mental health. A recent study from The
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) and Children's Hospital Skatepork Project and USC revealed that 76% of people skate to have
Association have declared o no i,--; l mergemy in children's merdal fun, and 62% skate to get away From stress. (University of Souti- z
citing the serious toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on top of California - Beyo tdThe Board Study)
existing challenges.
The Centers for Disease Control found between March and October
2020, emergency department visits for mental health
emergencies rose by 24% for children ages 5-11 years and
31 % for children ages 12-17 years. In addition, emergency
department visits for suspected suicide attempts increased
nearly 51 % among girls ages 12-17 years in early 2021
compared to the some period in 2019. (Centers for Dssec-
)
Suicide affects all ages. It is the second leading cause of death for
people ages 10-34, the fourth leading cause among people ages
35-54. (:enters for Disease Contr,--i)
There were an estimated 100,306 drug overdose deaths in the Urged
States during a 12 -month period ending in April 2021, an increase
of 28.5% from the 78,056 overdose -related deaths during the
some period the year before. (CDCs National Center for Health
l
The top three outcomes that parents want from youth sports are "Fun,"
"Positive Peer Relationships" and "Social and Emotional
Skills." (Aspen Institute/ ukih State University Naliond Youth Sports
_t Survey)
ISSUE:
Skateboarding encourages resilience. The nature of skateboarding
requires skaters to learn on their own and develop their own strutegies
to succeed. Skaters frequently perform a trick hundreds of times over
long periods before developing proficiency or experiencing reward for
the efforts. Skaters in the study reported that they apply these lessons of
resilience to their lives outside of skateboarding. (Universdy of Southern
COI1f0MIG - 5eyond'Ple i3 wr,�-'. �L,,x; •I
Exercise reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, improves
mood, and promotes general feelings of well-being.
(Cetrlers for Disease Corks I
Physical activity improves mental health. Researchers found
that an average, a person has 3.4 poor mental health days per month.
W among those who exercise, the number of poor mental health days
dropped by more than 40 percent. (Association between physical
u$e and mental health in 1.2 million inerfi&als in the USA hetwe= -
2011 and 2015: a aossrsediond stu i
'Time outdoors spent in parks and open spaces, engages
children in informal, experiential teaming through play and
slrored experiences with peers, thereb , laying the foundation for
effective formal education, (NRPA - Chikken it Nature)
PHYSICAL
The average child today spends less than three yeah playing
a sport, quitting by age 11. (Aspen Inskihrte's Nationd Youti,
)
Over the post three decades, childhood obesity rates have tripled
in the U.S., and today, the country has some of the highest obesity
rates in the world: one out of six children is obese, and one out of three
children is overweight or obese. (Harvard School of Public Health)
Nearly 40% of American adults aged 20 and over are obese.
71.6% of adults aged 20 and over are overweight, including
obesity. (National Health and Nutrition Examination Surmy,
2017-2016; Horvord SdvA of Pubkcc Health, 2020).
On average, American children spend only 47 minutes a day
engaging in free unstructured play.
�`1 SKATEPARK BEST PRACTICES GUIDE
IMPACT:
Youth and adults get their CDC recommended daily
cardiovascular exercise while skateboarding at skateparks.
CSUSM Studies in the International journal of Exercise Science. (ra!-
State Urrvenly San Marcos Skateboarding Cardio Study: Adult Cal -
State University San Marcos Skateboar>fing Cardio Sh*.. Youth)
Numerous studies, cited by the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General,
have shown a direct link between increases in physical activity
and a reduction in the occurrence of chronic diseases such as
high blood pressure, diabetes, congestive heart failure, and stroke.
Exercise reduces the risk of dying from coronary heart disease
and of developing high blood pressure, colon cancer, and
tera far
diabetes. (CwDisease Con.: )
Social support from family and friends has been consistently
and positively related to regular physical activity. (Centers for
Disease Control
BENEFITS OF SKATEPARKS
P1GIAJ 1.1 s1
ISSUE:
Americans were the most likely to say their society was split along
partisan, racial and ethnic lines. (Diversiy and Division in Advanced
Economies, 2021, Pew Research Cvr --)
A meta-analysis of 148 studies indicated that those with stronger
social ties have a 5001. increased likelihood of survival. This
finding remained consistent across age, sex, initial health status, cause
of death, and follow-up period. (Social relationships and mortality risk
a meto-analytic rev ' • )
Research shows that fewer African-American children play sports than
White children, who in turn have greater access to the benefits of sports.
(Race and Sport - Women's Sports Foundation)
Historical institutional disadvantages, societal stereotyping and
economic inequalities present challenges to sports participation. These
challenges often result in the underrepresentation of people of color in
sports that are more costly to participate in or which require access to
facilities that are not located within easy reach of lower socio-economic
populations. (Race mrd Sport- Women's Sports Foundation)
�~ SKATEPARK BEST PRACTICES GUIDE
IMPACT:
Skateboarding and skateparks facilitate a sense of community
among skaters — Skateboarders reported the value of connecting
with people who share similar passions in skateparks, skate shops,
and at skating events. Those encounters often facilitate intercultural
communication and offer skaters the opportunity to interact with, and
gain an increased understanding of, skaters of diverse racial, age and
gender backgrounds. (Universdy of Southam California - Beyond The
)
Gender and race matter — The study also showed that skaters
of color felt a greater degree of safety from judgment within the
skateboarding community than in nonskate contexts. Female skaters
indicated they believe they are judged by their gender both in and out
of skateboarding contexts. jUnivo y of Southern California - , gond
The Board Stu -d'--)
"Skateboarding is a pro -social activity that provides an
opportunity for relationship building both non -verbally and
verbally. A skateboard affords the kids an opportunity to teach and
learn from each other, as well as to learn skateboard etiquette which
then helps with socialization."
(Dr. Emily Wang, Ph.D., R. Psych. Hull Services, Calgary)
"Our research shows that through skateboarding, skaters
develop the ability to communicate and build relationships
with people from diverse backgrounds. Skaters are excellent
critical thinkers and problem -solvers who view success from a more
communal perspective." (Dr. Nefalie WMa ns, University of Southern
Colifornio)
ACCESSIBILITY
ISSUE:
The biggest predictor of sport participation is the parents'
income. Kids from lower income homes participate in sports less often.
Only 27.5 percent of children from homes with incomes under $25,000
a year play sports compared to the 45.5 percent of kids from homes
with incomes greater than $100,000 a year. (Aspen Instlitulr-)
IMPACT:
Skateboarding is the third least expensive sport (out of 21
of the most popular sports, annual average spending on one child,
behind only track and field and flag football). (Aspen Instr7rde/Utah
State University 2019 National Youth Sports Survey (1,032 youth sport
pmts)
A 2011 study found a positive link between the overall
population's physical activity and the supply of sports facilities
w*Mn a major art. (European Rmiewaf Aging and P}rysiml
AdWy)
THE BENEFITS OF PUBLIC SKATEPARKS
WHY NIGH -QUALITY SKATEPARKS BECOME VALUABLE COMMUNITY ASSETS
Skateboarders and the skateparks they call home are
often misunderstood. When compared with the
traditional team sports like football and baseball, which
have become engrained in our culture, skateboarding
and action sports are still on the fringe of mainstream
society. Negative stereotypes continue to portray
skateboarders as social outlaws with little respect for
authority. It is not surprising then, that skateparks are
looked upon in a similar light and are often a low
priority in a city's planning efforts.
When you move beyond these outdated stereotypes
though, it becomes clear that skateparks provide a vital
space for people to stay active and be a part of a unique
community. In countless cities around the world, well-
built skateparks have proven to be valuable community
assets with tremendous benefits. Instead of viewing
skateboarding as a negative problem that need$ to be
solved, these forward -thinking communities have found
ways to embrace these sports while showcasing their
artistic and acrobatic spirit.
GUIDANCE FROM EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS ENSURES SUCCESS
With the help of an experienced skatepark construction and design firm, such as Spohn Ranch,
communities can feel confident knowing their skatepark will adequately serve their action sports
athletes for years to come. When functional and well-balanced designs are combined with high-quality
construction methods, skaters will stay in the park — instead of continuing to fight through traffic and
damage property around town.
Since partnering with ESPN in the early'90s to develop the X -Games competitions, Spohn Ranch has
continued to lead the way in municipal skateparks. With hundreds of successful projects under our belt,
we have the experience it takes to help your community design responsible skatepark solutions.
phone 877-489-3539 — fax 626-330-5803 — www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
5 BENEFITS OF A SUCCESSFUL SKATPARK
1. COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACES HELP BUILD SOCIAL SKILLS
As our world becomes increasingly overwhelmed by television, video games and internet browsing —
kids are spending a lot less time on face-to-face interaction with their peers. How are kids expected to
grow.and develop the skills they will need in the real world if they spend all day sitting in front of a
screen? Engaging outdoor environments
such as a skateparks are great places for kids
to interact. with one another and build vital
social and iriterpeA4i M skills.
When a skatepark is built, a community
develops around it. For kids who are
struggling to identify with team sports, this
community gives them a valuable sense of:
belonging. When they show up to the park,
race, gender and age are all thrown out the
window — all that matters is that they have a
good attitude and a passion for skating.
In comparison to snowboarding, where lift tickets, transportation and specialized gear can cost a
thousand dollars or more — skateboarding is a very cost-effective activity that anyone can enjoy. In this
skatepark, many lifelong friendships will bloom — often between very different types of people.
In a recent study by the Journal of Adolescent Research, Dr. Graham L. Bradley explains that "skate
parks are positive places, which encourage civic responsibility and social skills.
We also watched and observed kids acquiring social skills, learning to cooperate, to take turns, to take
some responsibility for their sporting arena. They have pride in it and they look after it.
We think young boys at the skatepark are learning the beginnings of some civic participation, some
responsibility, and some involvement in their community."
Source: Journal of Adolescent Research — "Skate Parks as a Context for Adolescent Development"
Graham L. Bradley, March 2010; vol. 25, 2: pp. 288-323.
phone 877-489-3539 — fax 626-330-5803 — www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
Z. SKATEBOARDING HAS POSITIVE EFFECTS ON MENTAL HEALTH
Skateboarding is a unique activity
because it combines extreme physical
exertion with precise muscle
coordination and balance. The
complexity of performing tricks on a
skateboard improves brain function at
a fundamental level and stimulates new
cell growth in the brain.
In 2006, an elementary school in
Boulder, Colorado began incorporating
skateboarding into the physical
education curriculum — calling the
program "Skate Pass". The program's director, Eric Klassen, wanted to "bring in activities that are
alternative, non-competitive and individual. Most kids in schools feel intimidated when it comes to
competition."
Klassen says the biggest benefit might be something kids don't realize they're learning. While
skateboarding helps with eye -foot coordination and balance, he says it also improves performance in
the classroom.
"When they're involved in an activity that involves balance -- both hemispheres of the brain are equally
stimulated," Klassen says. He points out that researchers have shown that the body also produces a
hormone that makes students more receptive to learning for the rest of the school day.
Source: 9News - "Local school becomes first in nation to teach skateboarding" 3/6/2006
In his new book, Spark: The Revolutionary Science of Exercise and the Brain, John J. Ratey, a professor of
psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, also makes a very convincing case that kids who regularly
exercise perform better in school and are able to learn more effectively than their peers who do not
consistently exercise.
"Less traditional sports, such as rock climbing, mountain biking, whitewater paddling, and — sorry to tell
you, Mom — skateboarding, are also effective in the sense that they require complex movements in the
midst of heavy exertion. The combination of challenging the brain and the body has a greater positive
impact than aerobic exercise alone."
In addition to skateboarding's positive effects on learning and comprehension, it also build self-
confidence and helps people combat stress and depression.
phone 877-489-3539 — fax 626-330-5803 — www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
"Skaters at The Pipleline ride back and forth and up and down for hours and hours, practicing tricks over
and over. In the process, they develop self-discipline, stamina and self-confidence.
"It definitely teaches you self-discipline," said Rob Abbott, 30, skateboarder and salesman at Sequence
Skate Shop. "There's that mentality when you go out there, and you want to accomplish something. You
practice it over and over for days and weeks at a time. And once you do it, you feel good about yourself
and what you've accomplished."
Source: The Juneau Empire —"Riding the Concrete
Wave" Teri Tibbett, September 13, 2007
An interesting case study on skateparks as positive
environments comes from Evan Knappenberger, who is
a skater -stepfather and OIF'05-'07 veteran with PTSD
and depression. He is a student at Whatcom
Community College in Bellingham, WA.
"How do these veterans cope? What hope is there in
treatment, be it medical or spiritual, for ex -soldiers
with mental illness? What exactly is it about emotional
trauma that demands such a thorough and time-
consuming healing? How is that healing facilitated in
post-modern suburban America? One surprisingly
effective answer for many veterans has been the local skateboard park.
Go to any skatepark in America and an astonishing number of young veterans from every political and
economic background will tell you about the curative properties of skateboarding. Many claim there is
a meditative quality to the sport that promotes relaxation and emotional balance. Some claim
skateboarding as a miracle cure for theirvarious ailments. Before looking into the physical and mental
benefits of skateboarding, it is necessary to take a moment to realize the more important community
benefits of the skatepark itself.
By providing veterans with specialized topics for discussion that are unrelated to warfare, such as
skating equipment, tricks, and famous skaters, skateparks offer veterans a means of conversational
engagement and a milieu of interpersonal connections. Skate culture transcends political differences
and focuses on sportsmanship and camaraderie. This can be reassuring to veterans who are wary of
politically charged causes or groups.
Many soldiers with depression, PTSD, or combat injuries struggle to maintain a healthy weight. For some
it can be difficult to find the motivation to exercise as a civilian because it is usually a lonely activity
whereas in the army it was social. Skateboarding is an excellent way to get exercise in a social
environment without having to pay hundreds of dollars for a gym membership.
phone 877-489-3539 —fax 626-330-5803 —www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
By acquiring new skating abilities a veteran can take pride in
peaceable accomplishments while improving his or her self-
esteem. Veterans learn how to overcome fear by facing a steep
drop on a concrete ledge at a high speed; they learn how to
overcome th,e past by focusing on the task at hand, which is
keeping upright. ;
Notably, it is important that a skater not be drunk while
attempting maneuvers,. Veterans have a very high.rate of
substance abuse and alcoholism and are discouraged from using -
and drinking while they are skating, if only to save themselves
from injury. I have yet to see a drunk vet at the local skatepark,
though there are plenty at the VFW lodge down the street. The
emotional rewards in skateboarding are performance-based, so
alcohol becomes an obstacle between the skater and his or her reward.
These benefits, taken together, constitute a picture of skating as a healthy, healing activity for veterans
returning from war. Whether by promoting physical exercise, community or relaxation, skateparks and
skateboarding are a positive and low -impact way of providing therapeutic treatment to the
emotionally -damaged. As a peaceful, constructive and creative activity, skateboarding at a well-
designed and well-maintained public skatepark can be one of the most valuable and fun things to do for
the entire family.
By building public skateparks, a city .or town is ensuring the health and well-being .of their children,
veterans, and disaffected teenagers, both physically and mentally."
Spohn Ranch has a long history of working
with the military to design and build
skateparks for military bases. On a recent
project at the Fort Irwin Military Base, the
Fort's Marketing Chief echoed Evan's
thoughts with these inspiring words.
"There are not enough words to
adequately say thank you to each and
every one of you for your support of our
Fort Irwin Community. People on post can
only say wonderful things about the
design, the project and the incredible
skaters who showed up for the event.
Each of you made a huge difference in the lives of our soldiers and their families yesterday. The
skatepark is having a huge impact on our children and soldiers who need a place for recreation. On
behalf of our soldiers, families and civilians — thank you for your generosity, talents, and heart!"
phone 877-489-3539 — fax 626-330-5803 — www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
3. SKATEBOARDING PROMOTES HEALTHY AND ACTIVE LIFESTYLES
Arguably the most important reason for
participating in action sports is the fact that it
keeps you healthy and physically fit. Finding an
activity that gets kids off the couch and keeps
them in shape is vital for the youth of this
nation, especially in this time of a -national
health crisis.
The US Surgeon General has officially
declared that obesity is an epidemic.
Obesity is the most pressing health
problem America is facing; costing the
health care system an estimated $90
billion per year.
r_
Three of every five Americans are overweight; one of every five is obese.
A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association predicts that a child born in
2000 has a one -in -three chance of developing diabetes.
- Some 30% percent of U.S. schoolchildren are overweight — six times more than in 1980- and
another 30% are on the cusp.
Overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of becoming overweight adults. This
increases to 80 percent if one or both parents are overweight or obese.
- Only 6% of U.S. high schools offer a daily physical education class.
Kids are spending an average of 5.5 hours a day in front of some sort of a screen — television,
computer, or handheld device.
Forcing kids to participate in some form of exercise isn't enough to remedy all of these problems
though. It has been proven that if you give a kid limited options for exercising, it feels like punishment
or boot camp, and they will not continue doing it. Experiments with lab rats also suggest that forced
exercise doesn't have nearly the same effect as voluntary exercise.
Providing our youth with a wide range of physical activiti
4. SHATEPARKS REDUCE CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR
Unfortunately, skateparks are often perceived as
negative environments that attract delinquents
and illicit behavior. Misinformed community
members conjure up images of graffiti, smoking,
fighting and inappropriate language when they
talk about skateparks. More often than not
though, these problems are the result of a few
bad seeds — not the majority of skatepark users
who are there to exercise and progress their
skills. These problems are also the symptoms of
adolescent behavior in general and are unfairly
associated with skateparks as the main cause.
A lack of adequate skateparks is one of the easiest ways to turn kids onto criminals. With nothing to do
and nowhere to go, kids will usually find less positive ways to occupy their time. A town in England
released some profound findings after opening their skatepark in 2006.
"DRIFFIELD Skate Park is helping to reduce youth crime, it has been revealed. PC Steve Wilson, of the
Driffield Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "From my experience, I am aware that the skate park is
regularly used by numerous young people from Driffield and the surrounding areas, offering a valuable
diversion from anti- social behavior."
The officer said in a letter to Skate Park organizers, which was read at a meeting of the Driffield Town
Council policy and finance committee: "Since the skate park opened there has been a noticeable drop in
calls to youths causing annoyance and related
matters. I would fully support this facility being
made into an all weather, all year round resource."
In September of 2008, Spohn Ranch teamed up with
world-renowned professional skateboarder Paul "P -
Rod" Rodriguez to create a truly amazing concrete
skatepark for the youth of Wilmington, CA a
community ranked as one of the most dangerous
communities in the US. Knowing the skatepark
could serve as a valuable recreational space for the
easily -distracted youth of Wilmington, Spohn Ranch
presented the City of Los Angeles with a $100,000 grant to ensure the project would come to fruition.
Since its opening, the park has averaged 250-300 skaters a day, has become a drop-off location for
seven neighborhood schools, and has helped reduce violent crime in the area by 90%.
phone 877-489-3539 — fax 626-330-5803 — www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
5. SKATEPARKS ATTRACT TOURISM
A professionally -designed and well-
maintained skatepark can bring new life
into your community. When you take the
time and effort to create a unique facility,
the economic rewards can be felt almost
immediately. Word travels fast in the
skateboarding world and with a new
showpiece to offer, skateboarders and,
their families will flock to your community
and spend their vacation dollars.
"To emphasize how much impact our
skatepark has had since its opening, I
would like to note that one of the most frequent questions at our Colorado Welcome Center is now,
"How do you get to the skatepark?" The volunteers at the welcome center have requested that signs be
placed throughout town to guide out-of-towners to the park.
There have been, as I am told, numerous skaters from across America that have come here specifically
for the purpose of trying out our new facility. I've heard reports from local enthusiasts that fellow riders
from as far away as Maine, Vermont, Florida, Washington, Oregon, Texas, California, and Indiana have
been here to skate. For a city with a population of 10,000 we are impressed with the results. Tony
Hawk even stopped for a ride with his group a couple of weeks ago. Word travels fast when a world
class skatepark is constructed."
Mayor Joseph A. Reorda —Trinidad, Colorado
"The immediate response to our park was overwhelming. Both the youth of our town, and visitors alike
bombarded our new park each and every day. This was a huge economic boost for our town, and
continues to be as this contest has put Carbondale and our skate park on the map. Never
underestimate the draw that a skatepark will have on your town.
Our town has been very pleased with the economic impact that the new skatepark has brought to
Carbondale. With many visitors staying here over the Summer months just to skate our park, with large
contests being held here and the free advertisements that skaters pass on to each other about
Carbondale, our skatepark has been exceptional for town business."
Carbondale Recreation & Skatepark Coordinator Chris Woods- Carbondale, Colorado
phone 877-489-3539 — fax 626-330-5803 — www.spohnranch.com — info@spohnranch.com
15131B Clark Ave. City of Industry, CA 91745
PUBLIC SKATEPARK PLANNING
PUBLIC SKATEPARK PLANNING W NOW MUCH, DO YOU NEED?
Determine your area's "Level of Service," which describes the performance of a system.
In this case, the access to legal, safe and occessible places to skate in your arem his
information can help the city better understand what your community needs.
Skateparks can
come in many
different shapes.
10,000 50. FT. OF PROPER CONCRETE
SKATEPARK FOR EVERY 25,000 RESIDENT'
10,000 square feet may sound like a large area. However, it's about the some size as
a baseball field's infield area: Two doubles tennis courts are roughly 14;000 sq. ft.
CALCULATE YOUR CITY'S SKATEPARK SERVICE NEED USING SHORTHAND MATH!
(your population) divided, by 2.5 = (square footage of total city need)
(square footage of total city need) - (total existing concrete skatepark sq. ft.)
(the city's remaining action sports recreation facility service need)
That remaining need is a percentage of the total need. Use this number to describe your city's "Level of Service."
Example: 100,000 people in town. 100,000/2.5 = 40,000 sq. ft. total need.
20,000 sq. ft. concrete skatepark in town already. 40,000 sq. ft. total need - 20,000 sq. ft. existing = 20,000 sq.
ft, remaining need. 20,000 out of 40,000 is 50%. The city has a skatepark service level of 50% (meaning the
city is halfway to providing enough skatepark space)
"Due to economies of scale, larger cities — those with 200,000+ populations — can often meet their needs with
one neighborhood skatepark for every 50,000 people.
To learn more about how much skatepark is needed, use
the Skatepark Adoption Model at skatepark.org
1`�� SKATEPARK BEST PRACTICES GUIDE
HOW MANY PEOPLE IN MY TOWN SKATE?
Use the numbers below, factored by your local total population, to get an estimate of
how many people ride in your town, and how often they ride. You don't need any specific
number to prove there's a need for a skatepark, but someone may ask and it's helpful
to have an educated answer. We've included a national number below to help with
estimations, but you can also try to do a citywide survey if the city thinks it's necessary.
Skateboarders: 2.07% of total population skate, 2.07%casual skaters that skate 1-25
times a year.
• 0.8 percent of the total population are "core" skaters and skate -over 26 times a year.
These numbers do not account for all skatepQrk users. Consider Inline, BMX, Quad, WCMX, & Scooter riders.
SKATEPARK SYSTEM
Once you understand the your community's Service Need, you can work with your public
agency toward creating a city or county wide system of skateparks that creates easily
accessible skateparks for different parts of the communily, Remember that different
skateparks can serve different purposes depending on their location, size and design.
Two super similar parks don't need to be right next to each other. Likewise, sometimes a
few smaller parks are better than one huge regional park. Learn more about where
skateparks should and shouldn't go in the upcoming chapter on Site Selection.
�1��� SKATEPARK BEST PRACTICES GUIDE