Monterey Board of Alderman Considering Potential New Parks Position

The Monterey Board of Aldermen is considering creating a new position aimed at protecting parks and public spaces.

The board discussed a potential for a Park Monitor position who will assist law enforcement by being an official set of eyes in places like Meadow Park and Bee Rock. Alderman Bill Wiggins said he does not want the position to be a Park Ranger or law enforcement job, rather a citizen who will monitor the areas and report suspicious activity to police for them to act on.

“We’ve reached the point with the number of visitors at Meadow Creek and Bee Rock, that we’d be looking for [something like] a Park Ranger,” Wiggins said. “It’s a long haul out to Meadow Creek or Bee Rock at night for a cop.”

The consideration for this new position comes after a string of complaints over the past months. Most recently, Bee Rock has fallen victim to graffiti artists. Meadow Creek is another priority location for the potential Park Monitor to keep watch on. Citizens have reported harassment, catalytic converter thefts, and loud noise after dark.

“I recommend that we look at putting cameras out there as well,” Wiggins said. “I would resent cameras in public places, but dadgum this is the most valuable asset for that.”

Cultural Administrator Rafferty Cleary said a motion has been passed to purchase the cameras, but no purchase has been made yet. The Park Monitor position is only in discussions and has also not been officially introduced as new business to the board.