After three community meetings where residents shared their opinions of what they like and don't like about Hart Park, the County of Kern is ready to take the next steps to revamp the park.
The three meetings were held in June of 2017. Residents were asked three main questions: What do you love about Hart Park? What are the challenges of Hart Park? What do you want to see in Hart Park?
Tuesday, the County presented the results of these sessions to the Board of Supervisors. The County's next step is to find a company with a background in parks to take these opinions and create a design that implements the highlights. Chief administrative officer of Kern County Ryan Alsop says the goal is to have this design completed and presented to the Board of Supervisors in the next three to four months.
One of the main points people made revealed residents want to maintain the serenity of the park. This means keeping the lakes, trees and paths. People also would like to see more of a law enforcement presence and better cleanliness. The County is considering adding features like a dog park or equestrian center.
Alsop says there are a few ways this will be funded. He says money will be set aside for parks and some will come from county taxpayers. He hopes to also find private sectors who want to give back to the community.
