CLEARLAKE – More needed skate park repairs and a look at the city's risk management program are among the items on a short agenda for the Clearlake City Council's Thursday meeting.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at Clearlake City Hall, located at 14050 Olympic Drive.

Late last year, the city's skate park had to be closed due to issues with the surface wearing out. After a community fundraising effort, the park was repaired and reopened earlier this year.

But wear and tear has caused more damage to the park ramps, with the park once again closed due to safety concerns, according to City Administrator Dale Neiman's report to the council.

In addition, some skateboarders and BMX riders who use the park haven't been following the safety rules, including wearing helmets and pads, and are ignoring the rule against bikes and skateboards using the park at the same time, which was another reason for a temporary closure, according to Neiman.

Neiman's report to the council states that the city currently is obtaining estimates for park repairs, and he's seeking direction from the council on whether they want to approve funding for repairs.

City staff also is asking the council to consider a temporary street closure for Austin Avenue from Lakeshore Drive to Uhl Avenue for the purpose of a farmers market. The closure would take place from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, July 4.

There will be an annual review of the city's risk management program, which involves insurance and protecting itself against liability.

Neiman's report to the council says that the city has the eighth best record out of 25 cities for worker's compensation insurance but the fifth worst record for liability out of 35 cities. The council and staff will discuss the goal of reducing liability and, with it, insurance rates.

In other council business, Michael Rupe of the Lake Family Resource Center's Tobacco Control Program will give a presentation to the council on the findings of a recent tobacco sales survey in the county. Similar presentations have been made to the Lakeport City Council and the Board of Supervisors.

The council also will consider turning down a claim from Susan Frances for $768.19.

E-mail Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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