Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Mission Viejo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in parks rec
Pump track proposal for Lower Curtis
Resident Steve Polito recommended building a pump track like San Clemente's, noting the Lower Curtis project is on hold and its park funds could be redirected. The mayor said the idea will be passed to the next council.
Barbadanes Park lighting and court relocation concerns
Former Mayor Greg Raths pressed the council on Barbadanes Park, slated for renovation in 2023 but untouched three years later. Vasquez responded that renovations require a council majority and priorities don't always align.
Homeschool Co-op Access to City Facilities
Three mothers from a local homeschool co-op asked the city to create a one-year pilot letting community education groups use the Norman P. Murray Center, since parks are distracting and school districts already get facility access.
Senior Table Tennis Facility Space
A group of residents delivered a petition asking for more days and larger rooms for senior table tennis, citing research on brain health. Council Member Ruesch requested a detailed report on the program.
Oso Creek Golf Course electric mower purchase
A resident urged Mission Viejo to ban gas-powered mowers and leaf blowers like Irvine did, citing emissions stats; another resident pushed back. No council action taken — just a public airing.
La Mancha Playground Funding
Kraig Erickson, backed by new neighbor Courtney Taman-Kline, urged the council to revive the 2019 capital plan to add play equipment to La Mancha Park, seeking grant funding (Prop 64) rather than the full $1.4 million upfront. About 2,000 residents have no play area within half a mile.
America 250 parade participation dispute
The city is bringing back parades for the nation's 250th birthday — July 11 along Marguerite Parkway, ending at the barbecue festival, with a possible Declaration of Independence reenactment to open it.
Deferred park and infrastructure maintenance
About $2.7 million in landscaping, park amenities, playground surfacing and City Hall improvements are deferred to balance the budget, though day-to-day maintenance and tree trimming are preserved.
North Oso Creek Trailhead Improvements
A new trailhead with 42 permeable-paved parking spots, a gentler trail grade, and a future restroom and snack bar is moving forward, boosted by over $1.6 million in grant funding.
Proposed park ranger position for the north parklands
Resident Tom Moore asked the city to create a park ranger position covering the area bounded by Marguerite, Alicia, Olympia, and Oso, to delineate public lands and build K-12 and college research partnerships.