Lodi Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting - February 3, 2026
Lodi Parks & Recreation Commission
Executive Summary
The Lodi Parks and Recreation Commission will convene on February 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a critical meeting addressing two major agenda items with citywide implications: the future of Lawrence Park and prospective cell tower installations in city parks.
The meeting will be presided over by newly elected Chair VanNortwick and Vice Chair Long, who assumed their positions following December 2025 officer elections. The Commission will vote on recommendations regarding Lawrence Park improvements based on community feedback from a January 28, 2026 Town Hall meeting, and will discuss policy frameworks for evaluating future cell tower lease proposals.
Meeting Overview and Structure
Key Agenda Items
| Category | Item | Type | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| D-1 | Future Uses and/or Improvements of Lawrence Park | Action Item | Vote on recommendation to City Council |
| E-1 | Prospective Cell Towers in Parks | Discussion Item | Policy framework development |
Public Comment Procedures
Citizens may participate through multiple channels:
- In-person: Carnegie Forum is open in accordance with CDPH and CalOSHA guidelines
- Email: PRCScomments@lodi.gov (received no later than two hours prior to meeting)
- Mail/Hand Delivery: Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Department, 230 W. Elm Street, Lodi, CA 95240 (received no later than two hours prior to meeting)
Public comments on non-agenda items are limited to five minutes per individual. Language interpretation services must be requested at least 72 hours in advance by contacting Patricia Moreno at (209) 333-6742.
Standard Agenda Sections
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| A | Call to Order / Roll Call |
| B | Minutes – Approval of December 2, 2025 Meeting Minutes |
| C | Comments by the Public (Non-Agenda Items) |
| D | Action Items |
| E | Regular Agenda – Discussion Items |
| F | Comments by Commissioners and Staff on Non-Agenda Items |
| G | Announcements |
| H | Adjournment |
Action Item D-1: Future Uses and/or Improvements of Lawrence Park
Background and Historical Context
Lawrence Park (also known as Tony Zupo Field) represents one of Lodi's most historically significant recreational facilities, with origins dating to 1924. The facility has served multiple functions throughout its century-long history.
Historical Timeline of Lawrence Park
| Era | Function | Notable Tenants |
|---|---|---|
| 1924-1965 | Original baseball park | Semi-professional teams |
| 1946-2000 | Lodi Guild Wines home field | Community baseball |
| 1966-1985 | Minor League Baseball | Lodi Crushers, Dodgers, Orioles (California League) |
| 2015-2016 | Collegiate baseball | Lodi Crushers (Great West League) |
| 1990-Present | Dog park facilities | Public recreation |
| Current | K-9 training facility | Lodi Police Department |
The 2019 Fire and Reconstruction
The park gained national attention when a September 2019 fire destroyed the main grandstand and press box, later determined to be accidentally set by two juveniles. The estimated replacement cost was $4.6 million, primarily funded through insurance and a $750,000 state appropriation secured by former Assemblyman Jim Cooper.
The facility was rebuilt and reopened in April 2024 with modern amenities while preserving its historic character.
Recent Developments and Community Engagement
The Commission meeting will address outcomes from a Town Hall meeting held January 28, 2026, at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, Burgundy Hall, led by Councilwoman Lisa Craig-Hensley. The town hall sought community input on future park uses and improvements.
Key Considerations Under Discussion
- Potential Sale: The City Council discussed selling part of Lawrence Park to Diede Construction in closed session on January 7, 2026. The Diede family acquired the nearby American Legion Hall in 2023 and is interested in expanding operations while creating community event space.
- Historic Uses: Former proposals have included a parking lot for American Legion Post 22, community garden, educational vineyard, and expanded picnic areas.
- Prior Planning: Dilapidated structures including the Lawrence Park restroom and softball complex concession stand were demolished as part of the City's strategic vision to address deferred maintenance.
Commission's Required Actions
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Receive Report | Town Hall recap from attending commissioners |
| Discuss | Community feedback, recent Commission recommendations, and staff work |
| Vote | Formal recommendation to City Council on future uses/improvements |
| Appoint | One Commissioner to present at February 4, 2026 City Council meeting |
Staff Recommendation: Receive the Town Hall report, discuss community input and related planning efforts, take formal action on a recommendation, and appoint a Commission representative.
Discussion Item E-1: Prospective Cell Towers in Parks
Policy Context
The City of Lodi periodically receives inquiries from wireless service providers regarding cellular infrastructure placement within City parks. This discussion item seeks preliminary Commission feedback on guiding principles for evaluating such requests—no specific lease agreements are being proposed at this time.
Cell Tower Distance Analysis for Lodi Parks
Staff provided an analysis of current cellular coverage gaps at four parks:
| Park | Coordinates | AT&T Distance | Verizon Distance | T-Mobile Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blakely Park | 38.108030, -121.290355 | 0.7 mi | 1.3 mi | 0.8 mi |
| Bob Johnson Park | 38.120085, -121.268240 | 1.0 mi | 2.2 mi | 1.6 mi |
| Salas Park | 38.113123, -121.313375 | 0.7 mi (Crown Castle: 0.6 mi) | 1.3 mi | 0.3 mi (Crown) |
| Beckman Park | 38.107764, -121.270042 | 0.6 mi | 0.9 mi (Horizon) | 0.7 mi |
Key Considerations for Commission Discussion
The Commission is asked to provide feedback on:
- General Compatibility: Cell tower/wireless facility compatibility within park settings
- Impact Assessment: Potential effects on park users, aesthetics, and recreational activities
- Community Transparency: Outreach and public notification considerations
- Evaluation Criteria: Factors for future proposal assessment
Potential Benefits and Revenue Considerations
Municipal cell tower leases provide substantial financial benefits to local governments:
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Revenue | Average lease payments range from $1,500 to $3,500/month ($18,000-$42,000/year) |
| Long-term Value | Cumulative income over 25-year lease can exceed $459,386-$1,125,000 |
| Escalation Clauses | Industry standard includes 3% annual rent increases |
| Community Investment | Revenue can fund parks, libraries, and public services without tax increases |
California-Specific Considerations
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) established a special system for determining fair market value across three zones, with prime urban areas (largest 9 metro areas) commanding highest rates.
Comparable Municipal Lease Agreements
| Municipality | Lease Terms | Annual Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Healdsburg, CA | 70-foot tower at Tayman Park Golf Course | Long-term lease to Verizon |
| Fullerton, CA | 10-year agreement with Phoenix Tower International | $74,450/year with 4% escalation |
| Downey, CA | AT&T lease with sports field integration | $36,000/year with 3% escalation |
| Upland, CA | Three city park leases combined | $341,070/year |
December 2, 2025 Meeting Minutes Summary (For Approval)
Officer Elections (2025/2026)
| Position | Elected Commissioner | Motion | Vote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chair | Commissioner VanNortwick | Nominated by Commissioner Long | 5-0 |
| Vice Chair | Commissioner Long | Nominated by Chair VanNortwick | 5-0 |
Attendance
Present: Chair Carouba, Vice Chair VanNortwick, Commissioners Long, Erickson, Khan
Staff
Present: Director Christina Jaromay, Deputy Director Emerson Yellen, Parks Superintendent Steve Virrey,
Administrative Assistant Patricia Moreno, Recreation Manager Ashneel Singh, Rental Coordinator Catherine Tansley
Project Updates Reported
Parks Superintendent Steve Virrey reported on:
- Legion Building renovations and tree removal
- Salas Park lighting project progress
Deputy Director Emerson Yellen provided updates on arts programs, specialty classes, aquatics, adult sports, and youth programming.
Capital Improvement Projects: Background and Status
FY 2025-2026 Parks Capital Investment Overview
The February 2026 meeting occurs within the broader context of Lodi's FY 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Program, which totals over $291 million citywide, with $16.9 million allocated specifically for essential infrastructure projects.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Funding
| Category | FY 2025-2026 Allocation |
|---|---|
| PRCS Operating Fund | $9.47 million (break-even projected) |
| Capital Outlay Fund | $3 million revenue / $754,000 spending |
| CDBG Parks Allocation | $1.2 million (2025-26 goal) |
Key Capital Projects Status (December 2025)
| Project | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lodi Lake North Restroom Restoration | Complete | Kaler General Contractors ($469,000 base + $100,000 change orders) |
| 125 & 111 N. Stockton Street Properties | Design Phase | WMB Architects developing space planning/re-design; CDBG funded |
| Hale Park Court Resurfacing & Fencing | Bidding | 18,000 sq ft court resurfacing; CDBG funded; bid opening January 14, 2026 |
| Legion Community Building | Complete | Renovations finished; rentals reinstated; 30-person capacity |
| Salas Park Sports Lighting | Ongoing | SCC Electric installing LED lighting; poles and fixtures installed |
Lodi Lake North Restroom Restoration — Project Background
The restroom facility was damaged by arson fire on June 4, 2023. The restoration timeline included:
| Milestone | Date | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Damage | June 4, 2023 | Arson fire damages north restroom |
| Design Contract | October 18, 2023 | WMB Architects awarded design services contract |
| Construction Contract | March 5, 2025 | City Council awards $569,000 contract to Kaler General Contractors |
| Project Completion | January 2026 | Restroom opened to public; Council acceptance scheduled February 4, 2026 |
125 & 111 N. Stockton Street Properties — Project Background
This CDBG-funded project addresses long-standing facility needs for Parks and Recreation operations:
- Current Condition: Staff have been housed in a temporary metal warehouse for 17 years
- Scope: Renovate old parks and recreation building for office space, conference room, and afterschool program facilities
- Estimated Cost: $1,000,000 for architecture, engineering, and construction documents
- Timeline: Design and construction documents started September 2025; completion scheduled August 2026
Hale Park Court Improvements — Project Background
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Scope | Resurface approximately 18,000 square feet of court surface |
| Improvements | New textured surfacing, fencing improvements |
| Funding Source | Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) |
| Timeline | Council approved plans November 19, 2025; bid opening January 14, 2026 |
Recent and Ongoing Parks Capital Investments
| Project | Cost | Funding Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zupo Field Reconstruction | $4.6 million | Insurance + $750K state funds | Reopened April 2024 |
| Lodi Lake Renovation | $3 million | Capital funds | Phase completion |
| Playground Replacements (5 parks) | $1.6 million | Capital funds | Completed |
| Animal Services Shelter | $13 million | Capital funds | Under construction |
| Enze Pool Renovation | $380,000 | Per capita funds | Completed |
Recreation Programming Statistics (December 2025)
Aquatics Programs
| Program | Enrollment |
|---|---|
| Swim Lessons (Total) | 59 participants |
| Level 1 | 17 |
| Level 2 | 16 |
| Level 3 | 3 |
| Level 4 | 11 |
| Parent & Me | 6 |
| Adult Beginner | 1 |
| Private Lessons | 5 |
Note: Enze Pool and Lodi Lake Beach closed for season
Youth and Adult Sports
| Program | Participation |
|---|---|
| Youth Basketball (K-1st) | 61 registered |
| Youth Basketball (2nd-3rd) | 51 registered |
| Adult Drop-In Basketball | 40 full-season registrations |
| HSS Specialty Classes | 87 total participants |
| Dance | 74 |
| Adult Fitness | 6 |
| Culinary | 9 |
| STEM Camps | 10 |
Facility Operations
| Metric | December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Hutchins Street Square Visitors | 3,456 |
| Room Rentals | 22 |
| Picnic Shelter Rentals | 14 (vs. 16 in December 2024) |
Community Engagement and Volunteer Programs
Adopt-A-Park Program
Five active partners supporting: Henry Glaves, DeBenedetti, Emerson, Lodi Lake, and Roget parks. Tasks include litter removal, planting, fertilizing, mulch spreading, and weed pulling.
Lodi Parks People
Seven active volunteers enrolled in clean-up program with staff scheduling orientations for new potential volunteers.
Vandalism Report
Five incidents during December reporting period costing $94.46 in labor and materials (2 hours crew time).
Social Media Performance (December 2025)
| Platform | Reach | New Followers | Key Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58,000 | 157 | Top posts: Let's Bake a Cake, New Year's Park Access | |
| 3,100 | 44 | Top posts: Comedy Night, 2025 Recap, Lodi Ballet |
Commission Members and Contact Information
Current Commission Roster
| Position | Commissioner |
|---|---|
| Chair | VanNortwick |
| Vice Chair | Long |
| Commissioner | Erickson |
| Commissioner | Khan |
| Commissioner | Carouba (outgoing Chair) |
Staff Contacts
| Name | Title | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Christina Jaromay | Director, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services | — |
| Emerson Yellen | Deputy Director | — |
| Steve Virrey | Parks Superintendent | — |
| Patricia Moreno | Administrative Assistant | (209) 333-6742 |
| Ashneel Singh | Recreation Manager | — |
Key Dates and Upcoming Actions
| Date | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| February 3, 2026 | Parks Commission Meeting | Action on Lawrence Park; Cell Tower discussion |
| February 4, 2026 | City Council Meeting | Lawrence Park recommendation presentation; Lodi Lake Restroom acceptance |
| March 2026 | Hale Park Construction | Anticipated project start following bid award |
| August 2026 | Stockton Street Properties | Design completion target |
References and Sources
- City of Lodi. (2026). Parks and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting Agenda - February 3, 2026. Retrieved from www.lodi.gov
- Wikipedia. (2024). Tony Zupo Field. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Zupo_Field
- CBS News Sacramento. (2025). $1.37 million approved for revitalizing San Joaquin parks, new Lodi zoo exhibit. Retrieved from www.cbsnews.com
- Healdsburg Tribune. (2021). Council approves lease agreement for cell tower. Retrieved from www.healdsburgtribune.com
- City of Fullerton. (2025). City of Fullerton Approves $893,000 Lease Agreement for Cellular Tower. Retrieved from fullertonobserver.com
- City of Lodi. (2025). City of Lodi Adopts FY 2025-2026 Balanced Budget. Retrieved from www.lodi.gov
- Yahoo News. (2024). From the ashes, a new era emerges for Lodi's historic Zupo Field. Retrieved from sports.yahoo.com
- Yahoo News. (2026). Town hall to focus on best utilization of Lawrence Park. Retrieved from www.yahoo.com
- Stocktonia. (2025). Lodi's proposed budget highlights $4.8M structural gap. Retrieved from stocktonia.org
- Steel in the Air. (2024). Pros and Cons of Having A Cell Tower on Your Property. Retrieved from www.steelintheair.com
- Airwave Advisors. (2025). Municipal Cell Towers: Towers & Sites on Government Land. Retrieved from airwaveadvisors.com
- Cell Site Insights. (2026). Maximizing Your California Cell Tower Lease. Retrieved from podcast archives
- Inside Towers. (2022). Cell Tower Leases Benefit Park Planning in Upland. Retrieved from insidetowers.com
- Netgain. (2025). Cell tower leasing: Benefits and top accounting tips. Retrieved from www.netgain.tech
For more information:
Patricia Moreno, Administrative Assistant
Parks,
Recreation, and Cultural Services Department
Telephone: (209) 333-6742
Email: PRCScomments@lodi.gov
All staff reports and documentation are available at the Office of the City Clerk (221 W. Pine Street) and online at www.lodi.gov.