Management changes are coming to a few facilities in East Sacramento’s McKinley Park.
Staff from the City’s Department of Youth, Parks & Community Enrichment (YPCE) have spent the past several months preparing to reassume operations of the Clunie Community Center, the Shepard Garden and Arts Center and McKinley Rose Garden.
After 10 years of leasing to Friends of East Sacramento, which operated the spaces, YPCE reassumed management on Dec.1.
“This has been a large collaborative effort from our staff to ensure the community can continue to enjoy and use these spaces without interruption,” YPCE Director Jackie Beecham said. “We thank everyone at Friends of East Sacramento for their support over the last decade.”
The McKinley Park facilities can be rented for use by locals groups and organizations. Rental applications opened in November for the 2023 calendar year. Dozens of organizations that have previously utilized the spaces have continued their rentals.
In addition to rentals, community programming and other events will continue into winter and spring. Offerings will include Recreation Explorer Camp and Inclusive Play Dates for youth, along with walking groups and social programs for adults.
Staff will hold an open house in late January to give tours of the rental spaces and introduce spring program offerings.
“We shared out an online survey to the community to receive feedback that will guide our future programs and services and we’re learning more of what people are looking for,” Beecham said.
The survey has received over 500 responses so far and is open through Dec. 9.
In the Rose Garden, staff are working with a master rosarian from the American Rose Society who will work with teams of staff and volunteers to maintain the space. Park maintenance staff will host two volunteer events in January.
For details on rentals at all spaces call 916-808-6060, email SacRecreation@cityofsacramento.org or cluniecc@cityofsacramento.org or visit the City’s website.