Discussion of the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park resumes Tuesday, September 11, as the Claremont City Council meets for the first time following the August recess. Councilmembers will review options for a new pathway to be constructed into the park.

In late June, the council directed staff to explore moving the existing pathway from the east side of Mills Avenue to just inside the existing row of oleanders on the west. The approval of the hidden, 5-foot-wide walkway was an attempt to help give neighboring communities additional peace and quiet while also managing the dangers of the high level of pedestrian traffic.

The council approved the project 4-1, eager to explore options that gave a solution to residents’ concerns.

“I feel for the neighbors, and with that type of foot traffic, I can’t imagine what it’s like to live up there,” said Mayor Larry Schroeder at the June meeting. “These things do take time and I appreciate the neighbors being as patient as they’ve been.”

Staff now brings back the proposed design for final council approval. Pathway construction is estimated to cost about $79,400. The total cost for changes to the Wilderness Park now stands close to $354,400.

The city’s newest commissioners and new Director of Community and Human Services Kathleen Trepa will be introduced prior to review of the Wilderness Park. A profile on Ms. Trepa will be presented in the Wednesday edition of the COURIER.

The city council resumes water discussions in closed session, beginning at 4:30 p.m. According to the agenda, an offer may be made by City Manager Tony Ramos for “The property interest of the Golden State Water Company in water rights and over and across every street, road, avenue, boulevard and alley within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City of Claremont.” Price and terms of a potential offer are under negotiation between the city and Golden State Water.

Public comment is welcome before the council adjourns into its private meeting. All items up for council discussion can be viewed in advance by visiting www.ci.claremont.ca.us.

—Beth Hartnett

news@claremont-courier.com