YORBA LINDA : Community Center Fees, Rules Adopted

The City Council this week established fees for using the new Yorba Linda Community Center and adopted a set of regulations outlining who will receive scheduling priority.

Potential users of the community center, which is expected to open this winter, were divided into four categories. The categories will determine both who receives scheduling priority and what fees they will pay.

The council also decided not to require police officers or security guards at wedding receptions where alcohol is served. The city staff had recommended that such a requirement be included.

Parks and Recreation Director Steve Rudometkin told the council the requirement was included in the policy to protect the $6-million community center from damage. The policy is similar to what other cities require, he said.

Police Lt. Bill Lentini supported the requirement.

“Even at joyous occasions, when alcohol is served people tend to get uninhibited,” he said.

Lentini told the council that Brea now requires two police officers whenever alcohol is served at private functions on city property. The requirement was enacted after guests at three wedding receptions caused extensive damage to city facilities.

But Councilman Mark Schwing said residents holding wedding receptions should not be required to hire police officers. Councilman Henry Wedaa and Mayor John M. Gullixson agreed. Council members Barbara Kiley and Daniel T. Welch voted against eliminating the requirement.

Activities sponsored by the city will receive first priority in scheduling, with youth organizations and service groups, such as Girl Scouts and the Rotary Club, second in line.

Private events, such as wedding receptions and parties, that are held by Yorba Linda residents will receive third priority. Private events held by non-residents or organizations from outside the city will be last in line.

Fees for use of meeting rooms and assembly room range from $10 an hour to $800 an event, plus set-up fees and security deposits.

Construction of the community center, located on the corner of Casa Loma Avenue and Imperial Highway, is expected to be completed in late November.