CAMARILLO : Rink Near Approval but Site Disputed

Developers of a proposed in-line roller hockey rink inched closer this week to getting approval for their plans from board members of the Pleasant Valley Park and Recreation District.

The board on Wednesday told west Los Angeles attorney Robert Hawekotte to provide the district with drawings of the rink and to negotiate a final agreement with members of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, which sits next door to Camarillo’s Freedom Park, where the rink would be built.

Church members have objected to Hawekotte’s proposed location of the rink near Skyway Drive and Eubanks Street because it is about 100 feet from the front doors of the church.

“We don’t think it would be compatible to have the rink so close,” said Father Cyril Loeb. “After all, how would you feel if your family was having a funeral or a wedding and the service was being drowned out by the noise coming from the rink?”

Hawekotte could not be reached for comment Friday.

Loeb said members of the church hope to work out a compromise location farther away from the church at the park.

Nancy Bush, chairwoman of the parks district, said she was optimistic that both sides will reach agreement on the dispute.

“We think the rink is a good idea--it’s something the whole family can use and enjoy,” Bush said. “But we told the developers that we couldn’t approve anything until we saw some plans and until we know that the church’s concerns have been addressed.”

Bush said the item may be back for the board’s consideration at its March 1 meeting.