Vacation Recreation Sites Close Due to Budget Cuts
To hear city officials tell it, the Grinch has stolen Christmas in parts of Azusa.
A budget crunch has forced the Recreation Division to close six of its seven Christmas vacation recreation sites, city officials said Monday.
“It’s a shame we’re in this current budget crunch and it’s true all city departments must trim back where possible. But it’s a crying shame that children have to be deprived of recreation opportunities any time of year, especially at Christmas,” said Joe Guarrera, director of community services.
Children will not be able to participate in craft programs, sports and field trips, as well as visits by Santa Claus at six sites. The closed locations are Northside, Gladstone and Slauson parks and Mountain View, Powell and Murray schools.
The only site with active programs is Memorial Park. Activities will be Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from noon to 4 p.m.
Voters in Azusa earlier this year rejected a utility tax increase and forced across-the-boards cuts.
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