Law Seeks to Stem Conflicts Over Use of Soccer Fields

In an effort to reduce conflict over soccer fields at its two city parks, Bell Gardens has passed an ordinance that requires organized sports leagues to apply for a city permit before they use a park.

“We have had problems in the past with some soccer groups,” said Parks and Recreation Director Dennis Moss. “People would fight over the field and come early to get their goals set up.”

Under the ordinance, which takes effect in mid-November, preference will be given to city-sponsored leagues and everyday use by city residents.

In the summer, the city angered some soccer fans when the adult fields at the city’s largest park, John Anson Ford Park, were fenced off to plant new grass. The park will reopen next month he said.

The city’s new youth soccer league, which has about 700 players, began its season last week on the youth field at Ford Park, Moss said.

“We are tentatively looking to form an adult league but first we want to get the youth league going,” he said.