Boy Scout Training Center Proposed at O’Neill Park

Hoping to answer the concerns of environmentalists and nearby residents, representatives of the Boy Scouts of America tonight will present plans for a scout facility at O’Neill Regional Park.

The scout group wants to build a outdoor training center for scouts and adult leaders on four acres of the 3,100-acre park. The project would include administrative offices and a swimming pool, along with archery and BB-gun ranges.

Local environmentalists are concerned about development in a public park.

Homeowners on the other side of El Camino Montana want to know how the project could affect traffic and the view.

“My biggest concerns are overnight use and what the structures will look like,” said Gary Thompson, who lives about 200 yards from the proposed site. “I think there are probably plenty of other locations in the county for something like this other than to put it in a regional park that’s maintained in pretty much a natural state.”

The 7:30 p.m. meeting of the Rancho Santa Margarita Civic Council will take place at the Santa Margarita Water District, 26111 Antonio Parkway. Information: (714) 457-3326.