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From:Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent:Monday, December 1, 2025 12:35 PM
To:Avakian, Greg; Olmos, Maria@Parks
Cc:Honer-Hollstien, Lily
Subject:Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Hi Greg,
Thank you for reaching out. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well.
Regarding the dog park component, any removal or modification of an amenity would require a formal scope
change request, similar to the previous process where the City submitted a letter outlining the proposed
modification and the supporting public input. If a scope change is requested, OGALS would review it and then
forward it to our Competitive team to confirm whether the project would have remained competitive without the
dog park feature.
A denial would not jeopardize or revoke the existing grant funding. It would simply mean the project must move
forward with the dog park as originally awarded.
Based on what you mentioned, replacing the dog park with a grass turf field for recreational play could be
considered a substitution of one recreational amenity for another. As long as the modification aligns with public
input, continues to serve the same target population, and does not diminish the competitive intent of the
original application, it is generally an allowable type of scope modification. A formal review would still be
required including the formal scope change request letter, new site plan, and grant scope cost estimate.
For City Council, you can share that:
1. The project team may pursue a scope change if community feedback supports removal of the dog park,
and
2. OGALS will review the request, including public input, and determine if the revised project would still
meet the requirements of the Prop 68 grant and remain consistent with the original competitive scoring.
Please let me know if you’d like to discuss more via a teams meeting. We’re happy to support you through the
process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
2
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
3
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
4
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
5
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
6
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
7
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
8
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
9
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
10
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
11
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
12
916-902-8778
1
From:Avakian, Greg
Sent:Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To:'Glaudel, Kevin@Parks'; Olmos, Maria@Parks
Cc:Honer-Hollstien, Lily
Subject:RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
2
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
3
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
4
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
5
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
6
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
7
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
8
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
9
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
10
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
11
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
1
From:Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent:Wednesday, March 4, 2026 9:34 AM
To:Honer-Hollstien, Lily
Cc:Avakian, Greg; Olmos, Maria@Parks
Subject:RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Importance:High
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Good Morning, Lily and Greg!
I am pleased to announce that your requested modifications for Emerson Park have been formally approved by our office.
You can now proceed with the grant with the following scope as requested:
“Renovate Emerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct playground for 0-5 and 5-12 age groups,
educational garden, public art mural and mosaic, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts,
basketball/multipurpose court, black top and install landscaping throughout the park.”
I am sending the updated scope change to our Fiscal team here in our office, please note that it takes a few months for
State Treasurer’s Office and our Bond Accountability program to update to the new scope so any requested
reimbursement may take some time to process.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Have a great rest of your week
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2026 12:53 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin,
In the 2025 Scope Reduction, the safety lighting was revised to remove the solar component due to budget
constraints. The project still includes safety lighting; however, it will be standard, non-solar lighting. The lighting will be
installed around the picnic area, along the pathways leading to the restrooms and playground, and at key perimeter
entrance areas of the park, as reflected in the attached plan.
The solar roof on the restroom remains within the project scope.
2
Please let me know if you would like any additional detail!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 4:27 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg
<gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Thank you so much Lily, we really appreciate the quick responses and answering our questions.
Can you clarify the lighting around the park and what type of lighting will be used and where?
The Project Selection Criteria at the time of application noted Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot
lighting around the park. I believe in our first modification we removed the solar aspect and kept safety lighting around
pathways and the restroom. Can you confirm that it is now normal lighting and not solar?
Lastly, is the solar roof on the restroom still planned to be installed?
Thank you so much for your assistance, Maria and I really appreciate your dedication to the project!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 11:10 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Maria,
3
Thank you for your note and questions. I can clarify why Court Program Lighting and the Public Art Mural both appear
as $0 on the 2026 Grant Cost Estimate:
The Court Program Lighting was removed from the project scope in the 2025 scope reduction due to financial
constraints, along with other items in that letter. For 2026, it is not included as a City-funded add alternate, and
we are not pursuing an alternate funding source at this time. It is listed as $0 because no grant or City funds
are allocated. Should the City consider including Court Program Lighting in the future, we would seek
community input through the Parks and Recreation Commission to ensure alignment with community needs.
The Public Art Mural is also shown as $0 in the Cost Estimate because no grant funds are being applied. While
it was removed from the 2025 grant-funded project, the City plans to fund it in 2026 through the Public Art
Fund, which is why it remains listed as $0 on the Grant Cost Estimate.
Additionally, I have attached a revised site plan with a clearer legend so that all items are legible and easily identified.
Please note that we do not have an official site plan reflecting the removal of the dog park, as the 2026 scope
reduction letter has not yet been approved and implemented.
Please let me know if you need any additional clarification.
Best,
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 9:43 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi there, Greg –
In looking at your “2026 Requested Revised Cost” included with the letter, you also have Court Program Lighting shown
in the same manner as Public Art Mural:
Will it be funded by an alternate source as well? Or is the plan not to have it done?
4
You can include the cost of alternate funding (originally not planned) in the Cost Estimate now and submit a revised
Funding Source Form.
Or is it that you all prefer to leave it at 0.00 on the Cost Estimate due to the alternate funding not being 100% secure?
----Also, can you submit another site plan? The “Site legend” in the one attached to your letter is not readable, so I
couldn’t tell if those items were in there or not.
Let us know –
Maria
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 8:34 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good Morning Greg!
We will leave the public art pieces in the official grant scope even though they are funded through alternative funding
sources. These funding sources will be accounted for when you submit your final funding sources form as part of the
project completion package.
As park beautification and public art was one of the scoring items in the criteria, it’s great that they are included in the
grant. I have no further questions on the scope modification at this time, I’ll defer to @Olmos, Maria@Parks if she has any
further questions in the review process.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
5
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 5:17 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good evening, Kevin and Maria-
Thanks for reaching out for clarification regarding the public art component for the Emerson Park project.
The Emerson Park project definitely includes maintaining public art as part of the project. During the process of
identifying cost savings from the last submittal, the option to have it funded through the City’s Public Art Fund was
(and is) our preferred method as the overall park project is funded with the Prop 68 Grant ($2.81M) and supplemented
by the City Park Improvement Funds, and this option allowed for cost savings. Staff listed the inclusion of public art
for the project but at $0.00 due to the funds coming from an alternate source.
If that is a concern and may jeopardize the approval of the project modification we submitted, the City can reinsert the
estimated funds for public art back into the scope of the project. Staff concern of ensuring the final project is
adequately funded in order to meet the approved project scope still remains. However, the goal at this point is to
ensure we meet the Prop 68 requirements and receive the approval from OGALS of the current scope modification.
Staff are hoping that by keeping public art within the project but funded by an alternate source other than the grant,
that would allow for any contingency within an anticipated construction bid to not further impact the overall costs.
Hope that makes some sense. The City of SLO is extremely dedicated to public art, to the point that our Parks Master
Plan clearly states that public art is to be included in all park projects.
Please feel free to contact us if you need additional clarification and we are prepared to host a call with you at any
time.
Again, truly appreciate your time and resources in working so closely with us to ensure the park project represents the
purpose of the Prop 68 grant award and OGALS vision.
Sincerely,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 4:27 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Importance: High
6
Hi Lily and Greg!
We had a quick question on Merson Park, is the original scope modification we did last year removed the public
art pieces and mosaic due to cost saving. We noticed it was included in the 2 nd modification to remove the dog
park. Is the public art installation now a planned part of the project? The letter has it included but the line item
is $0. If grant funds are not paying for the art pieces, but they are still being included, we will definitely want to
keep it in the scope of the project.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 2:35 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Lily!
This letter is great! I have forwarded the scope modification request for her review, if we have any questions we
will reach out. In the interim, we are due for a status report on this project so I have attached one here due to me
in 30 days. You can state the proposed modification and other project updates in the status report. Let me know
if you have any questions!
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2026 2:04 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin and Maria,
Thank you again for meeting with us on Tuesday to review the Emerson Neighborhood Park (Prop 68) scope
modification request and for sharing such helpful insight on the process and approach.
7
Attached is the City’s draft scope modification request letter for your review. The request reflects updated community
input and Parks and Recreation Commission direction, and proposes removing the dog park from the Prop 68-funded
construction phase while maintaining the full turf area and incorporating select enhancements.
When you have a chance, I’d really appreciate you taking a look and letting me know if you have any comments or
suggested edits.
Thank you again!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 11:14 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good Morning Lily!
Thank you so much for the updates on the project. I would love to have a quick meeting with you sometime this week to
finalize the scope change request to ensure we have our ducks in a row. Seeing how multiple written and in-person public
comments were heard and taken into consideration, this will be great information for our management and competitive
team to take into account when reviewing the scope change request.
I am available anytime this afternoon and anytime tomorrow if you would like to schedule a quick 15-30 minute teams call
to walk through the process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 8:51 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
8
Hi Kevin,
I wanted to provide a brief update on Emerson Park following the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on
February 4, 2026.
After reviewing 78 written public comments and hearing 23 in-person comments, the Parks and Recreation
Commission voted 7–0 to direct staff to submit a formal scope change request to remove the dog park from the initial
Prop 68 construction scope and maintain the currently proposed turf area.
Greg and I are finalizing the scope change request package today and plan to submit it to OGALS as soon as possible
(formal letter, revised site plan, and updated cost estimate). If the request is denied, we understand the project would
need to proceed with the dog park as originally awarded.
I also wanted to make you aware that John McKenzie, along with a small community group (approximately 3
individuals), submitted a letter to SCORP@parks.ca.gov requesting denial of the change. This letter is not affiliated
with the City and does not reflect the PRC direction or the broader public input received.
We would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you via Teams or phone to walk through the proposal and ensure
the submittal aligns with OGALS and Competitive team expectations.
Thank you,
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 12:35 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg,
Thank you for reaching out. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well.
Regarding the dog park component, any removal or modification of an amenity would require a formal scope
change request, similar to the previous process where the City submitted a letter outlining the proposed
modification and the supporting public input. If a scope change is requested, OGALS would review it and then
forward it to our Competitive team to confirm whether the project would have remained competitive without the
dog park feature.
A denial would not jeopardize or revoke the existing grant funding. It would simply mean the project must move
forward with the dog park as originally awarded.
9
Based on what you mentioned, replacing the dog park with a grass turf field for recreational play could be
considered a substitution of one recreational amenity for another. As long as the modification aligns with public
input, continues to serve the same target population, and does not diminish the competitive intent of the
original application, it is generally an allowable type of scope modification. A formal review would still be
required including the formal scope change request letter, new site plan, and grant scope cost estimate.
For City Council, you can share that:
1. The project team may pursue a scope change if community feedback supports removal of the dog park,
and
2. OGALS will review the request, including public input, and determine if the revised project would still
meet the requirements of the Prop 68 grant and remain consistent with the original competitive scoring.
Please let me know if you’d like to discuss more via a teams meeting. We’re happy to support you through the
process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
10
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
11
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
12
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
13
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
14
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
15
Hi Lily!
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
16
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
17
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
18
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
19
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
1
From:Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent:Monday, February 23, 2026 2:35 PM
To:Honer-Hollstien, Lily
Cc:Avakian, Greg
Subject:RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Attachments:SRSW-40-002_20260223143241.docx
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Hi Lily!
This letter is great! I have forwarded the scope modification request for her review, if we have any questions we
will reach out. In the interim, we are due for a status report on this project so I have attached one here due to me
in 30 days. You can state the proposed modification and other project updates in the status report. Let me know
if you have any questions!
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2026 2:04 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin and Maria,
Thank you again for meeting with us on Tuesday to review the Emerson Neighborhood Park (Prop 68) scope
modification request and for sharing such helpful insight on the process and approach.
Attached is the City’s draft scope modification request letter for your review. The request reflects updated community
input and Parks and Recreation Commission direction, and proposes removing the dog park from the Prop 68-funded
construction phase while maintaining the full turf area and incorporating select enhancements.
When you have a chance, I’d really appreciate you taking a look and letting me know if you have any comments or
suggested edits.
Thank you again!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
2
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 11:14 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good Morning Lily!
Thank you so much for the updates on the project. I would love to have a quick meeting with you sometime this week to
finalize the scope change request to ensure we have our ducks in a row. Seeing how multiple written and in-person public
comments were heard and taken into consideration, this will be great information for our management and competitive
team to take into account when reviewing the scope change request.
I am available anytime this afternoon and anytime tomorrow if you would like to schedule a quick 15-30 minute teams call
to walk through the process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 8:51 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin,
I wanted to provide a brief update on Emerson Park following the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on
February 4, 2026.
After reviewing 78 written public comments and hearing 23 in-person comments, the Parks and Recreation
Commission voted 7–0 to direct staff to submit a formal scope change request to remove the dog park from the initial
Prop 68 construction scope and maintain the currently proposed turf area.
Greg and I are finalizing the scope change request package today and plan to submit it to OGALS as soon as possible
(formal letter, revised site plan, and updated cost estimate). If the request is denied, we understand the project would
need to proceed with the dog park as originally awarded.
3
I also wanted to make you aware that John McKenzie, along with a small community group (approximately 3
individuals), submitted a letter to SCORP@parks.ca.gov requesting denial of the change. This letter is not affiliated
with the City and does not reflect the PRC direction or the broader public input received.
We would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you via Teams or phone to walk through the proposal and ensure
the submittal aligns with OGALS and Competitive team expectations.
Thank you,
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
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From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 12:35 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg,
Thank you for reaching out. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well.
Regarding the dog park component, any removal or modification of an amenity would require a formal scope
change request, similar to the previous process where the City submitted a letter outlining the proposed
modification and the supporting public input. If a scope change is requested, OGALS would review it and then
forward it to our Competitive team to confirm whether the project would have remained competitive without the
dog park feature.
A denial would not jeopardize or revoke the existing grant funding. It would simply mean the project must move
forward with the dog park as originally awarded.
Based on what you mentioned, replacing the dog park with a grass turf field for recreational play could be
considered a substitution of one recreational amenity for another. As long as the modification aligns with public
input, continues to serve the same target population, and does not diminish the competitive intent of the
original application, it is generally an allowable type of scope modification. A formal review would still be
required including the formal scope change request letter, new site plan, and grant scope cost estimate.
For City Council, you can share that:
1. The project team may pursue a scope change if community feedback supports removal of the dog park,
and
4
2. OGALS will review the request, including public input, and determine if the revised project would still
meet the requirements of the Prop 68 grant and remain consistent with the original competitive scoring.
Please let me know if you’d like to discuss more via a teams meeting. We’re happy to support you through the
process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
5
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
6
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
7
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
8
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
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From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
9
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
10
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
11
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
12
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
13
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
14
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
State of California Natural Resources Agency Gavin Newsom, Governor
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION Armando Quintero, Director
P.O. Box 942896 Sacramento, CA 94296-0001
(916) 653-7423
2/23/2026
Lily Honer-Hollstien
Business Analyst
City of San Luis Obispo
1341 Nipomo St
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Re: Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization - SW-40-002
Emerson Neighborhood Park Revitalization
Dear Lily Honer-Hollstien:
Enclosed is a Status Report for the above referenced project administered by
the Office of Grants and Local Services (OGALS). Take a moment to review
the scope as described in the attached report and provide detailed, accurate,
and up-to-date responses to the information requested. The information you
provide allows OGALS to assist your agency in completing the project on
time, on budget, and according to scope.
Email the completed Status Report within thirty days to your Project Officer
Kevin Glaudel at Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov. You may also contact Kevin
Glaudel by phone at (619) 902-8778 if you have any questions. Failure to
submit a timely Status Report will halt payment requests until satisfied.
OGALS appreciates your attention to this matter and looks forward to our
continued partnership to improve the quality of life for communities throughout
California.
Enclosure
2
ATTENTION: Kevin Glaudel
DUE DATE: 3/25/2026
STATUS REPORT
Grantee: City of San Luis Obispo
Grant Liquidation Date: 6/30/2028
Project Number: SW-40-002 2018 Parks Bond Act, Statewide Park Development and
Community Revitalization
Project Name: Emerson Neighborhood Park Revitalization
Project Scope: Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo.Construct a dog
park, playground (0-5,5-12 age groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof.
Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose court, blacktop. Install landscaping
throughout park.
Required Project Deliverables: Design of Recreation Features:
• Educational garden
• Restroom
• Lit dog park
• Shade structures
• Drought resistant/low cost landscaping
• Hydration stations (including one for dogs)
• Updated perimeter fencing
• Expansion/renovation of the playground
• Multi-purpose court with lighting
Location of Features in the Park:
• Restroom location near the playground
• The shade structures were chosen to be placed near the dog park, the playground, and
exercise equipment.
• The dog park was identified to be located on the opposite section of the park from the
playground as an additional safety measure.
• Bocce courts moved adjacent to the exercise equipment shade structure.
Safe Public Use:
• Safety path lighting will be installed around the restroom, and along main pathways and
lighting will be added to the multi-purpose court and dog park.
• The public wanted updated perimeter fencing
Park Beautification/Public Art:
• Educational garden
• Drought tolerant landscaping
• Art installation on restroom and black top mural
• Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into
concrete surfaces and benches
• Colorful and artistic shaped shade structures.
• Artistic dog park equipment.
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
3
• There will be an opportunity for residents and/or corps members to help with renovating
the current landscaping at the park through the planting of drought tolerant plants, and
dog park fencing.
• Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to
community youth work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
Partnerships for the project’s design or construction will include:
• San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden - will assist with designing and implementing the
new children’s educational gardens and determine the appropriate drought resistant plants
to be included. They will help oversee the installation of the garden. All work will be on a
volunteer basis.
• Arts Council - will coordinate the public art for the park which includes a mural on the
restroom and blacktop. All work will be on a volunteer basis.
• County of San Luis Obispo Public Health Department - will help design the renovated
fitness equipment area. County is contributing staff hours to the project.
• Friends of SLO City Dog Parks - The members of the community organization will assist
with building the Dog Park and donating specific features/amenities.
The project will include these sustainable techniques:
• Bio-Swales/Grading - In constructing the new restrooms, stormwater will be captured
for infiltration or irrigation, where applicable, through the use of bio-swales, grading, and
rain barrels. Permeable material will be used for children’s garden pathways. The design
incorporates rain barrels for stormwater runoff from the restrooms to use in watering
landscaping and garden areas. In addition a bio-swale will be built near the dog park to
capture storm water.
•Water efficient irrigation system - The park already incorporates sustainable landscape
and irrigation features (Calsense, flow sensing, ET technology and rain sensors). The
revitalization activities will augment current features and update irrigation to switch
sprinklers and MP rotator sprinklers to provide more water/energy efficient irrigation.
• Recycled Materials - Project will use recycled materials for the ground covering present
in the dog park, community and educational gardens.
• Use of drought tolerant/climate appropriate non-invasive native turf, shrubs, plants and
ground cover - The gardens and general landscaping of the park will include drought
tolerant plants. Invasive species will not be used in the park. Fertilizer is only applied for
turf renovation, which happens once a year, and the turf area is closed for public use at
that time.
• Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting.
• Additional hydration station - The project will include a new hydration station adjacent
to the new restroom and the existing water fountain at the park will be updated to a
hydration station. These hydration stations will provide safe reliable drinking water to
visitors and allow them to fill their own bottle, so they can stay hydrated throughout the
park.
• Additional compost bin in Educational Children’s Garden - Establish an additional bin in
the educational children’s garden.
• Solar Panel Installation - Solar panels will be installed on top of the restrooms.
• Water Runoff Collection - Water barrel near restrooms to collect rain water runoff.
• Reduced natural Turf - Reduced fertilizer and irrigation needs
4
• Additional Buffer/Landscape Strip - Bio swale creation through additional
buffer/landscape strip.
1. Project Phase: ☐ Pre-Construction ☐ Pre-Acquisition ☐ Acquisition ☐ Construction
2. Percentage of Project Complete: Click or tap here to enter text.
3. Is the project: On Time? Yes Within Budget? Yes Within Scope? Yes
If no, please explain: Click or tap here to enter text.
4. Potential Obstacles Affecting Completion: Click or tap here to enter text.
5. Estimated Date of Project Completion: Click or tap to enter a date.
6. Describe grant-funded work completed since last status report submitted: Click or tap
here to enter text.
7. Has CCC or Certified Conservation Corps labor services been utilized to date? No
8. When will you submit your next payment request? Click or tap here to enter text. For how
much? Click or tap here to enter text.
9. Provide information on payments to be submitted over the next three years:
Between
7/1/25
and
12/31/25
Between
1/1/26
and
6/30/26
Between
7/1/26
and
12/31/26
Between
1/1/27
and
6/30/27
Between
7/1/27
and
12/31/27
Between
1/1/28
and
6/30/28
After
7/1/28
$ $ $ $ $ $ $
The purpose of this data is to help the State estimate borrowing needs; you will not be held to
these estimates.
10. Uncleared advances received to date. Attach a Grant Expenditure Form to clear the
advance, if applicable:
N/A
If advanced funds have not been spent within six months of receiving, the balance must be
spent on eligible costs or returned to OGALS within 30 days from receipt of this form.
11. Bond Act Sign installed during construction? Choose an item.
See Proposition 68 for sign guidelines.
If not previously submitted, provide photos of mounted Bond Act Sign showing location
and language:
5
12. Provide photos of grant-funded work completed since the last report.
_____________________________________________________________________________
I represent and warrant that I have full authority to execute this status report on behalf of the grantee. I
declare under penalty of perjury, under the laws of the State of California, that this status report, and any
accompanying documents, for the above-mentioned grant is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
______________________________ _______________________ _____________
Authorized Representative * Title Date
(*Certification to above information requires a signature by a person authorized in the resolution)
1
From:Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent:Monday, February 9, 2026 11:14 AM
To:Honer-Hollstien, Lily; Olmos, Maria@Parks
Cc:Avakian, Greg
Subject:RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Good Morning Lily!
Thank you so much for the updates on the project. I would love to have a quick meeting with you sometime this week to
finalize the scope change request to ensure we have our ducks in a row. Seeing how multiple written and in-person public
comments were heard and taken into consideration, this will be great information for our management and competitive
team to take into account when reviewing the scope change request.
I am available anytime this afternoon and anytime tomorrow if you would like to schedule a quick 15-30 minute teams call
to walk through the process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 8:51 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin,
I wanted to provide a brief update on Emerson Park following the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on
February 4, 2026.
After reviewing 78 written public comments and hearing 23 in-person comments, the Parks and Recreation
Commission voted 7–0 to direct staff to submit a formal scope change request to remove the dog park from the initial
Prop 68 construction scope and maintain the currently proposed turf area.
Greg and I are finalizing the scope change request package today and plan to submit it to OGALS as soon as possible
(formal letter, revised site plan, and updated cost estimate). If the request is denied, we understand the project would
need to proceed with the dog park as originally awarded.
I also wanted to make you aware that John McKenzie, along with a small community group (approximately 3
individuals), submitted a letter to SCORP@parks.ca.gov requesting denial of the change. This letter is not affiliated
with the City and does not reflect the PRC direction or the broader public input received.
2
We would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you via Teams or phone to walk through the proposal and ensure
the submittal aligns with OGALS and Competitive team expectations.
Thank you,
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 12:35 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg,
Thank you for reaching out. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well.
Regarding the dog park component, any removal or modification of an amenity would require a formal scope
change request, similar to the previous process where the City submitted a letter outlining the proposed
modification and the supporting public input. If a scope change is requested, OGALS would review it and then
forward it to our Competitive team to confirm whether the project would have remained competitive without the
dog park feature.
A denial would not jeopardize or revoke the existing grant funding. It would simply mean the project must move
forward with the dog park as originally awarded.
Based on what you mentioned, replacing the dog park with a grass turf field for recreational play could be
considered a substitution of one recreational amenity for another. As long as the modification aligns with public
input, continues to serve the same target population, and does not diminish the competitive intent of the
original application, it is generally an allowable type of scope modification. A formal review would still be
required including the formal scope change request letter, new site plan, and grant scope cost estimate.
For City Council, you can share that:
1. The project team may pursue a scope change if community feedback supports removal of the dog park,
and
2. OGALS will review the request, including public input, and determine if the revised project would still
meet the requirements of the Prop 68 grant and remain consistent with the original competitive scoring.
3
Please let me know if you’d like to discuss more via a teams meeting. We’re happy to support you through the
process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
4
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
5
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
6
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
7
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
8
Kevin and Maria-
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
9
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
10
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
11
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
12
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
13
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
1
From:Avakian, Greg
Sent:Wednesday, March 4, 2026 10:44 AM
To:'Glaudel, Kevin@Parks'; Honer-Hollstien, Lily
Cc:Olmos, Maria@Parks
Subject:RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Kevin and Maria-
WOW! Thank you so much for this and we truly appreciate all of your insights and support reviewing our
modifications. Your efforts to make this a priority and efficient responses are extremely valued, and we can’t thank
you (and the review committee!) enough.
We will plan to move forward with the designs and modifications and eagerly await the final scope changes from the
State Fiscal team.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or needs.
Thank you all again and wishing you a wonderful rest of the week!
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 4, 2026 9:34 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Importance: High
Good Morning, Lily and Greg!
I am pleased to announce that your requested modifications for Emerson Park have been formally approved by our office.
You can now proceed with the grant with the following scope as requested:
“Renovate Emerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct playground for 0-5 and 5-12 age groups,
educational garden, public art mural and mosaic, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts,
basketball/multipurpose court, black top and install landscaping throughout the park.”
2
I am sending the updated scope change to our Fiscal team here in our office, please note that it takes a few months for
State Treasurer’s Office and our Bond Accountability program to update to the new scope so any requested
reimbursement may take some time to process.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Have a great rest of your week
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2026 12:53 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin,
In the 2025 Scope Reduction, the safety lighting was revised to remove the solar component due to budget
constraints. The project still includes safety lighting; however, it will be standard, non-solar lighting. The lighting will be
installed around the picnic area, along the pathways leading to the restrooms and playground, and at key perimeter
entrance areas of the park, as reflected in the attached plan.
The solar roof on the restroom remains within the project scope.
Please let me know if you would like any additional detail!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 4:27 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg
<gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
3
Thank you so much Lily, we really appreciate the quick responses and answering our questions.
Can you clarify the lighting around the park and what type of lighting will be used and where?
The Project Selection Criteria at the time of application noted Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot
lighting around the park. I believe in our first modification we removed the solar aspect and kept safety lighting around
pathways and the restroom. Can you confirm that it is now normal lighting and not solar?
Lastly, is the solar roof on the restroom still planned to be installed?
Thank you so much for your assistance, Maria and I really appreciate your dedication to the project!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 11:10 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Maria,
Thank you for your note and questions. I can clarify why Court Program Lighting and the Public Art Mural both appear
as $0 on the 2026 Grant Cost Estimate:
The Court Program Lighting was removed from the project scope in the 2025 scope reduction due to financial
constraints, along with other items in that letter. For 2026, it is not included as a City-funded add alternate, and
we are not pursuing an alternate funding source at this time. It is listed as $0 because no grant or City funds
are allocated. Should the City consider including Court Program Lighting in the future, we would seek
community input through the Parks and Recreation Commission to ensure alignment with community needs.
The Public Art Mural is also shown as $0 in the Cost Estimate because no grant funds are being applied. While
it was removed from the 2025 grant-funded project, the City plans to fund it in 2026 through the Public Art
Fund, which is why it remains listed as $0 on the Grant Cost Estimate.
Additionally, I have attached a revised site plan with a clearer legend so that all items are legible and easily identified.
Please note that we do not have an official site plan reflecting the removal of the dog park, as the 2026 scope
reduction letter has not yet been approved and implemented.
Please let me know if you need any additional clarification.
Best,
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
4
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 9:43 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi there, Greg –
In looking at your “2026 Requested Revised Cost” included with the letter, you also have Court Program Lighting shown
in the same manner as Public Art Mural:
Will it be funded by an alternate source as well? Or is the plan not to have it done?
You can include the cost of alternate funding (originally not planned) in the Cost Estimate now and submit a revised
Funding Source Form.
Or is it that you all prefer to leave it at 0.00 on the Cost Estimate due to the alternate funding not being 100% secure?
----Also, can you submit another site plan? The “Site legend” in the one attached to your letter is not readable, so I
couldn’t tell if those items were in there or not.
5
Let us know –
Maria
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 8:34 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good Morning Greg!
We will leave the public art pieces in the official grant scope even though they are funded through alternative funding
sources. These funding sources will be accounted for when you submit your final funding sources form as part of the
project completion package.
As park beautification and public art was one of the scoring items in the criteria, it’s great that they are included in the
grant. I have no further questions on the scope modification at this time, I’ll defer to @Olmos, Maria@Parks if she has any
further questions in the review process.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 5:17 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good evening, Kevin and Maria-
Thanks for reaching out for clarification regarding the public art component for the Emerson Park project.
The Emerson Park project definitely includes maintaining public art as part of the project. During the process of
identifying cost savings from the last submittal, the option to have it funded through the City’s Public Art Fund was
(and is) our preferred method as the overall park project is funded with the Prop 68 Grant ($2.81M) and supplemented
by the City Park Improvement Funds, and this option allowed for cost savings. Staff listed the inclusion of public art
for the project but at $0.00 due to the funds coming from an alternate source.
If that is a concern and may jeopardize the approval of the project modification we submitted, the City can reinsert the
estimated funds for public art back into the scope of the project. Staff concern of ensuring the final project is
adequately funded in order to meet the approved project scope still remains. However, the goal at this point is to
ensure we meet the Prop 68 requirements and receive the approval from OGALS of the current scope modification.
Staff are hoping that by keeping public art within the project but funded by an alternate source other than the grant,
that would allow for any contingency within an anticipated construction bid to not further impact the overall costs.
6
Hope that makes some sense. The City of SLO is extremely dedicated to public art, to the point that our Parks Master
Plan clearly states that public art is to be included in all park projects.
Please feel free to contact us if you need additional clarification and we are prepared to host a call with you at any
time.
Again, truly appreciate your time and resources in working so closely with us to ensure the park project represents the
purpose of the Prop 68 grant award and OGALS vision.
Sincerely,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 4:27 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Importance: High
Hi Lily and Greg!
We had a quick question on Merson Park, is the original scope modification we did last year removed the public
art pieces and mosaic due to cost saving. We noticed it was included in the 2 nd modification to remove the dog
park. Is the public art installation now a planned part of the project? The letter has it included but the line item
is $0. If grant funds are not paying for the art pieces, but they are still being included, we will definitely want to
keep it in the scope of the project.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 2:35 PM
7
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Lily!
This letter is great! I have forwarded the scope modification request for her review, if we have any questions we
will reach out. In the interim, we are due for a status report on this project so I have attached one here due to me
in 30 days. You can state the proposed modification and other project updates in the status report. Let me know
if you have any questions!
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2026 2:04 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin and Maria,
Thank you again for meeting with us on Tuesday to review the Emerson Neighborhood Park (Prop 68) scope
modification request and for sharing such helpful insight on the process and approach.
Attached is the City’s draft scope modification request letter for your review. The request reflects updated community
input and Parks and Recreation Commission direction, and proposes removing the dog park from the Prop 68-funded
construction phase while maintaining the full turf area and incorporating select enhancements.
When you have a chance, I’d really appreciate you taking a look and letting me know if you have any comments or
suggested edits.
Thank you again!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
8
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 11:14 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good Morning Lily!
Thank you so much for the updates on the project. I would love to have a quick meeting with you sometime this week to
finalize the scope change request to ensure we have our ducks in a row. Seeing how multiple written and in-person public
comments were heard and taken into consideration, this will be great information for our management and competitive
team to take into account when reviewing the scope change request.
I am available anytime this afternoon and anytime tomorrow if you would like to schedule a quick 15-30 minute teams call
to walk through the process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 8:51 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin,
I wanted to provide a brief update on Emerson Park following the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on
February 4, 2026.
After reviewing 78 written public comments and hearing 23 in-person comments, the Parks and Recreation
Commission voted 7–0 to direct staff to submit a formal scope change request to remove the dog park from the initial
Prop 68 construction scope and maintain the currently proposed turf area.
Greg and I are finalizing the scope change request package today and plan to submit it to OGALS as soon as possible
(formal letter, revised site plan, and updated cost estimate). If the request is denied, we understand the project would
need to proceed with the dog park as originally awarded.
I also wanted to make you aware that John McKenzie, along with a small community group (approximately 3
individuals), submitted a letter to SCORP@parks.ca.gov requesting denial of the change. This letter is not affiliated
with the City and does not reflect the PRC direction or the broader public input received.
We would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you via Teams or phone to walk through the proposal and ensure
the submittal aligns with OGALS and Competitive team expectations.
Thank you,
9
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 12:35 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg,
Thank you for reaching out. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well.
Regarding the dog park component, any removal or modification of an amenity would require a formal scope
change request, similar to the previous process where the City submitted a letter outlining the proposed
modification and the supporting public input. If a scope change is requested, OGALS would review it and then
forward it to our Competitive team to confirm whether the project would have remained competitive without the
dog park feature.
A denial would not jeopardize or revoke the existing grant funding. It would simply mean the project must move
forward with the dog park as originally awarded.
Based on what you mentioned, replacing the dog park with a grass turf field for recreational play could be
considered a substitution of one recreational amenity for another. As long as the modification aligns with public
input, continues to serve the same target population, and does not diminish the competitive intent of the
original application, it is generally an allowable type of scope modification. A formal review would still be
required including the formal scope change request letter, new site plan, and grant scope cost estimate.
For City Council, you can share that:
1. The project team may pursue a scope change if community feedback supports removal of the dog park,
and
2. OGALS will review the request, including public input, and determine if the revised project would still
meet the requirements of the Prop 68 grant and remain consistent with the original competitive scoring.
Please let me know if you’d like to discuss more via a teams meeting. We’re happy to support you through the
process.
Best,
10
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
11
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
12
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
13
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
14
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
15
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
16
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
17
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
18
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
19
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
20
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
1
From:Avakian, Greg
Sent:Tuesday, February 24, 2026 5:17 PM
To:Glaudel, Kevin@Parks; Olmos, Maria@Parks
Cc:Honer-Hollstien, Lily
Subject:RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good evening, Kevin and Maria-
Thanks for reaching out for clarification regarding the public art component for the Emerson Park project.
The Emerson Park project definitely includes maintaining public art as part of the project. During the process of
identifying cost savings from the last submittal, the option to have it funded through the City’s Public Art Fund was
(and is) our preferred method as the overall park project is funded with the Prop 68 Grant ($2.81M) and supplemented
by the City Park Improvement Funds, and this option allowed for cost savings. Staff listed the inclusion of public art
for the project but at $0.00 due to the funds coming from an alternate source.
If that is a concern and may jeopardize the approval of the project modification we submitted, the City can reinsert the
estimated funds for public art back into the scope of the project. Staff concern of ensuring the final project is
adequately funded in order to meet the approved project scope still remains. However, the goal at this point is to
ensure we meet the Prop 68 requirements and receive the approval from OGALS of the current scope modification.
Staff are hoping that by keeping public art within the project but funded by an alternate source other than the grant,
that would allow for any contingency within an anticipated construction bid to not further impact the overall costs.
Hope that makes some sense. The City of SLO is extremely dedicated to public art, to the point that our Parks Master
Plan clearly states that public art is to be included in all park projects.
Please feel free to contact us if you need additional clarification and we are prepared to host a call with you at any
time.
Again, truly appreciate your time and resources in working so closely with us to ensure the park project represents the
purpose of the Prop 68 grant award and OGALS vision.
Sincerely,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 4:27 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
2
Subject: Re: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Importance: High
Hi Lily and Greg!
We had a quick question on Merson Park, is the original scope modification we did last year removed the public
art pieces and mosaic due to cost saving. We noticed it was included in the 2 nd modification to remove the dog
park. Is the public art installation now a planned part of the project? The letter has it included but the line item
is $0. If grant funds are not paying for the art pieces, but they are still being included, we will definitely want to
keep it in the scope of the project.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2026 2:35 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Lily!
This letter is great! I have forwarded the scope modification request for her review, if we have any questions we
will reach out. In the interim, we are due for a status report on this project so I have attached one here due to me
in 30 days. You can state the proposed modification and other project updates in the status report. Let me know
if you have any questions!
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2026 2:04 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin and Maria,
3
Thank you again for meeting with us on Tuesday to review the Emerson Neighborhood Park (Prop 68) scope
modification request and for sharing such helpful insight on the process and approach.
Attached is the City’s draft scope modification request letter for your review. The request reflects updated community
input and Parks and Recreation Commission direction, and proposes removing the dog park from the Prop 68-funded
construction phase while maintaining the full turf area and incorporating select enhancements.
When you have a chance, I’d really appreciate you taking a look and letting me know if you have any comments or
suggested edits.
Thank you again!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 11:14 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Good Morning Lily!
Thank you so much for the updates on the project. I would love to have a quick meeting with you sometime this week to
finalize the scope change request to ensure we have our ducks in a row. Seeing how multiple written and in-person public
comments were heard and taken into consideration, this will be great information for our management and competitive
team to take into account when reviewing the scope change request.
I am available anytime this afternoon and anytime tomorrow if you would like to schedule a quick 15-30 minute teams call
to walk through the process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, February 9, 2026 8:51 AM
4
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Subject: 2026/02/04 PRC Direction & Scope Change Request - Emerson Park Prop 68
Hi Kevin,
I wanted to provide a brief update on Emerson Park following the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on
February 4, 2026.
After reviewing 78 written public comments and hearing 23 in-person comments, the Parks and Recreation
Commission voted 7–0 to direct staff to submit a formal scope change request to remove the dog park from the initial
Prop 68 construction scope and maintain the currently proposed turf area.
Greg and I are finalizing the scope change request package today and plan to submit it to OGALS as soon as possible
(formal letter, revised site plan, and updated cost estimate). If the request is denied, we understand the project would
need to proceed with the dog park as originally awarded.
I also wanted to make you aware that John McKenzie, along with a small community group (approximately 3
individuals), submitted a letter to SCORP@parks.ca.gov requesting denial of the change. This letter is not affiliated
with the City and does not reflect the PRC direction or the broader public input received.
We would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you via Teams or phone to walk through the proposal and ensure
the submittal aligns with OGALS and Competitive team expectations.
Thank you,
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 12:35 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg,
Thank you for reaching out. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving as well.
Regarding the dog park component, any removal or modification of an amenity would require a formal scope
change request, similar to the previous process where the City submitted a letter outlining the proposed
modification and the supporting public input. If a scope change is requested, OGALS would review it and then
5
forward it to our Competitive team to confirm whether the project would have remained competitive without the
dog park feature.
A denial would not jeopardize or revoke the existing grant funding. It would simply mean the project must move
forward with the dog park as originally awarded.
Based on what you mentioned, replacing the dog park with a grass turf field for recreational play could be
considered a substitution of one recreational amenity for another. As long as the modification aligns with public
input, continues to serve the same target population, and does not diminish the competitive intent of the
original application, it is generally an allowable type of scope modification. A formal review would still be
required including the formal scope change request letter, new site plan, and grant scope cost estimate.
For City Council, you can share that:
1. The project team may pursue a scope change if community feedback supports removal of the dog park,
and
2. OGALS will review the request, including public input, and determine if the revised project would still
meet the requirements of the Prop 68 grant and remain consistent with the original competitive scoring.
Please let me know if you’d like to discuss more via a teams meeting. We’re happy to support you through the
process.
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest grant program information!
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, December 1, 2025 11:01 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good day, Kevin and Maria-
I hope you both enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The City of San Luis Obispo has been receiving new feedback from certain community members with concerns about
the dog park amenity being included in the Emerson Park Prop 68 project. The City is currently at 50% construction
document phase, and our City Council wants to provide the community members who don’t want the dog park a status
update. Basically, is the dog park a key component and would the City jeopardize the grant fund if it’s eliminated from
the project scope.
Before my staff entertains the notion of obtaining more formal feedback from the neighboring community about the
dog park amenity, I want to find out if the end result is we need to remove this from the project would it jeopardize the
grant funding. The alternative would be to maintain the grass turf field for recreational play if the feedback results in
exclusion of the dog park section.
6
If there is the option to modify the project, then staff would entertain hosting an additional Community Forum on the
park project and have the Parks & Recreation Commission also vote to modify or maintain the current project design.
I am requesting formal feedback and input from you both on this matter so I can best direct City Council on the best
method of response (e.g., ‘sorry the project is already designed and dog park amenity is part of the grant award”… or
“thank you for the feedback and the Parks & Recreation commission plans to host an additional forum to obtain more
feedback for potential project redesign”.
Your prompt response would be highly appreciated, and I can be available for a phone call as well.
Thank you for your time,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 7:42 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning Greg,
I am pleased to inform you that the proposed scope changes for Emerson Neighborhood Park have been
approved by our office. The new scope for the project as requested is as follows:
"Renovate Emmerson Park in the City of San Luis Obispo. Construct a dog park, playground (0-5,5-12 age
groups), educational garden, restroom with solar roof. Renovate bocce ball courts, basketball/multi-purpose
court, blacktop. Install landscaping throughout park."
I've attached the approved policy guidance signed by our office chief, Richard Rendon for your records. Please
save this in your project file for audit purposes.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
7
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 1:57 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks again, Greg –
Appreciate the quick response and the updates. Will make a note in your project file on this. We have routed your request
to upper-management and now waiting to hear.
Maria
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:35 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thanks for that question, Maria-
We’ve asked the designer to remove that and make it an Add Alt for future inclusion or if the RFP quotes come in and
we have additional funding.
Please note, that the provided DRAFT concept design revision was done based on a quick turnaround conversation
with the designer. Each time we ask for a change, it is billed to the project, so we’ve been trying to limit the revisions
until we have full approval to move forward.
If our request is approved by you, then we will initiate the official design of the new layout and scoping of the park
layout and amenities. I am happy to provide that back to you and Kevin at that time.
Hope that helps clarify and keep the questions coming so we can help as much as possible.
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
8
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 11:14 AM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you, Greg –
Your responses are helpful. I did notice the revised site plan does still include a shade structure. Is that correct? Will it be
funded outside of the Grant?
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, March 6, 2025 8:11 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
I wanted to consolidate our communications into one and also added the original and requested attachments for ease:
Original Letter for Consideration for scope modifications
Itemized list and estimated pricing adjustments from original grant application
Initial design (November 2024) schematic
Updated/revised design (February 2025)- DRAFT
Answers to inquiries:
1. Solar lighting: pathway lighting would not be solar. Restroom exterior lighting remain solar. Restroom interior
lighting solar option as an Add Alt (pending construction bids)
2. Public Art: removed from the project design and excluded from the construction RFP for project for cost
savings. Will remain as an “in-house” project using the City’s Public Art Fund program to fund this portion of
the project. Utilizing local community youth and families to create mosaic style tiles to be adhered around
seating areas of the playground and local community artist for mural paintings on exterior of restroom (and
potentially on black top surface). This will program will be coordinated by Parks & Rec staff and the Public Art
Division of the City and coincide with the completion of the overall Emerson Park Beatification project.
3. Staff plan to utilize the California Conservation Core for the community/educational garden portion of the
project.
Please reach out with any additional questions or needs.
We are looking forward to your response and support of the rescoping of the project and allowing the City of San Luis
Obispo to continue to pursue the final portions of the design to initiate the Emerson Park Beautification Project for our
community.
Thank you,
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
9
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Greg and Lily!
One more thing, sorry for the back and forth!
Can you send us a new site plan? The one attached still shows the shade structures on the property. I’ve
attached the original site plan at the time of application, if we can get one tailored to the same format that
would be great! The good news on this request is we aren’t reducing any recreation features so I have no doubt
that this will expedite the review process.
Thank you so much!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:08 PM
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>; Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you for the information, Greg!
10
I do have one additional clarification to make. Your scope reduction letter notes the removal of “solar lighting around the
facility and park area”. The adjusted cost estimate does still shows “Safety Lighting at 80,000”. Per your criteria, is this the
“Safety Path Solar Lighting - Utilizing solar energy for foot lighting?” Also, will restrooms still be getting the solar panels?
Maria Olmos
Supervisor | Office of Grants & Local Services
Call 916-902-8758
Email: Maria.Olmos@Parks.ca.gov
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 2:02 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Cc: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Kevin and Maria-
Thank you for taking the time to review our resubmittal and for the questions related to the public art portion of the
project. Staff removed the list of public art items you listed below from the project list which would require design and
be included in the construction bid. Staff plan to take on the task via in-house art project funds and potential
community support.
For the record, the City’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan and General Element (2021) includes that all new and
updated parks are required to include public art installation. The staff chose to remove the cost and design of the art
concepts from the Emerson Park Grant supported project as a cost saving measure and will incorporate the mosaic
tiles and blacktop ‘mural’ art portion of the project through the City’s Public Art Program to meet both the original
concept and the requirement outlined within the P&R Master Plan. We will continue to move forward with our design
team to allow for the ‘blank canvas’ to be designed on then externa restroom wall, seating area for mosaic tile
installation, and the blacktop to have space for surface mural.
I hope this answers your concerns that Public Art will still be included and involve community. Please don’t hesitate to
reach out with any follow-up questions.
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
You don't often get email from gavakian@slocity.org. Learn why this is important
11
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Monday, March 3, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Maria has done her initial review of the scope change and we had a few questions regarding the public art
installation.
Please see her questions below:
Can you confirm on if they are eliminating these items?
Art installation on restroom and black top mural
Neighborhood youth participation in designing art mosaic tiles to incorporate into concrete surfaces
and benches
Employment or volunteer opportunities to be included in the project are:
Public Art is to be installed at the park (mural on restroom and black top). In addition to community youth
work in designing mosaic tiles incorporated in concrete surfaces.
o To confirm, the other community art opportunity is still there?
As soon as you get these back to us we can get this forwarded to the competitive team for their review.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Thank you so much!
I will get this packaged and sent to Maria shortly for her initial review.
Have a great day!
12
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 6:19 PM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Please see the attached, updated grant scope cost estimate reflecting the requested scope changes to Emerson Park.
Thank you for all your assistance!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 9:12 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hi Lily!
Can you make changes on the grant scope cost estimate to reflect to the scope changes and have the
authorized rep initial? You can just cross out the scope items that are removed and reallocate the funding to the
other items as you see fit. You will not be tied to these dollar amounts, these are just estimates.
Thank you!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
13
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:46 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Good Morning, Lily!
I have received the scope change request letter and will get working on this today to forward to my supervisor
and manager for necessary review and approval. If we have any questions on the attachments, we will be
reaching out.
Thank you for your expedience and dedication to getting this project completed!
Best,
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
From: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2025 8:25 AM
To: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: RE: 12/5 Meeting Recap
Hello Kevin,
Attached is the Emerson Park Scope Reduction Letter along with two cost estimates and the final site plan.
A 50% cost estimate was provided by SSA on March 7, 2024. The cost estimate included a few items outside the
scope of our grant application. SSA then provided a revised cost estimate on August 19, 2024, that breaks out
alternatives that could be constructed later or separately, along with a reduction to the overall project cost. The cost of
the project is still much higher than was anticipated when completing the grant application process.
We are happy to meet and discuss further if clarification is needed. Please let me know if this documentation is
sufficient.
Thank you and we look forward to hearing back from you!
Lily Honer-Hollstien
pronouns she/her/hers
14
Business Analyst
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E lhoner@slocity.org
T 805.781.7158
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Glaudel, Kevin@Parks <Kevin.Glaudel@parks.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 5, 2024 10:27 AM
To: Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>; Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Olmos, Maria@Parks <Maria.Olmos@parks.ca.gov>
Subject: 12/5 Meeting Recap
This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond.
Good morning Lily and Greg!
As always it was a pleasure meeting with you this morning to discuss your active projects!
For Emerson Neighborhood Park (SW-40-002) we discussed scope modifications to reduce cost of
construction. A letter signed by the authorized rep is required to facilitate a scope modification, the
requirements of this letter are below:
Cover letter from the authorized representative explaining the following:
a) Describing the proposed removal or modification to the Recreation Feature(s) or Major Support Amenity
from the original Grant Scope.
b) Explaining why the proposed removal or modification is needed.
c) Describing how the proposed removal or modification affects the range of recreational opportunities
between the original Grant Scope, and the proposed scope change.
d) Describing how the proposed removal or modification impacts the projected number of users.
e) Describing how the proposed removal or modification effects projected operating hours.
f) Describing how the residents were notified of the proposed removal or modification and given the
opportunity to provide feedback about the proposed reduction. Explain any controversy and describe what
actions were taken to mitigate the controversy.
g) Describing reasonable attempts to obtain funding from other local, State, Federal, or private sources to
complete the original grant scope. (If the requested removal or modification is due to a rise in construction
costs and a subsequent shortage of funds)
We will then require a new grant scope cost estimate ( you may line out and modify the original from the
application and have the authorized rep initial) and a final site plan.
18-40-002 (Mitchell Park Revitalization)
15
Congrats on nearly completing your project! As stated in our meeting, a final inspection is not required for this
project due to its small scope and non-competitive nature. To close this project once the project is complete,
we require the following:
1. Photos of all scope items completed
2. Photos of ADA Accessible Paths of Travel
3. An aerial/overview of the whole site
4. Photo of the bond act sign in place
5. Project completion packet
The project completion packet consists of our payment request workbook, audit checklist, project completion
packet, and a DPR541 (Public Contracting Cert) for any contracted services. A link to all of these documents
can be found in section 5 of the website here: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29750
Finally, we did discuss future funding opportunities may be available through the newly passed Proposition 4,
for the most up to date information on subsequent funding rounds available, please be sure you are subscribed
to our email list here: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1884213/1892449/
Thank you for your passion in completing your projects and enhancing recreational opportunities for the citizens
of San Luis Obispo! I look forward to seeing Emerson Park through to completion and cannot wait to see the
final product.
If you have any questions, please as always feel free to reach out at any time.
Best!
Kevin Glaudel
Administrative Project Officer
Office of Grants and Local Services
California Department of Parks and Recreation
916-902-8778
1
From:Avakian, Greg
Sent:Wednesday, March 4, 2026 2:12 PM
To:Department Heads
Cc:Hyfield, Devin; Tolley, Meghan; Honer-Hollstien, Lily; Genard, Allie; Nelson, Brian
Subject:RE: Emerson Park Prop 68 Project Update
Attachments:Emerson Park Project_Revised_March2026.pdf
BCC: Council and PRC
I want to provide an update regarding the project status for Emerson Park. Following the below email from February 6,
2026, Staff submitted the formal request for change proposal memo to the State Parks Prop 68 Grant
Commission on February 12, 2026 requesting the removal of the dog park amenity from the Emerson Park
project. This morning, March 4, 2026, the City received email confirmation from the State Prop 68 Grant
Commission, stating acceptance and approval for the modifications of the project plans to remove the dog
park amenity from the Emerson Park project. With this approval by the State, the project design will be modified
to exclude the dog park amenity, and the current full turf area will remain within the upgraded park project.
Staff will announce this update at tonight’s PRC meeting during my regular Director’s Report. As luck would have it,
Parks and Rec and Public Works have a meeting on Thursday morning with SSA Design to review the current 50%
construction documents and have alerted their team of this update so we can initiate the modifications for the design
layout. Over the next couple of months, staff and SSA Design will move forward with the construction documents for
the next check point for the 90% review in order to stay on track with the project timeline. At that point, an updated
value engineering will also be updated for the anticipated construction costs with the goal to return to Council with the
request for RFP for construction advertisement in fall 2026.
The City’s current park project website will be updated with a revised park layout and project information in a couple of
weeks.
Please also note, that both Ms. Pinard, along with the representative for Friends of SLO City Dog Parks (John
McKenzie) will be informed by the end of today.
Thank you all for the support and interest for this project, and staff will continue to provide updates as the project
progresses.
Best,
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Sent: Friday, February 6, 2026 3:39 PM
2
To: Avakian, Greg <gavakian@slocity.org>
Cc: Hyfield, Devin <DHyfield@slocity.org>; Tolley, Meghan <MTolley@slocity.org>; Honer-Hollstien, Lily <lhoner@slocity.org>;
Genard, Allie <agenard@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>
Subject: Emerson Park Prop 68 Project Update
BCC: Council
Good afternoon, Mayor Stewart, and Council:
At Wednesday evenings Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on February 4, 2026, the main agenda item was
to review the Emerson Park Beautification project final (nearly final) concept plan for commissioner and community
input in order to move to final design. As we are aware, the main topic for discussion and consideration was related to
the turf field size and impacts of including the dog park amenity within the project. I’ve provided a brief summary
below on the outcomes of the meeting and next steps related to the project.
Summary:
Staff conducted a presentation summarizing the project to date, which included the background on the Prop 68
Grant application process, inclusion of on-line surveys, public forums, items supported by the Parks &
Recreation Blueprint over the past 5 years and reviewing the amenities and layout of the park and 3D
rendering examples (see attached).
Staff and PRC reviewed 78 public comment emails prior to the meeting, as well as 23 public comments were
heard at the meeting, with a significant percentage requesting the dog park amenity be removed from the
project.
Throughout the deliberation, the PRC discussed different options and asked staff clarification questions
specific to the inclusion of the dog park and potential impacts to the Prop 68 Grant requirements if the dog park
was removed from the project.
o Significant conversation revolved around the ever-changing needs of the community from the initial
survey and forums which influenced the grant application (dog park inclusion) in 2021 to the current
discussion in 2025/2026 about dog parks and turf field uses and the prioritizations of each within a
neighborhood park (smaller, walkable, limited parking) vs. a community park (larger acreage and more
amenities, ability to host larger programs). Along with the philosophical review of neighborhood park vs.
community park, the Commission also discussed the positive impacts of the Laguna Lake Dog Park
opening, and the forecasted addition of the two new park projects (Righetti Community Park and Avila
Ranch Sports Complex) would contribute to the needs of the community.
After nearly 2 hours, the ending consensus from the PRC (7-0 motion) was to remove the dog park amenity
and maintain the current sized turf area with some conditions:
1. This is on condition of the staff submittal of a Grant Amenity Proposal Change memo to the State
Parks Prop 68 Grant committee requesting approval of removing the dog park amenity from the
scope of the project. Staff anticipate no concerns in the design c hange or exclusion of the dog park
due to the grant amenity ranking system which initially qualified the City for receiving the
award. Amenities such as the inclusion of a restroom, educational garden, safety lighting,
expanded all-ages playground, environmental upgrades of solar lighting and bioswales, as well as
inclusion of public art were the higher valued scoring amenities. Additionally, staff have had phone
conversations prior (December 2025) with the Prop 68 representative regarding the potential of the
dog park being eliminated from the final design. Staff plan to formally submit the Change Proposal
early next week and anticipate a 30-60 day timeline for the State to respond. If State Parks denies
the change, then the dog park feature will remain within the project in order to not be disqualified
from the grant requirements.
2. The Emerson Park project (design and construction) is funded by both the Prop 68 Grant ($2.81M)
and $1.3M from Park Improvement Funds. As the current park construction documents are at 50%,
the PRC has proposed (with support from Parks & Rec staff) that the dog park amenity remain
within the design but labeled as a future Add Alt option and not included in the construction
bid. The entire Prop 68 Grant funds would continue to be used for the project, while a portion of the
appropriated support funding from Park Improvement Funds (potential estimate of $300,000 of the
allocated $1.3M) be secured as a ‘hold’ for a future dog park addition. This was discussed as an
alternative for after the completion of the project and the funds to allocated within 18 months of the
parks reopening. This option allows staff and PRC to assess the use of the updated park for the
first 18 months, conduct a neighborhood survey on the upgrades, as well as revisit if there may
remain a need for a dog park to be added. With the recent completion of the Laguna Lake Dog
3
Park, the upcoming completion in 2027 of the Righetti Community Park fields (one full-size and one
youth size soccer pitch acreage), as well as the anticipated Avila Ranch Sports Complex in 2029
(which includes full size soccer pitch or 3 youth size, and a baseball diamond field, and a dedicated
dog park) there may be a shift in community needs at Emerson Park. Along with these projects,
staff are still working closely with the “Friends of SLO City Dog Parks” on the property lease for
them to build and operate a dog park on the ‘Linear Park’ parcel within Righetti Development. This
option allows for confirmation that a dog park is not necessary or with the new fields at the other
community parks that Emerson is not used as much for the turf area and dog park is desired. If the
dog park amenity at Emerson is determined not to be added after the initial 18-month of reopening
of Emerson Park, the $300,000 would become available within the Park Improvement Fund balance
for future upgrades and projects at other parks (or at Emerson) related to the Parks & Recreation
Blueprint.
I fully understand that this email summary may be a little confusing and staff are available for clarifications, especially
related to item #2.
In conclusion, the effort to conduct another community input forum at the February 4, 2026 PRC meeting, as well as
obtain feedback and advisory from the PRC, will allow for a better project to move forward and effectively use both the
Prop 68 Grant funds and the City’s Park Improvement Funds to provide the community the best upgrades to Emerson
Park.
Attachments:
- 3D Site Plan and Renderings (SSA 2025)
- PRC Staff Report–Emerson Park Project (02.04.2026)
- PRC Staff Presentation-Emerson Park (02.04.2026)
Best,
-Greg
Greg Avakian
pronouns he/him/his
Director of Parks and Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3934
E gavakian@slocity.org
T 805.781.7120
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications