The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting held on September 3, 2025, in Vacaville focused on the critical need for updating the city's development impact fee program. This fee is essential for funding the expansion of public infrastructure and parks as the city continues to grow.

Commission members discussed the implications of not expanding park facilities in light of anticipated population growth, particularly the addition of 40,000 new residents. They highlighted that without adequate facilities, existing amenities, such as the city's single pool, would face increased demand, leading to longer wait times and potential deterioration of services. The development impact fee is designed to ensure that new developments contribute to the infrastructure needed to support their residents, rather than relying solely on existing tax revenues.

The commission noted that the current fee structure, established in 1992, has not been updated regularly, which has resulted in insufficient funds to develop new parks. This stagnation could lead to a decline in the level of service provided to residents, as the city struggles to keep pace with the needs of a growing population. Comparisons were made with other cities, such as Roseville, which maintains a higher standard of park acreage per resident, suggesting that a robust fee program can coexist with residential development and enhance community appeal.

The discussion also touched on the Quimby ordinance, which requires developers to provide parkland for larger developments, and the distinction between this and turnkey parks, which involve developers creating fully equipped parks. The commission emphasized the importance of negotiating with developers to ensure that new parks meet community standards and are delivered in a timely manner.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for Vacaville to reassess and update its development impact fees to better serve its growing population and maintain a high quality of life for residents. The commission plans to continue discussions on this topic and explore strategies for implementing necessary changes.