Orange · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Orange public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Proposed pocket park via $1M extreme heat grant
The city applied for a $1 million state grant to turn a vacant, fenced city-owned lot near Grijalva Park into a shaded pocket park with a playground, native trees, and trail connections. A decision is expected in early 2027, and the council would have to accept the funds.
Holiday Skate Center preservation
The 53-year-old roller rink closed August 2 ahead of a proposed townhome redevelopment at 157 and 175 North Wayfield Street. Nearly twenty skaters, coaches, and parents begged the council to delay demolition or reconsider the rezoning, but the item isn't formally before the council yet, so no action was taken.
Rampart Street Park Project design
The Council approved leases with the County for two west Orange park properties — a 10-acre site key to the OC Riverwalk and a 1-acre Rampart Street site planned for a walking path, seating, and dog area.
Grijalva skate park regulatory delay
The council awarded a $2.5 million contract to finally build the long-awaited skatepark at Grijalva Park.
Sully-Miller property open space
The city received a 30.75-acre open-space dedication at the Sully Miller site with conservation easements, and a new grant was secured for habitat restoration and invasive removal there.
Playground Equipment Replacement — Eisenhower vs. Hart Park
Two 20-plus-year-old playgrounds are worn out, and the city can only afford to replace one this year with $800,000. The commission chose Eisenhower's lower playground; Hart Park stays on the list for next year. Commissioner Kushon wants the city's unused sponsorship program tapped to help pay for more.
Grijalva Park Master Plan update
The city is updating the Grijalva Park master plan with a community questionnaire and a public workshop on March 31 at 6 p.m. at the Sports Center. Residents can shape what goes into the park's future, including a coming skatepark.
Hart Park Pool reopening with private operator
The pool will reopen year-round under Premier Aquatic Services, but swim lessons jump from about $5 to $15 each, and residents questioned whether the city got the best deal. Drowning-prevention advocates supported the program but questioned the contract terms.
30.75-acre open space dedication in East Orange
Milan is giving the city 30.75 acres around the future 22-home site as permanent open space — a big step toward fixing Orange's open-space shortfall, with a conservation easement the developer pays to maintain.