For City Council Meeting April 14, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Tanya Williams, City Manager
AUTHOR: Cynthia Alvarado, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Title
Request City Council to: 1) Approve the Second Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Willow Village Apartment Complex for the Mobile Recreation Program; and 2) Authorize the City Manager, or Their Designee, to Execute all Necessary Documents.
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council Approve:
1) The Second Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Willow Village Apartment Complex for the Mobile Recreation Program; and,
2) Authorize the City Manager, or their designee, to execute all necessary documents.
BACKGROUND
The Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department continues to provide Mobile Recreation programming, delivering accessible recreational opportunities to residents in underserved communities.
On December 14, 2023, the City entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Willow Village Apartment Complex to provide Mobile Recreation programming at the apartment facility. The MOU had an initial one-year Term that commenced on January 9, 2024, and expired on January 9, 2025. The MOU provides for two (2) extensions of one (1) year each. On March 11, 2025, the MOU was amended to extend the term for one (1) year.
To ensure the continuation of this service, the Department is seeking to renew its partnership with Willow Village Apartment Complex by entering into a Second Amendment to the existing MOU to exercise the final extension term.
The Mobile Recreation program was established to bring free recreational activities to residents facing transportation barriers that limit their ability to access traditional parks and recreation facilities. Funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program so that the Department could purchase a trailer and materials and supplies to essentially create a community center on wheels so that we can services to those who cannot easily get to our facilities. The initiative has allowed the Department to expand its outreach efforts and bring programming directly to communities in need.
Willow Village Apartment Complex, located at 1150 North Willow Avenue, consists of 100 affordable housing units with a high occupancy rate and various amenities, including playgrounds, green spaces, a community room, and a computer lab. The Department’s partnership with Willow Village has been instrumental in ensuring that children and families have access to enriching activities in a safe and engaging environment.
ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION
Continuation of Mobile Recreation at Willow Village
The Department’s first year of Mobile Recreation at Willow Village demonstrated a strong community impact by providing children and families with structured recreational and enrichment activities. The program includes arts and crafts, games, sports, and physical activities designed to promote social engagement, creativity, and overall well-being.
Given the program’s success, the Department recommends formalizing the continued partnership with Willow Village Apartment Complex through a Second Amendment to the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The amendment will establish a one-year term, ensuring continued program sustainability and consistency for residents.
Addressing Barriers to Recreation
Many families at Willow Village face financial or transportation challenges that prevent them from accessing city recreation centers and parks. Mobile Recreation provides a convenient, no-cost solution by bringing programming directly to their community, eliminating barriers and ensuring equitable access to recreational opportunities.
Funding and Sustainability
The program was initially funded via CDBG to get it started, however the program is funded via our general fund with no additional funds required nor requested for this MOU.
Community Impact and Benefits
• Increased Recreational Access - Brings structured recreational activities to residents who may not have access to parks or community centers.
• Youth Engagement - Provides a safe, supervised space for children to play and interact, fostering social and emotional development.
• Equitable Opportunities - Supports low-income families by offering free recreational programming at a location convenient to them.
• Long-Term Community Partnership - Strengthens the relationship between the City and Willow Village, ensuring continued investment in community well-being.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
This action is not classified as a “Project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and does not result in any physical changes to the environment.
GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
This initiative aligns with the City of Rialto’s General Plan Guiding Principles 3C & 4A:
• Ensuring transparent and responsive government operations that meet community needs.
• Supporting the development and maintenance of parks and recreational programs that serve all residents.
LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney's Office has reviewed the agreement and approved it as to form.
FINANCIAL IMPACTS
Operating Budget Impact
There is no impact on the Operating Budget.
Capital Improvement Budget Impact
There is no impact on the Capital Improvement Budget.
Licensing
This action does not require a business license.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Second Amendment with Willow Village apartment complex
2. Original MOU