Logo courtesy of the City of Gridley

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – As Gridley's recreation programs move through the summer, Recreation Manager Jaime Luevano is outlining efforts to expand activities, improve communication with residents and pursue long-term improvements for the department.

During a City Council planning session before the council's July recess, Luevano presented his vision for building participation across all age groups while making recreation programs easier for residents to find and enjoy. His priorities included expanding youth activities, adding senior fitness opportunities, improving communication and pursuing grant funding for future park amenities.

"I want to continue to establish a positive relationship with the community," Luevano said.

After being hired in early May to stabilize and rebuild the city’s recreation department, Luevano said he envisions a recreation program that offers free movie nights, youth basketball skills camps, bike rides, park scavenger hunts, all while providing more support for long established or struggling community events.

Luevano has introduced a senior fitness program offered three mornings a week while continuing chair yoga classes that have already begun attracting regular participants. He said the programs are designed to encourage participation while giving staff an opportunity to hear directly from participants and tailor activities to the community's interests.

For younger residents, Luevano said he hopes to strengthen introductory sports opportunities before children enter organized leagues. He noted many beginning basketball players receive little practice time before games and said additional skills camps can help build confidence and develop fundamental skills.

Improving communication with residents is another priority.

Luevano said many community members have told him they struggle to find recreation information because they do not use social media.

"I think we're missing a huge part of our community that doesn't do social media," he said.

To address that issue, Luevano plans to work with city officials on creating a dedicated recreation department website modeled after neighboring agencies. He also noted the current online resources do not include Spanish-language translation, limiting access for part of the community.

Luevano said the department is exploring grant opportunities, including the National Fitness Campaign, which could help bring an outdoor fitness court to Gridley. He also hopes to recruit additional volunteer coaches as demand for youth sports continues to grow.

The Recreation Department already serves hundreds of residents annually through youth sports, senior activities and seasonal programs. According to the city's adopted 2026-27 budget, the soccer league serves more than 500 youth each year, while approximately 225 children participate in basketball. The annual summer program attracted about 210 participants last year with classes ranging from sports and arts to baking and science activities. Weekly senior programs, community events and outdoor activities supported through a California State Parks Outdoor Equity Grant round out the department's offerings.

The adopted 2026-27 budget, which went into effect on July 1, provides approximately $415,000 for recreation programs and staffing as the department continues expanding opportunities for residents of all ages.