76 sworn officer milestone underscores EBRPD’s commitment to recruitment, retention and being an employer of choice

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District proudly announces that its Police Department has reached 100 percent staffing at the sworn police officer rank — a significant achievement that reflects the department’s reputation as a rewarding and respected place to build a career in public safety. With all 76 sworn officer positions filled for the first time in over 18 years, the department is better positioned than ever to deliver on its high standards for service, safety, and community trust.

This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy at a time when most Bay Area police agencies face persistent vacancies of 10 to 25 percent, with a national average near 15 percent, according to a recent survey from Respond Capture, a technology firm that assists law enforcement agencies with recruitment strategies. Achieving full staffing demonstrates the Park District’s success in attracting talented officers who are drawn to its mission, supportive culture, and unique opportunities to protect both people and natural spaces.

“Reaching full staffing in law enforcement is a remarkable milestone,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “It reflects the dedication of our recruitment and retention teams, the appeal of our mission, and the leadership of Chief Roberto Filice. Officers choose the Park District because they can be part of something meaningful — protecting beloved parks and serving a community that values their work.”

Since 2022, the department has invested in dedicated recruitment efforts, including adding a sergeant role focused solely on attracting top talent. “Filling vacancies has always been — and will always be — a priority, but it’s even more important to find the right people,” said the department’s Chief Filice. “We look for officers who share our values, are dedicated to keeping our parks and communities safe, and are committed to fostering positive relationships with park visitors.”

Recruitment strategies have included outreach to police academies, collaboration with training agencies, participation in job fairs, and community engagement events like National Night Out. The department also actively celebrates the work of its officers through media coverage, social media recognition, and public acknowledgments at Board of Directors meetings.

“Full staffing means more proactive patrols, faster response times, greater community presence, and an even higher level of service for park visitors,” Filice added. “It also means our officers enjoy a supportive team environment, exceptional training, and the satisfaction of serving in one of the most beautiful regions in the country.”

“We want to thank our recruitment team, our Human Resources Department, General Manager Sabrina Landreth, Deputy General Manager Allyson Cook, and Chief Roberto Filice, who all worked diligently to bring the sworn portion of our Police Department to full staffing,” said Christopher Rudy, a detective in the department and Vice President of the East Bay Regional Park District Police Association, the department’s union affiliation. “We want to especially thank the General Manager and our Chief for the vision and implementation of our proactive Police Department that has attracted so many new members.”

The Park District Police Department provides a full range of services — from emergency response and criminal investigations to aerial support and interagency mutual aid — across 73 regional parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails. In addition to patrolling Park District lands, the department provides contracted policing for East Bay Municipal Utilities District recreation areas, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission watershed lands in the East Bay, and several state-owned parks.

With an estimated 30 million annual visits to its parks, the East Bay Regional Park District offers a dynamic and meaningful environment for public safety professionals. Here, officers protect not only the public but also the natural and cultural treasures that make the Bay Area extraordinary.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust for $1.82 million; will be added to acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is pleased to announce the acquisition of 140 acres adjacent to Deer Valley Regional Park in partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy (Conservancy). The property is located in eastern unincorporated Contra Costa County south of Antioch and southwest of Brentwood, within the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP) area.

The property was purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust and is accessed from Briones Valley Road, approximately 1.3 miles west of Deer Valley Road. The property will become an addition to Deer Valley Regional Park.

Consistent with other properties acquired in partnership with the Conservancy and conserved for the HCP/NCCP, a Covenant to Restrict Use of Property ensures that existing wildlife and habitat values are protected. The restrictive covenant permits public recreation compatible with habitat values.

The property is composed of oak woodland and oak savanna and includes sprawling grasslands, a segment of Marsh Creek riparian habitat, and a seasonal pond. No species studies have been completed yet, but habitat found on the Freschi property is known to support the California red-legged frog, the California tiger salamander, and a variety of raptors.

“This acquisition reflects the Park District’s ongoing commitment to protecting critical habitat and expanding access to nature for all,” says Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We’re grateful for our strong partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the support of state agencies that helped make this purchase possible. We look forward to incorporating this beautiful landscape into Deer Valley Regional Park and to preserve its ecological value for generations to come.”

“Preserving this land not only safeguards vital habitat but also furthers our vision of connecting people to open space in east Contra Costa County,” says Colin Coffey, Park District Board Member representing Ward 7, which includes parts of Contra Costa County. “Strategic acquisitions like this are a key part of building out a regional park network that serves both wildlife and the community. I’m proud to see this progress in a region I represent and care deeply about.”

“Land conservation in this region is made possible through strong, collaborative partnerships,” says Hugh Henderson, Board Chair for the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and Vice Mayor of the City of Oakley. “The Conservancy and the Park District worked closely with the seller to secure the protection of this property. As habitat for endangered and threatened species, this land holds significant ecological value, and we are dedicated to its long-term stewardship and conservation.”

Will Be Added to Acreage Sold to Park District by Jack Roddy

The land is in addition to the acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners which includes the former 18-hole Roddy Ranch Golf Course located off Deer Valley Road. In 2022, the Park District adopted a Habitat Restoration and Public Access Plan to restore native grasslands across the 230-acre golf course and provide facilities for passive recreation including walking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. This parkland is part of the Conservancy’s Preserve System, which emphasizes environmental restoration and preservation. 

The next phase of Park development includes:

• Restoring 84 acres of grasslands
• Installing picnic areas, restrooms, and nearly four miles of multi-use trails
• Building an interpretive pavilion for environmental education and history

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, pending permit approvals and funding.

A public ribbon cutting to celebrate the addition of the property to the Park District will take place later in the year.

Click to learn more about the Deer Valley Regional Park | East Bay Parks.

Funding Sources

The property was acquired in partnership with the Conservancy using a combination of grant funds from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife ($1.5 million) with additional funding ($320,000) provided by the Wildlife Conservation Board, both secured by the Conservancy.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, over 126,000 acres, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

News from the East Bay Regional Park District

Includes CA Free Fishing Day Aug. 30

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

Groundbreaking Celebrates New Point Molate Bay Trail Extension

East Bay Regional Park District board members, leadership, and staff joined with elected officials, City of Richmond representatives, and community leaders on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, to break ground on the construction of the Point Molate Bay Trail Extension Project in Richmond. This extension is a major step forward in expanding public access to Point Molate and enhancing regional connectivity along the San Francisco Bay Trail.

Once completed, the new 2.5-mile segment will connect the City of Richmond’s Point Molate Beach Park to the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, providing seamless access to the existing bike and pedestrian path on the bridge. The trail extension also includes scenic views of the bay shoreline, a 600-foot boardwalk, and interpretive panels sharing the area’s natural and cultural history.

The project is a partnership between the Park District and the City of Richmond, which owns 1.25 miles of the 2.5-mile trail extension project area. The Park District is leading design, permitting, and construction of the trail.

For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/news and www.ebparks.org/projects/san-francisco-bay-trail-point-molate.

Hot Days Ahead! 

After a relatively mild summer, the weather is heating up! When enjoying Regional Parks this August, keep the following tips in mind to beat the heat:

• Avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day. If you do visit the parks, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Don’t forget to bring extra water for your pets!
• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the effects of heat on your body.

Also, consider visiting Regional Parks with shady trails and cooler weather. For some cool options, visit www.ebparks.org/visit/shady-hikes-cooler-parks.

Learn about the Fin-Tastic Fish of the San Francisco Bay at the Crab Cove Fish Festival

The numerous fish species that thrive in the deep, murky waters of the San Francisco Bay come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny 2.5-inch Delta smelt, which is endangered, to long-living sturgeons that can reach up to 7 feet. In the bay, pipefish that look like seahorses hide in eelgrass beds. The male plainfin midshipman, also known as the singing toadfish, serenades females along the rocky shore. Swell sharks lay camouflaged egg cases called mermaid purses among the sea kelp. Each of these unique, fin-tastic fish plays a role in keeping the bay healthy and thriving. 

On Aug. 23, Crab Cove hosts its annual Fish Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can observe fish up close at the Mobile Fish Exhibit and enjoy fish crafts, face painting, fishy games, and much more! The Doug Siden Visitor Center and Aquarium at Crab Cove in Alameda is a great place to learn about local fish species.

Also consider dropping in on Wednesdays or weekend afternoons at 3 p.m. to watch fish feeding.

CA Free Fishing Day

Saturday, Aug. 30, is a free fishing day in California and in the East Bay Regional Park District as both Park District fishing fees and state fishing license requirements are waived for visitors. Fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors—from first-timers to seasoned anglers. It’s a fun activity for all ages that offers a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and connect with family and friends.

There are plenty of opportunities in the East Bay to cast a line. The Park District offers 10 fishing lakes, five bay and delta shoreline piers, and 25 miles of bay and delta shoreline for fishing. For more information, visit ebparks.org/recreation/fishing.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

By Antioch Police Department

Let’s make a difference—together!

Join us for our Monthly Community Clean-Up on Saturday, August 2nd from 10 AM to 12 PM at Marchetti Park, 5298 Belle Drive!

Grab your friends and your good vibes—we’ll provide the supplies.

Let’s keep our city beautiful and show some love to the neighborhood!

Ahoy, Antioch!

Get ready to set sail at our Box Boat Derby on Saturday, June 28th! Grab your cardboard, duct tape and creativity because it’s time to build the ultimate boat and race it down the lap pool.

Whether you’re a DIY pro or just in it for the fun, this event is for everyone. So, gather your crew, get crafty, and let’s make a splash together!

All ages welcome.

AWARDS for the most creative, fastest, and best-dressed boats!

Check In Begins: 11:15am.

Race Start Time: 12:30pm

Location: Antioch Water Park – Lap Pool

We hope to see you for a day full of fun, laughter, and friendly competition!

More info can be found on our Events tab at antiochwaterpark.com.

All participants and spectators must have a valid general admission ticket for that day. Tickets are available by clicking here.

$8.3 million in grants; $2.6 million in district matching funds

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District is set to spend $10.9 million over the next three years to reduce fire fuels at Anthony Chabot, Tilden, and Wildcat Canyon Regional Parks, Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve, and Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline. The funding will help reduce wildfire risks by removing dead and dying trees and hazardous vegetation on over 600 acres. Dead trees burn hotter and faster and can cast embers long distances, igniting new fires.

These efforts are in addition to ongoing fuels reduction work districtwide, including large-scale projects at Anthony Chabot Regional Park (544 acres) and Tilden Regional Park (39 acres), a 16-person year-round fuels reduction crew, and annual goat, sheep, and cattle grazing. In 2024, the Park District’s fuels reduction crew removed hazardous fire fuels on 104 acres in 11 parks. Additionally, more than 86,800 acres of parkland are grazed annually by cattle, sheep, or goats.

“The grant funding enhances our ability to protect the public and safeguard our natural landscapes,” said Park District Interim Fire Chief Khari Helae. “Securing the funding is a testament to the Park District’s efforts—from planning to permitting—to manage the detailed grant application process and its proven ability to carry out large-scale fuels reduction projects in support of the community.”

The $10.9 million for fuels reduction projects includes $8.3 million in grants, with $6.1 million coming from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), $2.1 million from the California State Coastal Conservancy, and $100,000 from the U.S. Forest Service. FEMA funding was obtained in partnership with U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, who secured $1.5 million in the 2023 budget, and U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, who secured $1.4 million in the 2024 budget.

An additional $2.6 million comes from required Park District matching funds, which include general funds and voter-approved local revenue measures like Measure FF. These local revenue measures enhance the Park District’s ability to qualify for and secure grant funding by providing required matching contributions.

“These projects are vital to reducing wildfire risks in the East Bay,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We thank FEMA, Sen. Alex Padilla, Rep. Eric Swalwell, the California State Coastal Conservancy, the U.S. Forest Service, and Park District voters for their support and for prioritizing wildfire mitigation in the East Bay.”

For large scale vegetation management projects, the Park District utilizes a climate-friendly carbonizer to dispose of vegetation. The carbonizer burns organic matter at 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit with little oxygen, which produces very low emissions—especially compared to conventional disposal methods such as open pile burning or transporting debris long distances in diesel trucks. The resulting biochar is being used throughout the Park District to enhance soil health, improve water retention, and increase crop productivity, including at the District’s Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont.

The Park District Board of Directors will consider authorizing $1,883,261 in matching funds from Measure FF at their upcoming Board Meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Measure FF was passed in 2018 by voters in the communities of Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, El Cerrito, El Sobrante, Emeryville, Kensington, Oakland, Piedmont, Richmond, and San Pablo to provide funding to reduce fire risks, improve public access, and restore natural habitat. The Board of Directors previously authorized $500,016 in matching funds in March 2023.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Participate in the #KAB Photo Raffle April 22-26

Keep Antioch Beautiful

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025 – Volunteer lunch included
Time: 9:00am-1:00pm
Location: Antioch Water Park & Waldie Plaza

From Earth Day to Arbor Day, let’s work together to build a stronger, cleaner, more beautiful Antioch! Starting Earth Day, April 22nd join us as we begin our service to the community. Gather friends and family to brainstorm a beautification project for your home, neighborhood, classroom, or local business, and put it into action! Don’t forget to capture your efforts with a photo and send to the Antioch Recreation Department! On Saturday, April 26th, be part of the volunteers who will serve downtown near Waldie Plaza and at the Antioch Community Center before enjoying a volunteer lunch. For Arbor Day, on May 1st, join our Parks and Rec Department as we plant trees at a local park.

What is Earth Day?
First held globally on April 22, 1970, Earth Day promotes worldwide demonstrations of support for environmental protection. Attention is drawn to the achievements made by the environmental protection movement and awareness is brought to methods of protecting the Earth’s natural resources. Celebrated by billions around the world, Keep Antioch Beautiful is just one of the ways our community celebrates Earth Day.

What is Arbor Day?
First celebrated in the U.S. in 1872, Arbor Day encourages public attention to the importance of trees in our ecosystem. Planting, relocating, and even climbing trees are encouraged along with learning more about the myriad of ways trees function in our environment and help us all to exist.

This year’s community services:

Planting Trees on Arbor Day	Click to Sign Up
Trash Clean Up Downtown (Nick Rodriguez Community Center)	Click to Sign Up
Planting Flowers at Prewett Community Park	Click to Sign Up

*Please bring work gloves.

#KAB Photo Raffle

From Earth Day to Arbor Day (April 22nd – April 26) show us how you and your family #KeepAntiochBeautiful. Post a picture of you, your family, friends, or coworkers performing an act of beautification for the city with the hashtag #KeepAntiochBeautiful AND tag the Antioch Recreation Department (@antiochrec_ca) to be entered into our raffle. On Arbor Day, three lucky entries will be chosen to each win a prize dedicated to them and their efforts toward the beautification of our lovely city!

For more information visit Keep Antioch Beautiful – City of Antioch, California.

By East Bay Regional Park District Police Department

This week, EBRPD-PD Officers conducted a traffic stop after receiving a call for service of a vehicle that did not pay for entry at the kiosk of Contra Loma Regional Park, in Antioch. The vehicle also matched the description of a suspect vehicle that was doing donuts at Contra Loma the previous day. Officers discovered two juveniles in the car (which was also parked in violation of a no parking sign).

After searching the car, officers located a personally manufactured, un-serialized, short-barrel assault rifle. One of the juveniles was later booked at the Contra Costa Juvenile Detention Facility.

4/15/25 UPDATE: According to EBRPD PIO Dave Mason the suspect arrested is age 17 and he is from Antioch.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.