Families promote park lighting in wake of homicide

The city said it’s actually been busy doing more to keep kids active and off the streets. That also means putting in lights at a couple different parks like at Chester Aaroe.

The mayor of Soledad, Fred Ledesma said,
“The police will tell you, you cant arrest your way out of problems. the only way you eliminate problems is to keep young people active whether it be in sports music or the arts.”

The mayor said between little league and girl softball, about 600 local kids participate in sports at Soledad parks.

New lights were installed at Chester Aaroe park this month. The lights are something the city said is an investment in Soledad’s future.

To have the lights on throughout the year it only costs the city about $1,800 because they are energy efficient.

The Sunday night shooting happened just up the road at Blas Santana Park, and parents say that’s exactly why lighting in the parks is so important.

Isaac Bailon, baseball parent said,
“Parents would feel more comfortable with the kids out here later and you know with the lights on you know it just makes everyone feel much safer.”

Bailon helps out with Soledads baseball tryouts and said 70 kids tried out just last week. Bailon said their parents had more time to get them to the field because they were playing under the lights.

“Its been a long time coming and we are really excited, we’re really excited to be out here with the kids late at night and watch them play,” said Bailon.