Restroom to be remodeled in Berniece Bennett Park

By Lori Porter porter@theacorn.com

Safety, sanitation and aesthetic issues influenced a decision by Westlake Village city council members to pursue renovations of a 35-year-old dilapidated restroom at Berniece Bennett Park in First Neighborhood. The action occurred last week.

The Cultural/Recreation Committee, overseeing the project, heard from opponents during an Oct. 13 meeting. At that session, committee members presented several options for repairs and improvements to the 576-square-foot building.

Satisfied that the committee considered all viable options, the council approved a recommendation by the committee to remodel the restroom (as opposed to other options). One alternative would have required the facility to be completely torn down and rebuilt.

While remodeling was the least expensive option, it requires the city to hire a design contractor, which will cost $10,000 to $15,000—about 10 percent of the total cost of construction.

The committee met with residents from First Neighborhood in November and also during a series of park workshops over the summer. Audrey Brown, assistant city manager for Westlake Village, said residents who attended the Berniece Bennett Park workshop and last month’s meeting said fixing the restroom was a priority.

At the October meeting, Councilmember Susan McSween-ey, who works adjacent to the park at White Oak Elementary School, said she saw the restroom every day. "The bathrooms are a disgrace to the city of Westlake Village," she said.

The entrance to the facility, which is virtually hidden from view, was a serious concern because it posed a potential threat of harm for children. According to committee members, anyone could enter into the restroom without being noticed.

"When kids go in there, parents cannot see who else is going in with them," said McSweeney at October’s meeting.

Lt. Steve Wilson of Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station told council members that he wouldn’t want his children entering a building where they’d be hidden from view. Structures can attract criminals if the buildings are located in areas with poor sight lines, he said.

The remodel will include a more visible entrance. The Cultural Recreation Committee will begin seeking bids immediately for the remodel which will also feature upgrades indoors and out.