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with his comments, which he did. Mr. Maas also noted that it is quite an emotional experience in going through this initiative process, which is quite an education in itself. He was glad for the communication and noted that the proponents would love nothing better than not to have to go through the process to gather signatures to get this done. He believed the community deserved to have this park with lighted sports fields and as councilmembers, they should do its job and get it done for the citizens and not force the citizens to go out and obtain the signatures. Ms. Ayala noted that she had made a comment to Mr. Campbell and mentioned that the sports community would feel better when this goes to a vote of the people so that then it cannot be changed. She asked Mr. Maas if he had any comments related to that statement? Mr. Maas believed this park was a done deal two years ago but positions have changed, ideas have changed and new ideas have come forward. He was not saying these new ideas were wrong or right, but pointed out that things have changed. If the voters lock it in so that the citizens can be the only ones to change what is approved, that would be a way to do it. But with the competition and the way it is currently laid out, there is no protection for these sports fields to ever be built. There is no guarantee. He appreciated and respected Mayor Pico's comments, but that again does not guarantee that the fields will be built. He said the kids need the fields and the adults need the fields and the community should have these sports fields in that park. Mayor Pico believed that at some point, Council would need to talk about going to the community for funding. Steve Toschi, 5138 Mount Tam Circle, President of Pleasanton Foothill Little League, concurred with Mr. Maas' and Mr. Thome's comments. He said that the Foothill Little League is behind the initiative. He came here this evening to inform Council of this on behalf of its members. He was encouraged by the Council's movement and thanked them. Michael Johnson, 6296 Hansen Drive, Vice Chair of the Pleasanton Youth Commission, reminded Council of the review and selection process as it pertained to the design competition. He noted that the Youth Commission wanted one of its members to be a part of the selection process, whether it is as a juror or another way. He asked Council for its thoughts. Mayor Pico said it could happen. Mr. Brozosky said that there is one part of the design competition that allows for input forums with the different commissions, such as the Planning and Parks and Recreation Commissions. He asked Mr. Johnson if he was asking Council to provide the Youth Commission this same oppommity?. Pleasanton City Council 13 03/02/04 Minutes