Today’s newsletter is presented by San Diego Music Awards.
Hello, Pacific and Mission Beach!
There’s some drama along the volleyball courts at Mission Beach, as early morning beach volleyball players are at odds with neighbors and the city.
The municipal code stating the courts don’t open until 8 a.m. has been in place for decades, but that hasn’t stopped early-risers from showing up at 6 a.m. to start their games before work. Neighbors along the boardwalk have grown increasingly frustrated with the noise that accompanies this early morning play.
Park rangers began enforcing the 8 a.m. rule last week with threats of fines for the early morning players. No tickets have been issued since the initial warning.
But the volleyball players are pushing back. As of Wednesday, there are more than 2,500 signatures on a petition to open the courts at sunrise. Any changes to the 8 a.m. rule would have to go through the city council.
Mayor Todd Gloria has told volleyball advocates that finding a compromise for this issue is at the top of his list. It strikes me as odd, though, that the mayor would prioritize early morning volleyball players over funding for arts and culture, libraries, parks and youth services.
We’re privileged with the opportunity to develop community around outdoor activities. But it’s also our responsibility to be neighborly and respect beach residents. Hopefully the city’s compromise doesn’t come at too much of an expense.
P.S. The 16th Annual Pacific Beach Graffiti Cleanup is this Saturday, May 2! If you’d like to volunteer, there’s still time to sign up here.
Until next week!Â
Ashlyn Lipori-Russie
Beach & Bay Press newsletter host
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