March 31, 2010 > Efforts underway to save parks Efforts underway to save parks By Meenu Gupta Newark residents thanked Mayor David Smith and City Manager John Becker for working with them to arrive at an equitable solution on maintaining Newark parks - Bridgepointe Park, Mayhews Landing and Mirabeau Park. Staff has begun working toward what Mayor David Smith called "park maintenance parity" throughout Newark. All parks will be maintained equally. They will be serviced a bit less than in the past, but they will thrive. Staff is also developing a Volunteer Handbook setting out what volunteers can and cannot do. It will also appear on the city's website, www.newark.org. "We are looking for the possibilities of grants, we need park sponsorships, corporate sponsorships and we have a few groups already signed up," said Mayor Smith. Risk Management Solutions, Cargill Salt, Kellar Williams, Lake Area Residents Association (LARA) and Mormon Helping Hands have stepped up to do volunteer work. "We thank Mayor Smith and Manager Becker, for working with us to arrive at an equitable solution to this issue," said Newark resident Bob Murphy. "People can post suggestions, report problems online." He suggested uploading a website where people can make donations directly for park maintenance. A link to that website will be updated on www.coolbob1.com.