For the second time in the last month I have read with considerable discomfort about the concerns regarding graffiti at the “Pocket Beaches.” The recent article in the “Surfside News,” which Ms. Lee mentioned, was not accurate- the caption identified the location as State Park Property and lamented the fact that Parks was not providing any services at this location (El Matador). After reading the article I sent staff out to deal with the problem. As it turned out, the graffiti was not on State property. I sent a letter to the “Surfside News” explaining that their news story was not accurate. I also sent along our year-end statistics for El Matador, making it clear that we did provide staffing for this area (hundreds of aquatic contacts and yes, many dog contacts). I never did get a reply.
I want to make it clear that State Parks stands by its commitments to provide services at the Pocket Beaches. I will investigate the Camel Rock Cave and clean up the graffiti. If anyone in the community has a complaint regarding State Parks or wishes to share a concern, give me a call at 310-457-8140.
Hayden Sohm, Superintendent
California State Parks