The Conejo Recreation and Park District (CRPD) has unveiled a plan to reduce the size of the Las Flores Community Garden and to trim its parking area in order to add new amenities. The proposal has sparked strong opposition from the garden’s nearly 200 members, who describe the space as an essential, inclusive haven for a diverse cross‑section of Thousand Oaks residents.
Who Calls the Garden Home
Garden members range from homeschooled students and families with young children learning to grow their own food, to adults on the autism spectrum seeking a peaceful environment. Seniors on fixed incomes rely on the garden’s produce to supplement meals, while working professionals use it as a place of solitude after demanding days. The garden also serves individuals coping with personal loss, offering a therapeutic setting that promotes healing.
Community Impact
Each year the garden donates hundreds of pounds of fresh produce to local food banks, directly supporting those in need throughout the Conejo Valley. Members travel to the site by bicycle, on foot, and with canes, walkers or wheelchairs, underscoring the garden’s role as an accessible, multigenerational gathering place.
CRPD’s Proposed Changes
According to the district’s draft plan, a portion of the garden’s cultivated beds would be converted to other park amenities, and the existing parking lot would be reduced. The district argues that the new amenities will serve a broader segment of park users, but gardeners contend that the changes would erode the garden’s core purpose as a quiet, self‑governing community resource.
Gardeners’ Response
Valorie Wigen, a longtime gardener and resident of Thousand Oaks, wrote to the Parks Department Board urging officials to reconsider. “Our garden is an invaluable, thriving Conejo Valley resource,” she said. “We are an ethnically diverse melting pot of people who care for each other, encourage each other, and grow an incredible variety of crops together.” She emphasized that the garden provides a sanctuary for children, seniors, individuals on the spectrum, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor space.
Why the Garden Matters
The Las Flores Community Garden exemplifies the kind of local, faith‑centered, family‑friendly initiative that strengthens neighborhoods. It offers a practical lesson in stewardship, self‑reliance and community service—values that align with the traditions of strong families and the liberty to gather peacefully.
Next Steps
The Parks Department Board is scheduled to review the proposal at its upcoming meeting. Garden supporters plan to attend, share personal stories, and present data on the garden’s contributions to food security and community cohesion. They are also preparing a petition to demonstrate broad public backing for preserving the garden’s current footprint.
How Residents Can Help
Community members who wish to voice support for the garden can submit comments to the CRPD, attend the board meeting, or sign the petition when it becomes available. Maintaining the garden’s size and parking capacity will help ensure that this vital resource continues to serve the diverse needs of Thousand Oaks residents for years to come.
Original reporting: Thousand Oaks Acorn — read the source article.
