Issue Page
Parks & Open Space
Mission Viejo's parks, trails, and open spaces are essential to our quality of life. They are where our children play, our families gather, and our community connects. Peter Molinari is committed to protecting and enhancing these vital community assets for generations to come.
My Position on Parks and Open Space
Parks and open space are not luxuries — they are essential infrastructure for a healthy, vibrant community. Mission Viejo is fortunate to have an outstanding park system, from neighborhood parks to the beautiful Lake Mission Viejo, and Peter Molinari is committed to protecting and improving these assets.
Mission Viejo's parks serve multiple purposes: they provide recreation opportunities for families, they preserve natural habitat and open space, they increase property values, and they create the gathering places where community bonds are formed. Every investment in our parks is an investment in the long-term health of our city.
Peter believes that as Mission Viejo evolves, we must be intentional about preserving and expanding our green spaces. Once open space is lost to development, it is gone forever. We must be good stewards of the natural resources that make Mission Viejo such a special place to live.
What I've Accomplished
During his five years on the Mission Viejo Planning and Transportation Commission, Peter has consistently advocated for park improvements and open space preservation in development decisions. He has supported projects that include parkland and recreational amenities, and has pushed back on proposals that would compromise existing open space.
Peter has also supported city investments in park infrastructure, including improvements to community parks, sports fields, and trails. He understands that Mission Viejo families rely on these facilities for youth sports, exercise, and outdoor recreation.
As a 18+ year resident who has raised his daughter in Mission Viejo, Peter has personally experienced the value of our parks — from Reilly Elementary school events to community gatherings at the Lake. This personal connection drives his commitment to keeping these spaces vibrant and accessible.
Future Goals for Mission Viejo Parks
As your District 2 City Council member, Peter will work to:
Maintain and upgrade Mission Viejo's existing parks and recreational facilities. Our parks need ongoing investment to remain safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all residents.
Expand recreational programs for residents of all ages. From youth sports to senior activities, Mission Viejo should offer programs that serve our entire community.
Protect open space from overdevelopment. Peter will be a strong voice on the City Council for preserving the natural areas that define Mission Viejo's character.
Improve trail connectivity so that Mission Viejo residents can walk, run, and bike safely throughout our city. Connected trails promote health, reduce traffic, and build community.
Support Lake Mission Viejo and the recreational amenities that make our city unique. The Lake is one of Mission Viejo's crown jewels, and it deserves our ongoing investment and protection.
Community Benefits
Quality parks and open spaces benefit Mission Viejo in countless ways. They promote physical health by providing places to exercise and play. They support mental health by offering natural spaces for relaxation and reflection. They build community by creating gathering places where neighbors meet and friendships form.
Parks also have a direct economic benefit: homes near quality parks and open space maintain higher property values. Mission Viejo's park system is a key reason our city remains one of the most desirable places to live in Orange County.
Peter Molinari is committed to ensuring that Mission Viejo's parks and open spaces remain a source of pride and enjoyment for our community for generations to come.