THE BIRTH OF THE REC
In September 1957, an election was held which formed the Highlands Recreation District. A five man Board of Directors was elected, with fiscal powers over the geographic area contained within the boundaries of the proposed Eichler Highlands. The District has power to condemn lands and to levy taxes to repay bonded indebtedness incurred through public bond election voted on by property owners of the District who are registered voters of the county. The District was the first to be formed in San Mateo County. In January of 1958, a second and more specific survey of recreational desires was made, indicating priority of interest and degree of willingness of homeowners to assume a tax burden to provide the facilities chosen. As a result of the survey, it was decided to develop studies and preliminary plans for a facility to include a swimming pool, recreation center building, turfed play area, and tennis courts, in that order of priority. A tax burden of $35 to $50 annually was indicated as acceptable to the majority. Five firms of architects were interviewed by the Board, and three possible sites were considered. Upon completion of these studies, the architectural firm of John Lyon Reid & Partners, who designed Hillsdale High School, was selected and instructed to proceed with plans for a centrally located 3.45 acre site fronting on Lexington Ave. between Yorktown and Ticonderoga. Upon completion and discussion of preliminary plans and estimates, as well as a study by the Board of comparable facility operating costs, a bond issue of $175,000 was proposed. In May the proposition was voted upon. With 90% of eligible voters participating, the measure gained an 80% approval rating. As of that date, the bonds had been sold, the final plans approved, property purchased and a grading contract awarded. The swimming pool as designed had been estimated by the city and county recreation as adequate for a community of 15,000 persons. The Center building was constructed for the purpose of large meetings, parties and dances, as well as such organized play activities as exercise classes, basketball and fine arts programs. Tennis courts, a basketball sports court, playground and turfed play area were designed for the recreational enjoyment of the community.
The Highlands Recreation District is dedicated to consistently and cost effectively providing the broadest possible beneficial, safe and affordable programs and services to the Highlands Community.
The Highlands Recreation District functions under the Community Services District law pursuant to government code 61,000 et sec, for the purpose of providing recreational services within the District. Services are provided under the leadership and direction of an elected Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is committed to responding to the needs of the community based on timely and fiscally responsible prioritized planning. Financial support for planning, organizing and conducting all activities is derived from property taxes, program fees and special purpose grants. Some activities are available to non-residents of the District on a fee for service basis.
