THOUSAND OAKS : Plan for Golden Oak Park Takes Root

Russ Goodenough has a vision.

He wants to plant a towering oak tree sculpture, painted gold, atop a marble pedestal on Fireworks Hill, the distinctive, flat-topped ridge in the center of Thousand Oaks.

He wants to surround the sculpture with a bed of flowers spelling out the city’s name in vibrant blossoms.

He also wants to put a campfire pit on the hilltop, and a rustic amphitheater, small lake and picture boards pointing out the landmarks visible from each vista.

And now, Goodenough has the city’s backing to pursue his vision.

On a 5-0 vote last week, council members granted Goodenough permission to create a citizens committee to draft plans for a Golden Oak Park on Fireworks Hill.

The city bought the parcel earlier this year so that council members could better control development on the graded, three-acre top and on the steep slopes, which slant into the campus of the former city hall at 401 W. Hillcrest Drive.

“My goal is a park created entirely by private donations and volunteerism,” said Goodenough, who called for a monthly community work day to galvanize residents to clean up the property.

He also suggested establishing Golden Oak Park Foundation with an endowment to pay for ongoing maintenance.

“This would be a delightful place for a park,” resident Harry Evry said, offering to join the newly established committee. “I thank Russ for his poetic vision.”