Moorpark residents walking by the multipurpose court at the Arroyo Vista Community Park (originally built for roller hockey but now a designated skate park) probably might mistake the facility as a neglected, hungry child.

Two youth roller hockey classes were recently proposed for the site and submitted in mid-June by the Tri-Valley Roller Hockey League, a nonprofit organization, to be advertised in the Moorpark autumn recreation guide. Classes were to begin in September. When the guide arrived at the homes this past week, the youth roller hockey classes did not appear in the brochure.

A call to the Community Services Department asked why the youth roller hockey classes were not approved. The answer from the community services director: "Because we want to continue the existing skate park."

Instead of revitalizing the worn out facility and attracting potentially 50 youth roller hockey players who generate much needed income, the director chose to continue the existing skate park which attracts eight to 10 participants and less weekly at a cost to the city. Has anyone seen the condition of the facility lately? Can anyone who is a resident of Moorpark believe that this worn out facility exists in this beautiful park?

Not only were the youth roller hockey classes shunned, but city staff did not even have the courtesy to contact the league to let them know that the classes were not going to be offered.

Let this be a warning to future residents who want to do something good for the city, revitalize a neglected facilityn and offer local youth a fun and safe recreation program. Don't assume any changes coming from the Community Services Department. It's easier for them to "just say no" than to do what's right for the community. Walter B. Collins Moorpark Collins is the director of the TriValley Roller Hockey League.