Santa Monica Boardwalk’s Chess Park could shut down to the public soon because of rampant crime in the area.
The Santa Monica Parks and Recreation Commission voted in favor of recommending the closure of Chess Park, temporarily, while city leaders discuss how to address the issues.
Councilmember Phil Brock said City Council might consider removing the benches and tables, which some unhoused residents have used as beds.
"The City has been put on notice -- the community is upset," he told NBC 4.
Neighbors said they've filed complaints for years, reporting problems at the park and describing the area as an eyesore. Videos show tense encounters with people yelling, using drugs, exposing themselves, or threatening people.
"It’s become a dump and trash can," homeowner Robert Zohoury told KNBC. “It’s beautiful beachfront property, and no one wants to come here.”
City Council plans to debate the issue next month.
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