October 5, 2007

Free county parks access for military personnel and families

The County of Santa Clara has established yet another way to support area active and reserve military personnel and their families.  Under a new program approved this summer, active or reserve members of the Armed Forces or California National Guard and their families may obtain an Annual Vehicle Entry Pass for parks operated by Santa Clara County.

“Our military personnel make such huge sacrifices everyday,” said Supervisor Pete McHugh, Chair of the Board of Supervisors’ Finance and Government Operations Committee.  “Anything we can do to relieve the stress for the families, while honoring their service to our Country, is worthwhile.”

Under the new program, active or reserve military personnel in pay grades E-4 or below and their families who are Santa Clara County residents will be eligible for the annual pass.  To prove their eligibility, military personnel must provide their Department of Defense Military Identification card which designates active or reserve status of the Armed Forces or California National Guard in the proper pay status. Dependents can provide the Dependent Identification Card which includes the status and pay grade of military personnel. Both must provide proof of residency in Santa Clara County.

Military personnel and family members who take advantage of the Pass will receive free the annual vehicle pass valued at $70 and will only be required to pay a one-time reduced $4.00 administrative fee. For information or applications, eligible military personnel or family members may contact Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department at 408-355-2200, ext. 0, or visit the Parks Administrative Building at 298 Garden Hill Drive, Los Gatos with proper documentation.