Aromas Youth Soccer Club Raises Alarm Over $15,000 Field Fee and Transparency Issues with Community Park Funds
Aromas, CA – The Aromas Youth Soccer Club (AYSC) is calling for transparency and accountability after the Aromas Community Center Foundation (ACCF) attempted to charge the nonprofit a staggering $15,000 to use the local soccer field—an amount ten times greater than the $1,500 donation AYSC has historically contributed for field maintenance.
In a letter addressed to a local representative, AYSC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable soccer opportunities for youth in the community, expressed deep concerns over the handling of public funds by ACCF. The controversy follows a recent $25,000 allocation from the official’s office to ACCF for the operation of Aromas Community Park. AYSC is questioning why the organization is imposing such a dramatic fee increase when it has already received public funding intended for park maintenance.
Adding to their concerns, AYSC has raised allegations that ACCF may be attempting to use the new field fee to compensate one of its own board members—a move they deem a gross misuse of public funds. Despite repeated requests for clarification, AYSC says ACCF has refused to disclose how the $25,000 in taxpayer dollars is being spent or who is responsible for field maintenance services.
Lack of Transparency and Legal Pressure
The situation has been further complicated by ACCF’s decision to involve Graniterock Company—the original donor of the park—to negotiate on its behalf. AYSC claims it has been forced to engage with Graniterock’s attorney without legal representation of its own, putting the small nonprofit at a significant disadvantage.
Community Demands Answers
In response to these escalating concerns, AYSC has organized a Town Hall Meeting on February 13th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Aromas School to discuss the issue with local residents and public officials. The group is urging a representative from District 2 to attend and engage in a transparent dialogue about the responsible use of taxpayer money.
AYSC has requested an immediate investigation into ACCF’s actions, asking for clarity on how public funds are being allocated and why the nonprofit soccer club is facing such an unprecedented financial burden.
With community support growing, the upcoming town hall may serve as a critical moment for local officials to address the issue and ensure fair access to public resources for youth sports programs in Aromas.
For those interested in attending or supporting AYSC’s efforts, more details can be found through the soccer club’s community outreach website https://www.aromassoccer.org/newscommunity-relations
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