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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/01/1991 - PB&R CommissionItem No. 3 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Ayes J arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission October 1, 1991 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Jack Brooks, Park and Tree Mainten- ance Super- intendent Nancy Beard, Recreation Superintendent Dottie Flohr, Secretary I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS Item #1 - Call to Order Call to Order The meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 P.M. Item 02 - Roll Call Roll Call Roll call was taken. Commissioners Demmer, Glasgow, Grant, Herberts, Konwiser and Vandervort were present. Commissioner Compton was absent. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes - Meeting of Approval of September 3, 1991 Minutes x Commissioner Herberts motioned the minutes be x x x x x approved as presented. Unanimous. Item 44 - Adoption of Agenda Ad6ption of Agenda The agenda was adopted as presented with the addition of Announcements to be addressed under Item No. VIII. II. COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD PRESENTATIONS Chair Vandervort gave a brief history of the 4th of July celebration at Mariners Park which began 1S years ago. Several years ago there was less participation and volunteers, at which time Dana Black stepped in to provide her leadership which has resulted in a valuable and continued program to the community. Chair Vandervort then presented Mrs. Black with CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 D.m. INDEX the Commission's Community Service Award. Mrs. Black thanked the Commission, City, staff and her husband for their support. Commissioner Grant reported that Ken Gilmore, recently retired President of Newport National Little League, has volunteered many hours to this outstanding program which has grown tremendously. On behalf of the Commission and children in the community, Commissioner Grant presented the Commission's Service Award to Mr. Gilmore along with an official City of Newport Beach softball hat. Mr. Gilmore thanked the Commission, staff, parents and all those who have been involved with the program for their cooperation. III. JOINT MEETING WITH THEATRE ARTS CENTER BOARD Mrs. Rae Cohen, past President of the Theatre Arts Center Board, introduced Patti -Gene Sampson; current President and founding member of the Board, who, in turn, introduced the other members who were present. Mrs. Sampson presented each Commissioner with an information packet including tickets to Thursday's performance of "Cyrano." Mrs. Cohen gave the Commission an update on the status of the Theatre's improvements. She also informed the Commission that they hold 5 plays a year, each having 18 performances, and Friday and Saturday nights they are always sold out. They have entertained a group of underprivileged children with "Sherlock Holmes" along with providing entertainment for senior citizen groups. Commissioner Glasgow recommended contacting the two high schools to get them involved and perhaps put on a combined performance. Chair Vandervort pointed out that the current play, "Cyrano," is an incredible performance. Mrs. Sampson agreed, noting that the Theatre is receiving more exposure due to this particular play. She then thanked the Commission for their support throughout the years. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS Public Comments was addressed following Item #5. Dr. Jan Vandersloot, 2221 E. 16th Street, addressed the Commission. Dr. Vandersloot passed out and summarized his proposed Operational Guidelines to Maintain the Aesthetic and Environmental Values of the Avon Street Creek Wetlands at the Base of Cliff Drive Park, West Side. Commissioner Grant thanked Dr. Vandersloot for the thorough job he did and recommended staff review the guidelines which would then be brought back to this Commission. Commissioner Herberts stated she felt Dr. Vandersloot should present his review along with staff's suggestions at this meeting. Jack Brooks advised he has contacted both the Public Works and General Services Departments and they have agreed that the Parks Division can maintain the area as long as the street's stability is not endangered. Director Whitley clarified that this Department will maintain the area in conjunction with the park being developed. Following discussion concerning implementing Dr. Vandersloot's proposed guidelines, Commissioner Grant recommended staff work with Dr. Vandersloot limiting the recommendations to guidelines and goals but not regulations or rules, after which the Park and open Space Committee will review prior to being agendized for the Commission in 2- 3 months. Robert Gardner, 823 W. Balboa, addressed the Commission regarding his concerns over the Department killing the ice plant on the west side of Cliff Drive Park. He gave examples of other areas of the City where the ice plant is healthy and looks good with little or no maintenance. Commissioner Demmer pointed out that the Cliff Drive Park community has been waiting for many years for their park to be refurbished and that CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX 4 7F.. - -- funds have been slowly appropriated towards the project. The approved plan will replace the ice plant with native California indigenous plants which is what the residents favored. V. ACTION ITEMS Item 45 - Tree Appeal - 1748 Bayport Tree Appeal. 1748 Bayporl Director Whitley gave a brief review of the applicant's appeal of the Tree Committee's decision to retain the 3 Ficus Nitida. In response to a question from Commissioner Demmer, Jack Brooks explained the Ficus Nitida has been the designated' tree, however, the Department is no longer planting them. Herberts pointed out the current (Commissioner 1 designated tree is the Brisbane Box on both Bayport Way and Holiday Road. She further clarified page 3 of Mr. Williams' letter regarding staff's recommendations which was a result of a misunderstanding of Mr. Brooks' statement. ,Commissioner Demmer inquired about the thrips and Jack Brooks explained they are prevalent and common on Ficus Nitida. He stated that although they are hard to control, they become inactive and do not kill trees. Mr. Stewart Williams, 1748 Bayport Way, addressed the Commission. Mr. Williams asked for removal and replacement of the three Ficus Nitida which, he felt, are not only unsuitable as parkway trees, but the invasive roots also raise the sidewalk, driveway and curb presenting a danger to pedestrians. He further stated the roots have been expensive since they go into his sewer lines. Mr. Williams then presented pictures of the Ficus Nitida in the Westcliff area, all of which have cost the taxpayers due to sidewalk and curb replacements. I During discussion, Commissioner Herberts pointed out that many residents in Westcliff bought Vl in this area because of the trees. She felt there was no problem with the trees on Bayport but that the tree on Holiday Road needs to be root pruned CITY OF NEWPORT REACH arks, Beaches ,& Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX and tested for stability. Commissioner Glasgow agreed the trees on Bayport should remain but recommended the tree on Holiday Road be removed since it is lifting up the driveway. Commissioner Demmer recommended removing the tree on Holiday Road and replacing it with two trees where needed provided they would be properly maintained. Commissioner Konwiser concurred the tree on Holiday Road should be removed and reported he counted 6 different varieties of trees on Bayport. He also agreed with Mr. Williams that the tree is not a suitable parkway tree. since this would be a good opportunity to start a harmonious program, he recommended removing the 3 trees and replacing them with 3 or 4 trees. Motion Commissioner Herberts moved to replace the tree on Holiday Road with 2 trees at a better location and to retain the 2 existing trees on Bayport at the present time. Motion x Commissioner Demmer made a substitute motion to Ayes x x x x x replace the 3 trees with 2 Brisbane Box on Nay x Holiday Road and 2 Brisbane Box on Bayport Way. Motion passes. Item #6 - Tree Appeal - 315 Pirate Road Tree Appeal 315 Pirate Jack Brooks reported that the applicant took out Road an encroachment permit for his new driveway before the Tree Committee met. Both staff and the committee recommended retaining the subject tree since it is a healthy tree and can be root pruned. Mr. Joseph Robinson, 315 Pirate Road, addressed the Commission and reported his new driveway will be approximately 15" from the tree which will i cause safety and aesthetic problems. He then presented his proposed plan which has been designed for planting a new tree at a different location at his expense. Commissioner Herberts reported that the existing CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH N. Parks, G Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX z tree, according to an arborist and Arbor Age magazine, is worth approximately $30,000. The tree is also part of the tree scape and raises the value of a home 15 %. Commissioner Glasgow felt that since the tree goes straight up, Mr. Robinson could still use the driveway and the tree should be retained and the planter removed. Commissioner Grant recommended the tree be retained and the driveway be redesigned to wiggle around the tree, leaving more than 15" between the tree and driveway. Commissioner Konwiser felt the tree belongs on the street since it blends in beautifully. He favored retaining the tree, wiggling the driveway and cutting the planter back. Commissioner Demmer pointed out that removing City trees to accommodate remodels could set a dangerous precedent. She favored retaining the tree due to its aesthetic value to the neighborhood. Motion x Commissioner Glasgow motioned to retain the tree Ayes x x x x x x and pursue relocating the planter and putting in root barrier. Unanimous. Chair Vandervort advised Mr. Robinson to notify Jack Brooks when the brick is removed and that he can appeal the Commission's decision to the City Council. Item 47 - Naming of New Park in West Newport Naming of New Park in Director Whitley reported that the new mini park West Newporl in West Newport has been referred to as Newport Shores Park and it is staff's recommendation that it be so named. Commissioner Grant moved to name the new park (� Newport Shores Park. Unanimous. Item #8 - City Council Policy Review City Counci' Director Whitley reported all the City Council I- Policy ReviE series have been reviewed and there are no CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission City Council Chambers 7 ,D_m. INnFx V X I - - Item #11 - Tree Committee Tree Committee Commissioner Herberts reported that, although there was no formal meeting, they conferred by phone and agreed with staff on all recommendations with one exception being to retain one tree. Chair Vandervort inquired about the samples of the Tree Division's new computer system. Jack Brooks explained this was presented to Commissioner Grant, however, he will provide the information to the full Commission at their November meeting. Commissioner Grant suggested a policy be considered on the Ficus Nitida, namely, if there are root problems, then it would be acceptable to ( ) remove without going through the process. Commissioner Vandervort suggested that Ficus Nitida problems continue to be handled on an individual basis because of the various ramifications involved, such as street scapes, widths of tree strips, etc. Commissioner Grant also requested the issue of street tree requirements for remodels be addressed and formally initiated in the Planning Department's process. Commissioner Grant also brought up the subject of illegal tree removals and the subsequent letter sent by the City Attorney. Jack Brooks advised the Police Department told him they cannot do anything if the homeowner has not been observed removing the tree. Commissioner Grant recommended a joint meeting with appropriate members of the Council address this issue. Commissioners Konwiser and Herberts agreed the matter of illegal tree removals should be ICommisisoner pursued. Herberts recommended the Ficus Nitida issue should be addressed individually and CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH (Jl arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 Citv Council Chnmhers 7 mm IKMMV -. V- changes recommended. Chair Vandervort then determined that there be no recommendations to the policies. VI. INFORMATIONAL AND COMMITTEE REPORTS Item #9 - Recreation Division Recreation Division Nancy Beard reported that the report provided is a comprehensive summary of the Recreation Division's summer programs. Commissioner Herberts pointed out that since the Theatre Arts Center facility can no longer be used for aerobic classes, there are none scheduled for this side of the bay. Nancy .Beard advised she will research the matter and report back. Commissioner Grant questioned priority usage at CYC, particularly with regard to the AA groups. Nancy Beard explained that priority is given to youth groups, and that those concerned should contact her directly. Commissioner Demmer inquired about the revenue being up while participation was down. Nancy Beard explained that the contract classes generated the most revenue although some fees were raised. The bad weather caused a small decline in the swim program. Item 410 - Park and Street Tree Division Park and In response to a p question from Commissioner Street Tree Divi,tdon Demmer, Jack Brooks explained that there is an agreement with the Cameo Community Association that states that if there is a request to remove a Pepper Tree, it will be replaced with a Ficus Benj.amina. Commissioner Herberts commended the Tree Division for their trimming on the Peninsula. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council Chambers . 7 D.M. INDEX that the Tree Committee review remodels, illegal tree removals, and soliciting new tree plantings at vacant sites. Item #12 - Recreation Program Committee Recreation Commissioner Grant reviewed the meeting held Program Committee September 24 with Mr. and Mrs. Dan Rabun and residents of Newport North regarding Bonita Creek Park. Corrective action will be taken regarding trash, scheduling, traffic and parking problems. He personally felt there are no traffic or parking problems if there is no double scheduling. The cheerleaders will move to another area of the park on Mondays where it will be quieter, and there was a suggestion to pursue an exit on University. / t Unresolved is the Disclosure matter which is between the buyer and seller and the whistles creating noise. Alternate sites were explored for Junior All American Football, however, Bonita Creek is the only one available. Commissioner Herberts reported that when she was visiting the area, Mr. Tappan showed her the fountain he had .put in to help mitigate the noise. She stated she could hear traffic, but not whistles, and observed there were 32 unused parking spaces. She stated Mr. Tappan felt the games should remain at the park and he felt the changes approved would help solve most of the problems. He also hoped another entrance could be implemented. In response to Commissioner Demmer's inquiry about the amenities requested during the meeting, Commissioner Grant stated this Commission historically endorses trees, benches, etc. Commissioner Konwiser agreed, noting that although the improvements will not affect the problems, the homeowners should address the Commission if they want amenities. In response to a question from Commissioner Glasgow, Nancy Beard advised there will be no double bookings and that one field will be kept open at all times until 5:00 P.M., at which time it must be prepared for 6:00 P.M. softball. 1 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH s� o` Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission G Page 10 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #13 - Park and Open Space Committee Park and Commissioner Demmer reported the committee met on Open Space Committee Item #18. Item #14 - Beach Committee Beach Committee Commissioner Glasgow reported Commissioners Compton and Vandervort, Dave McConnell and he surveyed the beach on September 10. Fifteen new steel volleyball poles will be recommended to be installed this - coming year. Item #15 - Budget Committee Budget Commissioner Konwiser reported the committee did Committee not meet. He reviewed the capital improvement schedule process and pointed out that in December a formal list of suggestions will be reviewed. In January the list will be refined and prioritized for a final vote in February. In preparation for this, Commissioner Konwiser recommended the Commissioners start looking at their local areas and throughout the City for refurbishment and new projects. Item #16 - Oasis Liaison Oasis Commissioner Demmer reported the new parking lot Liaison will soon be open. Since last August the seniors have had to cross Marguerite which has been hazardous for them, however, fortunately there have been no accidents. VII. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #17 - Bergeson Aquatic Center Rules 3ergeson quatic Nancy Beard explained the updated version of the enter Rule< agreement between the Newport -Mesa Unified School District and the City is for the Commission's information. The School District requested certain items, such as sound, be defined along with schedules and hours. Commissioner Grant felt the amplification portion was conceptually all right, but that definitions for announcing race starts, scores, etc., needed to be addressed. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission October 1, 1991 Page 11 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Glasgow recommended a start time of 9:00 A.M. be used on Saturdays and Sundays. Commissioner Konwiser agreed, stating he also felt 5:00 P.M. was too early on weekends. Following discussion, Chair Vandervort reported that the agreement will be reviewed at a meeting with the Recreation Program Committee, School District and staff to clarify the proposed changes. Nancy Beard advised she will set up the meeting. Item #18 - Review of Recreation and open Space Review of Element Recreation Director Whitley reported the Park and Open Space and Open Space Elemer Committee met and did an extensive review of the Recreation and Open Space Element of the General Plan and the report provided includes a status review of each Service Area. During discussion Commissioner Grant - referred to the Castaways and requested that the statement "The Commission has recommended further changes which are being reflected in the EIR," be included in the report. He also requested that this statement be included for Service Area ¢#9. Referring to Service Area #l1, Commissioner Grant requested the wording under Item ##1 read that the Lincoln redevelopment project is partially completed. Item #19 - Facility Inspections Facility Inspections Director Whitley passed out the Facility Inspection Reports for each Commissioner to complete. Chair Vandervort explained that each year the Commissioners inspect certain facilities on -site and asked that these be returned, if possible, by the November Commission meeting. l� Director Whitley advised that the Parks Division reviewed the Facility Inspection Forms and found them to work very well from their point of view. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 12 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #20 -.Capital Improvement Projects Capital In response to a question from Commissioner Improvement Projects Grant, Director Whitley explained that the Newport Oil Company's representative may be able to make a presentation at the Commission's November meeting. VIII. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS Chair Vandervort reported she represented the Commission on September 5 at Bob Granger's retirement party. On September 17 she met with Rus Purcell, Chair of Costa Mesa's Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission, which has been in existence for 5 (,) months. They observed their meetings are similar t and she suggested a joint meeting or dinner with their Commission. On September 23 and 25 Chair Vandervort took a CPR course which was excellent and instructed by Jim Turner of the Marine Department. On September 25 Chair Vandervort reported she spoke on the Castaways project at the Mariners School PTA meeting. On October 2 Speak Up Newport will address Hoag Hospital's Master Plan. In response to a question from Commissioner Demmer about the flag pole at McFadden Square, Director Whitley reported this is a Public Works project and it was left out of the working drawings. Commissioner Demmer inquired about the landscaping at the Newport Boulevard /PCH interchange and Director Whitley advised this property is owned by CalTrans, however, he will contact them to see what their plans are for this area. j Commissioner Grant reported he was asked to 1 attend a meeting regarding the area between Ford Road and San Joaquin, and he will also be attending an October meeting on the Castaways at Mariners School PTA. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH G` Parks, O Beaches & Recreation Commission .Page 13 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX IX. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation commission adjourned at 10:22 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on September 24, 1991 at 8:45 A.M. Dottie F1ohr, Secretary