HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/01/1991 - PB&R CommissionItem No. 3
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
Motion
Ayes
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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