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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/05/1989 - PB&R CommissionCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Item No. 3 N� ) Motion Ayes II arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission July 5, 1989 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Jack Brooks, Park and Tree Maintenance 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 7:01 P.M. Item #2 - Roll Call Roll Call Roll call was taken. Commissioners Grant, Herberts, Konwise Springer, Taft and Vandervort were present. Commissioner , Brenner was absent. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes - Meeting of June 6, 1989 Approval of Minutes Commissioner Springer recommended that the vote for Item #5, Mechanical Blowers, be shown at the amendment and that x Chair Konwiser had abstained on this item. She then moved x x x x x x the minutes of the meeting be approved as corrected. Unanimous. Item #4 - Adoption of Agenda Adoption of . ' Agenda The agenda was adopted as presented with the addition of, 1 In Lieu Fee Zones and Communication Received. II. ACTION ITEMS Item #5 - Sale of Property - 4210 River Avenue Sale of Property Director Whitley reviewed the report submitted and explained that this Department was consulted in regard to the benefit of adding this parcel to the existing Channel Park. However, trying to connect the parcel to improve the park area cannot be done since there is no common boundary. The Commission is asked to review the site as to straight public ownership and as a public resource. Although the parcel is publicly owned, it has never been designated as part of the park system. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. Commissioner Taft inquired if funds from a sale of the ' property could be available for other park locations and Director Whitley advised this can be recommended to the Ci Council for consideration. Chair Konwiser opened the meeting to Public Testimony. Mr. Jack Alward, 4208 River A lot, addressed the Commission photo of the site taken in 19 taking care of the area for o can be used and should be use Those on Newport Island acros bors want to keep the site as offered to help pay the taxes Park, he stated it has become been removed. There are two venue and owner of the adjace . Mr. Alward. presented a 73 and explained he has been ver 20 years. He stated it d as part of Channel Park. s the channel and his neigh - a park and some have even on it. Referring to Channel barren since the trees have BBQ pits but no available wat Mr. Ron Varver, 2111 Tustin, addressed the Commission. He stated he felt the parcel is more like a garden with botanical collections planted and cared for by Mr. Alward, the result of which is a very pleasing context to the neighborhood. There being no further Public Testimony, the meeting was closed to public hearing. t Commissioner Herberts reported she was in favor of the lot being retained as a "pocket" park. She said she felt it is in an excellent location and does not need to be connected to Channel Park to be of value. She would like to see some benches and a picnic table added in addition.to relandscaping and cleaning it up to make it more open. In addition, she talked to the Marine Director who advised that a ramp and float could be installed for approximately $20,000. Commissioner Springer stated that since the property is to a large public park, it should be sold and the funds used to purchase other public parks. Commissioner Grant agreed and said he felt this "pocket" park would not be an effective use of the City's manpower for maintenance purposes.- The site is of benefit to only the neighbors; other areas should be acquired which would be more beneficial to the entire City as outlined in the City's adopted General Plan. In addition, on many previous occasions the Commission has denied the development of similar parks. 3 INDEX CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Taft also agreed since another park is close by He recommended funds from the sale be stipulated for use in park deficient areas. Commissioner Vandervort agreed stating another sizable park is located very close to the parcel. Chair Konwiser pointed out the appreciative efforts by Mr. Alward over the past 20 years, however, he felt this parcel is not a suitable park site due to its size and location. He supports the City disposing of it, funds kept in the park system, and upgrading Channel Park, which is now in progress Motion x Commissioner Springer motioned to sell the lot with the Ayes x x x x x money going specifically into a reserve fund to acquire Nay x property for areas that are park deficient. Motion passes.' Item #6 - Tree Removal Appeal - 1200 Pembroke Tree Removal Director Whitley reviewed the report submitted and noted Appeal that, although staff does not like the Ficus Nitida, the. tree is a good one and provides a neighborhood street scape. Chair Konwiser opened the meeting to Public Testimony and Mr. Victor Iglesias, 1200 Pembroke Lane, addressed the Commission. He reported he is appealing the Street Tree Committee's decision for several reasons. The Ficus roots block the sewer line; the plumber had difficulty cleaning the line due to the roots and the same problems, which aNe expensive, will probably reoccur; the roots have also caused the sidewalk, curb and gutter to buckle. Jack Brooks advised the Ficus roots can damage the sidewalk, curb and gutter, but would not break the sewer line. Chair Konwiser reported it is common that roots go to the limit of the outside branches of a tree, however, the home is not in danger due to the roots. The neighborhood con- sists of these trees and sets the mood for the area. He stated he is in favor of keeping the Ficus Nitida unless there is a long range program to change the neighborhood trees. Commissioner Herberts reported the Street Tree Committee felt the tree is too far away from the sewer line to be l 1 a problem and staff agreed that the sewer problem is not caused by the tree. She is in favor of retaining the tree at this time since damage to the.sidewalk and curb line is minimal. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Motion x Commissioner Taft moved the Commission support the Street Ayes x x'x x x Tree Committee's decision to retain the tree at 1200 Abstain x Pembroke Lane. Motion passes. Chair Konwiser announced that the City has a policy of enforcing rules and procedures. Unauthorized removals are pursued. Item #7 - Tree Removal Appeal - 2328 Arbutus Tree Removal Director Whitley reported staff and the Street Tree Commit - Appeal tee reviewed and recommended the Brazilian Pepper, which is the designated street tree, be retained. He agreed, how- ever, it is not the best looking tree on the street since it has had some damage. Mr. Dan Livingston, 2328 Arbutus, addressed the Commission. He reported the subject tree is one of the largest on the street; leans heavily toward his house; is messy; -has' pushed up the recently repaired sidewalk; and has broken th sprinkler pipe. He would like the tree replaced with a smaller tree that won't block his view and be such a mess. He added he would be happy to share the cost. Jack Brooks advised the tree was hit by a truck and does need trimming on one side so that in time it will be balanced. Commissioner Vandervort said she felt it is a pretty tree that could be made to look nicer. Chair Konwiser suggested it be either retained and balanced so it moves towards the street or removed /replaced with the same type of tree. Commissioner Herberts stated she supports the Street Tree Committee and staff's decision but that the tree should be pruned, trimmed and shaped. Motion x Commissioner Grant motioned to retain the tree at 2328 Ayes x x 'x x x x Arbutus. Chair Konwiser amended the motion to'include that staff prune and trim the tree to get it more symetrical as soon as possible. Unanimous. Item #8 - Volleyball Court Removal Request Volleyball Court Director Whitley reported that Commissioner Taft has put in Removal a lot of hard work and dedication towards solving the Request volleyball court problems which is most appreciated. S CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Taft, Chair of the Beach and Oceanfront Committee, reported that at the Committee's first meeting they were only able to consider the Colton Street court, therefore, notifications regarding 38th Street End and 4105 Seashore were late. Commissioner Taft reviewed and read the Committee's recom- mendation on the courts at the Colton Street End. He noted that, although this court receives unusually heavy usage, there was light usage at this site over the past weekend and that a compromise has been proposed that will be presented to the Commission. Chair Konwiser opened the meeting to Public Testimony and Norma Foley, 6700 West Oceanfront, addressed the Commission. She stated several years ago Mr. Foley addressed the Commission asking for the courts closest to their home be moved further out. Now the poles have been moved in causin them aggravation by double-parking, noise, etc. } Bill Bennett, 226 Lugonia, addressed the Commission. He reported that Steve Foley and he discussed the probl.em and" Mr. Foley 'suggested that the courts be moved toward Huntington Beach two doors to satisfy his parents and another family. He read the proposal signed by players and reisents supporting moving the Colton Street court 60' nort and 30' west of the present location with the poles located on the property line at 6702 and 6704. Nets and ropes will be removed after each use. Thus far there have been no objections from the parties having the courts in front of their homes. Mr. Bennett said he felt this is a solution which he hopes will solve the problems and give the Foleys relief. He added there already has been a change in the volume of play which should also help the situation. Commissioner Springer voiced her concern that procedures for removal /replacement were not followed. Commissioner Taft advised these are not new installations or removals, but are relocations of existing courts. Director Whitley recommended the proposed relocation take place as soon as possible this summer to get a fair reaction. V CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Grant recommended play be on other courts once in a while; that nets be taken down for beach maintenance equipment; and that it be kept in mind these are public volleyball courts, not for "exclusive club use." Jon Tyree, 208 -A Lugonia Street, addressed the Commission. He stated he supports the suggestion presented by Bill Bennett. He referred to the problem of public volleyball courts where the nets are owned by individuals in contrast to tennis courts and nets owned by the City. Doug Cortez, 6606 W. Oceanfront, addressed the Commission. He reported the Colton St. courts get 70 -80% of total play which is where the better players go. He does not like to see the play concentrated at this location when there are other courts not being used. Although a small group of people view the Colton St. courts as their own, Mr. Cortez felt significant progress has been made and that removal of nets:and ropes should be enforced. He reported that, although there are more people opposed to the courts, he would agree to a 60 day trial period to see if-the proposed — compromise works -- - — - -�- - -- Mrs. Norma Foley, 6700 W. Oceanfront, addressed the Commission again. She pointed out that when the 52nd St. courts were removed, players went to Colton St. making the regular players there unhappy. She added that although the nets are taken down at night, everyone knows where they are. As a result, she feels taking the nets down won't work unless the owners take them home. Commissioner Grant suggested accepting the compromise but adding that signs be posted stating the rules, that these are public courts, and that the nets and ropes are to be taken down oh all volleyball courts. Chair Konwiser suggested the sign also include that poles are not to be removed. Commissioner Taft stated he favors the compromise and that the courts shouldn't be subject to more than usual play. Motion x Commissioner Taft then motioned the courts at the end of Ayes x x x x x x Colton St. be moved 60" north and 30' west and the courts be posted stating the nets are to be removed; poles are i not to be removed; and challenge rules are in effect. Unanimous. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Director Whitley advised these courts will be relocated in accordance with the motion within a week and a half. Commissioner Taft read the Beach aid Oceanfront Committee's recommendation that the court at 38th St. End be retained but preferably located further from the property line. Ms. Sidney Bickel, 3801 Seashore, addressed the Commission. She stated each storm has taken away from the beach and volleyball courts, resulting in the courts being too close now. Taking down the nets, however, has solved a lot of the problem. Greg Gutiervez, 3804 Seashore, addressed the Commission. He referred to the fact that there are almost no courts between the two piers where no one would be bothered by the players. Director Whitley explained that the reason is because most visitors and beachgoers use this area. Michael Urero, 396 W. Bay, #B, addressed the Commission. He stated he favors keeping the 38th St.End court. If removed, it would cause a problem some place else. Motion x Commissioner Taft moved to retain the 38th St. End court an Ayes x x x x x x ask staff to move it out closer to the water. Unanimous. Commissioner Taft read the Beach and Oceanfront Committee's recommendation retaining the court at 4105 Seashore. Roger Fryer, 4105 Seashore, addressed the Commission. He stated he favors the Committee's recommendation and would like the court put on the Master List so that tourists and children can enjoy it. Motion x Commissioner Taft moved to accept the Beach and Oceanfront Ayes x x x x x x Committee's recommendation to retain the court at 4105 Seashore. Unanimous. Director Whitley reported staff will sign each court. Commissioner Taft recommended also indicating which ones are City courts. Item #9 - Encroachment Permit - 3619 Ocean Blvd. Encroach - � ) ment Perm Director Whitley reported the Public Works Department has asked this Commission to review the subject encroachment request providing access to the fourth house south of CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Ayes Abstain irks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Em- City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Inspiration Point. This is the last house being developed on the lower level adjacent to Inspiration Point. Since the entire encroachment is hardscape and tree and view problems will never be a problem, staff has no objection to the request. x Chair Konwiser moved the encroachment permit for 3619 X x x x x Ocean Blvd. be approved. Motion passes. x Commissioner Springer stated she was abstaining since she felt encroachments were like giving land away. III. PUBLIC COMMENTS IV. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #10 - Capital Projects Schedule Capital Projects Director Whitley referred to the new schedule in the Schedule report stating the months actually should start with July, the new Fiscal Year. The outline shows the timeframe the Department-would like to keep, although delays often occur. The Corona•del Mar Olympic Pool and the Harbor High Locker Room are not listed since we are not the lead agency. Commissioner Grant recommended listing the other projects noting "other agency" for each of them. Commissioner Grant questioned the storage area at Eastbluff and Director Whitley advised the funds are appropriated : with the facility. He also inquired about the "floating" Little League concession at the parks and suggested a policy be implemented or there be a permanent concession stand at Eastbluff. Director Whitley explained there are concerns over a permanent concession, such as health codes, etc. In addition, Little League does not want a permanent concession; it was allowed only for their tournaments. Commissioner Grant asked about the status of the Youth Center's access to Harbor View School. Director Whitley explained an architect will be used and the schmatic will be reviewed by this Commission. Commissioner Grant questioned the fence at Inspiration Point which Director Whitley explained is only temporary. A rail has been ordered by Public Works. He also questioned the steepness of the walkway which Director Whitley explained is the exact grade and configuration as the old pathway. The concrete is broomswept and, therefore, less hazardous. Commissioner Grant questioned that there may be more liability by improving i,t and Director Whitley stated he will discuss this with the Citv Attornev. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council Chambers 7 ,p.m. INDEX Chair Konwiser recommended every other month all the construction projects be updated in the report. Commissioner Herberts reported she was notified the ladies restroom at Mariners Park is unsafe and unsanitary. Jack Brooks said he will check out the problems. Item #11 - Commission Committee Assignments Commission Committee I (a) Capital Improvements - Discussed under Item #10. Assignment i (b) Street Tree - No report from Chair Herberts. Commissioner Grant asked when the trees will be put in that are due at the Theatre Arts Center. Commissioner Herberts and Jack Brooks replied they will discuss the matter with Rae Cohen, President of the Friends of the Theatre Arts Center. Commissioner Grant voiced'his concern over the pol'icy and /or ability to go after those who illegally remove trees. -Director Whitley will discuss,this with the City Attorney. Chair Konwiser asked Director Whitley to give a status report on this matter at the next Commission meeting. (c) Recreation Program - Chair Vandervort reported the July 4th parade and Corona del Mar Run were well attended and enjoyed. Commissioner Springer suggested the Commission be sent .invitations to Special Event programs. Director Whitley stated they should be and will follow through. (d) Oceanfront and Beach - Discussed under Item 8. (e) Budget - No report from Chair Konwiser. (f) Open Space Acquisition - Chair Grant voiced his concern that the Mouth of Big Canyon still has no plan. Chair Konwiser recommended Commissioner Grant and staff research Big Canyon with regard to parking spaces, an open path, etc. Director Whitley will also contact the Planning Department on this matter. I (g) Chair's Report - Chair Konwiser reported he may.have to miss the August 1, 1989 meeting. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Ayes Abstain irks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 10 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #12 - Commission Liaison Assignments Commission Liaison (a) Friends of Oasis - No report from Commissioner Brenner. Assignment (b) Friends of the Theatre Arts Center - Commissioner Herberts reported the Theatre Arts Center needs the Commission's support and hopes everyone buys a season ticket pass. (c) CYC Booster Club - No report from Commissioner Brenner. Item #13 - Park and Street Tree Division Park and Street Commissioner Grant referred to the white signs at Buffalo Tree Hills and San Miguel Parks used as.a scoreboard and said Division he thought they were to be designated green with white letters. Director Whitley will investigate the matter. Chair Konwiser reported 20 'Oleanders along Pacific Coast Highway have died and Jack Brooks replied they will be removed. Item #14 - Recreation.Division Recreatior Division Report received and filed. Item #15 - Future Agenda Items V. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS In Lieu Fee Zones In Lieu ' Fee Zones Director Whitley reported the City Council has requested this Commission to review the four zones to determine if they are adequate. Funds collected in one zone cannot be spent in another. He reviewed the four areas identified which staff feels do not need changing. Commissioner Herberts moved to accept the four zones as shown on the map in the report. Commissioner Springer stated she would abstain from voting since she questioned voting on an item not posted as an Action Item. Director Whitley explained this item was received late and Council requested review by involved parties prior to their July 24 meeting. Chair Konwiser pointed out this is a technical consideration and should be voted upon at this meeting. x x' x x x Commissioner Herberts amended her motion to include that x x this action item was not posted. Motion passes. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH I� arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 11 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Communication Received From Helen Anderson Communica- tion Director Whitley passed out a letter directed to the Received Commission from Helen Anderson regarding the number of dogs off leashes and owners not picking up their defecation. Since this should be directed to the Animal Control Division Director Whitley will notify Miss Anderson that it is being referred to that Division and also to the Environmental Quality Affairs Committee. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and and Recreation Commission adjourned at 9:45 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted June 28, 1989 at 9:30 A.M. outside the City Hall Adminis- tration Building. Dottie Fro r, Secretary