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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/03/1989 - PB&R CommissionCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH �3 Item No. 3 3rk.s, Beaches & Recreation Commission October 3, 1989 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Nancy Beard, Recreation Superintendent 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 7:02 P.M. Item #2 - Roll Call Roll Call Roll call was taken. Commissioners Compton, Demmer, Grant, Herberts, Konwiser, Taft and Vandervort were present. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes-- Meeting of September 5, 1989 Approval of Minutes Commissioner Grant corrected Item #17, Park and Street Tree Division, fifth paragraph, to read... "and fix the sprinkler at the new sign." Commissioner Herberts moved the minutes of the September 5, 1989 meeting be approved as amended. Unanimous. Item #4 - Adoption of Agenda Adoption of Agenda The agenda was adopted as presented with the addition of Lighting at Lincoln. Director Whitley announced that representatives from Newpor National Little League were present to give a brief pre -. sentation to the Commissioners. Mr. Ken Gilmore, President of Little League, thanked the Commission and staff for helping their sponsorship of the major tournaments held in Newport Beach which included approximately 8,000 visitors over the 40 games. He also congratulated the Department on the excellent field main- tenance during their tournament schedule. Mr. Ralph Nelson, Operations Manager of Little League, addressed the Commission and presented official Little League hats to the Commissioners'as a momento of apprecia- tion for all their help and support. He also estimated the projected growth of Little League to be as many as 400 new participants. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Director Whitley reported that Little League is a volunteer organization which has done an outstanding job offering their programs to the community.- Both Director Whitley and Chair Taft thanked them for their excellent efforts and hard work. II. ACTION ITEMS Item #5 - Review and Recommendation on View Park - Hoag Review and Recommenda- Memorial Hospital Master -Plan- tion on View Director Whitley reviewed and described the situation of Park the View Park which is before the Commission for their consideration. He explained that Cal Trans East was purchased by Hoag Hospital for their expansion with a condi tion that a .8 acre view park be included when any type of development occurs, as identified in the Recreation and Open 'Space Element of the General Plan. Since Hoag Hospital is now processing their Master Plan, the Commissio 's recommendation concerning the location'of the view park is necessary. Director Whitley described the two alternative preliminary plans presented, noting that others can also be considered. The two ,alternatives are a relatively square .8 acre view park or a linear buffer zone of approximately 27' the length of the property, which is called for in the Recrea- tion and Open Space Element of the General Plan. Mrs. J.T. Taylor, 240 Nice Lane and President of the Villa Balboa Association, addressed the Commission. She ex- plained the bicycle path and stated - their Associa- tion recommends the linear view concept, which is con- sistent with resident expectations. She asked that the Commission delay their decision for 30 days so that the entire community can provide input. Mr. Bill Jennings, 280 Cagney Lane, addressed the Commissio to speak in favor of the linear view park. He spoke of the rest and solitude and spectacular view such a park could provide which would also be suitable for the entire neigh- borhood. He also explained another option, which might be a linear zone of 20' in width and 75' in length with a 100' x 100' square park at the end of Superior. Should the linear park not be approved at this meeting, he re- quested a one month delay so that the Association could provide more input. Mr. Lars Hansen, 22 Encore Court, addressed the Commission representing the Newport Crest Homeowners Association. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX He referred to the preliminary plans and the property in Cal Trans West which he has been trying to purchase but was told it was not for sale; now it is for sale excl'usivel to Hoag Hospital. Following a brief review of the plans and the General Plan, he urged a pedestrian /bicycle view park be approved. Director Whitley advised these plans are preliminary for proposals only, and Cal Trans East was purchased by Hoag from the State of California. Mr. Peter Foulke, Senior Vice President of Hoag Hospital, addressed the Commission in support of a consolidated park. He explained Hoag's-property lines and proposals for property which include a deeded parking lot due to the widening of Pacific Coast Highway. .Landscaping require- ments are still being developed and he said there should be no difference from a view standpoint if a consolidated r J park were developed. Should a linear park be developed, it would impair their ability to develop the site. Mr. F.W. Evins, representing Hoag Hospital, addressed the 'Commission and further explained Hoag "s proposed property plans and answered the Commission's questions concerning landscaping, slope and parking. Mr. Chris Kuhta, 210 Lille Lane, addressed the.Commission in favor of a linear park which, he said, was recommended before Hoag proceeded with their plans. He described the multiple points of view afforded by a linear path which is already graded and said he did not understand how this small strip could deter Hoag's plans. Ms. Carol Gehlhe, 210 Lille Lane, addressed the Commission. She said she is in favor of a linear view park which would offer a wonderful view for many people to enjoy. Ms. Peg Morreale, 270 Cagney Lane, addressed the Commission and urged them to delay a decision for further input. She mentioned the path is 18' wide so that emergency vehicles can also use it. Mr. H.T. Lennen, Jr., 270 Cagney Lane, addressed the Commission in favor of'a linear park. He felt they have _.� been misled by Hoag representatives and that their drawings misrepresent their building plans since views will be obstructed. CITY -OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Mr. Richard Siegel, 210 Lille Lane, addressed the Commission favoring the linear park. He stated their community needs the path and the City will also benefit from it. Following close of Public Testimony, discussion by the Commission ensued. Commissioner Vandervort reported she tried to see the site but could not find an entrance; she asked where the public will park to use the area. Director Whitley replied that both parks proposed would not have parking for vehicular access due to the 60' grade separation. Director Whitley reported that the City Council will make the final decision, however, he recommended this Commission' input also be transmitted to the Planning Commission. I, 1 Chair Taft referred to the Recreation and Open Space Element noting that this is a guideline only, and locations and configurations can be changed. Commissioner Demmer stated she appreciates Hoag Hospital's goals in developing and expanding their medical facilities, but she believes this area needs a linear view park as a good buffer zone for the residential community. She does not feel a square park will be large enough to attract families for their activities and recreation needs and feels the total beautification and aesthetics of the area should be the issue. Commissioner Herberts agreed, stating there is a need for unobstructed views in the City: Since a linear view park would be easy to develop, it should be kept for its spec- tacular site. In addition, the bicyclists, walkers and joggers would benefit from the beautiful site as well as the nearby residents. Commissioner Compton felt a linear park here might become a private greenbelt and questioned if a square park might be more available to the public. Commissioner Grant stated he agrees with keeping views but ( J suggested an alternative be developed so there could be a more usable park with picnic tables, etc. Commissioner Konwiser agreed, stating he felt the issue is a private path vs. a public park with little or no public access. He favors a square park with the view not impacted. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Vandervort stated she sympathizes with the homeowners associations, however, she favors a compromise with a square version at the end along with a buffer zone. Chair Taft reported this Commission's job is to do what is best for the City as a whole. The situation is that a linear park would help aesthetically and the homeowners would benefit from such a park; however, there is a bad parking and access situation. Motion x Commissioner Herberts moved the Commission delay from voting Ayes x x x x for a month so that more information can be gathered from Nays x x x the community as a whole and the Commission will have an opportunity to become better informed. Seconded by Vandervort. Motion passes Commissioner Konwiser explained he did not support the motion because many who voiced their support here will not '1 be at the next meeting. The opportunity for parking so that many people can use the area does not exist, as it does in Irvine Terrace and other areas. Director Whitley reported he will notify presidents of the homeowners associations for further input. Commissioner Herberts recommended that if they cannot be present at the next meeting, they communicate their recom- mendations to the Commission. Item #6 - Tree Removal Appeal - 600 Narcisusus, Corona del Tree Removal Mar Appeal Commissioner Herberts, Chair of the Street Tree Committee, reported she has been looking at this situation since 1987 and each time has asked staff to root prune. It has now been done and staff feels there areno problems. Mr. Leonard Morgan,'600 Narcissus, addressed the Commission. He stated that yesterday he went under his house at 3' and still found roots and he feels this is a serious problem since the foundation is cracked. He asked that the second tree from the corner where the roots go under the rear wall be removed. In addition, the sidewalk is also cracking. Commissioner Compton reported there are four trees on the property and he did see a crack in the foundation. He recommended the smaller tree be removed, which still leaves 3 beautiful trees, and that the sidewalk be repaired. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Konwiser stated that if the character of the neighborhood isn't changed, he would approve removal. Commissioner Demmer recommended the City also repair the sidewalk. Motion x Commissioner Compton 'then moved the second tree be removed. Ayes Abstain x x x 'x x x x Motion passes. Item #7 - Tree Removal, Appeal - 1011 E. Balboa Tree Removal Appeal Commissioner Herberts,, Chair of the Street Tree Committee, reported Balboa has a desperate aesthetics problem due to power poles and high wiring, therefore, she favors saving all trees in the parkway by root pruning and repairing the sidewalks until such time that Balboa Blvd. has underground wiring and a new tree scape is planned. Mr. Anthony Miali, 1011 E. Balboa, addressed the Commission. He stated their small driveway is difficult to enter due to the two trees on each side of the driveway which cause a safety hazard. Their gas pipe also sprung a leak since the pipes are root bound. For th6se'reasons, he is re- questing one tree be removed. Antoinette Everett, 1011 E. Balboa, addressed the Commission She requested one of the two trees be removed since they cannot get into their driveway safely and people park on both sides of the curb. More space is needed and she said she would agree to a smaller tree being planted. She also referred to the pipe line problem and noted the sidewalk is also lifting. Commissioner Konwiser agreed their points are valid and suggested a compromise that Public Works widen their drive- way 18" and also the neighbor's. The gas problem can be worked out with the gas company. Commissioner Demmer concurred. Jack Brooks explained the owners could get permission from Public Works for an encroachment permit to widen the driveway. Mo +ion x Commissioner Konwiser motioned to work with the applicant A! i x x x x x x to obtain an encroachment permit, widen their driveway, Abstair x and widen their neighbor's driveway to shorten the parking space between the two driveways at City expense. Motion �J passes. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 a City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #8 - Park Bond Issue Park Bond Issue Vice Chair Grant reported the Parks and Open Space Acquisi- tion Committee met and discussed the park bond issue, result of which is the report submitted. Director Whitley reported staff agrees with Chair. Taft's suggestion that the Commission annually review the Recreatio and Open Space Element which is included in the report. Commissioner Herberts questioned the County's requirements of 2.5 acres per 1,000 which is half of what Newport Beach requires, i.e., 5 acres per 1,000, because Newport.eeadh parks could be impacted when developments are annexed to the City from the County. Director Whitley explained the County's requirements are based on the Quimby Act, a State law that cannot exceed 3 acres per projected 1,000. Director Whitley further explained the park dedication requirements that park space must be usable recreation land. A bond issue would be needed for additional park or open space which is beyond that which is identified as needed in the General Plan. Commissioner Herber.ts recommended rewording the report so that the City Council understands some members of the Commission favor a bond issue if the City wishes to develop more parks than presently called for. Commissioner Vandervort felt a bond issue would be appropri- ate for the Castaways site as the area is severely impacted. Since Mariners Park is the only active park in this area, another one is needed. She said that Item #4 in the report abandons the possibility of a bond issue and should be re- written to be more positive. Commissioner Grant felt Item #2 in the report should be refined and that requirements and facts should be stated. Commissioner Konwiser recommended giving the County credit for providing open space but stating that, when developed, it has a requirement less than Newport Beach's 5 acres per 1,000. Commissioner Grant moved the report be deferred back to �} the Parks and Open Space Acquisition Committee to be re- written. Unanimous. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motior Ayes T arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Grant then asked the Commissioners to contact him in regard to any changes them deem necessary. Item #9 - City Council Policy 'I -5, Use, Priorities and Fees City Counci for Facilities and Equipment, Proposed Amendments Policy I -5 Commissioner Grant recommended including the concept of a schedule closing fields for renovation. Nancy Beard stated this will be added as Item #4 under Specifications for Sports Groups. Commissioner Grant also recommended that Item #3 under Specifications for Sports Groups, third sentence, read... "Commission members or their designated committee..." Commissioner Vandervort recommended Item #D be amended to read "Department sponsored adult sports will take precedence at Bonita Creek Park softball fields." x Commissioner Konwiser moved Policy I -5 be approved with the X x x x x x corrections. Unanimous. III.. PUBLIC COMMENTS IV. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #10 - McFadden's Wharf Conceptual Plan McFadden's Wharf Con - Commissioner Konwiser recommended the bicycle trail be of a different texture than the pedestrian trail. ceptual PIE Commissioner Herberts requested shade trees be planted in the largest middle planter, at the square on the side of the new restroom, by the statue, and picnic benches. Commissioner Grant recommended the Plan include a definite place to park bicycles and address the yellow /red traffic control lighting system which Huntington Beach uses. Commissioner Compton reported the Bicycle Trails Committee will be attending the planning meetings to address these issues. He added that the bike racks will be the new high "S" shaped ones. Commissioner Vandervort questioned if Traffic Engineering has reviewed the flow changes and that 14 parking spaces have been eliminated. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission am- City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Director Whitley advised the change is because the Division is attempting to cease cruising in this area. Commissioner Vandervort also suggested more facilities be added to the female side of the restrooms. Item #11 - San Joaquin Hills Planned Community San Joaquin Hills Director Whitley reported the enclosed Land Use Concept is Planned for the Commission's information. The County area is unin- Community corporated and will be developed fairly soon. He referred to the 12 acres dedicated as a public park to accommodate approximately 1200 dwelling units or 7,000 people. Commissioner Herberts recommended The Irvine Company be invited to attend Commission meetings to hear Commission input. Commissioner Grant suggested a list of the Commis- sion's concerns be transmitted to the City Council. Commissioner Herberts voiced her concern that certain parcels that are developed in the County are deficient in parkland when annexed to the City of Newport Beach. She also suggested that it be pointed out to Council that San Joaquin Park is 50% short of what we expect in our community. Commissioner Grant recommended the 12 acre park be in such a configuration that it can have usable facilities on it. He also suggested this be used as an example in the park bond issue report. Following discussion, Commissioner Grant suggested staff write a report on the Commission's concerns to be formally addressed in the Parks and Open Space Acquisition Committee, followed by Commission review. Item #12 - Facility, Inspections Facility Inspections Director Whitley explained the subject report includes reviews of what staff has done and points out deficient areas. A standardized form will be developed at committee level and presented at the'November 7, 1989 meeting, followed by Commission facility responsibilities. Commissioner Grant reported the Lincoln field needs to be rolled and bleachers need to be moved to the third soccer field. He also felt there are too many bleachers at Bonita Creek Park. Director Whitley advised staff will be doing an inventory of all bleachers. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #13 - Review Preliminary Plans for Little Corona and Review Pre - Inspiration Point liminary Plans for Director Whitley reviewed the subject preliminary plans and Little explained that Inspiration Point will be cleaned up. Corona and Commissioner Konwiser stated he felt there is no need for Inspiration Point exposed aggregate and that the same finish be used as in the Disappearing Path. Director Whitley explained that Little Corona has pre -manu- factured seating elements, i.e., the bench will be anchored in the boulders. The "clutter" will be removed at the end of Poppy and Public Works will install new signs. Commissioner Grant suggested soft lights be installed under the benches for safety purposes. He also asked that the specifications the Commission has requested be implemented and sent back for their review. Commissioner Konwiser agreed, asking that the list imple- menting lights, bike racks, pavement, etc., be returned. Director Whitley advised these are preliminary schematics which will become Public Works projects and often times are not returned until it is too late to include additional items. However, he will transmit the Commission's comments to Public Works with a copy to the Commission. Commissioner Konwiser recommended that when final plans and specifications are available, they be brought before this Commission for review as an Action Item to determine if the Commission's comments have been incorporated. Item #14 - Status of Capital Projects Status of Capital Commissioner Vandervort suggested Capital Projects be listed Projects by Service Area. Commissioner Compton asked for more details on the status of West Newport; Director Whitley will provide this informa- tion as an attachment to the next report. Item #15 - Commission Committees Commission Committees (a) Capital Improvements - No report from Chair Konwiser. (b) Street Tree - Chair Herberts asked the committee members to look at areas where new trees might be needed. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 10 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Jack Brooks has been asked to implement a letter notifyin those concerned that trees will be planted in a certain area and, if they disagree, to notify us giving their reasons. (c) Recreation Program - Chair Compton reported the Recreatio Committee members will be attending two youth commission meetings during the year. Nancy Beard reported the new winter programs will be presented at the Commission's November 7 meeting. (d) Oceanfront and Beach - Chair Vandervort presented a walnut plaque of Volleyball Regulations to Chair Taft . in appreciation of his taking the lead in regulating volleyball courts in Newport Beach. It was pointed out there are three volleyball courts at Corona del Mar State Beach which need'to be painted ( blue and City rules posted. (e) Budget - Chair Taft announced the next Budget Committee meeting will be in January. (f) Parks and Open Space Acquisition - Chair Grant reported Big Canyon is being researched by staff. The Park Bond Issue report will be redrafted and the scoreboard sign regulations will be drafted by staff. (g) Chair Taft appointed a new committee to work with the West Newport Improvement Association and Newport Shores Association on the Semeniuk Slough park project. It will be chaired by Commissioner Compton assisted by Commissioner Demmer and himself. Director Whitley will be staff liaison. Chair Taft asked the Commissioners to review Goals and Objectives which will be a discussion item at the November 7 meeting. Item #16 - Commission Liaison Assignments Commission Liaison (a) Friends of Oasis - Commissioner Herberts reported she is Assignments not being notified of their meetings. Chair Taft advised ! the.next general meeting is at 10:00 A.M. on October 6. Commissioner Demmer, liaison to the Friends, will attend 1 J the general meeting and will be contacting Norma Gilchris for a meeting to become more familiar with the expecta- tions of the liaison responsibilities. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH k ) 13 3.rks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 11 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX (b) Friends of the Theatre Arts Center - Commissioner Compton, liaison, reported.he will be attending the Board meeting on 'October 4. Commissioner Herberts reported information on the Theatre was not included in the fall brochure. Item #17 - Park and Street Tree Division Park and Street Tree Commissioner Grant reported Buffalo Hills Phase II needs Division benches by the new tot lot. Item #18 - Recreation Division Recreation Division Nancy Beard reported the Department's first Haunted House will be held on October 31 at the Community Youth Center. Commissioner Grant reported Buffalo Hills Park is a nuisance for the Police Department on Halloween and perhaps ideas could be pursued for an event at this location next year. V. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS Item #19 - Lfghting at Lincoln Lighting at Lincoln Commissioner Grant reported the concerns of Spyglass Hill residents over the lighting at Lincoln. He requested this be an Action Item at the November 7 meeting to address such items as shields, timing, etc., and to notify involved homeowners associations as well as youth groups for their input. Nancy Beard advised lights will go off on Tuesdays and Thursdays by 9:00 P.M., Mondays and Fridays by 10:15 P.M., and Wednesdays by 10:00 P.M. On October 10 there will be a review and final check of the lights with the contractor. The homeowners associations will be advised and, if they are not satisfied with the situation, they will be encouraged to notify the Commission. It was then determined that this issue be a discussion item at the Commission's next meeting on November 7, 1989. VI. ADJOURNMENT. There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned at 11:20 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on September 26, 1989 at 3:00 P.M. outside the City Hall Administration Building. nnttip Flnhr_ Spr'rptary