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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09 - Upper Castaways Park VegetationCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT Agenda Item No. 9 September 23, 2003 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL FROM: City Manager's Office Homer L. Bludau, City Manager, 644 -3000 HBludau e city.newport- beach. ca. us General Services Department David E. Niederhaus, General Services Director, 644 -3055 dniederhaus(abcity.newport- beach.ca.us SUBJECT: Council Consideration of Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options and the Potential Utilization of Grant Funding ISSUE: What kind of public use and what level of public use does the City Council want for the Castaways Park site, and how best can those goals be implemented by the City Council? RECOMMENDATION: As this is a policy question, staff will make no recommendation. DISCUSSION: Background: Please see Background section of August 12, 2003 staff report for a historical sequencing of this issue. New Information: On September 11th, the City Manager participated in a meeting with Bo Glover (Newport Environmental Nature Center); Trish Smith (Nature Conservancy); Karen Bane -by phone (Coastal Conservancy); John Greenlee (native grass and turf specialist); and from General Services, Mike Pisani and Marcy Lomeli. From this meeting, the following key points were made: 1. (Karen Bane and Trish Smith) The grants from the Nature Conservancy ($50,000) and from the Coastal Conservancy ($99,600) are aimed at Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options & Potential Utilization of Grant Funding September 23, 2003 Page 2 exposing the public to a revegetation plan at Upper Castaways which contained a wide variety of the native grass and plant communities. The previously approved plan had well defined walkways for the public to view plant and grass species identified by signage. The public would not walk into the vegetation areas, due to the harmful effects of foot traffic on the plantings. The purpose of the park grants was to educate the public on a great variety of native plant species. 2. (Karen Bane and Trish Smith) A meadow that would be planted in one grass species regardless of what that species was, would not be acceptable under the provisions of the two grants. The purpose of the grants was to educate the public about a variety of native plants. 3. (Karen Bane and Trish Smith) A park setting where picnicking, kite flying and frisbee throwing took place was far too active to serve their grant purposes. 4. (Karen Bane and Trish Smith) The prior compromise of having a 50 foot wide strip of the Meadow Sedge along the eastern boundary of the large flat central meadow area and also on the "teardrop" portion of the park near the central view area would be allowable, as long as the rest of the park was held true to the original plan. Under this scenario, if the Meadow Sedge grass was planted and it did not survive, the City would need to replant the area in conformance with the original plan. 5. (Karen Bane) The question was posed by the City Manager as to whether the City turning down these two grants now would hurt our chances for having future grant applications funded. While the answer was not definitive, it could be characterized by "probably ", at least for a while. Nature Conservancy Board members are well aware of our local controversy and are watching our decision making process. That the City had already entered into a grant agreement with the Nature Conservancy and then, went back on that agreement, is not something that agency will take lightly, even though no grant funds have been expended. The information obtained from this meeting does help to clarify the seven options being presented to the City Council. The following is a description of each of the seven (7) options and the pro's and con's of each. Olxtion 1 Follow through with the June 24, 2002 Agreement with the California Coastal Conservancy (CCC) to implement the Revegetation Plan as described in the City's grant application and approve additional funding in the amount of $5,400 for the project shortfall. The Plan proposes to revegetate the Park with native plant communities, install temporary irrigation, install interpretive signs and displays, install a demonstration Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options & Potential Utilization of Grant Funding September 23, 2003 Page 3 area to explain the species present and the wildlife supported by each plant community, and improve the existing interior trails. P ro's 1. Great educational opportunity for the community to become knowledgeable on native grasses and plants. 2. Should require only a moderate level of maintenance over time. 3. Ongoing maintenance and irrigation costs should be low compared with other options. 4. City pays only $80,400 toward the $230,000 project. 5. Provides greatest water conservation of any option, except for Option 4. Con's 1. Grant restrictions run for 20 years. 2. If future Councils want a different park vegetation plan, grants need to be repaid. 3. Park will receive very limited use /visits from the public. 4. The unique public vistas offered from Upper Castaways will have severely restricted public use opportunities due to grant restrictions. 5. City will be responsible for native plant replacements after establishment period is complete. Option 2 Approve an amendment to the Revegetation Plan to install native grass and permanent irrigation in a strip area totaling 33,400 square feet (approximately '/ acre) along the eastern boundary of the central meadow, and approve additional funding in the amount of $30,400 for the amendment features ($25,000) and the project shortfall ($5,400). Pro's 1. This compromise offers both the educational opportunities for the public to view the native plant community and an opportunity for those who want some grassy area for limited passive uses. 2. City cost of $255,000 project is limited to $105,400. 3. This option gains the City $149,600 in grants. 4. This option provides for low water usage. Con's 1. Grant restrictions run for 20 years. 2. Compromise may not satisfy either side of grass /native plantings controversy. 3. This option costs the City an additional $25,000 above Option 1. 4. Annual maintenance effort and costs increase above Option 1 costs. Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options & Potential Utilization of Grant Funding September 23, 2003 Page 4 5. Public still has very limited passive recreational uses of park. 6. The aesthetic appearance of the park would be compromised by the two looks and two different, and somewhat incompatible, uses. Option 3 Approve the PB &R Commission recommendations to reject the CCC and Nature Conservancy grants in order to install a yet undetermined amount of non - native (ornamental) grass and permanent irrigation in the 2.6 acre meadow area (central, flat area of the Park) using current City budgeted funds ($43,907). The "teardrop" area would not receive a landscape treatment. Pro's 1. Could see high volume park usage from the public. 2. Would beautify the site with green grass on meadow. 3. No grant restrictions on use. Con's 1. $149,600 in grants lost, will increase initial cost to the City by approximately $240,000 (to $320,000) above Option 1. 2. Will attract youth sports groups for practices /activities. 3. Has highest ongoing maintenance costs of all the options 4. Would probably provide for uses which could create the most noise. 5. Would require greatest quantities of water and fertilizer to maintain. 6. Jeopardize future grant requests. Option 4 Do not install any park improvements at this time. Terminate the CCC Agreement and reject the Nature Conservancy grant offer. Re- budget existing capital improvement funding for other uses or return funds to the General Fund. Pro's 1. No immediate cost to the City. 2. No grant restrictions on usage. Con's 1. Gives up grant opportunities for no identifiable improvement plan. 2. Little public use is generated. 3. Leaves site development decision to the future with nothing solved. 4. Is likely to jeopardize success with future grant applications. Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options & Potential Utilization of Grant Funding September 23, 2003 Page 5 Option 5 Approve the installation of native turf and permanent irrigation in the entire large central meadow area and additional City funding in the amount of $289,670. Obtain CCC and Nature Conservancy approval to proceed with installation of the Revegetation Plan in the remainder of the Park. Option 5 not available as grants cannot be obtained under this option. Option 6 Approve the installation of native turf and permanent irrigation in the 2.6 acre large meadow area. Abandon CCC and Nature Conservancy grants. City not held to grant restrictions and assumes entire project cost ($340,000). Pro's 1. Native grass, not ornamental grass, used for park. 2. Ongoing maintenance more than Options 1 & 2 but less than Options 3 & 4. 3. Would offer passive recreation for entire meadow area. 4. Would inhibit use of active recreation. 5. Would utilize unique site in a way that the public can greatly enjoy it. 6. No grant use limitations. Con's 1. Cost to City significantly more than most options. 2. City gives up $149,600 in grants. 3. California meadow grass not proven passive park grass. 4. Future grant applications jeopardized. Option 7 Approve the phased development of the central meadow area of the Park with California Meadow Sedge grass and irrigation. Approve an additional $75,000 in City funding to develop first phase of the project. Abandon CCC and Nature Conservancy grants. See attached map for phasing details. It is staffs belief the park could be developed in 4 phases at $100,000 - $125,000 annually in four years. Pro's 1. City retains authority to develop Park with no restrictions. 2. Public use of Park greatly increases over time. 3. Good use of unique park site. 4. Allows for possible volunteer native plantings to continue in certain areas of the Park. Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options & Potential Utilization of Grant Funding September 23, 2003 Page 6 Con's 1. City assumes all costs of Park development. 2. City loses $149,600 in grant funding and jeopardizes success with future applications. 3. Maintenance and irrigation costs are higher than Options 1 & 2. 4. Park area would be fenced from public over 4 year period. Summary of cost differential for revegetation options. Option #1 $ 80,400 $ 149,600 $ 230,000 #2 $ 105,400 $ 149,600 $ 255,000 #3 $ 100,000 $ - $ 100,000 #4 $ 23,600 $ $ 23,600 #5 Eliminated #6 $ 292,000 $ $ 292,000 " #7 $ 120,000 $ $ 120,000 First year cost of phased development. Summary Questions: 1. What is the best long term use of the park that best fits the needs of the community? 2. Is the City Council willing to give up greater use and enjoyment of Castaways site for $149,600 in grant funds that would restrict public usage? 3. Is the expenditure of up to $500,000 (Option 6) too much to pay for a new passive park in this location? Does phasing over 4 years change this answer? Upper Castaways Park Vegetation Options & Potential Utilization of Grant Funding September 23, 2003 Page 7 Environmental Review: A Negative Declaration for the original Revegetation Plan was filed with the County Clerk in January 2002. Additional documentation may be required according to the selection of the options. Planning Department staff are researching the necessity of further environmental requirements for the recommended action. A Coastal Commission permit could be necessary depending on the option selected. Funding Availability: Two years ago in the FY 2001 -02 CIP, the City Council appropriated $75,000 as the City's share of the revegetation project. In combination with grants totaling $149,600, the $224,600 was expected to be sufficient for the project. To date, the City has expended $30,000 of the $75,000 amount in the removal of salt bushes and for plans and specifications for the original plan. Therefore, $45,000 remains unused. Submitted by: t_ Homer L. Blu au' �— David E. Niederhaus City Manager General Services Director Attachments: Castaways Park Map – Phased Development Agreement with State Coastal Conservancy �7 11 CLI"', 'Zug xy 0 M., 4 "s, AN, Legend Castaways Park Pp.rinneter 31 Perimeter of Revegetation Project Existing Projects Phased Turf Areas V p gk 09/17/2003 09:35 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 01 fpNDhRD AGREEMENT— At�FltovennrTNe mr,,,A�,,,,�, „ ,a, „a ATMMU OEMEIIAL �aPEY Se ,. iAOATMa Nava Mvanvan IaBatrwlgM+AW o� dual--, 200T 9 5- 6 0007 51 DS AOR �N r. made and entenad loco thN day d tha State : mIdamla, M wd berWeM State of c■rifornia, ttanugh its duly elected or appotrlaed, walifle and aadat :E v OWEM ACTM ron arATa Executive Officer State Coastal Conservancy 6neaftwnapodttoSIM,Bad City of Newport Beach 1110efIrc61111cidoConrseta r1NBSSE77i: That the contractor far and in eauldaradon of the oo enenu. conditions. agrwamu, and adpnlations at the state heaeiutler e.Prow. a hereby aye, to Am i.h to the 3tme aervlou sad materials as follow: (Sd fonh service to rendered by Cowroc r, anaaw to be paid Cawatar, w for perfonwwa or cagofarion, ad MOM Plow and ap•cWadem. if my.) RECEIVED SCOPE OF AGREEMENT AU6 O 2 2002 Pursuant to Chapter 6 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code, the StatK-, sX HKSI i Fist Conservancy ( "the Conservancy') hereby grants to City of Newport Beach ("the grantee'') a sum not to exceed ninety-nine thousand six hundred dollars (S -99,600), subject to the terms and conditions of this agreement. These funds shall be used by the grantee to implement portions of the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan, adopted by the Conservancy on May 23, 2002, by completing the following project ( "the project*) in Castaways Park located in the City of Newport Beach in Orange County as shown on Exhibit A, which is incorporated by reference and attached. The grantee shall revegetate the 17 -acre Castaways Park with native-plant communities including coastal sage scrub, coastal bluff, coastal canyon, and grasslands, create designated trails, and install interpretive signs and displays. The grantee small ensure that (Continued on following pages) ONnNUED ON SHERTM. EACH BEARING NAME OF COMRACTOR AND CONTRACT NUMBER. The provisions on the reverse side hereof Dorutiuxte a pan of thin aaramarL 4 w1 WMS wHEREOP. this agream,at has ban executed by the parties heeoo. upon the dam Feat shove write,. STATE OF CALIFORNIA CONTRACTOR ww�ron p.o.. wne.e.r -a. rru..�..rb+. P-*--W w State Coastal �onFrvancy� City of Newport Beach Y 0 fOIATURO By (N.rnrOR® abMnalq I- Samuel Schuchat Executive Officer PROnm NAM AND TrRE OF P¢RMN *MNNa David E. Niederhaus, General Services Director ADMCM 3500 Newport B v Newport Beach, CA 92658 -8915 MOUNT ENCUWQ ED BY TNe PRDONAN TEO IDODE AND TMA) FUND 7n1,¢ om �T Capital Outlay General Fund S 99,600.00 prnMAttan AMR ANONrt EMMUMOD MR Castaways Park Implementation plan He txwnRACr n¢Ar Gy►ie)1 aTATUT¢ AMMY¢M $ -0- 3760 - 301 - 0001(0.1) 050 1999 99/00 OTAI ANOUR WIw Ra¢R ®10 D1r OF r1VEMrtV1! wTC t000r AND TfRa] $ 99,600.00 Enhancement M hareby °1W Upon a7 own Ya'+a"I Oa IRar MAV~ ftn* TJA No, ale rn era MOM" b M paNOdand prapoaa eI M a�rlararw aYara aeova. > -iirn � YIAerTG � GI�4�Oz ❑ MWMA&IM ❑ bfAr¢ MON Y ❑ MPT. of asaa am ❑ ookTftw l ❑ SEP -17 -2003 11:35 949 650 5643 96% Use QrJl i C;@" thMft QtBlit q"MW a is exeW he dep n"M of (rem Serrf wWroval. P.01 09/17/2003 09:35 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 02 , City of Newport Beech Gn mt Agreemetd No. 01 -184 Page 3 b. That the City of Newport Beach has determined that the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan is consistent with the Local Coastal Program for the Cityof Newport Beach. c. That the grantee has provided for liability insurance and an additional - insured endorsement, or is self - insured, as described in the "LIABnXI Y ' section of this agreement. 4. Evidence that the grantee has obtained the additional funding required to complete the entire project. TERM OF AGREEMENT This agreement shall be deemed executed and effective when signed by both parties and received in the offices of the Conservancy together with the resolution described in the "CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO COMMENCEMENT OF PROJECT AND DISBURSEMENT— section of this agreement. An authorized representative of the grantee shall sign the first page of the originals of this agreement in ink. This agreement shall run from its effective date through June 30, 2022 (the "termination date") unless otherwise terminated or amended as provided by the agreement. However, all work shall be completed by March 31, 2004 ("the completion date'l. AUTHORIZATION The signature of the Executive Officer of the Conservancy on this agreement certifies that at its May 23, 2002 meeting, the Conservancy adopted the resolution included in the staff recommendation attached as Exhibit B. This agreement is executed pursuant to that authorization. following amounts: for faithful performance, one hundred percent (1000/6) of the contract SEP -17 -2003 11 :35 949 650 5643 80% P.02 09/17/2003 09 :35 949 -650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 04 IMPLEMENTATION OF CASTAWAYS PARK REVEGETATION PLAN Agenda Item 4. May 23, 2002 MWB SEP -17 -2003 11 :36 949 650 5643 98i P.04 09/17/2003 09:35 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 05 COASTAL CONSERVANCY Project Summary May 23, 2002 IMPLEMENTATION OF CASTAWAYS PARK REVEGETATION PLAN File No. 02-057 Project Manager. Karen C. Baste ECOMMENDED ACTION: Approval of the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan and authorization to disburse up to $99,600 to the City of Newport Beach for implementation of the Plan. LOCATION: Castaways Park, City of Newport Beach, Orange County (Ex- hibit 1) PROGRAM CATEGORY: Resource Enhancement ESTIMATED COST: Coastal Conservancy 5 99,600 City of Newport Beach 75,000 The Nature Conservancy 55.400 Total Cost $230,000 The anticipated source of Coastal Conservancy funds is an ap- propriation for the purposes of Division 21 of the Public Re- sources Code. PROJECT SUMMARY: The proposed authorization would provide a grant to the City of Newport Beach (City) to implement the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan. In June 1996, the City dedicated the 17 -acre site as a natural park. To date, the City has installed a paved pe- rimeter path and a parking lot and assisted interested citizens with enhancing a small emergent and riparian wetland. Casta- ways Park overlooks the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Ro- serve as well as open water areas in Upper Newport Bay, which the Conservancy helped to restore. The revegetation plan will recreate a remnant of the historical upland habitat including coastal sage scrub that once complemented the Upper Newport Bay. The Plan proposes building upon the City's prior enhancement with a design to create coastal sage scrub, coastal bluff, grass- land, wildflower meadow, and coastal canyon habitat types on 4-1 SEP -17 -2003 11:37 BIT `* 949 650 5643 98i P.05 .09/17/2003 09:35 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES the remainder of the 17 -acre park. Interior trails will be im- proved with borders and signs to keep perk visitors from dis- turbing the native plant communities. A demonstration area will explain the species present in each community and the wildlife supported. The park is included in the Orange County Central - Coastal Subregional Natural Communities Conservation Planning (NCCP) program but is located outside of the NCCP's core habitat reserve. A biological assessment conducted in March 2001 revealed that sensitive species such as the California gnatcatcher and the coastal cactus wren have the potential to occur on the site and there is a moderate potential for gnat - catchers to nest in suitable habitat on site. 4-2 PAGE 06 J SEP -17 -2003 11:37 949 650 5643 9e% P.06 09/17/2003 09:35 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES COASTAL CONSERVANCY Staff Recommendation May 23, 2002 IMPLEMENTATION OF CASTAWAYS PARK REVEGETATION PLAN File No. 02 -057 Project Manager. Karen C. Bane STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the State Coastal Conservancy adopt the following Resolution pursuant to Sections 31251 -31270 of the Public Resources Code: ' The State Coastal Conservancy hereby approves the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan attached as Exhibit 2 to the accompanying staff recommendation and authorizes disbursement of an amount not to exceed ninety -nine thou- sand six hundred dollar ($99,600) to the City of Newport Beach for implementation of the Castaways Park Revego- tation Plan, subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to the disbursement of any Conservancy funds, the City of Newport Beach shall submit for the review and written approval of the Conservancy's Executive Offi- cer: a. A work program, including schedule and budget; b. The names of any contractors it intends to we to conduct the work; and c. Evidence that additional funds have been secured to complete the project. 2. The City shall follow NCCP consttuction minimization measures in implementing the Plan. 3. The City shall provide a qualified biological monitor, acceptable to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Cali- fornia Department of Fish and Game, to survey: a. The California gnateatcher if saltbush or coastal sage scrub will be removed during the breeding ma- son and if long -term maintenance (e.g., mowing) will be' conducted in the natural arras of the park outside of the fUcl modification zone during the breeding season; and 4-3 PAGE 07 EXMTB SER -17 -2003 11:3e 949 650 5643 99% P.07 09/17/2003 09:35 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES b. Active bird nesting prior to clearing of eucalyptus trees during the breeding season (February 15 through August 15)." Staff further recommends that the Conservancy adopt the fol- lowing findings: , "Based on the accompanying staff report and attached ex- hibits, the State Coastal Conservancy hereby finds that: 1. The proposed project is consistent with the purposes and criteria in Chapter 6 of the Public Resources Code (Sections 31251 - 31270) regarding the enhancement of coastal resources. 2. The proposed project is consistent with the Project Se- lection Criteria and Guidelines adopted by the Coastal Conservancy on January 24, 2001. 3. The Conservancy has independently reviewed the Initial Study and Negative Declaration adopted on January 14, 2002 by the City of Newport Beach, attached to the ac- companying staff recommendation as Exhibit 3, and finds that there is no substantial evidence .that the proj- ect will have a significant effect on the environment, as defined in 14 Cal. Code of Regulations Section 15382." STAFF DISCUSSION: Project Description: The Castaways Park Revegetation Plan prescribes the work necessary to restore and preserve Castaways Park as a natural park and remnant of the historic upland habitat that once com- plementod the Upper Newport Bay, addresses the public's lim- ited access to the views and wildlife habitat of Upper Newport Bay's western bluffs, and provides environmental interpreta- tion. Currently, the site is mostly nonnative grassland with a small stand of eucalyptus trees in the canyon. The slopes along the bluff have some native plant species with some invasive exotic vegetation intermixed. A network of informal trails through the park's interior indicates the demand for access to the natural setting and views of Upper Newport Bay. According to a biological assessment conducted in March 2001, sensitive species such as the California gnatcatcher and the coastal cactus wren have the potential to occur on the site and there is a moderate potential for gnatcatchers to nest in suitable habitat on site. Additionally, raptors neat in the trees in the canyon/ravine portion of the park. Hence, revegetating the park with natural communities will not only recreate the his- 4-4 PAGE 08 SEP -17 -2003 11:3e 949 650 5643 98% P.08 09/17/2003 09:35 SEP -17 -2003 11:39 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 09 toric upland habitat of Upper Newport Bay but also enhance the habitat needed by gnatcatchers, coastal cactus wren, raptors, and other wildlife. The Plan expands on the, City's prior enhancement of the small freshwater wetland and riparian area on site with a design to create coastal sage scrub, coastal bluff, grassland, wildflower meadow, and coastal canyon habitat types on the 17 -acre park. The plant palette was developed in consultation with a local restoration ecologist and biologists from the California Do- partment of Fish and Game. The Plan directs site preparation, installation of irrigation, horticulture maintenance, and per- formance monitoring. Public access to natural open space and wildlife of Upper Newport Bay in the vicinity of Castaways Park is limited, de- spite the park's proximity to Upper Newport Bay Ecological Preserve, Upper Newport Bay Regional Park, and San Joaquin Marsh managed by the University of California Natural Re- serve System. The Ecological Preserve is closed to public ac- cess and the Interpretive Center for the Regional Park is ap- proximately three miles away in the uppermost extant of the Bay; therefore, surrounding residents would have to drive in order to enjoy a natural park setting. The San Joaquin Marsh Reserve, which the Conservancy has helped to restore in two phases with disbursement of $2,428,000 and $330,000 respec- tively, is closed to the public except for scheduled and super- vised outdoor science programs for school children and spe- cially arranged tours for adults. A network of informal paths created by the public highlights the demand for access to the bluff edge and natural open space. Residents visit the park to walk, jog, or ride bicycles or view the Upper Newport Bay while relaxing on log benches. While a paved trail exists around the perimeter of the patio, many in- formal paths have been created by walkers and bicyclists throughout the interior of the park. These random paths and public usage of them contributes to the degradation of existing habitat and disturbance of wildlife and would threaten the habitat newly restored as a result of this project The proposed revegetation/restorstion project will create designated interior trails that will be bordered with rocks or tree trunks and lined with wood chips. These designated paths along with signs will protect existing habitat as well as new plantings. The bluff edge revegetation will preserve scenic views of Up- per Newport Bay, which the Conservancy helped to restore. The principal threat to fish and wildlife habitat in Upper New- 4-5 FWHWIT A 949 650 5643 9e/ P.09 09/17/2003 09:35 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 10 port Bay is from excessive sediment and nutrients . delivered from upstream. In 1984, the Conservancy provided $362,000 to assist with construction of a sediment basin (]mown as "Unit r) in Upper Newport Bay. Over the lest six years the Conservancy has approved two grants to the County of Orange totaling $640,000 to prepare designs and bid documents to deepen ex- isting sediment basins in Upper Newport Bay. Castaways Park provides scenic views of Upper Newport Bay for public en- joyment of not only the preserved habitat but also of the wild- life using this sustained habitat. In addition to the trail network, the Plan enhances the public's experience of the habitat and wildlife that are being preserved in nearby areas that are off-limits to thorn. The Plan includes a demonstration garden and interpretive area that will inform visitors about the native plant communitiea represented m the park and how they support sensitive and common wildlife spe- cies. This park would become a new addition to the network of local examples of native habitat that the Environmental Nature Center of Newport Beach encourages residents to visit. Conservancy funds will be used for revegetation of native plant communities; however, they will not be disbursed until the City secures the additional funds necessary for completion of the entire Plan. Currently, the City is considering a budget proposal for a contribution to implementation of the Plan. In addition, The Nature Conservancy is evaluating the appropriateness of the projoct for a grant as well. Project Financing: Coastal Conservancy S 99,600 City of Newport Beach 75,000 The Nature Conservancy 53.400 Total Cost $230,000 The anticipated source of Coastal Conservancy funds is an ap- propriation for the purposes of Division 21 of the Public Re- sources Code. Conservancy funds will not be disbursed until the City of New- port Beach secures all additional funds to cover the total cost of implementing the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan. Site Description: Castaways Park is located in the City of Newport Beach on western bluffs overlooking Upper Newport Bay and Pacific Coast Highway (Exhibit 1). It is about 1/4 mile north of the Pa- cific Ocean at an elevation of 80 feet above mean sea level. 0 SEP -17 -2003 11:40 949 650 5643 99/ P.10 09/17/2003 09:35 _ 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES The 17 -acre park is mainly comprised of flat bluff top with a ono -acre wetland and riparian area as well as a small canyon. The site is mostly nonnative grassland with a small stand of eucalyptus hoes in the canyon. The slopes along the bluff have some native plant species with some invasive exotic vegetation intermixed. Development of the park is minimal. The perimeter of the park is marked by a 'paved trail and a split tail fence. Benches are placed at key viewpoints. The park is surrounded by residential and commercial devel- opment to the east and north. The Park is bounded on the west by Dover Drive and on the east by Upper Newport Bay. A parking area for the park, the Newport Harbor Lutheran Church, and the Castaways residential development'bound the park on the north. In 1997, the City of Newport Beach built a parking lot and a perimeter trail to service the park, The Upper Newport Bay Ecological Preserve, Upper Newport Bay Regional Park, and San Joaquin Marsh Reserve managed by the U.C. Natural Reserve System are in the vicinity of the park. The Ecological Preserve is closed to public access and the Interpretive Center for the Regional Park is three miles away in the uppermost extent of Bay; therefore, Castaways Park allevi- ates the need for surrounding residents to drive in order to en- joy a natural park setting. Project History: Castaways Bluff has had a colorful transformation from port and country club to park. In the 1970s the crew of the steamer Vaquero constructed the New Port at Newport Landing, near the current intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Dover Drive. By 1875, the McFadden brothers had expanded the Newport Landing and established transportation between New- port and San Francisco. In 1889 the landing was moved to the peninsula at the mouth of Newport Bay. The Castaways Bluff was not ignored for long because in 1912 The.Irvine Company leased 160 acres on and below the bluff to the Orange County Country Club. An 18 -hole golf course, ten- nis courts, boathouse, and bathhouse were constructed. A popular clubhouse burned down in the late 1950s. The Irvine Company developed the Castaways residential area on the bluff and transferred the land that is now Castaways Park to the City of Newport Beach. On June 14, 1998 the City of Newport Beach dedicated Castaways Park as a natural park. By City definition, a 'natural parr' is a passive me park containing native, indigenous, and naturally occurring flora and fauna. Rec- 4-7 PAGE 11 SEP -17 -2003 11:40 X1T 8 949 650 5643 99% P.11 09/17/2003 09:35.949-650-5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 12 reational pursuits in a natural park include walkin& hiking, run- ning, and nature observation. Educational pursuits include nature study and restoration of indigenous native flora and fauna Past community work on the park has entailed plantings to en- hance the area surrounding a one -acre cattail marsh and willow riparian area. In January 1999, with a grant from the Tree Soci- ety of Orange County, volunteers expanded the riparian area by planting, watering, and maintaining 84 native trees. In April 1999, the Castaways Park Advisory Committee was es- tablished to advise the City of Newport Beach how to preserve and restore Castaways Park as a 'natural" park The City of Newport Beach's Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission approved the creation of the Committee. Members include quali- fied experts in fields of habitat revitalization, native plants, envi- ronmental education, community relations, and representatives of the Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Commission. The Castaways Park Advisory Committee has admirably ful- filled its role. In the spring of 2000, the Castaways Park Advi- sory Committee selected the plant palette and selected the planting contractor to continue restoration from the riparian area along Dover Drive with $20,000 raised from residents and the City. The Committee developed the Revegetation Plan that outlines the work necessary to complete revegetation and resto- ration of the entire park PROJECT SUPPORT: Implmentation of the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan enjoys broad support from state agencies, organizations, and the local community. The California Department of Fish and Game, En- vironmental Nature Center, California Native Plant Society, Sea and Sage Audubon, Friends of Harbors, Beaches and Parks, and the Mayor of Newport Beach have provided letters of support for the project. See Exhibit 4. CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY'S NABLING LEGISLATION: Chapter 6 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code (See- lions 31251- 31270) provides for the Coastal Conservancy's participation in a program of coastal resource enhancement. Accordingly, the proposed project is consistent with Section 31251, under which the Conservancy may award grants to state agencies, local public agencies and nonprofit organizations for projects that seek to remedy loss of natural and scenic values 4-8 SEP -17 -2003 11 :41 949 650 5643 98 P.12 09/17/2003 09:35 _ 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 13 CONSISTENCY WITH CONSERVANCY'S PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA & GUIDELINES: because of natural or human- induced events. The proposed grant is to a local public agency, the City of Newport. Section 31252 provides that the area proposed for enharicament be identified as requiring public action to resolve existing or potential resource protection problems. Consistent with that section, the City of Newport Beach's Lord Coastal Program states that the Castaways development shall incorporate a pub- lic park and viewing area along the bluff area, which has been designated as Recreational and Environmental Open Space, and shall be designed to adequately protect and buffer environ- mentally sensitive areas. This requires public action. Consistent with Section 31253, the amount of proposed Con- servancy funding for this project was determined by the total amount of funding available for coastal resource enhancement Projects, the fiscal resources of project partners and the urgency of the project relative to other eligible coastal resource en- hancement projects. As provided in Section 31256 (b), the City of Newport Beach will have an opportunity to review the plan for consistency with its local coastal program. The proposed project is consistent with the Conservancy's Proj- ect Selection Criteria and Guidelines adopted January 24, 2001, in the following respects: Required Criteria Promotion of the Conservancy's statutory programs and Purposes: As indicated above, the proposed project is consistent with Chapter 6 of Division 21 of the Public Resources Code (Sections 31251 et seq.), which provides for the Coastal Conser- vancy's participation in coastal resource enhancement projects. Consistency with funding source: The anticipated source of funding for the proposed project is monies appropriated to the Conservancy for the purposes of Division 21 of the Public Re- sources Code. Support: The proposed project has community and agency support, as demonstrated by the letters of support that are at- tached to this staff recommendation as Exhibit 4. Location: The proposed project is located in the Coastal Zone. 4--9 SEP -17 -2003 11:41 949 650 5643 7 VUIE lY a 9Bi P.13 09/17/2003 09:35 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 14 CONSISTENCY WITH THE COASTAL ACT: Need: The financial support and participation (staff assistance) of the Conservancy are critical for the Puma of Chia project. While the City of Newport Beaeh' has included fluid® in a budget proposal and has applied to other sources for additional funds, the Conservancy's participation is needed to implement the core revegetation of native plant communities in Castaways Park. Additional Criteria Leverage: Conservancy fiords are expected to assist in obtaining matching funds from other sources. Conservancy funds will not be disbursed until the City of Newport Beach secures the addi- tional funds necessary to complete the entire revegetation proj- ect. Readiness: The City of Newport Beach in partnership with the Environmental Nature Center formed an Advisory Committee to guide the revegetation and preservation of Castaways Park as a natural park_ Based on the experience gained by implement- ing two small revegetation projects at Castaways Park in 1999, the Advisory Committee has prepared a revegetation plan to complete enhancement of the entire park. With the seasoned experience and knowledgeable advisors, the City of Newport Beach is ready to implement the project as soon as funds are secured. Cooperation: The City of Newport Beach has worsted closely with The Environmental Nature Center and the Castaways Park Advisory Committee, comprised of qualified experts in fields of habitat restoration, botany, environmental education, com- munity relations and representatives of the Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Commission, The Department of Fish and Gaspe and The Nature Conservancy have reviewed the revegetation plan. The Environmental Nature Center will organize commu- nity volunteers to assist with performance monitoring and long- term maintenance of the native plant communities. The proposed project is consistent with the policies contained in Section 30223 of the Public Resources Code, which states that "Cujpland areas necessary to support coastal recreational uses shall be reserved for such uses, where feasible" and in Section 30251, which states that "scenic and visual qualities of coastal areas shall be considered and protected as a resource of public importance." Castaways Park provides views of Upper and Lower Newport Bay as well as the Pacific Ocean. Revege- tation of the park with native plant communities will provide 4-10 SER -17 -2003 11:42 949 650 5643 98i P.14 09/17/2003 09:35 CONSISTENCY WTTH LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM POLICIES: COMPLIANCE WITH CEQA: SER -17 -2003 1143 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES - PAGE 15 visitors with views of what the upland coastal bhrffs once looked like in the region. In addition, this project is consistent with Section 30230, which states that "[m)arine resources shall be maintained, enhanced, and where feasible, restored" and "[s)pecial protection shall be given to areas and species of special biological ... signifi- cance." A biological assessment conducted in March 2001 found that sensitive species such as the California gnatcatcher and the coastal cactus wren have the potential to occur on the site and there is a moderate potential for guatcatchers to nest in suitable habitat on site. Additionally, raptors nest in the trees in the canyon/ravine portion of the park. Hence, revegetating the park with native plant communities will enhance the habitat needed by sensitive species such as gnateatchers and coastal cactus wren in addition to raptors and other wildlife. Support- ing the California gnatcatcher is compatible with the inclusion of the park in the Orange County Central —Coastal Subregional Natural Communities Conservation Planning (NCCP) program. Coastal bluffs of Castaways are identified as environmentally sensitive habitat area and as a significant scenic and environ- mental resource in the Newport Beach Local Coastal Program. Policies in the LCP direct the siting and design of development near coastal bluffs to protect public access, scenic views, and environmental resources along the coastal bluffs. Implementa- tion of the Castaways Park Revegetation Plan will fulfill these goals of preserving environmental and scenic values in con- junction with development on coastal bluffs. The City of Newport Beach, as the lead agency, has evaluated the proposed project pursuant to the California Evironmental Quality Act and has found that the project will not have a sig- nificant impact on the environment. On January 14, 2002, the City of Newport Beach adopted the initial Study and Negative Declaration (Exhibit 3) for the project. Staff has independently reviewed the City's Negative Declara- tion and recommends that the Conservancy approve the Negative Declaration and find that the project does not have the potential for a significant impact on the environment as defined in 14 Cali- fornia Code of Regulations, Section 15382. Upon approval, staff will file a Notice of Determination for the project. 4-11 949 650 5643 Miarr !A 98i P.15 09/17/2003 09.35 949 -650 -5643 PARKS TREES EXHIBIT 2 Revegetttlon Plan Distributed to Board Members only 4 -13 SEP -17 -2003 11:44 949 650 S643 98% PAGE 17 II BIT P.17 09/17/2003 09.35 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 19 EXHIBIT 3 Notice of Determination and Initial Study/Negative Declaration Distributed to Board Members only 0 -20 SEP -17 -2003 11 :44 949 650 5643 0(d t 8 99 P.19 09/17/2003 09: 35 949-650-5G43 PARKS TREES PAGE 19 FOMBIT 4 Letters of Support 4-15 EOMT 19 SEP-17-2003 11:45 949 650 5643 99%, P-19 09/17/2003 09:35 `949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 20 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH u OFFICE OF THE MAYOR ~ .N1 ! FO RTL x6 Nr 194944 -3004 favor Tod W. Ridgeway layor Pro Tem Steven Bromberg April 2, 2002 .ouncil Members Garold B. Adams Norma J. Glover Mr. Paul Morabito, Chairman John Dennis D. Heffernan is D. O' California Coastal Conservancy can, t~ Proctor 1330 Broadway, 1 10 Floor Oukland, CA 94612 Dear Mr. Morabito: On behalf of the City of Newport Beach I am writing to urge your support for a grant of $100,000 to the City for funding, for the installation of California native landscaping and irrigation, as well as a maintenance establishment program for the new plantings at Castaways Park. This effort will significantly improve the natural environment of Castaways Park, which is only one of a few upland parcels that connect to Newport Bay. The City proposes to allocate $75,000 as matching funds for this project. Our City Council will be considering a formal resolution supporting this grant request at our regular scheduled meeting on April 23, and I feel certain the Council will support the resolution when it is on the agenda. Your favorable consideration of this funding request . is strongly encouraged- Sincerely, Tod W. Rid ay Mayor cc: Newport Beach City Council Homer Bludau, City Manager City Hall • 3300 Newport Boulevard • Newport Beach, California 92663 -3884 www.citynewport- beach.ca.us Cyr a -16� D SEP -17 -2003 11:45 949 650 5643 9g;1 P.20 09/17/2003 09:35 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES Cati ornia Native Plant Sod. Orange County Clapur P. O. Box54891 Irvine CA 92619 -4891 April 15, 2002 Mr. Paul Morabito, Chairman_ California Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 11* Floor Oakland, California 94612 Dear Mr. Morabito PAGE 21 The Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society urges you to support the restoration of Coast Bluff habitat at Castaways Park through a grant of $100,000 to the City of Newport Beach, California This coastal bluff parkland will be greatly enhanced by the return of Coastal Sage Scrub, Grassland, Woodlands, and Wetlands. Ever increasing members of the community use the park extensively for exercise, walking pets, and enjoying the views out over Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Their experience there will be greatly enhanced by the restoration of this area. In addition, major factor in the project is the use of signage to provide an interactive educational experience both for the casual park visitor and for school and other groups of children. An element of this plan is to involve students in life science classes at the nearby high school in the monitoring process. ne Castaways Park site occupies one of the few undeveloped upland habitat parcels that touch Upper Newport Bay. It is a precious resource for the community, especially when planted with the vegetation that was once native to it. Sincerely, Dan Songster —! President, Orange County Chapter California Native Plant Society Dedicated to the preservation of California native flora a -i7 SEP -17 -2003 1146 949 650 5643 9e% P.21 %p 09/17/2003 09:35 9 mvvt IV �,b amp Board Of Directors: Jan wan, Ptraldent Alice Sorenson, Vice President Don Thomas, Ttemm Carolyn WOC4 Secretary Garry Brown Debra Clarke Howard Decrtryeiwtre Marilyn Ganahl, Sandy Gtrw Shldty GNndIt Bob Joseph ' Paul Mudge Stephalnit Pacheco Theresa Sean Nancy.5klrtner Connie Spenger OOraa j C�qn S-' Park Bob Fisher Supporting Oganiaatlons Amigos de Bdtsa Chlw Audubon. Sea & Sage Chapter Bois& Chia Land That Gaspers Mkderness Park Volunteers Equestrian Coalition o f O.C. Environmental Nature Center Huntington BCh Wetlands Con- Se cy & Wildlife Care Center Laguna Canyon Coiuervancy Laguna Canyon Foundation Laguna Greenbelt, Inc Newport Conservancy Sleet Club, Orange Cry Group . Southeast Huntington Beach HomeoWnen Surfriders Foundation, Newport Beach Chapter Stop Polluting Our Newport Usppeer Bay N&naallsn & Friends Wlldemess Park Trust Fund Advisory Board Madan Bergeson Connie Boardman Marilyn Brewer Roy & 11w Byrnes faun Cohen Pete DeRmone Joe Dunn RoM Faubel Loulse Greeley Tbm Hannan Evelyn Han )acs: xeating Vic Letpalg Man Ray] BIB ",, PhD Claire Sdtlotterbeck John Scott Dan Silver Jack Skimmer M.D. Jan Vandenlmt. M.D. Post C"ce Box 9256 Newport Beach, CA 9265&M6 949- 399 -3669 949- 650 -5643 April 30, 2002 PARKS TREES Mr. Paul Morabito, Chairman California Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 111floor Oakland, California 94612 Dear Chairman Morabito: PAGE 22 The Friends of Harbors, Beaches and Parks is an Orange County non- profit organization dedicated to the protection and enhancement of perks, open spaces and natural preserves in Orange County. The opportunity to provide for natural planting on the Castaways Park coastal bluff is unique and an indication of the local desire to provide for habitat protection and education along with recreational trails. The return of coastal sage scrub, grassland, woodlands, and wetlands will enhance the experience for visitors and compliment the ecosystem of the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve. Because of the proximity of the Castaways to the Environmental Nature-Center, the Upper Newport Bay laterptetive Center and Sea and Sage Audubon, this,native flora restoration will enhance the environmental education program* of those organizations. Having worked over the years to save this property for public enjoyment and access to a natural park experience, FHBP utges you to support the restoration of Castaways coastal, bluff habitat through a grant of $100.000 to the City of Newport Beach. Sincerely, y H. wan President 4 -la SEP -17 -2003 11:46 949 650 5643 9gi 09/17/2003 09:35 949 - 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 23 e L s)c - Mature Center May t, 2002 Mr. Paul Morabito, Chairman California State Coastal Conservancy 133013roadway, IImFloor Oakland, CA 94612 Dear Mr. Morabito On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Environmental Nature Center (ENC), we encourage the support of the California Coastal Conservancy in the restoration of Castaways Park. With your support, the park will become a keystone in the City of Newport Beach with an important overlook of Upper Newport Ecological Reserve and the Santa Ana Mountains. This park has natural contours and relief and with the addition of natural vegetation, the area will become an attraction for all ages to learn from and appreciate. The parks proximity to the ever- expanding Environmental Nature Center, a non - profit outdoor educational facility, will allow for continued cooperative efforts between the ENC and the City of Newport Beach. These efforts will ensure the park's continued growth as a habitat for wildlife and a resource for the community. We look forward to your positive consideration of this funding request, allowing this park to develop to its potential. Since l Robert House President 1601 Sixteenth Street, Newport Beach, CA 92663 -5977 (949) 645 -8489 • FAX (949) 645-0818 4 -19 SEP -17 -2003 11:47 949 650 5643 98i P.23 09/17/2003 09:35 949- 650 -5643 PARKS TREES PAGE 24 On P.O. BOX 5447, IRVINE, CA 92616 -5447 C•i� (949) 261 -7963 age 1.1holukn April 26, 2002 Mr. Paul Morabito, Chairman California Coastal Conservancy 1330 Broadway, 11" Floor Oakland, California Dear Mr. Morabito: On behalf of the Environmental Nature Center, a non - profit outdoor education ecological facility in Newport Beach, I am asking for the support of your organization in creating the Castaways Park site into a restored natural area. This important location overlooking Newport Bay is located within the Pacific Coastal migratory flyway and could become an important stopover for birds if re- vegetated with native California flora. Because of its proximity to the Environmental Nature Center, the Upper Newport Bay Interpretive Center and Sea and Sage Audubon, this location for a native flora restoration will prove to be a natural magnet for avifauna that will enhance the environmental education programs of these organizations. Sea and Sage Audubon Society looks forward to contributing our expertise to the development of this important open space area for all to enjoy and appreciate. We look forward to your participation in helping this great resource along the California Coast become a reality. Sincerely, /mat' aale � Neal Anderson, President Sea & Sage Audubon Society G -20 RECEIV EI-4 APR 2 9 2002 COASTAL CUnSI• H'vq,w ,. OAKLAND. CALIF. SEP -17 -2003 11:47 949 650 5643 98i P.24 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNCIL AGENDA CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT NO' g ­13 City Council Study Session Item No. SS2 August 12, 2003 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL FROM: General Services Department David E. Niederhaus, Director, 644 -3055, dniederhaus(a�city.newport- beach.ca.us SUBJECT: Discussion of Castaways Park Revegetation Plan Alternatives ISSUE: What landscaping treatment, if any, does the City Council want for Castaways Park? RECOMMENDATIONS: Provide staff direction on one of the four options to proceed either with improvements to Castaways Park or postpone development of the Park indefinitely. DISCUSSION: Background: Castaways Park was constructed by the Irvine Company as part of the CIOSA agreement in late 1997 and dedicated on June 14, 1998. Designated as a view park in the City Recreation and Open Space Element, the Park includes 17 -acres of walking trails, a parking lot, view areas, and minor improvements such as fencing, two benches and a drinking fountain. Early efforts were made by the local community and the City to improve upon the Park, which was overgrown with numerous non - native plants prior to City acquisition. These efforts included the following: • January 1999 The Tree S ociety of Orange County o btains a g rant to fund the expansion of the riparian habitat present in the northwest corner of the Park adjacent to Dover Drive. This project was approved by the Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Commission (PB &R) and was completed with volunteers in October 1999. Proposed Amendment to Castaways Park August 12, 2003 Page 2 • March 2000 An informal citizens group helps to fund a portion of $6,900 project to install native plants and a temporary irrigation system in an area of the Park along Dover Drive. The Newport Environmental Center assisted with this project. The project was also approved by the PB &R Commission. The Castaways Park Advisory Committee was established in 1999 with the objective of restoring the Park to a self- sustaining ecological site. To that end, the Committee has developed a Revegetation Plan and sought funding from the California Coastal Conservancy and the Nature Conservancy to implement the Plan. Efforts to secure funding for the Revegetation Plan includes the following milestones: • June 2000 The PB &R Commission approved the submittal of a grant application to the California Coastal Commission (CCC) requesting support for a $230,000 project to revegetate the Park with native plants. • January 2002 Negative Declaration is filed with the County Clerk. • April 2002 The PB &R Commission recommends that staff forward a resolution to the City Council for approval of the Grant and Revegetation Plan. • May 2002 The CCC approves the Revegetation Plan and authorizes $99,600 for the project. • June 2002 The City Council approves Resolution #2002 -40 accepting the grant funds and authorizing staff to execute the grant agreement with the CCC for $99,600. Agreement executed June 24, 2002. • December 2002 Plan design is initiated. Project installation (Phase 1) is scheduled for June 2003. • March 2003 Staff provides Council with a status of the revegetation efforts and is directed to address the possibility of installing non - native turf with permanent irrigation in a portion of the Park. • April — June 2003 Staff assesses alternatives and meets with the CCC and the Nature Conservancy. Staff reaches a compromise with both funding agencies to amend the Revegetation Plan to install native turf at specific areas of the Park. Proposed Amendment to Castaways Park August 12, 2003 Page 3 ■ July 2003 Staff proposes the turf compromise in the form of a plan amendment to the PB &R Commission for approval. The Commission rejects the proposal and votes unanimously (5 -0) to install ornamental non - native turf. Further, the Commission recommends terminating the Agreement with the CCC. Analysis: Staff is at a critical juncture in the project. In order to comply with the CCC Agreement, revegetation efforts should commence within the next 60 days. At this time, staff is requesting Council direction with respect to how to proceed with implementation of the Revegetation Plan. Four options are presented for the Council's consideration: OPTION 1 Follow through with the June 24, 2002 Agreement with the CCC to implement the Revegetation Plan as described in the City's grant application. The Plan proposes to revegetate the Park with native plant communities, install interpretive signs and displays, install a demonstration area to explain the species present and the wildlife supported by each plant community, and, improve the existing interior trails. OPTION 2 Approve an amendment to the Revegetation Plan to install native grass and permanent irrigation in an area totaling 33,400 square feet (approximately 3/4 of an acre) and approve additional funding in the amount of $30,400 for the amendment ($25,000) and the project shortfall ($5,400). OPTION 3 Approve the PB &R Commission recommendations to reject the CCC and Nature Conservancy grants in order to install a yet undetermined amount of non - native grass in the meadow area (central, flat area of the Park) using existing current City budgeted funds ($48,907). OPTION 4 Do not install any improvements at this time. Terminate the CCC Agreement and reject the Nature Conservancy grant offer. Re- budget existing capital improvement funding for other uses or return funds to the General Fund. At issue is the recent interest in providing a green area at the Park that would be devoted to park visitors for such activities as picnics, sunbathing, or kite flying. Staff made an effort to address the issue by negotiating a compromise with the CCC and the Nature Conservancy. The compromise (Option #2 above) proposes to modify the Revegetation Plan by installing permanent irrigation and native turf in two areas: (1) at Proposed Amendment to Castaways Park August 12, 2003 Page 4 the center of the Park adjacent to the bluff overlooking the Back Bay, and (2) at the view area overlooking the ocean. Combined, the two areas total 33,400 square feet or about 3/4 of an acre. These areas are identified on the attached project map (see Attachment A). The turf alternative presented by the PB &R Commission (Option #3 above) recommends installing ornamental non - native grass in the flat areas of the Park that are encircled by the asphalt pathways. Native vegetation would be planted throughout the remainder of the Park. The Commission further recommended terminating the CCC agreement and rejecting the CCC and Nature Conservancy grants (a sum of $149,600) if the non - native alternative is not accepted by the two funding agencies. The attached matrix provides an evaluation of the four options for the Council's further consideration (see Attachment B) Budget To date, the City has spent $23,600 of City funding towards the design and implementation of the Revegetation Plan. Environmental Review A Negative Declaration for the original Revegetation Plan was filed with the County Clerk in January 2002. Prepared by: Submitted by: Miriam Eldridge David E. Niederhaus Administrative Analyst General Services Director Attachment: (A) Project Map (B) Project Alternatives Matrix nA LIZ rLegend Castaways Park Perimeter Existing Projects Revegetation Project and Fuel Mod Zone Opfion 2: Native grass and irrigation L. fTWAS.LL�I. rr9�y \, G lj i f y �r ''. T C N s U R al z Q n z 0 r W (D \w NW LL Y Q U) >Q Q U) Q U V) N Q U Q a o g o 0 o o M � O M N O O O 0 M Efl A O 0 U A 0 0 a) U@ N U C 0C O N O C A U U@ E a) a E u, 0 C 00 @ 'O G p 0 u) p a) 0C a a) Ll m a) U a) U C a) a) a w N @ U A @ 0 @ f0 a) U @j a) N N O@ E O) OL E t! � T� O `� C EoU d d��II�a T EO 0 Y U Oj.0 U c 0 o 0 3 N w C C O E `m a co @ a) 3 `m c w > E m 0 O- N 0 0 ti N °b L U D O@ O T O O a) c N N C E p) '� N a) C- Ll @ N @ O a) O @ ._ T �, C .0 .D 0 C a j O C C N L ul U O) N C) 0 0 U W @ C R ul Efl O .� O O O U a) O O c u) U u) @ N "T @ C C N z a (0 us m L@ U �. 0 Sc U a C N 0 0 ti U M O Q U C U O d — Efl U H3 U U O Q.L.. w a) U O C 0 C) O @ C C (D N o a) U @ U .0 @ a) c C7 M O @ _@ @ i4 N E w u) U! C@ @ j C a �j N U0 a) E 0 @ o O m a) 0 o @ E a) c9 O) a) U� @ d OJ O C N @ C .O .O @ N O U 'C I .T J m IL Q a E 0� °� N 0 a m Q 0 .0 ' q Q in Q w° E C @ U T 5 J ) U J J a) C @ � C E a) a) a) @ m � Q U a) U — U is � G a) @ E ti Q c N m a @ (a o a) a) C 0 C C U a) O @ @ > @ c O a) N c t E u) C L 0 O o mU c 3 Q a) � U m M m @ N C u) `c Q) E Q1 0 a E 0 Z u C @ m c 0 m C m d a) m V M O N C 0 N u✓ U U T D U U C 0 O U 08/12/2003 10:42 FAX 7148470193 Donald Krotee Z01 9 rr' rr� NEWPORT IMGHTs 1wROvEMENT ASSOCIATION PO Box 3242 NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA 92659 -0888 F -mail: dkrotee@liritee.com Date: August 12, 2003 Subject: Castaways Natural Park FAx TRANsNUTTAL "RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA PRINTED:" SS To: Sharon Wood, Assistant City Manager Fax: 949/644 -3020 Newport Beach City Council From: Don Krotee AIA, President Newport Heights Improvement Association Pages: I, to follow SUMMARY FINDINGS: Based on the information presented in the Staff Report for the August 12'" City Council Study Session, we offer our support for Option 2 which would amend the CCC Agreement to include the installation of native turf in the meadow area The Newport Heights Improvement Association has grave concern about the potential planting of non -native grass in the meadow area of the Castaways Park. For decades, the park has been a mostly natural place, containing primarily native plants with a small mix of introduced non - natives. Despite its lack of manicured turf, the Castaways Park has comfortably accommodated thousands of visitors who walk, jog, cycle, fly kites, picnic, view the Bay and watch 4`s of July fireworks on its grounds. In its current condition as a mostly natural place, the Castaway Park can be maintained at relatively low cost to the community, requiring minimal water and energy use, with limited run -off to our Bay waters. The proposal to redesign the Castaways Park to add non -native turf (option #3 from the 8 -12- 03 staff report) would distract from the park's unique character. It would cost (per the quotation in the staff report) the City $100,000 to install and irrigate the non -native turf; plus thousands of dollars more to maintain. In these times of water and energy shortages, the City of Newport Beach should be conserving our resources, rather than squandering them at the request of a few residents. A non -native turf would also require fertilizer and possibly pesticides that would require a sophisticated drainage system to capture the run -off to prohibit its entry into our Bay waters. SNN MDU FIFS % NAgh%C.. n"AvmdvHeYn�bOreatlmA- i2-03.Oac RUG -12 -2003 11:43 7146470193 97%, P.01 08/12/2003 10:42 FAX 7146470193 Donald Krotee 1x.02 Page 1 Castaways Natural Park Should the Council decide that some improvement to the Castaway Park is needed, we request the Council adopt the proposed compromise to instead install a native grass, such as fescue or sedge, in the meadow area. Our research shows that there are several types of natural grass, both mowed and unmowed that are drought tolerant and will be great for a toss of the Frisbee and a picnic. The residents that believe that the natural planting and the natural parks will somehow not accommodate these simple needs are misinformed. Thank you for your consideration. $:QL rrcJtoe�M A& M i*ha 1I Id RUG -12 -2003 11:43 7146470193 97% p,02 V z 0 0 y w A O a a H a a 4 0 w y V 4 z a w a w w � w w v y � w z H H y � w v H z y w A O a a H a a 4 0 w y V 4 z a w a w w Q w Q w 0 a 0 a c ell Ap Y: U a: -- e i ,j''�'!s� i :• -a�j�'�f, *T .. �. rte;-': � . � �..`s�s.'�= � _' c ell Ap Y: 77 �-Il t� w v v a w a ro H O a \X .. i rAkj v pp .� ^`fir .0 •w `. y �. +x =_ y' - _ .;• „`tom' `�,f'^�.'r3` : i . ;. F . is r.� : .. - ` •.. ^ y ... � • . JT i . • � i�' ':.ire _Vro y' y. � � --e. ' Y r AT y(, ( R on Yom. �.�`• �l V =,Z =- .i..as.l.'.J 4 + .V �1 O � H H z z � o � z w Q o � a � H w z 0 0 z a H 0 z H z 0 f A • is C- `* > A � � lz� p k- INN . .�v� ,n C". � a •c vA ` v ,_ + y.+� Y�,,'4�"]y1s� �}. � t �� t�'•..f, A.. i'. Mandervort Co 944 646 3636 P.01 I. i 'Speak Up Newport P.O. Box 2594, Newport Beach, CA 92653 September 9, 2003 The honorable Steve Bromberg Mayor, City of Newport Beach 3300 Newport Boulevard Newport Reach, CA 92658 -8915 Dear Mayor Bromberg and City Council Members-. At our Speak Up Newport Board of Directors meeting on August 15. 2003, the Board voted unanimously to take the following position relative to the vegetation of Castaways Park: "We strongly support the planting of environmentally friendly turf. or a drought tolerant sedge -type grass, in the area encircled by the asphalt path, encompassing approximately 2 1'2 to 3 acres on the flat portion of the park Additionally, we feel very strongly that ANY grants by outside agencies should be rejected, so the City, can maintain local control." We appreciate the efforts of all of you to attain a user- friendly park design of which we can all be proud. Sincerely yours, Jo Vandervort president cc: Homer Aludau, City Manager Speak Up Newport is a non•profir mutual benefit orgagization. Our purposes are to provide a public forum dnd give recognition to those who make positive contributions to the Newport Beach Community. 09/231/2003 16:57 FAX 7146470193 Donald Hrotee "L ui "RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA . PRINTED:" � 9 '193 -03 September 23, 2003 Mayor Bromberg and Council City of Newport Beach 3300 Newport Boulevard Newport Beach, California 92663 Re: The Castaways Park vegetation options Dear Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers: Clerk to copy each of the council NEWPORT REIGHTS IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION PO Box 3242 NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA 92659 -0888 E -mail: dkretee9krctee.co^. • ' �/�siik'i�frOl LIARM,i I have conducted phone interviews and received emails and the overwhelming feeling about the Park is that it be a natural park. Whatever the outcome, the persons in the community I've talked to all support this view. In regard to the specific options, the Heights supports the council to select option 2, but the providers of the grant need to ensure the staff and the community that (and perhaps this language can be incorporated into a resolution): The plantings on the coastal bluff, above the bay down to the waters edge, will be modified only as necessary. It is important that the introduction of the native planting be done while not removing the existing vegetation until the replacement by native species is ready. This will avoid blank spaces and erosion problems. This will serve the Back Bay and the community well. The eucs and most of the acacia, although not native, provide stability and beauty, are allowed to live out their lives and will be phased to avoid blank areas. It seems that language (in the plan portion of the grant) allows for this and staff needs to be asked to clarity. In the face of the staff reporting that a deal cannot be made with the providers of the grant, an option keeping the area natural is the best. The options and arguments for conventional playing field type turf grass are very poor, damaging and uninformed and these options should be avoided. Thank you for your consideration. Yours truly, L d Kro President, Newport Heights Improvement Association SAINDIVIDUAL FILES1Don'a mUTOr8onai�NOWNOwpvrt Heights Community Assoc�aVOn`Jettergrasses.aoc R rvy • rl .t • i r' c '•t 4 "vii i4m7 A t4r x�l r, �ti. n : }fit. Q\r TM j " 1`r '. � :r' s ry. .�.l • 2sr ,,�i''`.•:b 1 f t+n'� ; .,i;t. . ,��r. c; "� g `�" ? •.._ . a - �S.t��t•N2` '. a'�x- .. }.iid �.. .r4^��1t�'" ''' Jff • ' -.f "' z, 5r.�'H��1�i� �� i %• � -, ji/i.M.� a' a i�I s i'� .�� M lot .r • �. .•. � ' i 05- .. -�.{ .�'�'��yl � �7''.i 3� .>r� jf t o .c&'��y .&{�� w�` „' rr¢Irr. %'_�r— �'i....•: R rvy • rl .t • i r' c '•t 4 "vii i4m7 A t4r x�l r, �ti. n : }fit. 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