HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-01-2017 PBR Minutes
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission
Regular Meeting
August 1, 2017 – 6:00 PM
I. CONVENE MEETING OF THE PARKS BEACHES & RECREATION
COMMISSION TO ORDER – 6:00 PM
II. ROLL CALL
Present: Laird Hayes, Vice Chair
Tom Anderson
Ron Cole
Roy Englebrecht
David Granoff
Walt Howald
Heather Ignatin
Staff: Laura Detweiler, Recreation & Senior Services Director
Mike Pisani, Municipal Operations Director - Maintenance
Sean Levin, Recreation & Senior Services Deputy Director
Dan Sereno, Landscape Manager
Jonathon Harmon, Recreation Manager
Brian Cordeiro, Recreation Supervisor
Teri Craig, Administrative Support Specialist
Marie Lindeman, Administrative Support Specialist
III. ELECTIONS
Secretary Teri Craig opened the nominations for the FY 2017/18 PB&R Chair.
Commissioner Cole nominated Vice Chair Hayes.
Motion by Commissioner Englebrecht; second by Commissioner Howald to
close nominations and elect Vice Chair Hayes as PB&R Chair. Motion carried
unanimously.
Secretary Craig announced that Vice Chair Hayes will serve as the new FY 2017/18
PB&R Chair.
Secretary Teri Craig opened the nominations for the FY 2017/18 PB&R Vice Chair.
Commissioner Cole nominated Commissioner Howald.
Motion by Commissioner Englebrecht; second by Commissioner Granoff to
close nominations and elect Commissioner Howald as PB&R Vice Chair. Motion
carried unanimously.
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August 1, 2017
Page 2
Secretary Craig announced that Commissioner Howald will serve as the new FY
2017/18 PB&R Vice Chair.
IV. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
V. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR
Jim Mosher called attention to Item VI-G Tree Donation at Coastal Peak Park. He
found it to be an unusual request because the person donating the tree was not
seeking any recognition or signage for anyone else and that they live in the City of
Orange. He wanted to note that this donation was an admirable and selfless act.
VI. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Minutes of the June 6, 2017 meeting. Recommendation: Waive reading of subject minutes, approve and order filed.
B. Parks, Trees & Beach Maintenance Divisions Activity Report. Recommendation: Receive/file Activity Report.
C. Recreation & Seniors Services Activity Report.
Recommendation: Receive/file Activity Report of past and upcoming projects and events.
D. Request by Newport Mesa Soccer Club (NMSC) for Temporary Lights at
Bonita Canyon Sports Park (BCSP) Field #5.
Recommendation: Approve the request from the Newport Mesa Soccer Club to use
temporary lights at Bonita Canyon Sports Park field #5 from September 25 to November
17, 2017 and January 2 to March 9, 2018 from dusk to 7:55 p.m.
E. Bench Donation – Buffalo Hills Park.
Recommendation: Approve the bench donation by Mary Pat Hastings with plaque stating
“In Loving Memory of Harrison Phillips” at Buffalo Hills Park. The plaque verbiage
complies with City Council Policy B-17 and will be a new addition to the location, requiring
the noticing of adjacent residents.
F. Bench Donations – Mariners Park
Recommendation: Approve two (2) bench donations by Don Williams with plaques stating
“In Memory of Mary Linn Baker” and “In Memory of Andy & Dorothy Thomas” at
Mariners Park. The plaque verbiage complies with City Council Policy B-17 and will
replace two existing benches that are nearing the end of their life expectancy.
G. Tree Donation – Coastal Peak Park
Recommendation: Approve the donation by Elmira Afshari of a Coastal Live Oak tree at
Coastal Peak Park. The tree will be a new addition to the location, requiring the noticing of
adjacent residents.
Motion by Vice Chair Howald; second by Commissioner Cole to accept Consent
Calendar Items VI-A through VI-G. Motion carried unanimously.
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August 1, 2017
Page 3
VII. CURRENT BUSINESS
A. Changing the Name of Balboa Island Park to “Ralph Rodheim Park” or
“The Ralph Rodheim Balboa Island Park”
a) Consider/discuss the renaming of Balboa Island Park to "Ralph Rodheim Park" or "The
Ralph Rodheim Balboa Island" Park and forward the recommended name change to City
Council for final approval.
OR
b) Deny the request to rename Balboa Island Park to "Ralph Rodheim Park" or "The Ralph
Rodheim Balboa Island Park" thus keeping the current name Balboa Island Park with no
further action needed by the City Council.
Recreation Manager Jon Harmon presented an overview of the request and
introduced Larry Kallestad, the maker of the request.
Chair Hayes stated that Mr. Kallestad would have six minutes to speak.
Larry Kallestad, a resident of Balboa Island, spoke about what a great Newport
Beach benefactor Ralph Rodheim was. He stressed that the name would only add
recognition to the park. Mr. Kallestad noted that the Commission had received
documentation on Mr. Rodheim’s accomplishments related to Newport Beach and
summarized them aloud. During the past six years Mr. Rodheim had battled ALS as
he continued to put on concerts at the Balboa Island Park and was involved in the
Discovery Science Center but never sought gratitude. Since he lived on Balboa Island
the renaming of that park is appropriate. The City’s position on naming things after
individuals can be waived with a recommendation from the PB&R to City Council
and would be helpful in seeking that waiver.
There was Commissioner discussion regarding the City’s criteria for people who are
honored and how they are recognized. There was concern that a Commission
recommendation to rename would not be following the policy and they as a
Commission are supposed to follow policy. The Commission is not supposed to name
parks after people, but there are mechanisms to name other things after people that
may be more appropriate.
While touched by the letters regarding Mr. Rodheim, there was preference from the
Commission to honor him while adhering to existing policy.
Chair Hayes opened the public comments
Jim Burns, a neighbor of Mr. Rodheim reiterated how important he was to the City.
Mr. Burns noted that Mr. Rodheim devoted himself to his community and was
active until his death and deserved the park renaming. He requested a
reconsideration of the naming policy.
Larry Weeshoff, a resident of Corona Del Mar, worked with Mr. Rodheim on a
project and stated that the Island has not been the same since his passing and if
residents want the park renamed then it should be done.
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Jim Mosher indicated he understands death and grieving, but also understands the
City’s policy of not naming parks after people. The staff report implies that this has
been the City’s policy for the last 30 years, but in 1988 the original policy allowed for
the naming of parks after people who died more than six months in the past. In the
early 2000’s there were several requests, but in 2003 the PB&R Commission decided
to avoid naming parks after people as there are more deserving people than there are
parks. The May 13, 2003, City Council meeting reviews the items he mentioned.
Naming of buildings is allowed, but only in association with a fundraising drive. Mr.
Mosher agreed that Mr. Rodheim was an admirable person with a legacy that is
already insured but the City should stick to its policy.
Larry Weeshoff indicated that he thought a park had been named after “John
Wayne” or “Duke Wayne” recently.
Lee Pearl a resident of Balboa Island, met Mr. Rodheim five years ago. He stated that
he had a presentation, but will forego it because he could tell the Commission’s
sentiments. He noted that the first two public art pieces on Balboa Island were
because of Mr. Rodheim. Those pieces include Mr. Rodheim’s name so he has been
honored in that way.
Chair Hayes closed the public comments
Commissioner Englebrecht stated that he had discussed with Director Detweiler last
week other ways to honor exceptional citizens. He suggested a sculpture or statute in
Balboa Island Park organized by citizens and funded by a fundraiser.
Motion by Commissioner Cole; second by Commissioner Anderson to deny the
request to rename Balboa Island Park to "Ralph Rodheim Park" or "The Ralph Rodheim
Balboa Island Park" thus keeping the current name Balboa Island Park with no further
action needed by the City Council. Motion carried unanimously.
B. Appeal of Denial for Special Tree Removal - 1515 Mariners Drive
Consider the appeal by Whitney Mace to remove a Special City Jacaranda tree at 1515
Mariners Drive.
Chair Hayes recused himself because he lives less than 500 feet from the address and
left the dais.
Manager Sereno provided an overview of the item and summary of the staff report.
He stated that the remodel of the house depends on the removal of the Jacaranda
tree, a special tree which is why the Commission has purview.
Discussion ensued regarding what the tree looks like, the fact and that it is a special
tree, and their preference to keep the same tree in its place.
Vice Chair Howald opened the public comments
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Ward Mace and his wife are the residents of 1515 Mariners and have lived there 25
years. They have been dreaming of building their home for many years, and added
that this is not a remodel. He stated that their family have donated a large box Oak
tree in the Castaways to benefit the community. He noted that he brought his
architect tonight in case the Commission had any technical questions. Because of the
City’s requirements to build his home the tree is in the way.
Manager Sereno indicated that it would be expensive to move the Jacaranda tree and
that survivability is less than 50%. The Maces have offered to put a 48 inch box tree
on their property and that to remove and replace the Jacaranda will cost them over
$2,000.
William Cordeiro, architect reiterated that this will be a brand new home and not a
remodel. He explained that in order to fit the City’s approach requirements and a
20x20 garage the tree has to be removed.
Jim Mosher stated that he frequents Mariners Drive and enjoys the Jacaranda trees.
He suggested that the Commission request that the replacement tree be a Jacaranda
if approved. Further he asked how long it would take the new tree to contribute to
the canopy.
Manager Sereno said the Maces were interested in replacing the tree with a different
species, but assumed that they would consider a 48 inch box Jacaranda. He noted
that the tree would grow 10 to 15 feet with a 6 to 8 foot canopy and that it could take
five to 10 years to reach the height of the current tree. He noted that the next size
would be a 60 inch box, about 15 to 20 feet tall, and with a spread of 10 feet. If they
were to move the tree, he agan stated that it would have only a 50% chance of
survival and that it would cost approximately $15,000 to do that.
Ward Mace appreciated the suggestions made tonight and said they would consider
relocating the tree, but thought it would make more sense to replace it and that they
preferred a mature Magnolia. But if the decision is to replace it with a 48 or 60 inch
box Jacaranda tree then they would be amicable to that as well in order to move
forward
Vice Chair Howald closed the public comments
Motion by Commissioner Cole; seconded by Commissioner Granoff to approve the
appeal by Whitney & Ward Mace to remove the special Jacaranda tree at 1515 Mariners
Drive and replace with at least a 60" box Jacaranda tree at a location of the applicant's
and city staff's choice with their guarantee that the tree remain alive; if not that it be
replaced again at the homeowners expense. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Cole, Englebrecht; Howald, Granoff
Noes: Anderson; Ignatin
Recuse: Hayes
Chair Hayes returned to the dais.
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C. Tree Reforestation – 311 Crystal Avenue
Consider the reforestation request by Sue Brakovich of three (3) City Orchid trees to three
(3) Little Gem Magnolia trees located at 311 Crystal Avenue. The applicant has met the
procedural requirements for reforestation established in City Council Policy G 1.
Manager Sereno provided an overview of the item and indicated Ms. Brakovich had
obtained the necessary signatures for her request. He went on to say that the request
for removal had been denied because the trees are healthy and not currently causing
significant infrastructure damage, but did agree that they would eventually and that
they are the wrong trees for that location. He stated that the trees are valued at
$3,500 and to remove and replace them is about $1,000 per tree so it is close to a
wash. He also noted that homeowner preferred the Magnolia tree as the replacement
and that homeowner received 60% of her neighbors’ signatures which complies with
City policy.
He stated the arborist believes the trees are out of place and that the parkway width
is too small for the Orchid trees. The City will have to replace the Orchid trees at its
own expense in a few years and that Ms. Brakovich has followed all procedures and
staff agrees with the Magnolia tree as the replacement.
Chair Hayes opened the public comments
Sue Brakovich explained that there were four orchid trees, but that one fell down. All
the neighbors hate the trees so she got the signatures from them. Initially she wanted
Magnolia trees, but now prefers a Strawberry tree because it will stay green year
round. All the neighbors agree with that as well and it’s on the City’s list.
Manager Sereno said the Strawberry tree was acceptable and a fine substitute for the
Magnolia. He advised the Commissioners of the locations of other Strawberry trees
in the City. He stated that the homeowners would pay the cost to remove and replace
the trees.
Jim Mosher noted that the petition process was unusual in the way it was included in
the staff report. He thought there should be more information about the petition
gathering.
Chair Hayes closed the public comments
Manager Sereno explained that staff verified the signatures by address; and that Per
Director Pisani they do not include petitions in the staff reports anymore because of
complaints about releasing signatures and addresses.
Motion by Commissioner Granoff; seconded by Commissioner Howald, to approve
the request by Sue Brakovich to reforest three (3) City Orchid trees with three (3)
Strawberry trees located at 311 Crystal Avenue. The motion carried unanimously.
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D. Tree Reforestation – 1420/1426 and 1421 Outrigger Drive
Consider the reforestation request by Bob and Diane Meyer of five City Magnolia trees
located at 1420/1426, and 1421 Outrigger Drive and replaced with Little Gem Magnolia
trees. The applicant has met the procedural requirements for reforestation established in
City Council Policy G 1.
City Arborist Pekar provided an overview of the reforestation request. He noted that
they had met all the requirements including the HOA. All replacement costs will be
borne by the applicant and HOA. The reason for the request is their view. The value
of the trees is $4,800 and the replacement cost is approximately $3,500, but the
removal fees would make it a wash. The Magnolia Little Gem is the street tree for the
whole community and grows to about 15 feet. The Standard Magnolias in place are a
little over 15 feet now and have been topped several times, which is not healthy. The
replacement trees would be 7 to 8 feet tall and will take five to 10 years to reach full
height. A 48 inch box might be 10 feet tall and cost $1,800 per tree.
Commissioner Englebrecht said the Commission might want to consider a policy
whereby trees are replaced with trees of similar height and size without consideration to
cost, but Director Pisani said the Commission is allowed to approve reforestations for
view and in that case it wouldn’t make sense to use the same size tree.
Chair Hayes opened the public comments
Paul Alvarez, resident of Harbor View Hill South and Chairman of the Tree View
Committee stated that the view is what this community is all about and that the
Little Gems are important to the community. He viewed the reforestation request as
an opportunity to end a dispute that has been going on for several years and urged
the Commission to support the request.
Larry Weeshoff resident of Harbor View Hill South since 1976 stated that he has held
several elected positions in the community since that time. He noted that that
property in question was not sold as a view property and that the homeowners have
had issues for 20 years. The Meyers moved in, changed their property and trimmed
the trees. In 1994 or 1996 many Eucalyptus trees were removed and that in October
2013 the board declared that it was not a view protected property. The City worked
with the board and planted the trees; therefore, if the homeowner wants the trees
removed then replacements should be planted in the same location. He stressed that
the parkways be re-planted.
Jim Mosher stated that he has no opinion on the request, but noted that he believes
there is an obvious problem with the values that City staff places on existing trees.
Dick Fyke, 1421 Outrigger stated that this tree issue has been ongoing for 20 years.
He requested that the new trees not be planted in the two parkways in front of his
house.
Chair Hayes closed the public comments
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August 1, 2017
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Commissioner Anderson thought the placement of the trees would be up to the
homeowner’s association, but the Commission’s charter is to replace trees. The
Commission has discussed replacing trees with similar size, but it’s not always
feasible or available.
Motion by Commissioner Anderson; second by Commissioner Ignatin to approve
request by Bob and Diane Meyer to reforest five (5) City Magnolia trees located at
1420/1426, and 1421 Outrigger Drive and replace them with Little Gem Magnolia trees.
The motion carried unanimously.
E. Newport Coast Community Center & Aquatics Programs
Recreation Supervisor Brian Cordeiro provided a presentation of services and
programs at Newport Coast Community Center, Aquatics and Movies in the Park as
part of the Parks Make Life Better Roadshow along with a short aquatics video and
took questions from Commissioners.
VIII. FY 2017/18 Ad Hoc Committee / Liaison Appointments
Discuss, reaffirm, appoint or sunset the following FY 2017/18 Ad Hoc Committee
appointments. (See full agenda)
Director Detweiler indicated that the item is on the Commission’s agenda annually.
She provided a summary of each Ad Hoc Committee and explained their purpose
and time commitments.
Motion by Commissioner Granoff; second by Commissioner Englebrecht to:
• Appoint - Commissioners Cole, Englebrecht & Ignatin to the Community
Service Award Ad Hoc Committee
• Appoint - Chair Hayes, Commissioners Granoff & Ignatin to the Sunset
View Park Ad Hoc Committee
• Sunset - West Newport Community Center Ad Hoc Committee
• Appoint - Chair Hayes, Commissioners Anderson & Howald to the Youth
Sports Commission Liaison
Motion carries unanimously.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Jim Mosher questioned the omission of Future Agenda Items from the agenda. His
second comment was related to the Ad Hoc Committee item where the public was
not allowed to comment. Additionally, he thought there might be an issue with the
Community Service Award Committee since it only meets when they have business
and believes that would be what the Brown Act calls a standing committee, not an ad
hoc committee; therefore, it requires a public notice. If it’s to be an ad hoc committee
then it should be appointed when necessary and disbanded after the business is
handled.
Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes
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Page 9
Commissioner Cole stated that he had received a call from a citizen about the pickleball
court, who was concerned about when the sound barriers would be installed.
Deputy Director Levin stated that staff had met with the community and explained
that the landscaping was approved by the Commission, and that the fence around
the courts had been increased to 10 feet to accommodate soundproofing if it proves
necessary. He went on to say that the pickleball rules will be posted regarding play
and approved pickleball equipment.
X. ADJOURNMENT IN MEMORY OF DAYLE LUSK – 7:28 p.m.
Chair Hayes read the following biography of Contract Instructor Dayle Lusk, Owner
/ Director of Tumble-N-Kids, Inc. Gymnastics
Seldom do you encounter that special person who leaves a lasting, positive
impact on so many within a community. Dayle Lusk was one of those people.
Starting with a couple of contracted classes for the City of Huntington Beach in
1985, Dayle launched her Tumble-N-Kids recreational gymnastics program for
students from 8 months to 14 years old. With a combination of fun, positive
reinforcement, and lively classroom curriculum, the Tumble-N-Kids program
grew its success across the Orange County area.
The City of Newport Beach contracted Dayle in 2007 with the opening of the
Newport Coast Community Center. The Tumble-N-Kids program has become
one of the Recreation Departments flagship contract classes and is now offered
in four Newport Beach Community Centers. Dayle’s program continues to
spread the “Tumble-N-Love” that has already reached thousands of kids and
parents in Newport Beach.
Dayle lost her courageous battle with cancer on May 3, 2017. She is survived by
her husband Bob, and three sons. Her infectious energy, charismatic
personality and love for her students will be missed, but will always be reflected
in the staff of Tumble-N-Kids.
Submitted by: ________
Teri Craig, Admin Assistant
Approved by: _____
Laird Hayes, Chair
Teri Craig
Laird Hayes