HomeMy WebLinkAboutIVc_Workshop ContentAttachment No. 3
Workshop Content
Community Development Department
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
100 Civic Center Drive
Newport Beach, California 92660
949 644-3200
newportbeachca.gov/communitydevelopment
Memorandum
To: Chair Gardner and GPUSC Members
From: Benjamin M. Zdeba, AICP, Planning Manager
Date: December 11, 2024
Re: GPAC Agenda Item IV(c) for December 18 – Workshop Content
________________________________________________________________
Based on direction received at the October and November 2024 GPAC meetings
and the October 2024 GPUSC meeting, City staff worked closely with the Vision
Statement Subcommittee, Recreation and Natural Resources Subcommittee,
Safety Subcommittee, Harbor & Bay Subcommittee, and the Land Use
Subcommittee to review the proposed workshop content. The feedback from the
Subcommittees was invaluable and helped to shape the activities conducted,
including the draft ideas to support each of the elements (i.e., goals). All shared
content is provided for reference as an attachment to this memo.
Staff will provide a high-level overview of the workshops, and the item will give the
GPUSC an opportunity to discuss them. Dudek and Kearns & West are currently
working to synthesize all the input from the community and will provide a concise
summary document in early 2025 for review.
Enclosures: Workshop content shared with the community
Workshop 1: Natural Resources and
Recreation
WORKSHOP STRUCTURE
Activity 1: Registration and Vision
Overview: During registration, participants will be provided with
a section of the Vision Statement. While they enter the room,
they will join their section of the Vision Statement with other participants to
create the whole statement. Participants will be asked to place stickers next
to the pieces of the Vision Statement that most resonates with their values.
Objective: To familiarize participants with the Vision Statement and see how it
fits in with the whole. The presentation will include a summary of input received
during the pop-up events and digital engagement during the Phase I visioning
activities.
Activity 2: Presentation
Overview: The facilitator and City staff will provide a short presentation and
overview of the General Plan process. The presentation will include:
o Workshop overview and agenda
o What is the General Plan?
o How does it relate to you?
o Phase 1 Input/Summary
o General Plan Elements:
o Natural Resources
o Recreation
o Activity 3: Guiding Values
o Activity 4: Draft Goals
o Closing
Objective: To familiarize participants with the General Plan Update, the
Natural Resources and Recreation Elements, and the intent of the workshop.
Activity 3: Guiding Values
Overview: This activity will be designed as a “world café” format. Several
tables will be set up as stations throughout the room. Each station will have 1
or 2 Guiding Values printed on a poster and displayed on the table.
Participants will be asked to consider:
• What do you envision seeing in Newport Beach in 2050 to fulfill this
Guiding Value?
• What is important to you with this Guiding Value? Is anything
missing?
Responses can be recorded on post it notes and placed on the Guiding Values
poster. The project team will pre-fill 2-3 Post-its to provide examples. A
facilitator will group responses by themes.
Participants will rotate every 5-7 minutes to get to each station for the
opportunity to respond to each Guiding Value. At the end of the activity, a
facilitator at each table will share back the key themes accumulated
throughout the workshop.
Activity 4: Draft Goals
Overview: Activity 4 will focus on the draft goals and will follow the Guiding
Values world café activity. This activity will include printed goals and their
descriptions on boards throughout the room. Participants will be asked to
rotate around the room at their own pace to review the project team drafted
goals and determine what aligns with the ideas generated in the first activity.
Participants will be asked two questions:
1. Using green sticky dots, identify which goals align with the Guiding
Values and what you heard from your neighbors in the last activity
2. Using post it notes, identify other goals you’d like to see address
the Guiding Values.
After ~15 minutes, participants will be asked to gather back as a larger group.
The facilitator will guide a report back session asking what resonated (most
green dots) and report back on key themes from the Post-it Notes.
DRAFT GOALS SUMMARY FOR GPAC
COMMITTEE INFORMATION
The following draft goals were reviewed and refined by the Recreation and
Natural Resources Subcommittee and are intended to reflect priorities of the
General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and General Plan Update Steering
Committee (GPUSC), previous engagement and outreach feedback from
community members, as well as certain State General Plan and other natural
resources and recreation related requirements. As this workshop is focused on
natural resources and recreation, these goals address environmental
protection, ecosystem conservation and restoration, water quality, energy,
outdoor open space for recreation purposes, and recreation programs and
facilities. The paragraph below each goal provides context into the importance
of that goal. Input received under each goal will be used to both refine the goals
and develop draft policies for the General Plan Update.
DRAFT GOALS
As noted in Activity 4, the following draft goals and their descriptions will be
printed on branded and designed boards with key guiding questions and
instructions for the activities:
Natural Resources
Goal 1: Ecosystems that are connected and sustainable
Balanced ecosystems provide important services, such as filtering and storing
water, storing carbon in vegetation and soil, purifying the air, providing habitat
for wildlife, and creating visually appealing and enjoyable places for people.
Well-functioning ecosystems include diverse native and naturalized non-
invasive species which support complex food webs, a mix of habitats, and
nutrient cycling. Promoting native and environmentally adapted species
across public and private land will enhance and expand an integrated network
of resilient ecosystems.
Goal 2: Ecosystems that are conserved and restored
Ecosystem restoration and conservation are vital for maintaining unique
grassland, woodland, marsh, dune, and other habitats. Large ecological
reserves can serve as nurseries for native and environmentally adapted
species that support smaller ecosystems across Newport Beach. Further
ecosystem restoration could restore additional habitats for protecting
endangered species, building resilience to coastal flooding and sea level rise,
and encouraging community involvement in environmental efforts.
Goal 3: Clean water in Newport Bay and the coast
Clean water is necessary for human health, recreation, and aquatic habitat and
organisms. Improving water quality in Newport Bay and in coastal waters can
ensure safe enjoyment of these irreplaceable natural resources for residents
and visitors, while continuing to support the businesses and employers that
rely on close proximity to the coast. Reducing stormwater runoff, restoring
floodplains, and preventing waste from entering waterbodies can improve
water quality and realize the benefits of clean water.
Goal 4: Water that is conserved and used responsibly
Clean water is a precious resource in Southern California. Reduced indoor and
outdoor water use can play an important role in conserving water. By
implementing best practices for landscaping and irrigation on public property
and offering incentives for residents and commercial businesses to conserve
water on their property, the City can do its part in sustaining long-term water
supply.
Goal 5: A city that prevents air pollution and has clean air
Poor air quality has numerous health consequences, especially for vulnerable
populations, such as children, older adults, and people with asthma.
Encouraging walking, biking, and transit and building more well-designed
electric vehicle charging consistent with demand can help reduce air pollution
caused by vehicles, and using landscape barriers along busy roadways or as a
buffer between other potential pollutants can help clean the air before it
reaches sensitive populations.
Goal 6: Viewsheds and corridors that are preserved
Sweeping views of the beaches, harbor, and coast distinguish Newport Beach
as a city with unparalleled natural beauty. Viewsheds often hold historic or
scenic value and should be protected for current and future generations.
Preserving viewpoints and corridors allows the public to appreciate the City’s
beauty and character.
Goal 7: A city that leverages alternative sources of energy
Leveraging alternative and renewable energy sources can reduce emissions
from vehicles and buildings. Facilitating a reasonable transition to clean
energy vehicles, promoting energy efficiency of buildings, and utilizing public
facilities to generate renewable energy can help reduce local air pollution and
overall reliance on fossil fuels, increasing energy security in the community.
Goal 8: A city with minimal impacts from oil and gas drilling activities
Phasing out oil production can help achieve the statewide objective of phasing
out extraction of oil and gas by 2045. The transition away from oil extraction
presents an opportunity to prioritize clean energy investments for economic
development.
Recreation
Goal 1: A community with high-quality recreation programs
Recreation programs enrich community members’ lives by building social
connections and providing opportunities for learning and physical activity.
Recreation programs that are of high-quality and tailored to the community’s
needs can foster an engaged and healthy community.
Goal 2: New parks and connections that increase resident access to
recreation, parks, and open space opportunities
Parks are a vital asset in any community, providing opportunities for refuge,
recreation, and socialization, while offering physical and mental health
benefits. Newport Beach’s varying landscape provides a variety of unique
recreational opportunities for the community. Increasing park access and
developing recreational opportunities throughout the community can ensure
these benefits are available to all residents of all ages and needs.
Goal 3: Open space, park, and recreation facilities that are preserved,
upgraded, and well-maintained
The preservation and maintenance of open space and park facilities is
essential to maintain community access to recreational opportunities. The
maintenance and needed upgrades to these facilities can help protect City
investments while ensuring that residents have continued access to high-
quality recreational facilities that meet changing needs.
Goal 4: A City with established and maintained relationships to facilitate
interagency and interorganizational coordination
Coordination with internal departments and outside agencies and
organizations creates opportunities to share resources, promotes effective
communication, and can help facilitate the successful implementation of
General Plan goals and policies. Moreover, coordination can increase the
quality of and access to parks and open space through integrated strategies
and efficient use of resources.
Goal 5: Parks and recreation facilities that are adapted to meet a variety of
needs for existing and future residents, including people with disabilities
As the environment changes and the population shifts, it is important that open
space continues to meet community needs and provides benefits to human
health, well-being, and the environment. Finding opportunities to expand or
adapt parks and recreation facilities to serve older adults and people with
disabilities can help to serve all residents now and in the future. Furthermore,
designing parks and recreation facilities to be resilient to extreme heat,
flooding, and wildfire can ensure these amenities continue to function despite
environmental changes.
Goal 6: A City that protects public beach access
Beaches are one of the most important public open spaces for providing relief
during hot summer days and access to the ocean. Maintaining physical access
points and supportive facilities and services can help protect continued public
beach access.
Goal 7: Adequate support facilities in open space and recreation facilities
Support facilities are an important aspect of providing parks and recreation
spaces that are highly used and enjoyed by the community. Support facilities
include but are not limited to, restrooms, showers, lifeguard towers, parking,
and staffing. Providing and maintaining facilities needed to support varying
recreational spaces in the City can help ensure parks and open spaces are
enjoyed by the community and maintain a high-quality level of service.
Workshop 2: Coastal Resilience and
Safety
WORKSHOP STRUCTURE
Activity 1: Registration and Vision
Overview: During registration, participants will be provided with a
section of the Vision Statement. While they enter the room, they
will join their section of the Vision Statement with other
participants to create the whole statement. Participants will be asked to place
stickers next to the pieces of the Vision Statement that most resonates with
their values.
Objective: To familiarize participants with the Vision Statement and see how it
fits in with the whole. The presentation will include a summary of input received
during the pop-up events and digital engagement during the Phase I visioning
activities.
Activity 2: Presentation
Overview: The facilitator and City staff will provide a short presentation and
overview of the General Plan process. The presentation will include:
o Workshop overview and agenda
o What is the General Plan?
o How does it relate to you?
o Phase 1 Input/Summary
o General Plan topics:
o Coastal Resilience
o Safety
o Activity 3: Guiding Values
o Activity 4: Draft Goals
o Closing
Objective: To familiarize participants with the General Plan Update, the
Coastal Resilience and Safety topics, and the intent of the workshop.
Activity 3: Guiding Values
Overview: This activity will be designed as a “world café” format. Several
tables will be set up as stations throughout the room. Each station will have 1
or 2 Guiding Values printed on a poster and displayed on the table.
Participants will be asked to consider:
• What do you envision seeing in Newport Beach in 2050 to fulfill this
guiding value?
• What is important to you with this guiding value? Is anything
missing?
Responses can be recorded on post it notes and placed on the Guiding Values
poster. The project team will pre-fill 2-3 Post-its to provide examples. A
facilitator will group responses by themes.
Participants will rotate every 5-7 minutes to get to each station for the
opportunity to respond to each guiding principle. At the end of the activity, a
facilitator at each table will share back the key themes accumulated
throughout the workshop.
Activity 4: Draft Goals
Overview: Activity 4 will focus on the draft goals and will follow the Guiding
Values world café activity. This activity will include printed goals and their
descriptions on boards throughout the room. Participants will be asked to
rotate around the room at their own pace to review the project team drafted
goals and determine what aligns with the ideas generated in the first activity.
Participants will be asked two questions:
1. Using green sticky dots, identify which goals align with the Guiding
Values and what you heard from your neighbors in the last activity
2. Using post it notes, identify other goals you’d like to see address
the Guiding Values.
After ~15 minutes, participants will be asked to gather back as a larger group.
The facilitator will guide a report back session asking what resonated (most
green dots) and report back on key themes from the Post-it Notes.
DRAFT GOALS SUMMARY FOR GPAC
COMMITTEE INFORMATION
The following goals were reviewed and refined by the Safety Subcommittee and
are intended to reflect priorities of the General Plan Advisory Committee
(GPAC) and General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC), previous
engagement and outreach feedback from community members, as well as
certain State General Plan and other requirements. As this workshop is
focused on coastal resilience and safety, the following series of goals address
flooding and sea level rise, erosion of sand and bluffs, wildfire, extreme heat,
seismic and geologic hazards, hazardous materials, aviation hazards, extreme
heat, emergency preparation and response, and security. The paragraph below
each goal provides context into the importance of that goal. Input received
under each goal will be used to both refine the goals and develop draft policies
for the General Plan Update.
DRAFT GOALS AND POLICY TOPICS
As noted in Activity 4, the following draft goals and their descriptions will be
printed on branded and designed boards with key guiding questions and
instructions for the activities:
Coastal Resilience
Goal 1: A community that is resilient to coastal flooding.
Coastal communities face additional challenges as it relates to flooding from
tsunamis, rogue waves, king tides, storm surges, seiche, and precipitation that
continues to intensify as sea-levels rise. With more frequent storms, it is
important that the City and community are prepared for flood risks, especially
along the coast. While infrastructure can protect the community in the event
of flooding, it is also important that existing and planned development is
modified and built to last and that the community is aware of how to best
protect themselves and their property.
Goal 2: A community protected from floods through adequate and well-
maintained infrastructure.
Infrastructure is an essential component of a community and must be
developed and maintained to adequately respond to flood hazards. Sufficient
infrastructure can consist of both nature-based and gray solutions to protect
the community during storms, king tides, and other potential flood events. As
the extent of flooding changes, the type of infrastructure needed may also
change. Therefore, this goal is intended to address changing needs associated
with flooding and the steps needed to adequately plan for such infrastructure.
Goal 3: Beaches that are maintained and protected from erosion.
The City’s beaches are an essential part of the community, providing
recreational opportunities, driving tourism, which contributes to the local
economy, supporting natural ecosystems, and protecting inland areas from
flooding. Efforts to minimize erosion and the loss of sand will help protect the
shoreline and maintain beaches.
Goal 4: Stabilized bluffs to minimize erosion and prevent landslides in
developed areas.
Bluffs are an important part of the City’s landscape, providing valuable views,
development of homes and other uses, and offering natural habitat for many
plant and animal species. The land formations in and around Upper Newport
Bay and the coastal cliffs and bluffs in and proximate to Corona del Mar are
some of the most vulnerable. Development near coastal bluffs is vulnerable to
damage from erosion or complete loss due to landslides.
Goal 5: Current and accessible data and information on flooding, beach
erosion, and bluff erosion.
Projects and programs to manage the shoreline require up-to-date data for
flood-prone locations, the direction and rate of sand and bluff erosion, among
other information on changing conditions. Current, high-quality data allows for
a more tailored, responsive approach to managing the shoreline.
Safety
Goal 1: High quality public safety, emergency preparedness, and
response services.
Because no two disasters are ever the same, high quality public safety requires
significant planning and preparation to support a variety of needs in a variety of
conditions. Public safety must consider needed facilities, equipment, staff,
training, public education, planning, and post disaster recovery. Adequate
planning and preparation lead to strong response and recovery from hazard
events, including fire, flooding, coastal hazards such as tsunamis and rogue
waves, earthquakes, geologic hazards such as landslides, and extreme heat.
Goal 2: Evacuation routes and centers that are maintained to provide
functionality during hazardous conditions.
Evacuation strategies are important to help ensure public safety and prevent
injuries in an emergency. The need for evacuation could arise as a result of a
hazard event and could involve either small or large numbers of people,
depending on the type and extent of a hazard event. Therefore, effective
evacuation strategies are key to protecting public health and safety and
providing efficient access for first responders.
Goal 3: Tested and effective communication systems for emergency
preparedness and response.
Communication systems are an essential component of emergency
preparedness and response. Effective communication systems can help
facilitate response efforts, connect people to resources, and educate people
about emergency preparedness and response.
Goal 4: Reduced and well-managed urban and wildland fire hazards.
As urban and wildfire hazards can impact communities across Newport Beach,
mitigation strategies and limits to new or redevelopment may be necessary.
Many hillside communities in the eastern portion of the City, in and
surrounding Newport Coast are in a very high fire hazard severity zone. Homes,
businesses, and other structures in these areas must be adapted to prevent
the spread of fire.
Goal 5: A community that is resilient to and protected from inland flooding.
While minimal, some areas of the City that are not along the coast are still
vulnerable to flooding. Inland flooding can occur in flood plains and low-lying
areas when rainfall exceeds the amount that can be absorbed by the ground or
accommodated by channels. While most flood risks exist in areas closest to
the shoreline, it is important that inland flooding potential is also considered
for the protection of existing and planned development.
Goal 6: A built environment adapted to provide relief from extreme heat.
As summer temperatures continue to get hotter and heat waves become more
common, the City must adapt to changing temperatures to protect the health
of residents and visitors, particularly vulnerable populations. Strategies such
as air conditioning, home weatherization, and increased shade in public areas
can help the community stay cool on hot days.
Goal 7: Buildings and utilities that are protected from seismic and geologic
hazards.
While difficult to predict, seismic and geologic events pose a risk to physical
structures. While new buildings are held to higher standards to be resilient to
such events, existing buildings can be modified to minimize structural damage.
Goal 8: A community protected from airport-related hazards.
John Wayne Airport produces noise in the vicinity of the airport and its general
aviation flight path. Additionally, the airport contributes to air quality in the
vicinity of the airport. To the extent practicable, and consistent with the
Settlement Agreement, there are actions the City can take to influence airport
operations and help protect future residents from noise and air pollution.
Goal 9: A community protected from impacts of hazardous materials.
Hazardous materials produced from manufacturing and industrial facilities
have the potential to negatively impact public health and safety and degrade
the environment if not properly managed. Although hazardous materials are
primarily regulated by state and federal agencies, local governments play a
pivotal role in hazard mitigation planning, enforcement and inspection of
hazardous waste generators, and increasing public awareness.
Goal 10: A community where residents, employees, and visitors feel a
sense of comfort and safety.
Providing a sense of comfort and safety in the public realm can be achieved
through design and development that encourages “eyes on the street.” The
concept of “eyes on the street” uses place-based design in public spaces to
increase community awareness, build social cohesion, improve community
bonds, enhance sense of safety, and increase social interaction. Designing for
safety can include regular maintenance of parks, lighting, trash, and streets;
which requires a level of fiscal responsibility. Further, balanced communities
with opportunities for a mix of uses such as residential, retail, employment,
and visitor serving uses, can draw people at all hours of the day; increasing
“eyes on the street” and community safety.
Workshop 3: Art, Culture, and
Historical Resources
WORKSHOP STRUCTURE
Activity 1: Registration and Vision
Overview: During registration, participants will be provided with
a section of the Vision Statement. While they enter the room, they will join
their section of the Vision Statement with other participants to create the
whole statement. Participants will be asked to place stickers next to the
pieces of the Vision Statement that most resonates with their values.
Objective: To familiarize participants with the Vision Statement and see how it
fits in with the whole. The presentation will include a summary of input received
during the pop-up events and digital engagement during the Phase I visioning
activities.
Activity 2: Presentation
Overview: The facilitator and City staff will provide a short presentation and
overview of the General Plan process. The presentation will include:
o Workshop overview and agenda
o What is the General Plan?
o How does it relate to you?
o Phase 1 Input/Summary
o General Plan Elements:
o Arts and Culture
o Historic Resources
o Activity 3: Guiding Values
o Activity 4: Ideas to Support the Element
o Closing
Objective: To familiarize participants with the General Plan Update, the Art
and Culture and Historic Resources Elements, and the intent of the
workshop.
Activity 3: Guiding Values
Overview: This activity will be designed as a “world café” format. Several
tables will be set up as stations throughout the room. Each station will have 1
or 2 Guiding Values printed on a poster and displayed on the table.
Participants will be asked to consider:
• What do you envision seeing in Newport Beach in 2050 to fulfill this
Guiding Value?
• What is important to you with this Guiding Value? Is anything
missing?
Responses can be recorded on post it notes and placed on the Guiding Values
poster. The project team will pre-fill 2-3 Post-its to provide examples. A
facilitator will group responses by themes.
Participants will rotate every 5-7 minutes to get to each station for the
opportunity to respond to each Guiding Value. At the end of the activity, a
facilitator at each table will share back the key themes accumulated
throughout the workshop.
Activity 4: Ideas to Support the Element
Overview: Activity 4 will focus on draft ideas for goals to support the Elements
and will follow the Guiding Values world café activity. This activity will include
printed goals and their descriptions on boards throughout the room.
Participants will be asked to rotate around the room at their own pace to review
the project team drafted goals and determine what aligns with the ideas
generated in the first activity.
Participants will be asked two questions:
1. Using green sticky dots, identify which goals align with the Guiding
Values and what you heard from your neighbors in the last activity
2. Using post it notes, identify other goals you’d like to see address
the Guiding Values.
After ~15 minutes, participants will be asked to gather back as a larger group.
The facilitator will guide a report back session asking what resonated (most
green dots) and report back on key themes from the Post-it Notes.
SUMMARY FOR GPAC COMMITTEE
INFORMATION
The following goals reflect priorities of the General Plan Advisory Committee
(GPAC) and General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC), previous
engagement and outreach feedback from community members, as well as
certain State General Plan requirements, where applicable. As this workshop
is focused on art, culture, and historic resources, the following series of goals
address public art, arts and culture events, city character and aesthetics,
preserving historic sites and resources, and acknowledging and celebrating
history and culture. The paragraph below each goal provides context into the
importance of that goal. Input received under each goal will be used to both
refine the goals and develop draft policies for the General Plan Update.
DRAFT IDEAS TO SUPPORT THE ELEMENTS
As noted in Activity 4, the following draft goals and their descriptions will be
printed on branded and designed boards with key guiding questions and
instructions for the activities:
Arts and Culture
A community enriched by and connected to the arts, culture,
libraries, and education
Arts, culture, library, literary, education opportunities, and creativity can
enhance quality of life for residents, improve visitor experiences, and
contribute to the local economy. Expanding exposure to the arts and culture
brings a unique sense of identity to Newport Beach and connects residents to
their community and those around them through shared experiences.
Programs and exhibits within the City are widely promoted,
marketed, and attended
Raising awareness and generating enthusiasm for the arts is key to increasing
participation in programs, exhibits, and events. This entails marketing
materials throughout the city, social media campaigns, and creating new ways
for people to engage in the arts through interactive technologies. A multi-
faceted approach that includes traditional and novel outreach and
engagement methods can capture the attention of residents and visitors of all
ages.
Funding that helps artists and art programs flourish
Investment from philanthropic organizations, the City, and community
members can help the arts thrive by supporting local, emerging, and other
artists, providing new and upgraded facilities, and bolstering programs. While
funding should support art from withing and outside Newport Beach, funding
for local art should be prioritized. Such financial contributions to the arts can
increase not only the quantity of art and programs in the community but the
quality. Funding and investment should reflect the high value placed on the
arts in the community.
State-of-the-art facilities to host art exhibits and programs
Facilities dedicated to the arts, such as galleries and performance and lecture
halls, provide a place for the community to gather in appreciation of the arts,
education, and culture and to promote Newport Beach as a regional
destination for the arts. Additionally, integrating art in existing community
centers, libraries, recreation facilities, parks and other open space, and in
private buildings plays a vital role in realizing Newport Beach as a city of the
arts.
A wide collection of art exhibited throughout the city.
A well-functioning system for accepting, maintaining, and rotating art
throughout public spaces, including The Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center
Park, and facilities helps sustain renewed interest and ensure high quality of
exhibits. Developing guidelines and criteria for accepting art donations and
acquisitions and dedicating staff to manage public art can ensure the system
for managing art is consistent and smoothly operates.
A City with strong partnerships that support thriving arts, culture,
and education
Partnerships are crucial for maintaining existing and realizing new
opportunities to cultivate art and culture exhibits, programs, events, and
funding. Strong coordination between City staff and private institutions;
partner agencies; and local, emerging, and other artist organizations can
facilitate community involvement in arts and culture, procurement of funding,
and successful management of public art.
Historical Resources
Goal 1: A city that celebrates, preserves, and protects its history
Preserving the city’s history is essential for maintaining its unique identity and
cultural heritage. By celebrating and safeguarding historically significant land
marks, sites, structures, and legacy businesses, the city can honor the stories
and achievements of past generations. Further, by recognizing and celebrating
those that have contributed to Newport Beach’s past, present, and future, our
storied history can be captured. The recognition and protection of history not
only enriches a community’s sense of place and continuity but fosters civic
pride and can attract tourism.
Goal 2: A city that enshrines its history through education
Education is a key tool for enshrining the city’s history and ensuring that future
generations appreciate and understand this heritage. Integrating local history
into City-sponsored, library, and other programs and events and promoting it
through various media can create a well-informed community that values its
roots. This awareness not only enhances residents’ connection to their city but
also helps future generations value the past.
Goal 3: Well documented and protected archeological and paleontological
resources
Documenting and protecting archaeological and paleontological resources is
crucial for preserving the evidence human history and life forms of the distant
past. These resources inform our understanding of ancient ecosystems and
cultures. This stewardship fosters a culture of respect and responsibility,
ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate this
history.
Goal 4: A City and community that celebrates tribal cultural resources
The foundational history of Tribal nations of the city’s land provides unique
insight into the importance of cultural places. Native American groups and
individuals hold special interest in the protection of cultural places. Tribal
views toward protection and preservation of cultural resources in the city
should be respected and the history of Tribal nations should be recognized and
celebrated.
Workshop 4: Land Use and Harbor,
Bay, and Beaches
WORKSHOP STRUCTURE
Activity 1: Registration and Vision
Overview: During registration, participants will be provided with a section of
the Vision Statement. While they enter the room, they will join their section of
the Vision Statement with other participants to create the whole
statement. Participants will be asked to place stickers next to the pieces of the
Vision Statement that most resonates with their values.
Objective: To familiarize participants with the Vision Statement and see how it
fits in with the whole. The presentation will include a summary of input received
during the pop-up events and digital engagement during the Phase I visioning
activities.
Activity 2: Presentation
Overview: The facilitator and City staff will provide a short presentation and
overview of the General Plan process. The presentation will include:
o Workshop overview and agenda
o What is the General Plan?
o How does it relate to you?
o Phase 1 Input/Summary
o General Plan Elements:
o Housing
o Land Use
o Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
o Activity 3: Guiding Values
o Activity 4: Draft Goals
o Activity 5: Land Use Activity
o Closing
Objective: To familiarize participants with the General Plan Update, the Land
Use and the Harbor, Bay, and Beaches Elements, and the intent of the
workshop.
Activity 3: Guiding Values
Overview: This activity will be designed as a “world café” format. Several
tables will be set up as stations throughout the room. Each station will have 1
or 2 Guiding Values printed on a poster and displayed on the table.
Participants will be asked to consider:
• What do you envision seeing in Newport Beach in 2050 to fulfill this guiding principle?
• What is important to you with this guiding principle? Is anything missing?
Responses can be recorded on post it notes and placed on the Guiding Values
poster. The project team will pre-fill 2-3 Post-its to provide examples. A
facilitator will group responses by themes.
Participants will rotate every 5-7 minutes to get to each station for the
opportunity to respond to each guiding principle. At the end of the activity, a
facilitator at each table will share back the key themes accumulated
throughout the workshop.
Activity 4: Ideas to Support the Elements
Overview: Activity 4 will focus on the draft ideas for goals to support the
Elements and will follow the Guiding Values world café activity. This activity will
include printed goals and their descriptions on boards throughout the room.
Participants will be asked to rotate around the room at their own pace to review
the project team drafted goals and determine what aligns with the ideas
generated in the first activity.
Participants will be asked two questions:
1. Using green sticky dots, identify which goals align with the Guiding
Values and what you heard from your neighbors in the last activity
2. Using post it notes, identify other goals you’d like to see address the
Guiding Values.
After ~15 minutes, participants will be asked to gather back as a larger group.
The facilitator will guide a report back session asking what resonated (most
green dots) and report back on key themes from the Post-it Notes.
Activity 5: Land Use Activity
Overview: Activity 5 will focus on identifying ideal community characteristics
for areas planned for change. This activity will include a map that identifies
the Housing Overlay sites and names of community sub-areas. Participants
will be asked to identify what they envision will be needed to accommodate
future housing to ensure that communities are safe, balanced, and healthy.
SUMMARY FOR GPAC INFORMATION
The following goals reflect priorities of the General Plan Advisory Committee
(GPAC), engagement with community members, and certain State General
Plan requirements. As this workshop is focused on land use and the harbor,
bay, and beaches, these goals address location and intensity of new
development, adaptive reuse, and other kinds of land use priorities, including
design and function, boating and fishing activities in the harbor, local
businesses, tourism, and economic development.
Importantly, the land use goals drafted below are intended to be consistent
with the Land Use Element adopted in July 2024 to implement the 6th Cycle
Housing Element; and the adopted policies are retained in the current General
Plan Update. Input received under each goal will be used to both refine the
goals and develop draft policies for the General Plan Update.
DRAFT IDEAS TO SUPPORT THE ELEMENTS
As noted in Activity 4, the following draft goals and their descriptions will be
printed on branded and designed boards with key guiding questions and
instructions for the activities:
Land Use
Goal 1: Distinct neighborhoods and villages that accommodate planned
development while maintaining their unique character
Well planned and thoughtfully designed neighborhoods contribute to quality of
life for residents and support community-wide needs. While each
neighborhood has a distinct and unique identity expressed through design and
development patterns, all neighborhoods should be well-maintained and have
diverse, cohesive development. Planned development should integrate
sophisticated urban design that is compatible with neighborhood
characteristics to blend with the surrounding urban fabric.
Goal 2: Planning sub-areas that accommodate planned housing
development in a cohesive manner
Each planning sub-area has individual characteristics that must be considered
when planning to accommodate planned development. Some planning sub-
areas are identified as housing opportunity sites, including the Airport Area,
Newport Center, and West Newport Mesa, while others prioritize commercial,
open space, or other uses, such as Balboa Peninsula, Lida Village, Cannery
Village, and McFadden Square; Balboa Village; Corona del Mar; Old Newport
Boulevard, and West Newport Mesa. New development can be
accommodated in a way that maintains the characteristics of the area and
creates longstanding neighborhoods that are cherished by the community.
Goal 3: Efficient use of land to create livable neighborhoods and support
economic development
Utilizing land in an efficient manner is important for the local economy,
environment, and balanced communities. Development should be planned
carefully to accommodate community needs while preserving natural
resources. Opportunities to utilize land efficiently and create livable
neighborhoods can include, creating pedestrian friendly spaces through
design and development standards such as “building to curb,” incentives to
encourage enhanced landscaping and streetscapes to seamlessly blend
development and the public realm, and flexible approaches to parking to
unlock new building typologies and encourage high-quality architecture.
Goal 4: Infrastructure that supports new development, maintains and
improves existing development, and is adaptable to new technologies
Maintaining adequate water, power, and transportation infrastructure is
crucial for servicing existing and new development. However, population
growth and environmental change can make this more challenging. A larger
population and increased energy and water demand can strain infrastructure
capacity, and hazards such as extreme heat, flooding, and fire can lead to
damage or disrepair. Infrastructure can be adapted, upgraded, and designed
to integrate emerging technologies to be more resilient to these impacts.
Goal 5: A prompt and efficient system for development permit processing
Permitting new development to achieve the goals of the General Plan hinges on
an effective system for processing development permits. Ensuring staff have
the capacity and resources to guide development review from pre-application
meeting to final approval can enhance the efficiency of the process. Well-
organized coordination between different departments and agencies can
streamline operations, leading to more successful project outcomes.
Goal 6: Residential neighborhoods that are well-designed and contribute
the livability and quality of life of residents
Newport Beach has distinct neighborhoods that together contribute to the
charm and unique sense of place of the city. Residential neighborhoods should
be of high-quality design. Design standards should consider compatibility with
existing neighborhoods including the scale of development, privacy, and
amenities. Residential neighborhoods should contribute to Newport Beach’s
livability by thoughtfully planning the location and types of housing permitted.
Goal 7: Commercial districts and centers are well-planned and exhibit a
high level of architectural and landscape quality
Commercial districts and centers create opportunities for shopping,
employment, socialization, and provide essential services and goods for the
community. The design of commercial districts and centers is important for
shaping how residents and visitors use, access, and interact with these types
of establishments.
Goal 8: Mixed-use districts are designed and planned to ensure
compatibility among a variety of uses
Mixed-use districts contribute to balanced communities through the
integration of residential, employment, retail, recreation, and service-oriented
uses. These uses contribute to a high quality of life for residents and local
businesses, such as, increased walkability, creating vibrant spaces, economic
development, and access to amenities. Mixed-use districts should be paired
with high-quality design to contribute to neighborhood character and flexibility
in uses that is responsive to market demands.
Goal 9: Office and business parks exhibit a high-quality image, are
attractive, and provide quality working environments for employees and
services for the community
Well-planned and designed office and business districts can provide a high-
quality working environment for employees and serve the surrounding
community. Office and business parks should integrate a campus-style
environment through design elements that promote connectivity, common
spaces such courtyards, and encourage pedestrian activity. Office and
business districts located adjacent to residential uses should encourage a mix
of community-serving commercial uses to serve nearby residents and expand
the use of the area outside of regular work-day hours.
Goal 10: Industrial districts that provide flexibility to incorporate
community-serving uses and encourage transition to co-locate
employment, residential, and creative and artistic uses.
Co-location of industrial and residential uses can be a good way to provide
more homes, create and protect local employment, and foster innovation. New
innovations in materials and technologies are making industry cleaner,
greener, and quieter. Industrial districts should be encouraged to support
changing neighborhoods, while providing a dynamic mix of uses that are both
sensitive to and supportive of residents and employees. While maintaining
Newport Beach’s values and community character, industrial districts can
provide an opportunity for uses that support innovation, creativity, and the arts
in existing industrial areas in response to market demands.
Goal 11: Public and institutional uses that enhance the quality of life for
residents and are located and designed to complement Newport Beach’s
neighborhoods.
Public and institutional uses such as governmental service, educational,
cultural, social, religious, and medical facilities are essential for every city,
providing places where neighbors gather, children play and learn, and
important decisions are made. The location and availability of these uses are
vital in supporting a sense of community and social well-being by providing
places for people to gather, access social services, and opportunities for
education and physical activity. High quality architecture and sophisticated
urban design in public and institutional uses can contribute to facilities and
spaces that enhance the community’s quality of life and connect residents to
their city.
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
Goal 1: High quality beaches that are enjoyed by residents and visitors
High-quality beaches are clean, have high-quality sand, ensure safe and sufficient
access, and provide amenities such as restrooms, showers, and parking. By
maintaining high beach quality, the city can enhance the user experience, boost
tourism, and maintain the vibrant, coastal community.
Goal 2: Coastal resources that are easily accessed and rich with
recreational opportunities
Access to coastal resources provides recreational, health, and economic benefits.
The harbor, bay, and beaches should be valued for the recreational opportunities
they provide and access should be provided and maintained for current and
future generations. Enhanced recreational opportunities and user amenities
should be available at appropriate locations to enhance the user experience.
Goal 3: A healthy coastal ecosystem
A healthy marine environment is essential for recreational activities including
swimming, fishing, and boating as well as the preservation of natural species and
their habitat. Management of coastal ecosystems and ensuring environmentally
friendly practices can benefit both the community and the environment,
maintaining high water quality.
Goal 4: Well-managed and economically productive harbor, bay, and
beaches
Administration and management of the harbor, bay, and beaches includes
coordination between various regulatory agencies and departments, balanced
public investment with revenue, and well-maintained public facilities. Efficient
and effective management policies will maintain the City’s ability to provide high
quality services that are accessible to a broad range of people and businesses.
Goal 5: A harbor, bay, and beaches that attract tourism and maintain the
character of coastal neighborhoods
Attracting tourism while preserving the unique character of coastal
neighborhoods is key to maintaining the city’s charm and appeal. This includes
maintaining architectural components that match the city’s character as well as
protection of coastal dependent uses and local businesses. By supporting a
tourism industry that celebrates Newport Beach’s cultural and historic resources
and community feeling, the City can create an attractive environment for
residents and visitors alike.
Goal 6: Preserved coastal-dependent uses that contribute to the charm
and character of the harbor, bay, and beaches
Recreation and commercial use of the bay and harbor depend on prioritizing
coastal dependent uses and coastal related uses, such as boating launches,
storage, and rentals; tourism serving uses, including hotels and retail; recreation;
habitat; and scenic areas. These uses contribute to the local economy, resident
and visitor activities, and the character of the community.