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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/06/1990 - PB&R CommissionCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Ayes Motion Ayes (j 3 Item No. 3 arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission February 6, 1990 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Ex- Officio Member *Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Nancy Beard, Recreation Supervisor Jack Brooks, Park and Tree Maintenance Superintendent Dottie Flohr, Secretary I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS Item #1 - Call to Order Call to Order In lieu of Chair Taft's absence, Vice Chair Grant called the meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission to order at 7:00 P.M. Item #2 - Roll Call Roll Call Roll call was taken. Commissioners Compton, Demmer, Grant, Herberts and Vandervort"were present. Chair Taft and Commissioner Konwiser were absent. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes - Meeting of January 9 _1990 Approval of Minutes Commissioner Vandervort referred to Item #11, Park and Street Tree Division, wherein "Hammered Dock" should read x "Hammer Down Dock." She then moved the minutes of the x x x x x January 9, 1990 meeting be approved as corrected. Unanimous. Item #4 - Adoption of Agenda Adoption of Agenda x Commissioner Compton moved the agenda be adopted as presented x x x x with the addition of Buffalo Hills Phase 3 Trees to be addressed under Item #7, Dover /PCH Land to be addressed under Item #13, and Irvine Terrace Park to be addressed under Public Comments. Unanimous. II. PUBLIC' COMMENTS Director Whitley reported that, due to a shortage of facili =" ties during certain times of the year, the Bobby .Sox youth group was accommodated last year at Irvine Terrace Park with temporary back stops. Request has been made by them to provide a permanent back stop and ball diamond at this location. Since Deed Restrictions on the property state that the homeowners must approve any-improvements, written approval was obtained. When the'project was being implemente a number of residents were upset and the problem needs to be resolved. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission -2- City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX .Vice Chair Grant opened the meeting to Public Testimony and Mrs. Linda Colton, 1837 Seadrift, addressed the Commission. As a mother of a Bobby Soxer and'manager of a team, she explained their practice and playing schedules, noting they are a low key group which has doubled in size since last year. Mrs. Colton stated the 'Board was not totally informed about the construction.project. Since a permanent back stop would cause view obstruction, safety concerns and problems which result -from outsiders coming in, the Board voted 6 -1 last night to not approve a permanent back stop. Mrs: Colton added that there is no objection to the Bobby Sox group playing at the park, however, the homeowners do not want a permanent field at the present site. They felt the temporary back stop at its present location worked well last year. She also pointed out the_griginal idea for this park was not to be a sports center which it seems to be developing into. She then presented a petition in opposi- tion to a permanent softball field at the park. Mr. Mike Spain, 1424 Serenade Terrace, addressed the Commission on behalf of the Irvine Terrace Board. Mr. Spain stated the homeowners do not object to the Bobby Sox and soccer groups playing at.the park. He suggested the back stop be moved to the other side of the park which would keep all the facilities at the west end which is also farther away from the street, thereby keeping the other end of the park a green belt area for other activities. Mr. Spain then summarized several proposed compromises, namely.(1).That the best resolution would be to keep the temporary back stop and bases; or (2) Implement a more permanent back stop that could be removed and stored after the Bobby Sox program; or (3) Put a permanent back stop in on the west end of the park where the other facilities are located. Director Whitley advised a permanent back stop at the west side would interfere with the soccer field. Commissioner Herberts questioned Mr. Spain if the homeowners would be agreeable to other teams coming in and using a permanent back stop. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches &. Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Mr. Spain stated they would.prefer a temporary structure so that other groups would -not come into the park. Should a permanent structure be implemented, it would encourage additional play not regulated by the City. Commissioner Herberts pointed out that parks are not privat and there is a shortage of fields now. Mr. Tom Colton, 1837 Seadrift, addressed the Commission and expressed his concern over the*safety,of small children and others in the park should a permanent structure be implemented. He asked if consideration had been given to a half diamond. Sharon Havriluk, 27 Point Loma Drive., addressed the Commission on behalf of the Bobby Sox. She explained the three divisions they have and their need for a permanent _ skinned infield with a dugout for safety precautions. The temporary back stop will not,work on a long term basis; should it be moved to the west side, the sand box would be in the way of foul balls. There being no further Public Testimony, Commissioner Motion x Demmer-moved to close the meeting to Public Testimony. Ayes x x x x x Unanimous. Vice Chair Grant suggested the diamond could be relocated between the tennis courts and restroom near Pacific Coast Highway. Commissioner Herberts stated she would rather vote after she sees and reviews the location. Director Whitley pointed out again the Irvine Terrace Homeowners Association voted not to approve a permanent back stop at the present location, and that the Deed Restrictions prevent putting a back stop in without their approval. Commissioner Compton stated he felt grass infields are un- safe for the older children and suggested using a portable back stop by the restrooms. Vice Chair Grant suggested .an alternative location for a permanent field be pursued which would be acceptable to the homeowners. S CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Herberts suggested meeting with representative of the homeowners association and the Bobby Sox to find a mutually acceptable location. Motion Commissioner Compton then moved that the Recreation-Program Committee meet at Irvine Terrace Park with staff and rep- resentatives from the Bobby Sox and Irvine Terrace Home- owners Association to work out a compromise. Jack Brooks advised that a major storm drain project is forthcoming between the tennis and basketball courts. Vice .Chair.Grant asked Mr. Brooks to provide details of the project for their forthcoming meeting at the park. Commissioner Vandervort amended the motion to include that the Recreation Program Committee have the authority to represent this Commission if a compromise is reached. Ayes x x 'x x y Unanimous. UCommissioner Herberts stated she would want to be informed as to any decisions made and,Director Whitley advised staff will notify the Commissioners. III. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #5 - Status of Capital Projects - FY 1989 -90 Status of Capital Director Whitley reported growing native plants have been Projects planted at Inspiration Point. The Department has also put in additional trees on Newport Boulevard Commissioner Compton questioned the trees under the Hoag Hospital site and Jack Brooks explained that since the soil is bad, there'.M1 1 be tree wells for slope planting. Commissioner Demmer questioned why 'the arterial strip on Via Lido is not on the capital project list. Jack Brooks explained that since the project is not large enough to be funded out of the Capital Improvement Fund, it is funded out of the Park Facilities Improvement Fund. The Commission is notified in advance if any project is over $5,000 and not an emergency. Vice Chair Grant asked about the light situation at Lincoln and Nancy Beard explained the "new timer is'in, however, the Department is waiting for the shields, CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH L") I arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers . 7 p.m. INDEX Vice Chair Grant voiced his concern over the permanent structure built on the Pony -League field at Eastbluff and stated this Commission should first approve such structures. Commissioner Vandervort asked for an update on the Irvine Terrace restrooms which Jack Brooks provided. He will also monitor their:completion. Commissioner, Herberts questioned the size of restrooms which she has observed to be under-utilized. Director Whitley explained that they have been reviewed and analyzed and that they'are' needed when games are played. Commissioner Demmer asked'about the Oasis expansion and Director Whitley advised William Blurock has -been selected as the architect. Item #6 _ Recreation Division Recreation Division Nancy Beard reported the annual Corona del Mar Run is scheduled for June 9. Item #7 - Park and Street Tree Division Park and Street Tree Commissioner 'Herberts asked for an update on Vista del Oro Division and Jack Brooks explained there is still more work to be done. Many trees were lost and the homeowners association has requested 170 trees. Commissioner Demmer referred to the hydroseeding at San Miguel, Park and asked if this will be done at Cliff Drive Park. Jack Brooks explained that shrubs will be added at this site. IV. COMMISSION COMMITTEES Item #8 - Capital Improvements Capital Improvement Director Whitley reported the budget is ready to be pre - sented to the City Manager. Item #9 - Street Tree Street Tree Commissioner Herberts reported there has been one tree removal request. Commissioner Compton reported the committee walked the Port Streets and observed parkway encroachments being pushed up by tree roots. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Jack Brooks explained this is an old area and some root barriers have been put in, however, they are not a permanent solution. General Services and Public Works determine when the sidewalks wil•1 be repaired, at which time root barriers are put in. The concrete encroachments, however, are the responsibility of the property owner as far as liability is concerned. Commissioner Herberts referred to Buffalo Hills Park Phase '3 and recommended a letter'be'sent to the homeowners associa- tion advising them the Department will spray for excess berry formation if they will notify us when the trees flower. Upon Commissioner Compton's request, Jack Brooks will check out the stump on Port Durness. Item #10 - Recreation Program Recreation Program Commissioner Compton reported the committee met on January 22 with Nancy Beard to approve the spring brochure. They also formulated seven action items, namely, (1) That a. community message be included in the brochure from the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission Chair; (2) That the brochure in- clude a "Did You Know..." section; (3) That new signage is needed at the Las Arenas Tennis Courts; (4) That signage is needed at the Girl Scout House.so people know it is available to the public; (5) That the area -next to the Aquatic Center be developed for volleyball or a picnic area; (6) That an- open house be held at the West Newport Community Center; and (7) That signage is needed at the Marian Bergeson Aquatic Center stating the pool is available to the public. Referring to the Girl Scout House, Director Whitley pointed out that it is legally named Neva Thomas-and he will provide the lease for the Commission's review. It may, however, prove difficult to open it to the public. Commissioner Grant agreed signage is needed at the Marian Bergeson Aquatic Center and he recommended it be provided before their open house. Director Whitley will pursue with the School District. Since there are many swim organizations in Newport Beach, .� Nancy Beard will write letters inviting the coaches to schedule their meets at this facility. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH' arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #11 - Oceanfront and Beach Oceanfront and Beach Commissioner Vandervort reported she and Bob.Granger, Recreation Supervisor, toured the beach last fall to monitor.-regulation volleyball poles. However; by now some have been moved and others taken down without proper authorization. Item #12 - Budget Budget Vice Chair Grant reported the Budget Committee met and in- creased some figures. Director Whitley will be meeting with the City Manager next week and wil'1 provide a summary or the entire budget to the Commission at their March 6 meeting. Item #13 - Parks and Open Space Acquisition Parks and Open Space Chair Grant reported Director Whitley is setting up a Acquisition meeting with Pat Temple to,discuss the Mouth of Big Canyon. The committee will review the Facility Inspection Reports and their decisions will be provided. Commissioner Compton recommended Palm Trees be planted at the vacant land at Dover and Pacific Coast Highway on the southeast corner of the bridge. Director Whitley advised.he will research this area since it is owned in part by several agencies and also The Irvine Company. He will report back at the March 6 Commission 'meeting. Vice Chair Grant referred to North Star Beach and asked about the constraints on the property between the rowing facility and Dover Shores. Director Whitley will research the matter. Commissioner Herberts reported the dog control signs at West Jetty Park have been removed. Item #14 - Newport Shores Park Newport Shores Park Commissioner Compton.reported that at their last meeting Director Whitley presented an overlay of the Cal Trans West property and the artist's conception. If the bond issue passes, part of the funds can be directed towards the park at Cal Trans West. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Vice Chair Grant suggested that Chair Taft decide if he wants Cal Trans West addressed by the Park and Open Space Committee or the Newport Shores'Committee. Commissioner Compton also reported funds for Newport Shores Park have been submitted for approval. This will be a discussion item at the Commission's March 6 meeting. Item #15 - Chair's Report Chair's Report Vice Chair Grant asked staff to review Goals /Objectives with Chair Taft if he-desires. Item #16 - Commission Liaison Assignments Commission Liaison (a) Friends of Oasis - Commissioner Demmer passed out the Assignments Oasis monthly Activity Utilization Report for November and directed comments to the Human Services section. She stated this report, as well as her observations at monthly Oasis Board meetings, substantiates a significant growth can be predicted in this area. With the increase in senior population, the needs for human services will increase and she indicated this may include additional staffing. She voiced concern if needs for human services and all that they encompass for senior citizens are compatible with the elements of parks, beaches and recreation and would be better served in a separate department. She also recom- mended that human services other than•for senior citizens might be recognized,-such as child care, street people, etc. Director Whitley explained that Oasis has grown tremendously since its conception and community services are encouraged and provided. Regarding additional staffing, Qasis has a well educated and trained staff. At this time Human Services is not big enough to be a separate department and belongs where it is. Nancy Beard explained the Oasis budget has increased this year and they will be provided with a full time Human Services Coordinator, a full time janitor, and a full time van driver. Commissioner Vandervort referred.to some of the medical services provided and questioned the liability issue and lJ if this isn't a County responsibility. Director Whitley, advised the Oasis staff networks with the County in these areas. ` CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH ( �1 L) arks., Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Herberts agreed that Oasis is excellent at managing their needs and referred to the Utilization Report which does not address all' the recreational activities they provide. Commissioner Grant suggested an assessment of their present and future needs be addressed. Director Whitley explained their Long Range Planning Committee meets monthly on this matter.- (b) Friends of the Theatre'Arts Center - Commissioner Compton reported a suggestion was made to him that the Theatre Arts Center facility could be expanded for other uses without restructuring the whole building. The group would like to expand and there is a question of whether or not they will keep this site in the future. V. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS Commissioner Demmer acknowledged the revitalization of the Youth Council and inquired if the Commission should meet the Council and be informed of their responsibilities. Nancy Beard explained this is a City Council. Commttee which falls under this Department's supervision. They have regrouped and are planning events such as a Youth in Govern- ment Day, Job Fair, etc. Vice Chair Grant suggested staff explore having thd•Youth Council, participate in a mock Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission meeting. VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business; the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned at 9:30 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on January 29, 1990 at ll':30 A.M. outside the City Hall Administration Building. Dottie Flohr, Secretary