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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/05/1993 - PB&R Commission1 : ; 1 COMMISSION Minutes 1993 1 : ; 1 COMMISSION Minutes January 5. 1993 P ( � o �i Motion Ayes Motion Ayes CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Item No. 3 arks. Beaches & Recreation Commission s d� s m January 5 ' 1993 33`0h co6��^o�G4oil City Council Chambers 7 o.m. INDEX Call to Order Roll Call Approval of Minutes Street 'End Plantings Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Nancy Beard, Recreation Superintendent Randy Kearns, Park Maintenance Supervisor Dottie Flohr, Secretary I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS Item #1 - Call to order The meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 P.M. Item #2 - Roll Call Roll call was taken. Commissioners Compton, Demmer, Glasgow, Herberts, Schonlau and Vandervort were present. Commissioner Grant was absent. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes - Meeting of December 1, 1992 Commissioner Glasgow reported That Commissioner Grant's votes should be deleted X due to his absence. Commissioner Herberts X X X X X X motioned the minutes be approved as corrected. Unanimous. Item #4 - Adoption of Agenda X Commissioner Vandervort moved the agenda. be adopted as presented with the addition of CPRS Convention to be addressed under Item VI and Landscape Improvements to be addressed under X X X X X X Item #9. Unanimous. II. ACTION ITEMS Item #5 - Street End Plantings Director Whitley reported that as a result of a letter transmitted to the Tree Maintenance Supervisor, this item is on the agenda for review of the street end plantings at !'M" Street. Three more communications were just received on this matter and are also .presented for information. Director Whitley explained that public right - of -ways are a complex issue and that the Public Works Department has three policies that deal with encroachments in public right - of -ways. The L -10 Policy, adopted in August of 1981, addresses street ends that terminate Call to Order Roll Call Approval of Minutes Street 'End Plantings CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches & Recreation Commission No i �0. c Page 2 ah mh �s °o City Council Chambers 7 p.m. IWO( Although there were many encroachments prior to the adoption of this policy, the policy does not address the "grandfather" installations. The policy was adopted to provide guidelines for future developments. As a:matter of clarification, the Public Works Department reviews the hardecape and this Department reviews the plantings at street ends. In response to a question from Chair Compton, Director Whitley explained that the shrubs and grouhdcover at the subject site are not contested. The entire landscaping is similar to many others that do not have a permit. Chair Compton opened the meeting to public hearing. Gregory Weiler, attorney for Mr. and Mrs. Connolly, addressed the Commission. Mr. Weiler reported that the issue is not the landscaping at the street end, but is the fast growing Star Pine Tree which obstructs the Connollys' view of the ocean. Mr. Weiler also reviewed the legal aspects of the matter, stating that the landscaping violates the state Coastal Act and the City's policy inasmuch as improvements to a public right -of -way must have a permit and cannot obstruct the public's ocean or bay views. Mr. Weiler stated he is hopeful that the problem can be resolved informally without involving the surrounding neighbors. However, if no agreement can be reached, request is made to enforce the policy and remove the tree. Mr. Leonard Connolly, 2061 Ocean Blvd., addressed the Commission. Mr. Connolly reported he bought his house five years ago and the subject tree was not planted at this location at that time. Their living room is upstairs and the tree is 16 -18' high which obstructs their view. In response to a question from Commissioner HerbertB concerning an, alternate solution, Mr. Weiler responded that they would be agreeable to meeting with staff and neighbors to find a site for the tree that would not offend anyone. } Mr. Charles Unsworth, 2100 E. Ocean Front, addressed the Commission. Referring to the L- 10 Policy, Mr. Unsworth reported the policy states that improvements must not eliminate views and the subject tree, which has not yet reached maturity, does not eliminate views. vn -- ---- r..A-A J.L_ i____ .__ ._. . _ .. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 h `0 s v4 City Council Chambers 7 c.m. 2N)PY the Connollys and Mrs. Lindsay meet after the Connollys have constructed their new house to determine if there is view obstruction. Mr. Unsworth pointed out that the subject tree has a lot of "see through" space and that the Lindsay landscaping is one of the finest on the Peninsula. He further stated his concern over,the neighbors being in dispute and felt the matter should not have had to be addressed at this level. Annette Lindsay, 2060 E. Ocean Front, addressed the Commission and presented pictures of the area in addition to two more letters from her neighbors requesting the tree be retained. Mrs. Lindsay reported they build their house 16 years ago and were given permission to landscape. The subject tree has been in her garden for many years and is now located at the lowest part of her lot. She felt the tree does not cause a view impact from the Connollys' living room at this time,.however, I J she would be agreeable to discuss the issue when and if the tree actually becomes a problem. Commissioner Glasgow inquired if Mrs. Lindsay would agree to the tree being removed if it grows to block the Connollys' view. Mrs. Lindsay stated that she would consult with the Public Works Department to retain her tree since there are 10 -15 trees that block many other homes nearby. Mrs. Lindsay stated she has spent a great deal of effort to beautify the area and she feels very strongly that.if she is required to remove her tree, then everyone in the same situation should remove theirs. Mr. Gregory Weiler addressed the Commission and stated that the tree is an illegal improvement by City Policy and the Coastal Act and requested it be removed. Commissioner Herberts reported she visited the Connolly home and presented two pictures from their living room showing no view obstruction. Mr, Paul Hodges, 1549 E. Ocean Blvd., addressed the Commission and reported one of the Connollys' considerations in buying their property was to build a home on a lot with an ocean view. Elaine Linhoff, 1760 E. Ocean Blvd., addressed the Commission. She reported that the tree might obstruct a little, however, she felt it enhances, rather than detracts from the area. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches & Recreation Commission i CO- any `O6 `'o V Page 4 �3 m� 7l o �0 Nh �s °o. City Council Chambers 7 D.m. INDEX of the Connollys' lot is unsightly and obstructs their view more than the tree. John Mitchell, 1755 E. Ocean Blvd., addressed the Commission and referred to the six large trees and two smaller ones leading to the beach which were City approved. He felt they added to the beauty of the area. He also pointed out that 908 of a tree is air and that the whole matter should be reconsidered when the tree does obstruct views. There being no further public testimony, Chair Compton closed the meeting to public hearing. Commissioner Schonlau asked for clarification of the L -10 Policy as it relates to preserving private vs. public views. Director Whitley reported the policy is up to interpretation, however, both the policy and Coastal Act address public application. He further pointed out that the City does not trim for private views. j Commissioner Glasgow noted that the City would not plant the same type of tree if there were a permit issued and that, since the tree will eventually grow to be problem, he recommended it be dealt with now. Commissioner Demmer acknowledged that trees and the encroachment policy are very important to the City and it is clear to her that, by policy, the tree should be removed. Commissioner Vandervort stated she felt the tree should be removed now since it is fast growing, will cause additional view obstruction, and the roots would be less damaging to surrounding vegetation if removed now. Commissioner Herberts stated she favored retaining the tree since it does not cause a view impact at this time and because the Commission approved extensive tree plantings at L Street street end on public property. Commissioner Schonlau pointed out public views should be considered and that, by policy, this tree currently impedes a view for a pedestrian, bicyclist, and automobile from the street level. In addition, although he has great admiration for Mrs. Lindsay's 1 landscaping, the tree will become more view invasive in future years. Motion X Commissioner Schonlau moved to remove the Star Ayes X X X X X Pine Tree. Motion passes. Nay x CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches & Recreation Commission 1 0� cod yN Q o m ry f L Page 5 IPA row Soh h�N w4 0� City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Chair Compton advised Mrs. Lindsay that she can appeal the Commission's decision to the City Council and would hope that the removal of one tree would not affect her landscaping. Item' #6 - Craft Fair Evaluation Craft Fair Director Whitley reported that a letter Evaluation addressed to the Commission was received complaining about the Craft Fair in November with respect to promotion and parking. Mr. Whitley then presented the newspaper ads which advertised the program,' which was also advertised in the water bills. He explained that the poor economy this year most likely affected the vendors' sales. In response to a question from Commissioner Glasgow, Nancy Beard advised that publicity was.increased this year and will be increased again next year. In response to a question from Chair Compton, Nancy Beard explained that the soccer game at the field site has, in the past,• enhanced attendance. The Fair was moved from Mariners Park to the Lincoln facility to accommodate additional parking needs. In response to a question from Commissioner Vandervort, Nancy Beard explained that the Fair attracted a few hundred people. She acknowledged that the figure for staff costs in the report are too high and will be corrected. Commissioner Schonlau inquired about the parking problem complaint and Director Whitley reported that on Saturday the crafters had to hand transport their wares some distance, which was a major complaint. Therefore, on Sunday the Recreation Supervisor allowed the vendors to unload their crafts at the site and park elsewhere. Commissioner Glasgow recommended a "wrap up" meeting, be held to evaluate and make recommendations for the following year. Commissioner Schonlau concurred, suggesting the vendors be a part of the planning and decision making process. Nancy Beard explained that evaluations are sent to each vendor following the Fair and that, since the vendors are not an organized group and often change, this idea might be difficult to implement. Commissioner Demmer pointed out that the pony rides are very successful and suggested these be promoted on the advertisements. Nancy Motion Ayes Motion Ayes CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches d o �� �° LOP 'm 3 �i Qs 4l L �o ��°s� W� 0� & Recreation Commission Page 6 Citv Council Chambers 7 n m Facility Rental Fees Recreation Division Park and Street Tree Division X Commissioner Vandervort moved to accept the report as presented and assume the evaluations X X X X X X will solve the problems next year. Unanimous. Item #7 - Facility Rental Fees Director Whitley reported a fee analysis has been conducted for City facility rentals which shows a lower fee for certain groups. Policy I -5 clearly states what the Department can charge, therefore, these lower fees do violate the policy. Either fees must be adjusted upwards for these users or the policy must be changed to reflect the lower rates. The proposed fee increases as presented in the report are in accord with the policy. X Following a brief discussion, Commissioner Demmer moved this matter be referred to the X X X X X X Budget Committee for a recommendation to the Commission. Unanimous. III. PUBLIC COMMENTS IV. INFORMATIONAL AND COMMITTEE REPORTS Item #8 -..Recreation Division Commissioner Demmer asked when Winter Wonderland will be held on this side of :the Bay and Nancy Beard explained that next year it will be held at Mariners Park. Until we are able to underwrite two events, the sites will alternate each year to accommodate both sides of the Bay. Item 09 - Park and Street Tree Division In response to a question from. commissioner Glasgow concerning the plastic volleyball pole at 34th Street, Nancy Beard explained they are still at this location but were adjusted. In response to a question from Commissioner Glasgow, Nancy Beard advised the Department does accept donated boats based upon staff's evaluation and decision. Commissioner Herberts pointed out the Tree Division had a good month wherein they planted 25 trees and removed only 6. Commissioner Demmer stated she liked the 8 trees planted at 15th Street Park but pointed out 2 are dying. Director Whitley acknowledged staff is-aware of the problem. Commissioner Demmer questioned when a park sign will be installed at 15th Street Park and Nancy Beard explained this is done on a priority basis. Randy Kearns stated he will Facility Rental Fees Recreation Division Park and Street Tree Division CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches & Recreation Commission s a Page 7 °o City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDDC General Services Department. Chair Compton questioned why the Commission has not seen the plans for the West Newport entry area, and Director Whitley explained the Commission reviewed the conceptual plans. Chair Compton requested that not all the trees be Palms at the entry area, and Randy Kearns advised that, although most will be Palms, some will be Corals. Commissioner Schonlau requested Kentia Palms be planted, rather than the Washingtonias. Director Whitley reported that Public Works bid the contract and upon completion this Department will review the site. In response to a question from Commissioner Demmer concerning the landscaping plans at, Cliff Drive Park, Randy Kearns explained they were supposed to be available -on December 8, however, they were received on December 23. They are now under review for corrections. The final corrected plan will be .available shortly. This project will then be put out for bid. Commissioner Demmer reported it was her understanding that Hoag Hospital dedicated $200,000 for improvements and questioned if this can be used towards landscaping the corners under the bridge at PCH and Newport Boulevard. Director Whitley advised this is a Cal Trans project and that Public Works has proposed the landscaping for next fiscal year as a capital improvement. Meanwhile, he will contact Public Works and submit a status report on this project. Item #10 - Tree Committee Tree Commissioner Herberts reported the committee Committee met and discussed five trees, three of which will be removed. Commissioner Herberts also reported she and Randy Kearns will present a report on the value and worth of mature trees at the Commission's February meeting. Item #11 - Recreation Program Committee Recreation Program Commissioner Glasgow inquired about the status Committee of the postponed item concerning Bonita Creek Park Usage. Director Whitley advised this will be agendized at the Commission's February meeting so that a recommendation can be transmitted to the City Council. , CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH) Parks Beaches ti P o dN 0 4l 0'�' & Recreation Commission Page 8 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #12 - Park and open Space Committee Park and Open Space No report from Commissioner Demmer. Committee Item #13 - Beach committee Beach No report. Committee Item #14 - Budget Committee Budget Committee Director Whitley reported all Department Heads will be attending a series of meetings with the City Manager this week concerning budgets, the fiscal situation, etc. Commissioner Glasgow reported the committee will-meet following direction from staff on the status of the budget. Item #15 - Oasis Liaison Oasis Liaison Chair Compton reported upon the success of the holiday party with staff at Oasis and suggested a mid -year party be considered with the other Commissions and Boards. , Director Whitley will pursue. Commissioner Vandervort inquired about the ,status of a joint meeting with the City of Costa Mesa's Commission. Director Whitley will pursue. V. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #16 - Capital Improvement Projects Capital No discussion. Improvement Projects Item #17 - Maintenance Reporting Form' Maintenance Director Whitley referred to the letter Reporting provided in the agenda packet from Gary Lovell Form concerning "facilities reporting." Commissioner Glasgow recommended a letter be transmitted thanking him for his efforts and informing him that the Commission continues to evaluate parks and facilities. Commissioner Demmer suggested Mr. Lovell's reporting form be used as a supplementary one and submitted to other Departments for their input. Director Whitley stated he will discuss this idea with the City Manager and the Planning Department. Commissioner Herberts reported there are repairs needed to the telephone that was pulled from West Jetty View Park. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks. Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 O h O�� l ° h ° s °o City Council Chambers 7 o.m. IBEX VI. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS Director Whitley reported the CPRS Convention in San Francisco will be held in March. In past years the budget provided for the Chair or Vice Chair to attend, however, these funds were cut from this year's budget. Commissioners, however, are invited to attend at their own expense. Commissioner Vandervortinvited the Commission to attend the Mayor's Dinner at Speak Up Newport on February 5 at the Marriott Hotel. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission meeting adjourned at 9:30 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on December 28, 1992 at 11:30 A.M. outside the City Hall Administration Building. Dottie Flohr, Secretary i CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH PARKS, BEACHES AND RECREATION COMMISSION I I REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1993 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 7:00• P.M. I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Minutes - Meeting of January 5, 1993 4. Adoption of Agenda II. ACTION ITEMS 5. Encroachment Request - 2495 Ocean Blvd. (Report Attached) 6. Uses of Bonita Creek Park (Report Attached) 7. Tree Appeal - 280 Evening Canyon Road, Corona del Mar (Report Attached), III. PUBLIC COMMENTS IV. INFORMATIONAL AND COMMITTEE REPORTS 8. Recreation Division (Report Attached) 9. Park and Street Tree Division (Report Attached) 10. Tree Committee - Commissioner Herberts 11. Recreation Program Committee - Commissioner Grant 12. Park and open Space Committee - Commissioner Demmer 13. Beach Committee - Commissioner Grant 14. Budget Committee - Commissioner Glasgow 15. Oasis Liaison - Commissioner Demmer V. DISCUSSION ITEMS 16. Capital Improvement Projects VI. SPECIAL URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS I VII. ADJOURNMENT