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HomeMy WebLinkAboutII - Draft Minutes - 09-03-1996Item II 0 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting September 3, 1996 Staff present: LaDonna Kienitz, Community Services Director David E. Niederhaus, General Services Director Marcelino Lomeli, Park and Tree Maintenance Superintendent Steve Hunt, Senior Recreation Manager Dottie Flohr, Secretary CALL TO ORDER' The Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 P:M. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Bonner, Compton, - Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau were present. Commissioner Beek was absent. • II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Compton moved the minutes of the August 6, 1996 meeting be approved as presented. The motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau III. PUBLIC COMMENTS - None 'IV. CONSENT CALENDAR Commissioner Compton moved that the following items be approved except for those removed from the Consent Calendar. The motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau Item #1 - Removed from Consent Calendar Item #2 - Park and Tree Division Approve report of Park and Tree Division activities during August and upcoming projects in September. • 'Item #3 - Removed from Consent Calendar 3 Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3,1996 Item #4 - Balboa Peninsula Point Association Shower Donation Approve the donation of one beach shower on the public beach located on the bay front side at Balboa�Boulevard and Channel Avenue. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR Item #1 - Communications In response to .Commissioner Glasgow's inquiry concerning Mr. Benson's proposals regarding the Castaways View Park, Director Kienitz explained that his recommendations were directed to the Public, Works Director who is in charge of the project. The Commission will be kept apprised of the plans as they progress. In response to a question from Commissioner Glasgow regarding the Bayside Drive project, Director Niederhaus advised that an architect has been hired and that the preliminary plans and approximate costs will be presented to the Commission at their October meeting. Balboa Island, Mai Kai and Irvine Terrace Community Associations will be invited to provide input. • Item #3 - Recreation and Senior Services Commissioner Demmer volunteered to represent the Commission at the next meeting to develop plans for the improvements of the Arches Interchange. The Commission concurred. Commissioner Demmer moved to accept Items 1 and 3 for approval. Motion was carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau V. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #5 - Tree Removal. Designation and Donation by Taylor Woodrow Homes Tom Redwitz, Senior Development Manager for Taylor Woodrow Homes, addressed the Commission and introduced Jessica Flanagan, Project Manager for the Upper Castaways. Ms. Flanagan stated it is their desire to provide a'harmonious street scene on 16th Street and that they concur with staff's recommendation as presented with one exception. They recommend that the Evergreen Elm tree be the replacement street tree rather than the Redspire Pear tree. Ms. Flanagan presented and clarified the preliminary landscape plan which will create an old neighborhood canopy effect. "1 • Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3,1996 Page 3 In response to questions from Chair Schonlau and Commissioner Dunn, Marcy Lomeli stated there is no current designated street tree for 16th Street east of Dover Drive. Staff prefers the designated tree be the Pear tree due to its lower maintenance costs. The Ficus trees are 20 years old and have reoccurring root problems— within three years they will again cause hardscape problems. Director Niederhaus pointed out that this represents an opportunity to replace trees that will cause problems in the future with mature 36" box flowering trees. Commissioner Demmer concurred that this is an opportunity to upgrade an area in poor condition and she supports the revitalization project. Ms. Flanagan stated they would' be pleased to work with staff irn selecting a different evergreen tree and that they also propose to provide landscaping, sidewalk and irrigation replacement in addition to the trees. During- discussion concerning relocation of the designated Ficus memorial tree in Bob Henry Park, the Commission recommended a different site due to space constraints. Marcy Lomeli advised that the location selected is appropriate and that root barriers and root planing can be used to control the invasive roots, however, he will discuss a • different site with the architect. Chair Schonlau opened the meeting to public hearing. Virginia Herberts addressed the Commission and recommended the trees be relocated as a condition of removal since they are still beautiful and valuable. There being no further public testimony, Chair Schonlau closed the meeting to public 'hearing. Director Kienitz stated that from a recreational standpoint she would recommend the Ficus tree designated for Bob Henry Park be relocated to a different site within the park. In response to a question from Commissioner Glasgow, Ms. Flanagan advised they would like the street constructed in conjunction with the opening of Bob Henry Park. Tom Redwitz addressed the Commission and requested removal of the trees be approved at this meeting. In addition, they would be happy to relocate the Ficus trees as determined by staff and box the remainder. They would also work with 'staff on the choice of a designated street tree for 16th Street east of Dover Drive. • Commissioner Compton moved to approve the removal of the six Ficus trees; that Taylor Woodrow Homes work with staff on the relocation and boxing of the trees; that they work with staff on a relocation site for one Ficus tree at Bob Henry Park; and that a Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3„ 1996 the designated street tree for 16th Street east of Dover Drive be reviewed by the Commission at their October meeting. In response to a question from Commissioner Dunn, Marcy Lomeli explained that it would be advantageous to relocate the trees immediately to large lawn areas or'park sites during the next few months. Director Kienitz reminded the Commission that the Senior Recreation Manager needs to be notified when park sites are selected for the trees. Chair Schonlau announced that Commissioner Glasgow will represent the Commission at future development meetings of the park. Commissioner Bonner thanked Virginia Herberts for her recommendation concerning relocating the Ficus trees. Motion by Commissioner Compton was voted on and carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlai. • Item #6 - Tree Removal at 1207 Pembroke Lane Director Niederhaus reported that a large sidewalk rehabilitation program is going out to bid in three weeks. The tree removals are necessary to protect the hardscape. Director Niederhaus presented an example of the Ficus tree root which is also invading lawns and sewer lines. There have been two large claim disbursements.by the City in the same vicinity in the past thirty days and several more are pending. In response to a question from Commissioner Glasgow, Director Niederhaus explained that the trees were originally planted by the builder, however, when trees are not planted with root barriers they cause damage in later years. The designated replacement street tree is the Magnolia. He reminded the Commission that the City will plant a larger 24' box tree for an additional $100. There being no one present to address the Commission, Chair Schonlau closed the meeting to public hearing. Commissioners Demmer and Dunn both commented on their dissatisfaction with the Magnolia tree. Commissioner Compton moved to accept staff's recommendation to deny the retention • of the Ficus nitida tree. During discussion concerning the costs of planting and'the need to upgrade as much as possible, Director Niederhaus advised that there is an acceleration of reforestation and no • Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3,1996 insurance costs coming to the forefront from trees which are a liability. In addition, the Department is still trying to recover from budget downsizing. Motion by Commissioner Compton was voted on and carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau Item #7 - Tree Removal at 2100 Leeward Lane Director Niederhaus reported that although the Tomlinson. Ash tree recommended for removal is beautiful, the tree cannot be retained since it will not survive the loss of root mass that must be removed in the hardscape replacement process. It also is a liability relative to curb and gutter damage. The designated -replacement tree is the Bronze Loquat. Chair Schonlau opened the meeting to public hearing. Jim Kalmbach, 1906 Leeward Lane, addressed the Commission. Mr. Kalmbach presented a petition from over 50 residents on Leeward Lane opposing the Tomlinson Ash tree removals. He stated their street is unique and charming and they do not want • this old time look destroyed. In addition, the value of their homes would also be affected. He felt the replacement tree is a "total joke;" that the liability is not extensive; and that it is a short sighted vision to remove the trees. He recommended root blocks be installed when the sidewalk is repaired. Chair Schonlau explained that the,goals of the Commission are the same as the homeowners and that staff is attempting to preserve and protect quality trees. Liability issues, however, cannot be ignored. John Robinson, 2012 Leeward Lane; addressed the Commission and spoke on the history of his block. He cannot recognize any savings by removing the trees and ruining one of prettiest streets in the City. Director Niederhaus advised that the City has replaced the curb and gutter in areas on this street in 1980, 1983, 1988, and 1991. Ramping and grinding have been used on an annual basis to control drainage and keep the area safe. Maintenance is costly and there are liability claims and safety concerns to consider. The street could be denuded in'the future if replanting is not started. Mark Byers, 1839 Leeward Lane, addressed the Commission and spoke of the unique character. of the street. He pointed out the removals would require taking away 35 • years of production. He also feels that liability is minimal and their street deserves special treatment. He stated there needs to be exceptions to policy for exceptional circumstances. ,I L`_ Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3,1996 Virginia Herberts addressed the Commission and pointed out the Commission's decision can'be appealed'to the City Council. She stated that when citizens report how much they value their street, the City should work with them to try to save the trees in a responsible manner. She felt the liability can be managed and recommended the idea of homeowners signing disclaimers be pursued. Alex Robinson, 2012 Leeward'Lane, addressed the Commission and stated his objections to the removals and pointed out how the children enjoy playing among the trees. Christine Cardwell, 2021 Leeward Lane, addressed the Commission and asked that the City not take away from the beauty and fun of their street. Sandra Glaser, 2100 Leeward Lane, addressed the Commission and reported no one in the neighborhood wants the trees removed. She requested the City work with them to find solutions to save the trees. Bill Groux, 1027 Leeward Lane, addressed the Commission. He stated that although he understands the liability and budget issues, he urged that every possibility be explored to retain the trees. • David Clark, 2121 Leeward Lane, addressed the Commission and stated he does not feel the trees present a liability. Elaine Linhoff, 1760 E. Ocean Boulevard, addressed the Commission and stated she feels too many trees have been removed since the Tree Committee was disbanded. She urged the Tree Committee be re- established. There being no further public testimony, Chair Schonlau closed the meeting to public hearing. Commissioner Glasgow reported there are over 22,000 trees in the City and the liability problem is getting worse. The City is trying to protect their assets and time phase tree removals in order that the City is not denuded. Director Niederhaus reported that trees have fallen on homes and cars in this area and that a disclaimer would not be valid since the City has the ultimate responsibility. Root pruning will not solve the problem and concrete ramps cannot be built around the trees. He recommended the residents begin the process of selecting a different designated street tree or contribute towards a larger box tree. The City's goal is to provide safe sidewalks, curb and gutters that drain properly. In addition, landmark trees located in • Baycrest requiring removal will be presented to the Commission in October. The Risk Manager will also be present to address liability issues at the next meeting. no Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3, 1996 Commissioner Demmer moved to deny the appeal to retain the Tomlinson Ash tree and recommended the neighbors work with staff towards changing the designated, street tree. Commissioner Bonner made a substitute motion to postpone this item for one month to allow time for the Risk Manager to evaluate the situation. Director Niederhaus advised he will contact the Risk Manager and he will also ask for a report on all outstanding claims relating to trees. He requests the item be postponed to the October meeting, at which time an appeal from David Clark, 2121 Leeward Lane, can also be reviewed. Substitute motion by Commissioner Bonner was voted upon and carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau Item #8 - Tree Removal at 3 Hampshire Court Director Niederhaus reported the Desert Gum tree is adjacent to a water meter and lies • directly over a sewer lateral. In addition, the tree cannot be retained due to the root mass that must be removed during the hardscape replacement project. The ,designated replacement street tree is the Magnolia but it cannot be planted due to the location of the utilities. Chair Schonlau opened the meeting to public hearing. Virginia Herberts addressed the Commission on behalf of the applicant who is out of town and requested the item be postponed one month. There being no further public testimony, Chair Schonlau closed the meeting to public hearing. Following a brief discussion concerning presenting the costs to a homeowner to save a 'tree, Commissioner Bonner moved to deny the appeal and remove the tree. Motion fails by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner and Schonlau Nays: Compton, Demmer, Dunn and Glasgow • Director Niederhaus reported that since the General Services Department assumed the management of the urban forest, there has,not been a history of controversy over tree removals. Seventy trees have been removed the past month with proper notification to q residents and there have been only three appeals. I Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3,1996 Commissioner Demmer moved to postpone this item for one month. Motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau Item #9 - Facility Inspections Steve Hunt offered his assistance if there are any questions regarding the Commission's annual park and facility inspections. Commissioner Glasgow moved to approve the facility inspection assignments as presented. Motion was carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and'Schonlau Item #10 - Park and Open Space Committee Commissioner Compton reported that the proposed park at Newport Boulevard and Short Street will cost $300,000 to landscape and Mr. Thompson has received $60,000 . in pledges towards the project. The site at Newport Boulevard and Via Lido will cost about $35,000 to landscape and the City has put 10 -15% down for this project. There has been no progress regarding the status of the park on Lido Isle. Regarding Hoag Linear Park, $50,000 has been funded and there will be a meeting with the architect next week. The preliminary concept will be presented at the Commission's October meeting. The telephone survey by DLG Marketing Research has been completed. Commissioners Beek and Demmer will review and summarize the results and provide input to DLG for the survey to be inserted in the Newport Navigatorand these results, along with the telephone survey, should achieve a good balance. Commissioner Compton moved that the request for transfer of $25,000 to fund the development of the revised Recreation and Open Space Element be approved and transmitted to the City Council. Motion was carried by the following vote: Ayes: Bonner, Compton, Demmer, Dunn, Glasgow and Schonlau Item #11 - Discussion of Peninsula Park • In response to Commissioner Dunn's inquiry regarding the removal of the goal posts, Steve Hunt explained the activities that have taken place and that the posts were removed at the request of the Risk Manager due to potential liability at the parking lot I Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission September 3,1996 and boardwalk. The Risk Manager reviewed video tapes of the activities and recommended the posts be moved 100' away from the boardwalk. Commissioner Dunn stated he felt staff should not be in the business of liability forecasting. He feels it was unfortunate that the poles were removed since there was never a liability issue, space is scarce and' many activities were enjoyed at the park. Chair Schonlau advised that the Commission supports bringing back softball, soccer and rugby, however, the Risk Manager is currently evaluating the films. Commissioner Compton requested staff transmit a report on the current condition of the fields at the park. Steve Hunt reported the City Council commissioned the Balboa Peninsula Planning Advisory Committee study and that John Douglas from the Planning Department notified him that there will be no more discussion on the displacement of the park as exists today. Commissioner Dunn reported he has been involved in these meetings which have resulted in some excellent ideas concerning economic redevelopment. lCopies of the • report will be transmitted to the Commission. Item #12 - Subcommittee Reports Commissioner Glasgow reported the Community Service Awards Committee will present their recommendations after they have developed a set of criteria. Director Niederhaus reported another meeting will be held on September 6 to review Council Policies G -1 and G -3. Chair Schonlau requested to attend the meeting. VI. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS The Commission determined that future agenda items would include Annexation of the Down Coast Area and Council Policies G -1 and G -3. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned at 10:40 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted August 27,, 1996 at 1:00 P.M. on the City Hall • Bulletin Board outside of the City of Newport Beach Administration Building.