Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-03-2015 PBR MINUTES CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Regular Meeting March 3, 2015 – 6:00 PM 1) CONVENE MEETING OF THE PARKS BEACHES & RECREATION COMMISSION TO ORDER – 6:00 PM 2) ROLL CALL Present: Roy Englebrecht, Vice Chair Kathy Hamilton Laird Hayes Walt Howald Marie Marston Absent: Ron Cole, Chair Tom Anderson Staff: Laura Detweiler, Recreation & Senior Services Director Sean Levin, Recreation & Senior Services Deputy Director Mike Pisani, Acting Municipal Operations Co-Director Dan Sereno, Landscape Manager Jonathan Harmon, Recreation Supervisor Michelle Clemente, Natural Resources Management Specialist Teri Craig, Administrative Assistant 3) NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC 4) PRESENTATION - Natural Resources Program Overview - ISOpod - Interactive Sealife Outreach pod (traveling tidepool vehicle) will be available for the public to tour from 5:30-6:30PM in front of the Civic Center Community Room.   Director Detweiler introduced Natural Resources Management (NRM) Specialist Michelle Clemente and deferred to her for a presentation. NRM Specialist Clemente provided a PowerPoint presentation addressing division goals, tide pool exploration field trips, education programs, the Orange County Natural History lecture series, Community Day at the Back Bay Science Center, outreach efforts, service programs, monitoring programs, and launch of the new IOSpod. Additionally, she addressed total contacts made by the division per year, and introduced her staff and commented on volunteers, interns and partners. Brief discussion followed regarding the location of the western snowy plover habitat and the ISOpod traveling show. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened the public discussion; seeing none the public discussion was closed. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 2 5) CONSENT CALENDAR A. Minutes of the February 3, 2015 meeting. Recommendation: Waive reading of subject minutes, approve and order filed. B. Parks & Operations Division Activity Report. Recommendation: Receive/file Activity Report. C. Recreation & Seniors Services Activity Report. Recommendation: Receive/file Activity Report of past and upcoming projects and events. A minor correction was made to the Parks and Operations Division Activity Report in terms of the number of trees trimmed and planted. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened public discussion; seeing none the public discussion was closed. Motion by Commissioner Howald; seconded by Commissioner Hayes, to accept items 5A – 5C of the Consent Calendar. Motion carried unanimously, with Chair Cole and Commissioner Anderson absent. 6) CURRENT / NEW BUSINESS - Staff Report A. Special Tree Removal – Groves Bike Trail Recommendation: Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission consider the removal of one Special City Blue Gum Tree - Landmark Tree and replace with a Coast Live Oak tree on the Groves Bike Trail. Landscape Manager Dan Sereno presented a staff report and provided background information regarding the previous removal of eucalyptus trees along the Groves Bike Trail, existing conditions, and recommendations. In response to Commissioner Marston's question, Manager Sereno reported that this specific tree will not impact the root system of adjacent trees and that the root system of these types of trees is not very extensive. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened public discussion; seeing none the public discussion was closed. Commissioner Hamilton referenced previous trees that have fallen and stated that she believes when experts have evaluated trees and say there is something wrong then we need to listen. Motion by Commissioner Marston; seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, to approve the removal of one Special City Blue Gum Tree - Landmark Tree and replace Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 3 with a Coast Live Oak tree on the Groves Bike Trail. Motion carried unanimously, with Chair Cole and Commissioner Anderson absent. B. Special Tree Removal - 1924 Tradewinds Lane Recommendation: Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission consider the removal of one Special Tomlinson Ash City Tree - Neighborhood Tree at 1924 Tradewinds Lane and replace with a Raywood Ash tree at the same location. Manager Sereno presented a staff report and addressed the location of the tree, decay experienced in ash trees over the years, hardscape damage, existing termite infestation, and recommendations. He added that more of these trees will be presented to the PB&R Commission in the future and noted that eventually, he would like to reforest the entire street but slowly. The Raywood Ash tree is much better suited for the parkways in the area. Commissioner Hamilton commented on the conditions of the tree and Manager Sereno stated that because of excessive root pruning, the roots callous above ground push up the sidewalk offering sites for decay to enter. In response to Commissioner Marston's questions, Manager Sereno distributed pictures of a tree on Leeward Lane, planted in the summer of 2009. He added that its an example of the tree being recommended as replacement. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened the public discussion. Teresa Minke stated that the subject tree is located at 2121 Leeward and that the neighbors are wondering why this tree is being removed when others are not. David Harper spoke in favor of the Special Tomlinson Ash tree and noted that the City does a good job maintaining them but that they have not been sealed, which is part of the infestation problem. He stressed the importance of not overreacting and asked that the Commission take its time in assessing the trees and get a second opinion from an independent arborist. Kristi Jackson also spoke in favor of the Special Tomlinson Ash tree noting that it is one of the main reasons why she purchased her home there. She stated that she would like the City to get another opinion from an independent arborist regarding the existing trees and find whatever measure possible to save them. She added that these trees are an important element to the neighborhood and contribute to the values of homes in the neighborhood. Jim Mosher reported that the subject house has been under construction for months and wondered if that construction activity may have caused problems with the tree. He referenced a statement in the report that the street is slated for repairs and but noted that the repairs have already been made. Vice Chair Englebrecht closed the public discussion. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 4 Vice Chair Englebrecht noted that staff is recommending removal of the tree to mitigate a "potential" liability and reported that he is sensitive to the comments from residents in terms of getting a second opinion. In response to Commissioner Hayes's question, Manager Sereno reported that the major reason for removing the tree is the fungus at the base of the tree, indicating decay. He added that he cannot say, in certainty, that the tree will fail, but noted that staff is aware that these trees are not the healthiest trees and that they have been over-trimmed which leads to decay. He went on to say that sealing branches increases the potential for decay as well. Discussion ensued regarding if the same liability issues would occur in subsequent years, the possibility of having a consultant assess the trees and potential recommendations to remove other trees of that kind in the area. Commissioner Howald opined that a consultant arborist should be hired to assess the subject tree. He suggested that staff verify the location of the subject tree. Motion by Vice Chair Englebrecht; to continue the aforementioned item to the PB&R Commission's meeting in April. Commissioner Howald suggested amending the motion to add direction that an independent arborist assess the tree. Vice Chair Englebrecht accepted the amendment and restated the motion. Amended Motion by Vice Chair Englebrecht; seconded by Commissioner Howald to direct staff to have an independent arborist assess the subject tree and to table item 6B to April. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Cole and Commissioner Anderson absent. C. Special Tree Removal - 1700 Candlestick Lane Recommendation: Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission consider the removal of two Special Eucalyptus City Trees - Neighborhood Trees at 1700 Candlestick Lane. These trees will not be replaced due to the street light and driveway approach at close proximity to the current location of the trees. Manager Sereno presented a staff report and addressed the trees repeated hardscape damage over the years and recommendations. He added that staff spoke with the property owner and determined that the one of the two trees can be replaced between the street light and the driveway approach. He addressed needed repairs and noted that staff recommended removing the two existing trees and replace one tree. In reply to Commissioner Hayes's question, Landscape Manager Sereno reported that the tree will be replaced with the same species. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened the public discussion. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 5 Gordon Wanlass voiced support for the amended recommendation made by Manager Sereno. He suggested that the Commission visit Sherman Gardens to observe that the sidewalks wind around the trees and suggested that the City should look into this in the future. Vice Chair Englebrecht closed the public discussion. Motion by Commissioner Howald; seconded by Commissioner Hayes, to approve the removal of two Special Eucalyptus City Trees - Neighborhood Trees at 1700 Candlestick Lane and that one of the two trees will be replaced with a Eucalyptus tree between the street light and driveway approach. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Cole and Commissioner Anderson absent. D. Potential Dog Parks - Ad Hoc Committee Update Recommendation: The Ad Hoc Committee recommends that the PB&R Commission: Review and approve the Dog Park Ad Hoc Committee's list of potential dog parks by priority; and recommend funding be secured in the FY 2015/16 CIP budget to conduct a study of Priority #1 (West Newport Beach) Lower Sunset View Park undeveloped property as a potential dog park. Director Detweiler introduced the item and deferred to Recreation Supervisor Jonathan Harmon for a presentation. Supervisor Harmon provided a PowerPoint presentation addressing the makeup of the Dog Park Ad Hoc Committee, their tour of four potential dog park locations, ranking and prioritization of the locations, as well as the various factors influencing the ranking of locations. He reported on the noticing of the item and community outreach and presented recommendations. In reply to Commissioner Howald's inquiry, Supervisor Harmon noted it is unknown what the costs would be for a study. In terms of possible negative impacts of dog park activities to nearby residents, Director Detweiler stated that the elevation is such that the dog park would have minimal view impacts from nearby homes. It was noted that the dog park will be fenced and that staff would study whether the fencing would interfere with resident views. Dogs inside the park can be off leash and all dogs outside the park would need to be on leash. Discussion followed regarding the importance of having ample parking, safe entry, locations that are on City-owned properties and the possibility of building a pedestrian bridge. Director Detweiler reported that staff received five comments from residents of Villa Balboa and were emailed to each Commissioner; hard copies were provided. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened the public discussion. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 6 Ed Shuster spoke in opposition to a dog park at Sunset View noting that dogs will not enjoy the views and that it will create a lot of unnecessary congestion in the area. Ross Robato expressed concerns regarding safety adding that Superior and Pacific Coast Highway is a potentially dangerous intersection. He urged staff to carefully consider safety in that area. Gordon Wanless expressed concerns with the lack of parking at the Sunset View Park location. He suggested "formalizing" a Dog Beach and listed the benefits of having a dog park at the beach. Dick Laney also expressed concerns with the lack of parking at Sunset View Park. He urged the PB&R Commission to carefully consider the demand for parking in the area and consider a location that has adequate and safe parking. Douglas Campton expressed concerns with increased noise and suggested that any study include that as a consideration for a specific location. Jim Mosher commented that dog parks tend to be located in out-of-the-way places. He opined that locating one at Lower Castaways Park is not a good idea and commented positively on the idea of a beach dog park and suggested the area around the proposed West Newport Community Center as a potential location. Vice Chair Englebrecht closed the public discussion. In response to a question by Commissioner Marston, Director Detweiler explained the process following the study that would include an environmental study. In it, issues such as parking, vehicular and pedestrian traffic, views and noise would be addressed. Commissioner Marston noted that an environmental study reviews alternatives and asked why the various locations would not be studied as well. Director Detweiler noted that to do those types of studies are costly. Commissioner Marston asserted that more than one location should be studied. Director Detweiler suggested the Lower Castaways location could be studied as part of the ongoing conceptual design that is currently taking place for this location. She noted that considerable work has already been done to date. Discussion followed regarding feedback received from residents of the west side of the City regarding the need for a dog park. Vice Chair Englebrecht reported that he also is concerned about the lack of parking at that location. Director Detweiler commented on the possibility of a two-tiered parking lot. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 7 Discussion followed regarding next steps, clarification of Commission action and the need for a cost estimate for the recommended study. It was noted that Council will review the costs for funding as part of the total Capital Improvement program. Motion by Commissioner Howald; seconded by Commissioner Hayes, to approve the Dog Park Ad Hoc Committee's list of potential dog parks by priority; and recommend funding be secured in the FY 2015/16 CIP budget to conduct a study of Priority #1 (West Newport Beach) Lower Sunset View Park undeveloped property as a potential dog park. Motion carried unanimously, with Chair Cole and Commissioner Anderson absent. E. Proposed Modifications to the Civic Center Dog Park Recommendation: Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission consider the following proposed modifications to the existing Civic Center Dog Park: 1) Section for Small Dogs 2) Secure Double Gated Entry 3) Additional Water Fountain 4) Update of all Dog Park Signage Director Detweiler introduced the item and deferred to staff for a report. Supervisor Harmon provided a staff report addressing background, feedback from users as well as observations of staff and recommendations for modifications to the existing Civic Center Dog Park. He addressed noticing and community outreach and reported that staff received the following responses regarding the proposed modifications:  Facebook — 1 yes  Connect Newport (survey)— 44 yes; 12 no  Email — 2 yes; 2 no Vice Chair Englebrecht stated that the park was built too small and noted that the proposed modifications should have been considered when the original park was built. He suggested that consideration should be given to enlarging the park and expressed concerns that it is unusable adding that large and small dogs cannot be mixed. Director Detweiler addressed the layout of the location noting that the land drove the available space. She reported that the park is very successful and that staff has received good feedback from user groups. In reply to Commissioner Hamilton's inquiry, Director Detweiler explained that the terrain on the Avocado side of the park is very steep and that the easiest route to enter the park is on the MacArthur side. Commissioner Marston agreed with separate entrances for small and large dogs and suggested the possibility of having two entrances; with one on the parking lot side. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 8 Commissioner Howald commented positively on the proposed improvements. In response to his question, Director Detweiler noted that there is self-policing in the park and addressed the possibility of adding shade to the park. In response to Commissioner Hayes's question, Director Detweiler explained the rationale for the small dog area. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened the public discussion. Jim Mosher wondered what the specifications were for distinguishing a small dog from a big dog. Vice Chair Englebrecht added that size is an important concern as there is a potential for not only dog fights, but fights among dog owners. Director Detweiler reported that usually, dogs 25 pounds and under are considered small dogs and will be reflected on the signage. Vice Chair Englebrecht closed the public discussion. Motion by Commissioner Howald; seconded by Commissioner Hayes, to approve the following proposed modifications to the existing Civic Center Dog Park: Section for Small Dogs; Secure Double Gated Entry; Additional Water Fountain; and Update of all Dog Park Signage. Motion carried by the following vote: Yes: Hayes, Hamilton, Howald, Marston Noes: Englebrecht Absent: Anderson and Cole. F. 2016 Recreation & Senior Services (RSS) Department Budget Overview - Director Detweiler will provide a PowerPoint presentation on the RSS Department FY 2015/16 Budget. Recommendation: Receive & file. Director Detweiler provided a PowerPoint presentation of the 2016 RSS Department budget addressing the opening of Marina Park, growth in the Department, total budget, salaries and benefits, maintenance and operations, capital outlay, expenditures, revenues, incorporation of Natural Resources, expansion of the Park Patrol program, special event permits, after-school enrichment programs, and classes and camps. She addressed positions being requested as part of the Marina Park project, service indicators, tracking recreation attendance, facility rentals at OASIS, human services, the fitness center and fees from classes and programs. Director Detweiler provided information on recreation programs and classes and addressed maintenance of recreation facilities. She added that the Department has done a good job of balancing staff and outsourcing and provided details of Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 9 contracted services. She addressed the budget specific to Marina Park and Sunset Ridge Park, Civic Center staffing, OASIS special events, personal-trainer program and a part-time van driver at OASIS. Additionally, she listed programs and classes at Marina Park as well as staffing requirements. Discussion ensued and the Commission commented positively on the report and on the variety and number of classes and programs offered by the City. Vice Chair Englebrecht opened the public discussion. Jim Mosher commented positively on the report and on the modification of the PB&R Commission's powers and duties relative to providing a recommendation to Council regarding the budget. He suggested that the Commission recommend to Council that they seek a recommendation from the Commission regarding the budget, in the future. Vice Chair Englebrecht closed the public discussion. The report was received and ordered filed. 7) PARKS, BEACHES & RECREATION COMMISSION / STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS, AD HOC UPDATES OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION, ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM) Director Detweiler announced that the Spring Navigator will be distributed this week. She addressed the Spirit Run and Camp Newport Expo on March 15th, a Movie in the Park at Peninsula Park on March 27th, a Youth Track Meet on April 17th, a Field of Honor from May 15th through May 17th, Lawn Bowling Open House on May 9th, the Mayor's Spring Egg Roll on March 28th, and reported that the Department is currently hiring Swim Pool trainees with applications due May 11th. Vice Chair Englebrecht acknowledged the attendance of City Manager Dave Kiff to the meeting. Director Detweiler reported that a status update on Ad Hoc Committees will be presented to the Commission at a future meeting. 8) PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Mark Arblaster, President of the Newport Mesa Soccer Club, provided information regarding the club and presented a check in payment of their field rents for the rest of the year in the amount of $17,000. He commented on the lack of lit fields, reported that the club has to rent its lights and commented on their costs to maintain the fields. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes March 3, 2015 Page 10 Jim Mosher commented on the Ad Hoc Dog Park Committee and suggested consulting with the City Attorney's office regarding the voting protocol for the committee. Commissioners Howald and Hayes commented on the voting process and noted that staff members on the committee did not vote. Commissioner Hayes announced the upcoming Life Guard try-outs on March 8th at 9am at Lifeguard Headquarters. Additionally, he announced the dedication of the Lifeguard Headquarters at noon, in honor of fallen Lifeguard Ben Carlson. 9) ADJOURNMENT – 8:15 PM Submitted by: ________ Teri Craig, Admin Assistant Approved by: _____ Roy Englebrecht, Vice Chair Teri Craig Roy Englebrecht