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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-05-2016 PBR Minutes CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Regular Meeting July 5, 2016 – 6:00 PM I. CALL MEETING OF THE PARKS, BEACHES & RECREATION COMMISSION TO ORDER – 6:01 PM II. ROLL CALL Present: Walt Howald, Chair Ron Cole Roy Englebrecht Dave Granoff Laird Hayes Excused: Tom Anderson Marie Marston, Vice Chair Staff: Laura Detweiler, Recreation & Senior Services Director Mike Pisani, Municipal Operations Director Brenda Wisneski, Deputy Community Development Director Dan Sereno, Landscape Manager Mike Sinacori, Public Works Assistant Engineer Teri Craig, Administrative Support Specialist Marie Lindeman, Administrative Support Specialist III. ELECTIONS Secretary Teri Craig opened the nominations for the FY 2016/17 PB&R Chair. Commissioner Cole nominated Vice Chair Marie Marston. Motion by Chair Howald; second by Commissioner Cole to close nominations for PB&R Chair. Secretary Craig asked Commissioners to raise their hands if they are in favor of electing Commissioner Marston to serve as the new FY 2016/17 PB&R Chair. Vote was unanimous with Commissioners Anderson and Marston absent. Secretary Craig announced that Commissioner Marston will serve as the new FY 2016/17 PB&R Chair Secretary Teri Craig opened the nominations for the FY 2016/17 PB&R Vice Chair. Commissioner Howald nominated Commissioner Laird Hayes. Item VI-A August 2, 2016 Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 2 Motion by Commissioner Howald; second by Commissioner Cole to close nominations for PB&R Vice Chair. Secretary Craig asked Commissioners to raise their hands if they are in favor of electing Commissioner Hayes to serve as the new FY 2016/17 PB&R Vice Chair. Vote was unanimous with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. Secretary Craig congratulated Commissioner Hayes on his election as the new FY 2016/17 PB&R Vice Chair. Vice Chair Hayes took over the meeting from Commissioner Howald. Vice Chair Hayes congratulated new Commissioner Dr. David Granoff who provided a brief background. IV. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC V. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CONSENT CALENDAR Jim Mosher voiced concern about Parks & Trees Activity, Item VI. B. and the private improvement of the public parking lot at the West Newport Park and requested clarification of whether this was a City project or if it came from the private developer. VI. CONSENT CALENDAR A. Minutes of the June 6, 2016 PB&R Commission meeting. Waive reading of subject minutes, approve and order filed. B. Parks, Trees, and Beaches Maintenance Divisions Activities Report Receive/file Activity Report of past and upcoming projects and events. C. Recreation & Senior Services Activity Report Receive/file Activity Report of past and upcoming projects and events. D. Tree Donation Request - Castaways Park Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission approve the tree donation for Brock McCann at Castaways Park. Motion by Commissioner Englebrecht; second by Commissioner Cole, to approve Consent Calendar items VI-A through VI-D. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. VII. CURRENT BUSINESS A. Bench Donation - Lido Park Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission consider the bench donation request for Brad Honda at Lido Park. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 3 Manager Sereno presented a bench donation for Lido Park and noted it met Council Policy B-17. The public was noticed and Manager Sereno indicated he was available for comments and questions. Discussion ensued regarding concrete benches versus other options. Commissioner Englebrecht stated that he was not in favor of cement benches noting their discomfort. The point was made that concrete is more durable, and that all the benches in Lido Park are concrete. Director Pisani explained that applicant is given a choice when a bench will be independent, but in this case there are already two concrete benches in place. Director Detweiler noted that the benches and tables in Marina Park and Sunset Ridge Park are also concrete. Commissioner Englebrecht noted his disagreement that the benches have to match. Commissioner Howald requested that staff provide the Commission with information on the cost difference between bench options and an inventory of the current benches at a future meeting. Vice Chair Hayes opened the public discussion Chad Hazlett spoke in support of the bench and its location. He indicated that the concrete material did not trouble him as he sits on the existing concrete benches often. He noted that Brad had frequented the area and this was the reason for its selection. Vice Chair Hayes closed the public discussion Motion by Commissioner Cole; second by Commissioner Howald to approve the bench donation request for Brad Honda at Lido Park. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. B. Reforestation Request – 1701 Tradewinds Lane Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission consider the reforestation request of a City Tristania conferta / Tristania (Brisbane Box) tree located at 1707 Tradewinds Lane. Manager Sereno introduced the request for reforestation at 1707 Tradewinds Lane and summarized the staff report. There was discussion regarding the replacement tree and size and noted that the applicant bears the replacement cost. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 4 Vice Chair Hayes opened the public discussion Jim Mosher commented that Tradewinds had a hodgepodge of trees per the City’s policy. He questioned if the current tree was part of the City’s reforestation effort and if the public needed to be notified. Further he noted his concern about setting a precedent for removal of this type of tree. Chris Casler indicated he has lived at 1707 for about 15 years and that the tree is was approximately 25 feet tall when he moved in and is now about 50 feet tall. Mr. Casler stated the tree is messy and that it was his understanding that it could be removed and another tree planted elsewhere, but if that was not the case he was still interested in replacing the tree with one that is less messy. Vice Chair Hayes closed the public discussion Discussion followed regarding having a replacement tree selected prior to approval. It was also confirmed that the homeowner understood that the new tree would be planted in the same location as the old tree, but was suggested to get clarification on placement. Motion by Commissioner Howald; second by Commissioner Cole to table item until staff has met with the homeowner to discuss the specific tree type that will be planted. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. C. Back Bay View Park – Enhancements That the PB&R Commission provide feedback and approval of the proposed park enhancements at Back Bay View Park. Engineer Sinacori provided details of the staff report addressing background, the original vision for the park, and the next steps for the park. Any significant changes to the park would require an Amendment to the Coastal Development Permit which was issued prior to the original construction of the park. Prior to this action the PB&R Commission and City Council are being consulted. The public has already made comments. Consultant Monica Simpson from Asakura Robinson Landscape Architecture firm provided a PowerPoint presentation and commented on the previous additions to the park. The proposal includes added amenities that are still passive, but may attract more users to the park. Examples of new amenities were provided and explained. Engineer Sinacori explained that for budgetary reasons the low concrete bench would be retained but a new shade structure is proposed to be erected over it. There was discussion that the park was very difficult to get to with no onsite parking. It was questioned as to why a shade structure was not proposed over the picnic table area. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 5 In response to the questions and suggestions the Engineer Sinacori explained; that due to existing traffic along Coast Highway and Jamboree Road a turning movement into the park would not be possible. There is parking on Back Bay Drive and was noted that people visit the park by foot or bike, and that many bicyclists ride down Pacific Coast Highway. The proposed amenities are intended to draw more bicyclists and walkers into the park. He went on to say that the Coastal Commission would not allow the shade structure over the picnic areas in order to protect the view and that it’s a non- starter with Villa Point residents. Consultant Simpson showed the proposed shade structure and the area where the picnic tables are located. Anything higher than the picnic tables would block public views from Jamboree and Coast Highway. Engineer Sinacori explained they might go to Council prior to going to the Coastal Commission, He stated that he would recommend that the project stay under the current approved budget. Vice Chair Hayes opened the public discussion Jim Mosher commented that this is an accessible park by bicycle, but that many bicyclists were unaware of it and suggested that the fix it station might be little known. Consultant Simpson explained there was an air pump and tools available in the fix it station and believes it would be utilized. Engineer Sinacori stated they would inform the bicycle clubs of the fix it station. In the Bicycle Master Plan the idea of a bike node was discussed and the park was close to where they wanted one. Mr. Mosher suggested a simulation of the shade trellis would be helpful and that the Coastal Commission would probably like to see that as well. Vice Chair Hayes closed the public discussion Commissioner Englebrecht praised the park as a nice place to walk with great views. He wanted more amenities so more people would appreciate the park. Director Detweiler stated that staff would inform the City Council that the PB&R Commission felt shade at the park was extremely important. Motion by Commissioner Howald; second by Commissioner Granoff to move forward with the proposed enhancements at Back Bay View Park and to include feedback discussed tonight from the Commission. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 6 D. West Newport Mesa Streetscape Master Plan Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission review and comment on the draft West Newport Mesa Streetscape Master Plan. Deputy Director Wisneski provided a report and explained that City Council had directed staff to develop a plan in response to the need to create a more cohesive streetscape realm in the area. The Master Plan will help with future development and plans. There have been three public workshops and initial review by the Planning Commission. The PB&R is requested to provide input on the plan. Brian Hannegan of RRM Design Group provided an overview of the project area including its parameters. The goal is to unify the theme of the street and utilize Complete Streets principles. Pedestrian and bike facilities will be improved and traffic calming and sustainable measures utilized. Public workshops were held and site amenities chosen. Mr. Hannegan reviewed current conditions and provided examples of proposed improvements. He also advised the Commission of the schedule for the project. Discussion ensued regarding the project details. The possibility of underground utilities was questioned and was explained that due to the huge undertaking there are no immediate plans for it. The cost of the project was estimated at $1.5 to $2 million per block. Funding for the improvements was discussed and it was explained that the Master Plan will identify potential phasing and priority streets, but the City Council will move forward with any projects as it sees fit. Vice Chair Hayes opened the public discussion Jim Mosher suggested that the PB&R Commission discuss the benches and if they are friendly to the homeless. He was concerned about an area in the plan where the sidewalk felt like it was meandering. Mr. Mosher voiced concern over the extensive plantings and the cost maintenance. He noted that PB&R is the only Commission promoting bicycling as the City bike committee no longer exists. Staff confirmed that there is a Bicycle Master Plan. Vice Chair Hayes closed the public discussion Vice Chair Hayes stated that this item was information only and no vote is necessary. E. Uphold Staff’s Decision to Remove Two Palm Trees – 229 Carnation Avenue Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission uphold the Municipal Operations Director (MOD) decision to remove two Washingtonia robusta (Mexican fan palm) trees at 239 Carnation Avenue, Corona del Mar. Director Pisani presented the report and stated that they were advised by Public Works to remove two Palm trees at 239 Carnation. Public Works received the Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 7 request in order for development to occur and the palm trees are defined as standard trees in the G-1 Policy. The Coastal Commission approved the project in January and meets all zoning code development standards. Removed trees must be replaced on a 1:1 basis. Staff determined that the trees could not be preserved given their location. The Palisades Condominium Association appealed the decision. Other trees have been removed from the property, but were not City trees. Homeowner will be required to plant two 48 inch box trees to be planted elsewhere to replace the palms. Discussion ensued whether the trees met the criteria for removal and if the removal of the palms was in opposition to the G-1 policy. Director Pisani confirmed that the Coastal Commission approved the development and that the City required a three car garage, which is impossible to do with the current palm trees. Discussion ensued regarding if alternatives could be made to build around the trees. Commissioner Englebrecht commented that the Commission is not against the building of the home, but that they needed to follow policy. He suggested the issue be tabled so staff could confirm that it meets Policy G-3 and work further with the homeowner. Director Pisani stated again that it does meet Section 8 of the Policy G-1 and that Council could waive their policy. Vice Chair Hayes opened the public discussion Jim Damon stated that he had written the letter, lives in Corona del Mar and represents Palisades Condominium Homeowners Association. He stated that he believes that the Council G-1 policy was fairly represented by the PB&R and that palm trees are iconic in Newport Beach. He stated that the City Arborist should look at the issue under G1. He went on to say that the trees could be relocated on the property. Mr. Damon introduced then John Mote of Senna Tree Company who moved 38 fully grown palm trees to Marina Park for the City. Mr. Damon further argued that City Council Policy G-3 does not apply in this case. Vice Chair Hayes noted the difference of opinion surrounding the Policy G-3 and requested clarification from Director Pisani. Director Pisani explained that they could not plant any new trees on the street. He was not certain if the trees could be replanted on the same site as they might impede the neighbor’s views. He went on to say that staff received a call from Colleen Jeffreys at 216 Carnation who supports the removal of the trees for safety reasons. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 8 Mr. Mote of Senna Tree Company and certified arborist, stated that he had moved 38 palm trees at Marina Park with a 100% success rate. He believed these two trees could be moved with a 98 to 100% success rate. The approximate cost to move both trees on site is estimated at $10,000. If the trees were moved up the street they would require a semi-truck. Dr. Ron Wallner, Board Member of Palisades Condominium Homeowners Association and professor of finance, spoke of the price of goodwill. He noted that the trees are valued by the neighborhood. He said that he spoke to the homeowner, Steve, who is willing to have the trees relocated on his property. If they have to be removed they would be ok with splitting them or staggering them. Victoria Wallner stated that she is 16 and attends Orange County School of the Arts and has an environmental concern about the trees and that value of the trees is their contribution to the beautiful view in the neighborhood. Jim Mosher requested clarification on whether the Coastal Commission was the party that required the three car garage. The report indicates the three car garage is required under City zoning. The City is creating a code for compliance with the Coastal Act which would be separate from the zoning code and would evaluate if something was compliant with the Coastal Act. Mr. Mosher agreed with Commissioner Englebrecht that there must be a way to work around the trees. He noted the Coastal Commission only cares about maintaining native trees and view non-native trees as a local issue. Commissioner Howald confirmed the three car garage was required because the size of the home is 4000 square feet. Tim Stevens stated that he has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years and sees the trees from his home and does not believe that they impede his view; the trees are iconic and enhance the view. He stated that moving the trees on the property would be preferable than their removal. Vice Chair Hayes closed the public discussion Commissioner Englebrecht said the PB&R could be overruled by the City Council, but felt this was a bad recommendation and spoke passionately against it. Vice Chair Hayes asked staff to return with more information regarding setback issues. Staff replied they would look at the palms in light of Policy G-3. Motion by Commissioner Englebrecht; second by Commissioner Cole to table the decision to remove two Washingtonia robusta (Mexican fan palm) trees at 239 Carnation Avenue, Corona del Mar and to return with additional information. Motion carried unanimously with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 9 F. FY 216/17 Ad Hoc Committee / Liaison Appointments Staff recommends that the PB&R Commission discuss, reaffirm, appoint the FY 2016/17 Ad Hoc Committee / Liaison Appointments. Director Detweiler reviewed the Committee / Liaison Appointments. There is a vacancy on the Community Services Award. Staff recommended the PB&R reaffirm the committees and discuss appointments. Commissioner Howald inquired as to the Westside Dog Park Committee. Director Detweiler confirmed the committee was dissolved. If necessary they could create an ad hoc committee at a later time, but no funding is available in the next fiscal year for the development of the site. Public Works has applied for a grant for the pedestrian bridge at Sunset Ridge/View Parks and staff will continue to monitor the progression. Vice Chair Hayes reviewed the list with the Commission. Commissioner Granoff was nominated and confirmed for the Community Service Award. Commissioner Howald replaced Vice Chair Hayes on the Youth Sports Commission. Motion by Commissioner Englebrecht; second by Commissioner Cole to reaffirm or appoint the following to the FY 2016/17 Ad Hoc Committee. Community Service Award Ron Cole Roy Englebrecht David Granoff West Newport Community Center Tom Anderson Laird Hayes Marie Marston Liaison Assignments Youth Sports Commission Member Organization Tom Anderson Roy Englebrecht Walt Howald Motion carried unanimously with Chair Marston and Commissioner Anderson absent. Vice Chair Hayes opened the public discussion Jim Mosher gave the definition of an ad hoc and wondered if the Community Service Award fits the definition under the Brown Act. He questioned if the other committees were actually standing committees. Vice Chair Hayes closed the public discussion Director Detweiler indicated the committees had not sunset per se, but that staff liked to review them with the PB&R annually. When the committees reach their intended purpose they will sunset. VIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Minutes July 5, 2016 Page 10 Laird Hayes Teri Craig Director Detweiler reported on a safe, fun, and well attended 4th of July celebration. She noted that July is Parks and Recreation Month and the theme is “Superheroes, We Change Lives.” Director Detweiler said staff is looking into expanding programing at the 16th Street Recreation Center and mentioned the ongoing improvements. Director Pisani announced the dedication of the Ben Carlson Memorial Statute at the Newport Pier Plaza. Vice Chair Hayes marched in the Mariners Parade and encouraged others to try it in the future. Commissioner Howald requested an update on Poppy Street status. Director Pisani said plans for Poppy are progressing and are mostly on schedule; and that Public Works will present at a future meeting. IX. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS - None X. ADJOURNMENT - 8:35 p.m. Submitted by: ________ Teri Craig, Admin Assistant Approved by: _____ Laird Hayes, Vice Chair