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HomeMy WebLinkAboutIvc_Phase One Outreach SummaryAttachment No. 4 Phase One Outreach Summary Outreach and Engagement Updates Phase One Outreach Summary •Overview of the Process •Paid Advertisements and Social Media Reach •Digital Engagement – Newport, Together Website •Pop-Up Events & Key Themes •Mayor’s Egg Race •Newport Beach and Corona del Mar Farmer’s Market •Environmental Nature Center •Central Library •Battle in the Bay – Marina Park •Collaboration with the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) Key Themes •Maintain and enhance the character and charm of Newport Beach. •Maintain and invest in beach and harbor maintenance. • Improve docking space and reevaluate docking fees. •Support and invest in bringing in more local, small businesses, especially along the Pacific Coast Highway. •Limit the development of high-density buildings and maintain the village-like feel. •Love the city programs; increase city programs, especially for families with children. • Improve the local parks and create more dog parks. •Invest in more community amenities such as community pools and pickleball courts. •Improve parking accessibility along the beach. •Make Newport Beach more accessible and walkable. Website Engagement As of July 23rd, website engagement has a total of 6,316 unique views As of July 23rd, the contributions for digital engagement are: •99 contributors to the Questionnaire •169 contributors to the interactive map PHASE ONE OUTREACH SUMMARY City of Newport Beach General Plan Update Prepared by Kearns & West, in consultation with Dudek JULY 2024 Table of Contents Executive Summary Getting the Word Out Digital Engagement Pop-Up Outreach Collaboration with the General Plan Advisory Committee 01 04 04 10 24 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 SECTION 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Newport Beach (City) has embarked on a comprehensive General Plan Update process. The success of the General Plan Update relies on the involvement of community members, residents, property owners, and other stakeholders in shaping and forming the vision, goals, and policies of the General Plan. The City is committed to conducting a transparent, inclusive, and meaningful planning process that values your input. This document summarizes phase one outreach conducted for the Newport Beach General Plan Update. Phase one of outreach, March 15 to June 12, 2024, focused on Background Analysis and Visioning (see Figure 1). Specific sections of the summary include: »This Executive Summary, including an overview of a General Plan, outreach types, engagement reach, and key themes »Getting the Word Out, including paid advertisement, social media, and notification types »Digital Engagement through Newport, Together website, including visitors and online survey contributors »Pop-Up Outreach, including a schedule, locations, and key themes »Collaboration with the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC), including subcommittee reports About the General Plan Update A General Plan is a long-term document that guides future development and is the foundation for decision-making for a community’s physical development. State law requires the General Plan, which local governments use to make decisions about land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and parks, among other issues (see Appendix A). While planning horizons vary, the General Plan typically sets the direction for the next 20-30 years. A General Plan contains goals that set values and direction, policies that guide decision-making, and programs to carry out the actions needed to NEWPORT, TOGETHER.2 Outreach Types and Engagement Reach Phase one outreach was designed to be varied in depth, impact, and reach to allow community members to participate in the planning process in ways that suit their interest level and availability. Outreach types for phase one included: »Collaborating with the GPAC and GPAC subcommittees »Digital engagement through the Newport, Together Website »Pop-up outreach events in the Newport Beach community Through pop-up events and digital engagement, 5,987 community members were engaged. In addition, 45,158 residents were reached with notifications and paid advertisements. Project team and City staff setting up for an event at Marina Park for a local High School water polo tournament. 3EXECUTIVE SUMMARY BACKGROUND ANALYSIS + VISIONING WEBPAGE, DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT, SOCIAL MEDIA, NEWSLETTERS Community Engagement and Outreach Plan Research and Data Analysis Online Survey GPAC + GPUSC Meetings Pop-up Events Mailers Youth Engagement Paid Advertisements Development of General Plan Online Survey GPAC + GPUSC Meetings Pop-up Events Mailers Environmental Analysis Virtual Open House In-Person Open House Adoption Hearings POLICY DEVELOPMENT + GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT Summer 2023 - Spring 2024 Spring 2024 - Spring 2025 Spring 2025 Summer 2025 CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)HEARINGS 1 32 4 P H ASE P H ASE P H ASE P H ASE ENGAGEMENT METHODS + ACTIVITIES FIGURE 1. PHASES OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH WE’RE HERE Overall Key Themes Throughout phase one outreach, key themes were identified based on community feedback at pop-up events and digital engagement. Key themes are listed below. See Sections 3 (Digital Engagement), 4 (Pop- up Outreach), and 5 (Collaboration with GPAC) for details on additional input received. »Maintain and enhance the character and charm of Newport Beach. »Maintain and invest in beach and harbor maintenance. »Improve docking space and reevaluate docking fees. »Support and invest in bringing in more local, small businesses, especially along the Pacific Coast Highway. »Limit the development of high-density buildings and maintain the village-like feel. »Love the City programs; increase City programs, especially for families with children. »Improve the local parks and create more dog parks. »Invest in more community amenities, such as a community pool and pickleball courts. »Improve parking accessibility along the beach. »Make Newport Beach more accessible and walkable. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.4 GETTING THE WORD OUT TABLE 1. PAID ADVERTISEMENTS TABLE 2. SOCIAL MEDIA SECTION 2 GETTING THE WORD OUT During Phase One of outreach, various notification methods were used to reach the Newport Beach audience. Advertisements in local newspapers and collaborative efforts with the City’s marketing team were used to announce pop-up events strategically, share information about the General Plan Update, and publicize opportunities to get involved for residents, business owners, and community members. As shown in Tables 1 and 2, as of June 12, advertisements, social media, and notifications have reached 45,158 residents, community members, and stakeholders. DIGITAL NEWSPAPER RUN TIME REACHED Stu News March 29 to April 29 22,950 Daily Pilot March 29 to April 29 11,886 PRINT NEWSPAPER PUBLISHED REACHED Daily Pilot March 31 33,000 TYPE NUMBER OF POSTS DATES REACHED Instagram 4 March 22, April 4, April 10, April 17 4,910 Facebook 4 March 22, April 4, April 10, April 17 1,374 Notifications have reached 45,158 residents, community members, and stakeholders. Other Notification Methods »City Manager’s Friday Newsletters on March 15 and May 17 reached 4,083 residents. »A circulating graphic on the City of Newport Beach website homepage directed 217 visitors to the Newport, Together website. 5DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT SECTION 3 DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT - NEWPORT, TOGETHER WEBSITE A dedicated website was launched to inform the community about the General Plan Update process and offer ongoing ways to get engaged. The website was designed in collaboration with City staff and the GPAC outreach subcommittee. Newport, Together was announced to the community on March 15, 2024, via the City Manager’s Friday Newsletter. As of June 12, the website has had 5,527 visitors. A comprehensive list of the website sections and resources can be found in Appendix B. We Want to Hear From You! As part of the Newport, Together website, an online questionnaire and interactive map were launched on March 15, 2024, to capture what is essential to community members. The questionnaire and map were designed as additional tools to define Newport’s vision for the future collaboratively. The following section presents a summary of key themes and responses as of June 12, 2024. Community member scanning website QR at pop-up event to learn more and provide input via the online questionnaire NEWPORT, TOGETHER.6 Online Questionnaire The questionnaire has three open-ended questions about participants’ picture of the next 20 years in Newport Beach, what they would like to see added, and three things they love about living, working, or recreating in the city. As of June 12, the questionnaire had received 72 responses. »When you picture Newport Beach in the next 20 years, what are three words you would use to describe it? Top Five Words: Clean, Beautiful, Sustainable, Safe, Vibrant. Participants described their picture of Newport Beach in three words (See Figure 2). FIGURE 2. WORD CLOUD VISUALIZATION OF PARTICIPANT RESPONSES. 7DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT »What would you like to see in Newport Beach that isn’t here today? Participants shared their thoughts and ideas for additions to their community. The following are the primary themes: • Electrification and Sustainability: Install electric vehicle (EV) chargers, move towards electrification of houses and buildings, limit single-use plastics, and educate the community on local products. • Public Transportation: Increase frequency and stops of current transportation; add transportation routes to connect all parts of the city, including the peninsula and airport; limit beach parking to encourage transportation. • Open Spaces, Parks, and Recreation: Clean up the north end of Back Bay; create more recreation and sports facilities, such as pickleball courts and running tracks; and create family—and community-oriented spaces for all to enjoy. • Bike and Pedestrian Safety: Add protected and dedicated bike lands; limit e-bikes; connect southern beaches. • Reduce Noise: Decrease noise on high-traffic roads; monitor noise from the airport. • Restaurants and Entertainment: Add beachfront entertainment, high-quality restaurants, and more outdoor dining. • Other: Create opportunities to reduce homelessness, such as shelters; add dog beaches; foster transparent communication between the City and community; maintain Newport Beach. »What are three things you love about living, working, or recreating in Newport Beach? Top Five Responses: Beach, Harbor & Bay; Cleanliness; Nature & Parks; Residents; Restaurants (see Figure 3). FIGURE 3. WORD CLOUD VISUALIZATION OF PARTICIPANT RESPONSES. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.8 FIGURE 4. INTERACTIVE MAP WITH PARTICIPANT MARKERS. Newport Beach Community Vision Map Below the website's online questionnaire is an interactive map asking contributors to leave markers and comments across a city map (see Figure 4). Marker options include Places/Things I Love, To Improve, Opportunity Area, and General Comment. As of June 12, the interactive map had received 120 contributions (see Figure 5). Places/Things I Love 53.3% To Improve23.3% Opportunity Area 15% General Comment 8.3% FIGURE 5. INTERACTIVE MAP RESPONSES PLACES/THINGS I LOVE »Parks, Recreation, and Nature: Upper Newport Bay Regional Park, nature trails and parks, Beachfront and Irvine Terrace Park playgrounds, Back Bay Trails »Beaches and Community Resources: There are accessible beaches, a public library, Bayside Beach, and a ferry between Balboa Island and Newport Peninsula. »Villages and Neighborhoods: Lido Village, Balboa Island, Spider Island »Arts and Culture: Newport Theater, Sherman Library and Gardens »Other: Legacy restaurants near the beach and bay, a feeling of community, the John Wayne (SNA) Airport 9DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT TO IMPROVE »Airport: Protect residential areas and do not expand the airport; limit noise. »Beaches: Preserve beaches and reduce erosion. »Bicycle Safety and Access: Improve bike lanes; convert MacArthur Sidewalk into a bike path; add protected bike lanes, especially around right turn lanes and along PCH. »Pedestrian Safety: Add flashing crosswalks and refuge islands; implement red curbs or bulb-outs near crosswalks to reduce parking and blind spots; prioritize walkability. »Parking and Traffic: Reduce peninsula congestion; slow traffic on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) between Jamboree and Irvine Terrace; paint curbs red where no parking is allowed; clearer parking signage; encourage rideshares and public transport to the beaches. »Redevelopment – Park and Nature: Convert empty lots into open public spaces or parks; add and improve playgrounds; maintain walking paths and viewpoints; consider locations for a community pool »Roadways: Reduce noise and traffic density on Balboa Blvd; clear signage on right turns; improve Pacific Coast Highway as through road. »Sidewalks: Add lighting along sidewalks (Ocean Blvd and Cameo Highlands); repair uneven paths; create wide sidewalks; add new sidewalks near Crystal Cove Shopping Center. »Other: Add bus/trolley loop along Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Coast, and Mariner’s Mile; keep small, local businesses and reduce chain stores. OPPORTUNITY AREA »Multi-Use Spaces: Develop spaces that include housing, shopping, and office space; limit heights of new buildings; redevelop parking lots near the beach to prioritize shops and restaurants. »Housing: Include affordable workforce housing; new development should align with area plans. »Parks, Nature, and Recreation: Open a public running track; consider multiple uses for parking lots after hours, such as a roller rink; expand the Arroyo Park playground. »Traffic and Density: Add shuttles and buses to transportation system, such as a stop at the Sunset Ridge Parking area; slow traffic on Pacific Coast Highway and add space for pedestrians and cyclists. »Other: Maintain the character of Newport Beach. GENERAL COMMENT »Noise: Control and limit flight times from the airport; slow traffic to reduce noise in residential areas. »Bicycle Safety: Clearer signage around Newport Beach, specifically near Crystal Cove and Poppy. »Pedestrian Safety: Consider researching cost-effective alternatives to the ‘West Coast Highway Improvements and Pedestrian Bridge’ project; prioritize slowing traffic to create a safer environment for pedestrian crossings. »Traffic: Pacific Coast Highway is high- density; please do not increase the number of lanes; transition Balboa Blvd to fewer lanes and implement calming measures on the amount of through traffic NEWPORT, TOGETHER.10 SECTION 4 POP-UP OUTREACH In collaboration with the GPAC and City staff, six (6) community events were identified for pop-up engagement to hear from a diverse range of Newport Beach residents and community members. Pop-up events are designed to meet the community where and collect feedback from the community in locations they typically visit instead of gathering community members in a designated place. As Phase One focused on Background Analysis and Visioning, the activities for each pop-up event emphasized hearing what residents and community members love about their city, what they would ask to stay the same or change, and what they would add to the city’s future. The pop-up schedule is presented in Table 3. The following section provides an overview of each activity and available materials, the number of community members engaged, and key themes heard. Additional input can be found in Appendix C. TABLE 3. POP-UP EVENT SCHEDULE EVENT AND LOCATION DATE AND TIME Mayor’s Egg Race Civic Center Park: 100 Civic Center Dr, Newport Beach Saturday, March 23 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Newport Beach Farmers’ Market 104 McFadden Pl, Newport Beach Sunday, March 31 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Environmental Nature Center – Native Plant Sale 1601 E. 16th Street, Newport Beach Saturday, April 13 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Corona del Mar Farmers’ Market 3201 CA-1, Corona del Mar Saturday, April 20 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Central Library Pop-Up 1000 Avocado Ave, Newport Beach Monday, April 22 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Battle in the Bay – Water Polo Games 1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach Wednesday, May 22 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY 11 NEWPORT, TOGETHER.12 EVENT ONE | MARCH 23, 2024 MAYOR’S EGG RACE ADULTS CHILDREN 140 100+ 25% Engagement Activity Families engaged in a rock painting activity where children painted on rocks with chalk markers while their parents were engaged by staff. Participants were asked questions like “What is your favorite thing about Newport Beach/your neighborhood?” or “What do you like to see in your neighborhood?” Staff provided a few options of things community members like to do or places they like to go to help stimulate responses. Photos were taken of the painted rocks to keep track of the images and responses. Number of people engaged Number of People that had heard about the GPU Update Newport Beach kids painted egg-shaped rocks & shared what they loved to do with their families. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? 13POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY MAYOR’S EGG RACE EVENT THEMES Below are some key themes that emerged from the feedback that participants shared. • Maintaining the character of Newport Beach • Continue to offer city Programs for Children. • Park Improvements, such as adding more shaded areas. • Create opportunities for community involvement for all ages. • Increase restaurant and food options. • Create more parking. • Participants shared that they liked the City’s social media presence and communication. Newport Beach families shared thoughts on what they liked or would change in the city. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.14 EVENT TWO | MARCH 31, 2024 NEWPORT BEACH FARMERS’ MARKET PEOPLE*50 Engagement Activity Participants engaged in a comment process by putting ideas in up to four (4) jars. Each jar was decorated with a sail and labeled according to category: recreation, harbor & bay, arts & culture, and other. Participants were given a small sail to write on to provide their input. Participants answered the question, “As Newport Beach sails into the future, what would you envision?” and placed their answers in each respective boat. Participants were invited to add thoughts and feedback to as many jars as they wanted. Below are the themes gathered from conversations with participants and written responses. Number of people engaged Newport Beach sails into the future activity set up. *Heavy rain impacted the overall attendance at the Farmers’ Market thus affecting participant engagement. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? 15POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY NEWPORT BEACH FARMER’S MARKET EVENT THEMES Below are some key themes that emerged from the feedback that participants shared. • Maintaining the character of Newport Beach. • Beach Improvements, including keeping it clean and offering accessible parking • Ensure safety is a key priority • Invest in the harbor and bay, including, more small businesses near the beach, fewer short-term rentals, and more job opportunities • A few participants expressed a desire for more public transit. Project team member chatting with Newport Beach residents on hopes and visions for the future of the city. COMMUNITY MEMBERS Participants included residents, specifically with young families, and those who frequently visit the Environmental Nature Center for its various programs. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.16 EVENT THREE | APRIL 13, 2024 ENVIRONMENTAL NATURE CENTER NATIVE PLANT SALE 55+ Engagement Activity Participants were able to plant a seed in a small pot. The seeds represented different areas for the City to focus on in the future as it relates to natural resources. Once a seed was selected and planted, participants could take Polaroids with the pots. Staff encouraged participants to take photos of their plants as they grow and tag “NewportTogether” on social media. Number of people engaged Community members shared ideas and thoughts on what they wanted to see in the future of Newport Beach, especially around natural resources. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? 17POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY NEWPORT BEACH FARMER’S MARKET EVENT THEMES Below are some key themes that emerged from the feedback that participants shared. • Create mini-nature reserves in unused lots or center medians. • Create natural playgrounds for kids and families. • Ensure clean water for future generations. • Continue coastal conservation efforts for future generations. • Participants shared their appreciation for the Environmental Nature Center and often visit with their kids. • Creating open spaces and parks near restaurants for families. • Improving parks and bike paths. • Making family programming/City resources more known. Wall of polaroid images depicting each planted seed and idea for the future of the city. Families planted a seed for the future of Newport Beach and share an idea. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? NEWPORT, TOGETHER.18 EVENT FOUR | APRIL 20, 2024 CORONA DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET COMMUNITY MEMBERS 70+ Engagement Activity Participants engaged in a comment process by putting ideas in up to four (4) jars. Each jar was decorated with a sail and labeled according to category: recreation, harbor & bay, arts & culture, and other. Participants were given a small sail to write on to provide their input. Participants answered the question, “As Newport Beach sails into the future what would you envision?” and placed their answers in each respective boat. Participants were invited to add thoughts and feedback to as many jars as they wanted. Below are the themes gathered from conversations with participants and written responses. Number of people engaged Farmers market attendees providing comments and thoughts on the future of Newport Beach with the project team. The majority of community members were local Corona del Mar residents, while the rest were frequent visitors to the Newport Beach area. About a quarter of residential participants had heard about the General Plan Update prior to the pop-up event at the Farmers’ Market. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? 19POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY CORONA DEL MAR FARMER’S MARKET EVENT THEMES Below are some key themes that emerged from the feedback that participants shared. • Keep the bay accessible for all residents. • Consider parking strategies to encourage shopping along the corridor while protecting the residential neighborhoods, including paid parking, metered parking. • Support for Local Small Businesses • Maintain Corona del Mar’s small-town feeling. • Maintain and clean up the beaches. • Increase safety for bikers and drivers. • Make Newport Beach more pedestrian-friendly. • Limit development of high-density buildings. • Appreciation for City Programs. Project team explaining the General Plan Update process and inviting community members to leave a comment. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? NEWPORT, TOGETHER.20 EVENT FIVE | APRIL 22, 2024 NEWPORT BEACH CENTRAL LIBRARY COMMUNITY MEMBERS 35 Engagement Activity Participants engaged in a comment process by putting ideas in up to four (4) jars. Each jar was decorated with a sail and labeled according to category: recreation, harbor & bay, arts & culture, and other. Participants were given a small sail to write on to provide their input. Participants answered the question, “As Newport Beach sails into the future what would you envision?” and placed their answers in each respective boat. Participants were invited to add thoughts and feedback to as many jars as they wanted. Below are the themes gathered from conversations with participants and written responses. Number of people engaged Pop-up table outside the library entrance, near the future lecture hall, talking with residents on their thoughts for the future of Newport Beach. Those who engaged with the pop-up consisted primarily of Newport Beach residents as well as with residents from surrounding cities such as Irvine who expressed appreciation for the Central Library. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? 21POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY NEWPORT BEACH CENTRAL LIBRARY EVENT THEMES Below are some key themes that emerged from the feedback that participants shared. • Expressed appreciation for community events announced in the Newport Navigator. • Investment and clean up the Back Bay. • Beach Improvements, including more shade and cleanliness. • Incorporation requirements on development, such as incorporate high restrictions, require open spaces. • Limit traffic on Pacific Coast Highway. Project team explaining the General Plan Update process and how the community can get involved. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? NEWPORT, TOGETHER.22 EVENT SIX | MAY 22, 2024 BATTLE IN THE BAY ADULTS AND CHILDREN 110+ Engagement Activity Participants were tossed a beach ball with questions related to Newport Harbor and Bay written on the ball. When a participant caught the ball, they could answer the question closest to their left thumb. Staff recorded responses and prompted with further questions to engage in deeper conversation. Questions included: »What do you like about the Harbor and Bay? »What do you want to see changed about the Harbor and Bay? »What would you like to see maintained in the Harbor and Bay? Number of people engaged Project team and City staff talking with event attendee’s on the harbor, bay, and beaches of the city There was a total of around 450 attendees making the pop-up event one of the highest in levels of engagement with the community. Participants were nearly all Newport Beach residents, and most were younger families with children in the local schools. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? 23POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY BATTLE IN THE BAY EVENT THEMES Below are some key themes that emerged from the feedback that participants shared. • Increase the number of community-building events, such as concerts, volunteer activities. • Create additional community amenities, such as a community pool, pickleball courts, lights for basketball courts. • Maintain and improve parks and recreational facilities, such as dog parks, summer camps, trails. • Beach and harbor maintenance, including water quality and clean ups. • Improve docking space and fees. • Maintain neighborhoods that have a village-like feel. • Invest in and improve safety measures. • Improve transportation and accessibility, such as a public trolley, free parking, widened sidewalks for pedestrian traffic. • Preserve community identity. Project team and City staff collecting comments and feedback from event attendees. Wh a t w o u l d y o u l i k e t o s e e i n y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d ? NEWPORT, TOGETHER.24 TABLE 4. PAC SUBCOMMITTEE SCHEDULE SECTION 5 COLLABORATION WITH THE GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE Coinciding with pop-up outreach and digital engagement, the GPAC subcommittees met to review the Existing Conditions and Background Analysis reports prepared by the consultant team (see Table 4). Meetings were conducted in a hybrid format, virtually on Microsoft Teams and in-person at 100 Civic Center Drive in Newport Beach. Each meeting focused on the background reports prepared by Dudek, the technical consultant team. Following each meeting, an after-action report was created to summarize the key discussion topics and recommendations. The subcommittee’s chair presented each after-action report to the whole GPAC at its monthly meeting. Based on the subcommittee’s presentation and endorsement, the full GPAC reviews and determines if the background report is ready to be added to the Newport, Together Resource and Document Library on the website. The after-action reports are on the City of Newport Beach’s GPAC webpage. The technical consultant team collected feedback from each subcommittee meeting and after-action reports. Below is a consolidated list of the overall themes of what was heard. The order does not represent priority. SUBCOMMITTEE TOPIC DATE AND TIME Vision Statement Tuesday, January 30 at 4:30 p.m. Outreach Wednesday, January 31 at 5:00 p.m. Recreation and Natural Resources Wednesday, March 6 at 5:00 p.m. Safety & Harbor and Bay Tuesday, March 12 at 4:00 p.m. Recreation and Natural Resources Wednesday, April 10 at 4:30 p.m. Noise Tuesday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m. Art, Cultural, and Historic Resources Tuesday, April 23 at 4:00 p.m. Land Use Thursday, May 23 at 3:30 p.m. 25COLLABOARATION WITH GPU ADVISORY COMMITTEE Resilience and Adaptation »Balancing nature-based measures and conventional physical infrastructure. »Protecting and improving recreational and drinking water quality. • Santa Ana River coordination • Wetland restoration • Groundwater recharge • Groundwater intrusion »Beach nourishment and erosion »Sea level rise plan »Insurance for at-risk properties »Mitigating heat island effect (e.g., street paving and roof materials and cooling areas) »Consider utilizing adaptation pathways, a strategy of organizing resources and strategies, for implementation of changes or adjustments. Coordination and Communication »Internal communication and coordination between departments to create fewer silos »Cross-agency/jurisdictional communication and coordination (for implementation, information sharing, data tracking, etc.) »Coordination with the school district »Facility and equipment sharing »Messaging to the community on art events, safety • For hazards, a buddy system may be needed to help with evacuation given the aging population. Technology »Technology for public communication and education, while recognizing that some populations will continue to rely on low- tech means of communication »Advancing infrastructure • (e.g., City vehicle fleets, EV charging stations, EV boat chargers) »Artificial intelligence to assist with implementation tracking »Regulating drones and Advanced Air Mobility helicopters Local Regulations »Specific Plans are needed to help guide development. »Incentives are needed to get existing buildings to make improvements. »Coordinating with private properties to implement: • Drought tolerant landscaping • Stabilizing properties in areas at risk of landslide Connectivity »Improved bike paths and sidewalks »Better connectivity from airport area »Connectivity and access to community resources (e.g., parks, beaches) Community »Pursue funding for and promote the arts. »Identify and protect visual resources. »Economics and tourism »Wayfinding – knowing where to park, where facilities are (e.g., public restrooms, recreational opportunities) »Highlight human and tribal histories and legacy businesses. »Housing is needed for first responders. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.26 POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY 27 Appendices A | General Plan Elements B | Newport, Together Website C | Detailed Input from Pop-Up Events 28 29 31 NEWPORT, TOGETHER.28 APPENDIX A GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS LAND USE C I RCULATION* R E CREATION N OISE* H O U S I N G * R E S O U R C E S HIS T O R I C A L A R T S + C U L T U R AL HARBOR + B A Y N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E S SAFETY *XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 29APPENDIX B APPENDIX B NEWPORT, TOGETHER WEBSITE The Newport, Together website includes the following sections: »Home, which includes an introduction to the General Plan Update process, quick links to the other site pages, upcoming events and GPAC meetings, a timeline, and frequently asked questions; »What is a General Plan, which includes a description of a General Plan, overviews of each General Plan Update element, and the implementation program; »Get Engaged, which describes upcoming and past community events; »Resource and Document Library, which includes the 2006 General Plan, recently updated elements, and background analysis reports; »An online survey, We Want to Hear from You!, includes a short questionnaire and an interactive map of the city; »And opportunities to sign up for the interest list or contact City staff. FIGURE 6. Newport, Together website homepage. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.30 Resource and Document Library The Resource and Document Library is a living library, frequently updated with additional background analysis reports (see Figure 7). Existing Conditions and Background Analysis reports are being prepared, through the lens of resilience, for the adopted General Plan Vision Statement and Implementation Program, and each adopted General Plan element is being updated in the current cycle. These reports assess current information and data, are developed by the City and its consultants, and are reviewed by the GPAC. Reports posted so far include: »Vision Statement »Historical Resources Elements »Resilience »Natural Resources »Recreation Element »Arts and Cultural Element As of June 12, 2024, the current 2006 General Plan has been downloaded 161 times, the recently updated Circulation Element 39 times, and the Resilience report and the Historical Resources Element report each 13 times. FIGURE 7. Resource and Document Library webpage. 31APPENDIX C APPENDIX C DETAILED INPUT FROM POP-UP EVENTS Below are additional key themes identified from the pop-up outreach activities. They expand on the key themes summarized in section 5. Mayor’s Egg Race »Maintaining the character of Newport Beach. »City Programs for Children • Many participants noted that they loved the City’s programs for children and wanted to see the programs expanded, including more indoor programs. • Participants wanted car-free areas for children throughout the city. »Park Improvements • Participants wanted to see more shade at parks for children. • People shared that they love the city’s parks and recreation. »Create opportunities for community involvement for all ages. • Host more community events. »Miscellaneous • Manage the growing unhoused population. • Increase restaurant and food options. • Put powerlines underground. • Create more parking. • Participants shared they liked the City’s social media presence and communication. Newport Beach Farmer’s Market »Maintaining the character of Newport Beach. »Beach Improvements • Participants expressed that they loved the beach and wanted to keep it clean and safe. • Some participants asked for more accessible parking around the beach area. • Participants stated that they wanted to keep the harbor and bay water clean. »Safety • Participants expressed wanting to keep Newport Beach safe through low crime rates. »Invest in harbor and bay. • Some participants wanted to see more job opportunities created. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.32 • Participants expressed the need to diversify the types of businesses along the beach by moving away from real estate and more towards small businesses. • Some people expressed wanting fewer rental properties and more owned properties. »A few participants expressed a desire for more public transit. Corona del Mar Farmers Market »Docking Fees • Keep the bay accessible and affordable for all residents who have a boat and want to dock it. • Address major docking inequity and unaffordability, as fees have risen from $2000 to $12,000, a 400% increase, with a 4-year waitlist. • Provide affordable docking opportunities for all residents. »Parking • Interest in more paid street parking, while some appreciate and want more free street parking. • Offer free parking for merchants and businesses, especially along Pacific Coast Highway, as heavy parking fines are becoming an issue. • Ensure parking for residents along the beach. • Install parking meters in front of beaches to create revenue for beach and trash clean-up efforts. »Support for Local Small Businesses • Add more small and local businesses to the corridor, including small and casual sit-down restaurants to maintain Corona del Mar’s small-town feeling. • Add more retail and restaurants to the peninsula and continue to support small and locally owned businesses in places like the Corona del Mar Village, while keeping large corporations in Fashion Island. • Avoid adding more real estate offices along the beach, but instead support more small businesses. »Maintain and clean up the beaches. • Clean up the water and the Corona del Mar State Beach Park. • Reduce noise on Pacific Coast Highway and incorporate large moorings for bigger visiting yachts. »Increase safety for bikers and drivers. • Address concerns about biker safety, especially along Pacific Coast Highway, by increasing driver education for cyclists on the road and educating drivers about the “3-foot rule.” »Make Newport Beach more pedestrian- friendly. • Slow traffic and congestion on Pacific Coast Highway to make it more walkable. • Build pedestrian bridges over the Pacific Coast Highway. • Limit or remove electric bikes on the Boardwalk. »Parks • Create more dog parks and provide additional camping opportunities on the beach with dogs. »Balboa Ferry • Keep the ferry to maintain the city’s 33APPENDIX C character and stop the transition of the ferry to electric. »Limit development of high-density buildings. • Create more spaces like the Sherman Library & Gardens, especially along the beach. • Limit the development of townhomes or duplexes. »Appreciation for City Programs • Appreciate City programs, particularly for toddlers and kids. • Create a central place to find volunteer opportunities in the local community. Newport Beach Central Library »Appreciation for Community Events • Love the community events at the library, mommy and baby classes in the Newport Navigator, and other family programs. »Investment in the Back Bay • Clean up the Newport Beach Back Bay. • Participants shared that the bird sanctuary has been trashed and needs major investment. Some participants recommended creating a City partnership with residents and other groups to navigate and train residents on how to clean the Back Bay while protecting the bird sanctuary. »Beach Improvements • Keep the beaches clean and want more shade at parks for children, specifically for parks at the beach. • Do not widen Mariner’s Mile. • Turn vacant areas on streets into greenbelts. Look at the Irvine Company’s landscaping as an example. »Limitations on Development • Maintain height limits and densities in Newport Center South. • Offices in Newport Center South should not be re-zoned to include high rises or higher densities. • Enforce Greenlight Initiative in the City Charter. • Don’t allow developers to pay to opt out of creating open spaces in new developments. • Offices in Newport Center South should not be re-zoned to include high rises. • Keep the height limit and no more high rises in Newport Center. »Miscellaneous • Improve the City’s advertising. • Current advertising “feels like a city for billionaires.” Recommended looking at San Diego’s advertising, as “it is more family friendly.” • Create a shelter and soup kitchen for the unhoused. • Limit traffic on Pacific Coast Highway. Battle in the Bay »Increase the number of community events. • More variety of events like Battle in the Bay. • Focus on community-building events (e.g., concerts, boat parades). »Create additional community amenities. NEWPORT, TOGETHER.34 • Create a community pool to alleviate overcrowding at high school pools. • Add more pickleball courts. • Improve lighting by the basketball area on the Peninsula. • Develop more volunteer events along the Bay (e.g. beach clean-ups). »Maintain and improve parks and recreational facilities. • Build more dog parks, such as in West Newport. • Increase capacity for summer camps. • Create more bike trails. • Beach and Harbor Maintenance • Improve the water quality. • Clean up Lido Isle and maintain Marina and Ruby Beach. • Clean up the Balboa Island Fun Zone. • Continual cleanup of the Boardwalk. »Improve docking space and fees. • Limit docking fees as they have become unaffordable. Do not increase docking fees. • Make docks bigger to accommodate more people. • Charge for a daily permit to use the dock. »Housing and Development • Need affordable housing for future generations. • Provide housing for younger generations and accessible housing (e.g., police, teachers). • Provide special needs housing. • Maintain neighborhoods that have a village-like feel. • Develop a balance of services with residential areas. • Limit the development of apartments. • Develop a commercial core. • Preserve Balboa Island as a luxury area. • Do not exploit and commercialize the Marina. »Invest in and improve safety. • Ensure safe routes to schools. • Increase police resources, invest in the fire department and in public works. • Make the harbor safe for children. »Improve transportation and accessibility. • Some comments suggested to bring back free parking and limit the number of parking meters. • While other comments suggested replacing parking lot kiosks with parking meters. • Improve parking and manage summer crowds. • Have the tram cover more areas and increase route frequency. • Have a trolley extension for the Peninsula during weekdays. • Widen the Boardwalk to accommodate more foot traffic. »Preserve community identity. • Maintain the family-oriented and kid- centric atmosphere. • Create and preserve historical landmarks on the Boardwalk. »Miscellaneous 35APPENDIX C • Do stakeholder interviews with local entities such as the school board. • Maintain inclusive community messaging (e.g., Kindness Week).