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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/01/1987 - PB&R CommissionItem No. 3 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Sectsnded I I I I I x I I x Ayes x x x x x E RX September 1, 1987 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS Item #1 Mark Deven, Recreation Supt. Dottie Flohr, Secretary The meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called•to order at 7:04 P.M. Item #2 Roll call, was taken. Commissioners Brenner, Grant, Herberts Konwiser, Springer and Wolfe were present. Commissioner Taft was absent. Item #3 Commissioner Springer moved the minutes of the August 4, 1987 meeting-be'approved. Seconded by Wolfe. Unanimous. Item #4 The agenda was adopted as presented with the addition of Inspiration Point Project under Action Items and Recreation and Open Space Element of the General Plan, Newport Salute to the Arts, Park Signs and Goals and Objectives under Discussion Items. II. ACTION ITEMS Item #5 - Inspiration Point Project Chair Brenner announced there is a request from-the Arts Commission to approve in concept a design for structural improvements and erosion control at Inspiration Point subjec to further review and approval by this Commission of final design documents and cost'estimates. Since the Public Hearing at the Commission's August 4 meeting, the Art in Public Places Committee has spent considerable time re- - evaluating the project in light of serious reservations from Corona del Mar residents. Significant concerns from the residents which have resulted in design changes include (1) Deletion of design changes at the top of the Point; (2)'That theYd-:be no,flashy or.spectacular elements; (3) That an exorbitant amount of money not be spent; and (4) That the erosion problems be solved. INDEX Call to Order Roll Call Approval of Minutes Adoption of Agenda Inspiration Point Project COTY OF NEWPORT BEACH U 3 arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX The scaled down version incorporates erosion control, an artistic path and safety enclosure. Chair Brenner introduced Deborah Polansky, Chair of the Arts Commission. Ms. Polansky reported that the winning team for the Inspiration Point project includes the lands- cape architect firm of Cunningham Design, Inc. and artists Helen Mayer, Newton Harrison, Paul Hobson and Marcello Petrocelli. The-Arts Commission is asking the Parks, Beach(! and Recreation Commission to approve the revised design in concept. They feel it would be abeautiful addition to Corona del Mar. Ms. Polansky then introduced Mr-. Bob Cunningham of Cunning - ham,Design, Inc. " Mr. Cunningham addressed the Commission an presented slides'showing the present status of Inspiration Point and the proposed final project. He explained the different elements of the reinforced, recessed concrete path the enlarged view platform at mid - level, safety and anti - erosion features. Vegetation will be restored with native plant materials and the existing park at the top will not be disturbed. The design is expected to enhance comfort and safety and they will work closely with Public Works and the Parks Division to incorporate the needs of the residents. Mr. Cunningham answered questions concerning the retaining wall and recessed pathway to the beach. He also explained that-the ice plant will be removed and the landscape restora tion using natural, deep rooted plants will help prevent runoff .and erosion. Ms. Polansky addressed the Commission and explained that the funding process wil'l-be addressed in stages. They will present this to the Commission at a later date. Chair Brenner opened the meeting to Public Testimony. Mr. Royal Radtke, 900 Sea Lane and representing the Corona del Mar Chamber of-Commerce, addressed the Commission. He referred to the original land purchase and dedication and asked,-that the,top level be kept as is•and there be no additions of any -kind at the top. It should be kept as natural as it is,now so as not to invite vandalism, con- gestion, etc. Mr. Radtke informed the Commission that their Board met that morning and voted unanimously to support Phased of the�Cunningham design. Mo ±'Zn A Nay 9 X C9TY OF .NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m Director Whitley reported the property was originally purchased with funds generated by the community. When the property was transferred to the City, no deed restrictio were placed upon it. The top portion, however, was always owned by the City since it is a road right -of-way. Purchasi the lots starting 'at the top path downward precluded any residential development. Commissioner Grant noted there were no areas for bicycle racks nor trash cans­and•Mr. Cunningham explained that they will work with staff an& integrate them -into the design. Chair Brenner pointed out that - doggie drinking ~fountains were requested at the-'last Public Hearing. Mr. Newton Harrison, artist on-the team, addressed the Commission. Mr.'Harrison pointed out that bicycles on the pathway -woul'd-be too dangerous as there is no line of sight and signs should be posted saying no biking. He - recommended sunken trash receptacles or the normal ones. A doggie drinking fountain-can also be installed. Mr. Kevin,Consey, 1907 Altura-Drive and representing the Newport Harbor Art Museum, addressed the Commission,. He stated that although this is an' extremely sensitive project, this is the best-design incorporating erosion control, moving people from one location to another and incorporating the residents' input. Mr. Lars de Jounge, 208 Marigold, addressed the Commission. He agreed with•Mr.­Radtke,of the Corona del -Mar Chamber of Commerce. He also-pointed out that the original intent was not to buihd on the three remaining lots. One house already has''been built and another one will be built. He asked that the natural Bluffs remain as is and the public be notified there are other beaches for their use so this one won't 'become too congested. Mr. Tom Peckenpaugh, 3620 Ocean Boulevard, addressed the Commission. He supports this project and gave thanks for the progress already made. Chair Brenner closed the meeting to Public Testimony. Commissioner Springer motioned to accept in concept the Arts Commission's proposal for the design of Inspiration Point. Motion passes. INDEX CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, 'Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #6 - Policy on Obstruction of Views by Trees Policy on Obstructioi Director Whitley reported the proposed draft as approved by of Views this Commission at their August 4, 1987 meeting was trans- by Trees mitted to the City Council. As a result of their review, Items 4 and 5 were-added to the Policy. The revised draft is for this - Commission's consideration. Mr. Whitley read and reviewed .Items 4 and 5. He explained Item 4 is a general statement by the City that could help Associations and individual homeowners enforce CUR's. Item 5 was added-as it relates to City owned trees. There will be some,problem areas such as Terrace levels and these will be individually addressed. The City's policy has always been to-trim with view in mind. Commissioner Herberts stated she feels Item 4 puts the City in a position of trying to direct Associations and individ- uals and that this will result in private disputes. Commissioner Springer voiced her support of Commissioner Herberts' concerns. Commissioner Konwiser agreed with the incorporation of Items 4 and 5 but recommended Item 5 include "private" view planes. Commissioner Grant questioned the definition of "unreasonabl obstruction of views." Director Whitley explained that the policy was drafted knowing this isa: sensitive issue and there will be individu 1 cases that-will be negotiated. The Policy is a compilation of six other cities' tree policies and, although not en- forceable, the intent is made clear. Motion x Commissioner Konwiser moved to approve the Policy as drafted Seconded x with the words, "and private," inserted after "public" in Ayes x x x Item 5. Seconded by Wolfe. Motion fails. Nays K x x Commissioner Brenner voiced her reservations about Item 5. She feels the wording as stated will cause too many conflicts. Commissioner Konwiser amended his motion to include in Item 5 ... "City owned park property" rather than "City owned �" � property." Motion x Commissioner Herberts substituted the motion to approve the Ayes x x draft Policy with the-deletion of Item 5. Motion fails. Nays x x x x CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX NA Commissioner Konwiser stated that since this is a view oriented City, deletion of Item 5 would eliminate a lot of acreage that has views resulting in a non -view policy. The City needs a written view policy and, in addition, Item 5 addresses City owned parks. Chair Brenner recommended that Item 5 read the "City will endeavor to, maintain all City owned property in a manner to maximize public and private view planes." Commissioner-Springgr called for the question and vote on Commissioner Herberts substitute motion. Motion fails. The Commission voted on Commissioner Konwiser's motion•to approve the view policy with the addition of "and private" in Item 5. 'Motion fails. Motion x Commissioner Grant motioned to approve the view•policy with . Ayes x x x x x Item 5 changed to read' "The City will endeavor to maintain Na'_ x all City owned park property in a manner to maximize public J and private view planes." Motion passes. Item #7 - Girl Scout Lease Girl Scout Lease Director Whitley reported Mark Deven added changes to the lease concerning liability on leased property and these minor amendments are recommended. Mr. Whitley gave a brief review of the Lease Agreement and noted that the facility is well used and provides a valuable community program. Mr. Bill Bradshaw, 1555 Mesa Verde Drive in Costa Mesa and property manager for the Girl Scouts, addressed the Commission: He 'stated the organization can meet the adjustments in the lease and asked that it be extended. They have been good-tenants at this location since 1947. Chair Brenner asked Mr. Bradshaw if others could use the facility when it'is not used by the Girl Scouts. Mr.. Bradshaw said-they' would like to cooperate during free times and that he-will discuss mutual, acceptable arrangements with his staff. Commissioner Grant questioned the exclusive use of the Girl in relation'to the Boy Scouts. UScouts Mark Deven replied there has been no request from the Boy Scouts to lease a specific facility. They are, however, accommodated at other facilities. J b CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Motion Ayes U I arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Grant felt the City owned building could have better use for the community as a whole and should be avail - able'for other public interest groups. Mr. Bradshaw replied they are still not accommodating all'the Girl Scout troops. They are meeting at churches, homes, etc. The building is a meeting place for'troops that are able to meet there and is used'as a recreation facility on weekends. Commissioner Springer pointed•oUt this is the only facility 'used exclusively for girls. All the others are for boys and she supports renewing the lease. x Commissioner Herberts moved to recommend to the City Council that the lease•be renewed for ten years. During discussion Director Whitley reported all three leases in that area, i.e.,•American Legion, Martnapark and the Girl Scouts, terminate in the same time frame. Staff recommends approval of-the lease with the recommended changes. Both Chair Brenner and Commissioner Grant suggested joint use when the facility is not occupied be included in the motion: Mark Deven reported this can be drafted into the lease•in addition to the insurance modifications. x Commissioner Grant made a-substitute motion to incorporate x x x x x x language into the lease that would permit use by other non- profit community organizations when the building is not used by "the Girl Scouts. -Commissioner Springer called for the question. Unanimous. III. PUBLIC•COMMENTS IV. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #8 - Procedures and Re ulations Pertaining to Beach Procedure: and Regul "-Vol eybal Courts tions Per. Mark Deven reviewed the report provided in the Commission's taining t agenda packet. This - includes Resolution 83 -9 governing Beach volleyball courts and new forms and procedures to better Volleybal' evaluate installation and locations of the courts. Courts An attempt is being made to update and provide a more con - sistent,policy. Mr. Deven asked that the Commission review the Resolution'in terms of strengthening it and incorporatin specific procedures. The attached'appl,ication for volleyball installation will be'a means of formalizing the process with the authorization and support of residents living within 200' of a proposed court. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Mr. Deven reported Commissioner Wolfe and he toured the present volleyball locations and found many inconsistencies. He suggested a periodic'review of the locations be done either annually or-semi-annually in order to determine that they are legally authorized. Mr. Deven discussed the four-suggested improvements in the report to'strengthen rules and regulations'-for beach volley - ball courts and'inv'ited-other improvements to be incorporate into the-Resolution. Commissioner Wolfe stated he felt the situation has been badly neglected. There'are many, illegal courts; some are never used; and-some are over used. The Resolution needs a thorough review and should be updated with changes for a revised Resolution; He'sugge'sted- this item be referred to the Oceanfront and Beach"Committee for intense study. Commissioner Grant suggested each Commissioner provide comments •for,revi'ew °and that one or two outside interested persons also be'•involved. He also recommended an honor system be implemented for'use of the courts. Commissioner Konwiser advised•the public should be kept in mind during the review process as the'beach is a public access. Mr. Bill Bennett, 226 Lugonia, addressed the Commission. He stated he is an'active volleyball player and would like to attend the Commi'ttee's meetings. Chair Brenner referred this item to the Oceanfront and Beach•Committee for their review. •Item #9 - Status•of °Capital Projects Status of Capital Director Whitley reported that Bonita-Creek-,Park is moving Projects along very well. The building is going up now and the turf should be in by next summer. There was a pre= construction'meeting on the CYC today and the contractor will start'demol"ition the week of September 8 Mark Deven reported that one of the results of the demolitio is that the'bike�trail`as it'parallels the street end at 5th Street will be closed. He assured Commissioner Brenner �J that he will- ftotify -the principal at Harbor View and the PFO. , (' ?i CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Discussion ensued regarding a groundbreaking ceremony over Labor Day weekend. It was decided that in light of the history of this project, a dedication ceremony would be more appropriate. However, the Commissioners will be notified of the official ground breaking in case they would like to attend. Bids for West Newport Park will be opened September 10. There have been about`'30 contractors who have checked plans out. 'There is still a lot of work to do at Cliff Drive Park, however, it is coming along slowly and is getting better. The contractor-is still working there. Both Chair Brenner and Director Whitley have'received - many compliments on the park and the project. Commissioner Grant asked about lights on the soccer field at Bonita-Creek Park. 'Mr. Whitley replied that there is a conduit for future lighting. Mr. Whitley reported consultants have been selected for the current projects and'all are moving forward. Commissioner Herberts• voiced her concern over the driveway ramp which is hazardous at*West Jetty Park. Ron Whitley wil'1 investigate and follow up on her concern. Commissioner Grant asked for copy of the Capital Improve- ments List which Mr. Whitley will provide. , Item #10 - Commission Subcommittees Commissioi Subcom- Commissioner Herberts, Chair of the Street Tree Committee, mittees stated they reviewed ten tree complaints. She also re- ported claims involving trees were brought to the City Council's attention. Both the Risk Manager and General Services Director gave reports and discussed liability from unsafe sidewalks which is a particularly difficult problem in Corona del Mar. There wi'll be•a new process implemented whereby General Services will investigate sidewalks and trees that have to be removed which this Committee will review. In addition, a public notice-will-be posted to inform residents con - cerning tree removals. The City's Tree Division will be putting in root barriers q for al.l•new trees which will direct the roots downward. U 10 CITY OF NEWPORT .BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission .Page 9 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Mark Deven 'reported the Recreation Program Committee approved the new fall programs. 'Mark Deven reported lifeguard staffing, at Corona del Mar State Beach. and beach volleyball courts will be addressed at the next meeting of the Oceanfront and Beach Committee. Commissioner Wolfe, Chair,of the Capital Improvements Committee, reported they will meet in November since submittals are made in January. Commissioner Konwiser, Chair of the Budget Committee, re- ported they will also meet in November for submittals in January. Commissioner Wolfe, Liaison to Friends of Oasis, reported , black top will be•p6ured behind the gardens. The Friends have requested their joint meeting with the Commission be held in October. Commissioner Brenner reported that many school booster clubs raise large amounts -of money with bingo and asked if it ha:d been considered as a• fundraiser at Oasis. Director, Whitley stated that bingo is prohibited in Newport Beach. Commissioner Grant, Liaison to the•Friends of the Theatre Arts Center,"reported their first play of the fall season is scheduled for September 11. Commissioner Konwiser, Chair of the Park Maintenance -Committee, reported they will•meet September 26 and Mr. Brooks will be asked to attend. Commissioner Konwiser, Chair of the Beach Litter Committee, reported they will meet on September 11. Item #11 - Park and Street Tree Division Park and Street Chair Brenner reported some of the Jasmine Park residents Tree are concerned-about the fire danger around CYC. Mr. Division Whitley explained that the-City does not own or maintain the slope area adjacent to the school site. Commissioner Grant reported two trees are missing in Buffalo HI'lls Park which need to be'replaced. Commissioner Herberts stated the-Tree Division will put Palms in at "N" Street beach-and-'Oleanders will be put in on Bayside Drive. �i UT'Y OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 10 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. Item #12 - Recreation Division Mark Deven reported the traditional fundraising kick off for the Friends of Oasis will begin with the Advisory Board Party on September 17. Commissioner Grant brought up the subject of Commission awards for special interest groups, i.e., AYSO. Ron 'Whitley explained that historically-awards for independent programs are given-by the specific organization. Many times, however, this Commission recognizes those individual who have contributed significantly to such a program. - Recreation and Open Space Element of Chair Brenner suggested a subcommittee be established to review, evaluate-progress and make-recommendations, i.e., how affordable housing exemptions affect the plan, status of reserve fund, and how we are doing' compared to the plan. Following a brief discussion, Director Whitley suggested staff prepare an °analysis and-give a progress report. Item #14 - Newport Salute to the Arts Chair Brenner announced the Salute to the Arts will be September 9 from 6 -8 P.M. and urged all the Commissioners *to attend. Item #15 - Park Signs Director Whitley passed out information showing the seven locations where the signs have been completed. The active areas were done first and some parks required two signs which doubled the-time frame. The Buffalo Hills sign is in progress and Eastbluff Park will be next. Item #16 - Goals and Objectives Commissioner Grant asked objectives relating both Director Whitley replied the Committees. He also are currently working on -include aims and purpose. V. COMMUNICATIONS for a statement -as to goals and to the Commission and staff. that these are addressed through stated he and Chair Brenner an operational manual which will Item #17 - Art in Public Places Received and filed. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH In arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 11 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX VI. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST'MINUTE ITEMS VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned'at'9:30 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on August 24, 1987 at 3 :45 P.M: outside the City Hall Administration Building. Dottie Flo r` , Secretary