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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/05/1988 - PB&R CommissionCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Ayes W Item No. 3 arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission April 5, 1988 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Ex- Officio Member Present:" Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Jack.Brooks,,Park and Tree Maintenance Supt. Mark Deven, Recreation Supt. Dottie Flohr, Secretary I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS Item #1 - Call to Order Call to Order The meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:08 P.M. Item• #2 - Roll Call; Roll Call Roll call was taken.- Commissioners Brenner, Grant, Konwiser Springer, Taft and Wolfe, Jr. were-present. Commissioner Herberts was absent. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes Approval of Minutes x Commissioner Taft moved the minutes of the March 1, 1988 x x' x x x x meeting be approved. Unanimous. Item #4 - Adoption of Agenda Adoption of Agenda The agenda was adopted as presented with the addition of Restrooms and Ocean Blvd. Encroachments under Item 11(d) and-Communication Received. II. COMMISSION SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS - YOUTH BASKETBAL Chair Brenner turned the meeting over to Mark Deven who announced that following the conclusion of the youth basket- ball leagues, two Newport Beach teams participated in the Orange County Tournament. This meeting is honoring 3rd -4th Grade Division "C" from Andersen School and 5th -6th Grade Division "B" from Harbor View School for their fine sportsmanship. Chair Brenner announced each player as Commissioner Grant presented the individual awards followed by a team picture. Mark Deven announced there is an additional recognition for Mary Jones; recreation leader for youth sports. Ms. Jones competed in the Spirit Run and was also a top finisher in the Wheelchair D'ivision.of the L.A. Marathon. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Agri i 5; 1988' Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX An additional recognition honored Dan Iwata, Recreation Supervisor, who recently-completed his term as President of CPRS District X, which is a professional society dedica- ted to the advancement of the parks and recreation pro- fession. Dan received the Coveted Professional Merit Award, a very prestigious award not normally given. Chair Brenner thanked those present for attending the meeting and said it is a privilege to have employees such as Ms. Jones and•Mr..Iwata working for the City. III. ACTION.ITEMS Item #5.- •Inspiration Point Project Inspiration Point Director Whitley reported this Commission had reviewed in Project depth the concept and design competition for the Inspiration Point project. Cunningham Design, Inc. was selected as the consultant and is present to present their model, plans and specifications for the Commission's final approval of both the project and funding before it goes to the City Council. Deborah Polanski, Chair of the Arts Commission, addressed the Commission. *She reported the Arts Commission has approved the project which is-within the budget. The project as designed addresses concerns such as safety and erosion. Mr. David Black of Cunningham Design, Inc. addressed the Commission. He invited 'the Commissioners to review the model and explained its various elements such as the redesig of the existing beach access and mid - lookout area. He noted that a geological study was done and that they worked with a civil engineer to develop a design that would meet the functional requirements in addition to providing health and safety to participants. Mr. Black explained the path which was dropped 18" so as to make it less obvious. He reviewed-the retaining wall, drip irrigation system and proposed vegetation which will be native plant material. Mr. Ken Delino, Assistant to the City Manager and Staff Assistant to the Arts Commission, addressed the Commission. He stated that they will be working with the Public Works Department to integrate the entire project. �I Motion Ayes x CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Grant suggested the plans be approved subject to the Park and Tree Maintenance Superintendent's approval of the landscape materials and integration of the design to accommodate storm damage to the beach and its effect on the bottom of the ramp. x Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. moved to accept staff's recommenda- x x x x tion as.presented. -Unanimous. Chair Brenner thanked Mr. Black for his presentation and stated that th'is project is a good example of inter- departmental and inter - commission cooperation. She also thanked Ms. Polanski and the Arts Commission for all their efforts. Item #6 - Olympic Pool - Corona del Mar High School Olympic Pool, Corona Chair Brenner reported a presentation was made by the Swim del Mar High for the Gold Committee at the Commission's March 1 meeting. School Director Whitley pointed out that at that time no specific request was made for funds, nor was there a formalized guide line for the project. This has now been done and staff supports this worthy project. However, from a funding standpoint, the capital improvement project process is now in preliminary budget. If the project is funded out of available funds, it would severely impact proposed projects some of which would have to be eliminated. Chair Brenner opened the meeting to public testimony and Mr. Ralph Rodheim of•the Swim for the Gold Committee addressed the Commission. He reviewed the support they have received from homeowner associations, senior citizens and students. He also announced that.the Center will be formally named the'Marian Bergeson Aquatic Center. Their fund raising campaign wi•11 conclude in 1988 and they would like a two year funding period so that the proposed project will not be affected or deleted. He suggested some capital projects could be delayed to accomplish this., Mr. Dick Nichols, 519 Iris, addressed the Commission. He stated Corona del Mar fligh School has-an outstanding•swim program with an- inadequate facility. Mr. Nichols referred to the-Agreement the City has with the School District for Harbor High School which has not worked out satisfactorily. Should the City provide funding for the Corona del Mar Pool, the City could prioritize the pool program with School District participation. There would not be the conflicts there are with other•programs such as field use by Little League and AYSO. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH 3.rks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Chair Brenner asked Mark Deven to comment on the joint use agreement with the School District. Mr. Deven reported there is a joint use agreement with Harbor High School which has resulted in some problems as to maintenance and scheduling, however, there are fewer problems in the summer. Mr. Jack Hochadel of the Swim for the Gold Committee addres- sed the-Commission'. He reported,they met with the School Board and Superintendent and agreed on a 50-50-funding split between the Ci•ty'and the community. The School Board agreed they would not be in the "driver's seat" of the Corona del Mar Agreement. During discussion by the Commission, Commissioner'Konwiser referred to the cash flow problem and explained-the capital improvement project process to the public. If approved, certain projects would have-to be eliminated. He suggested other methods of financing be pursued. Commissioner Springer questioned priority scheduling in the agreement which favors youth.and Mr. Deven advised this is part of the agreement, however, other provisions can be made. Director-Whitley pointed out there would be problems with adults -using the-pool during a school" day, however, use can-be-expanded. Commissioner Grant advised that the Commi'ttee was ready but they were directed elsewhere while the capital 'improve- ment projects were in process, therefore, they were delayed presenting their project to the Commission. He said-he felt the School District has•been cooperative except for maintenance, however, he believes in joint funding and joint use. Commissioner Grant referred to the capital improvement project list and recommended the following be deleted/ modified to fund the Corona del Mar pool project: Delete Item #1,2, Replace asphalt pathway at Eastbluff Park ($85,000 ; Split Item #13, Install playground facility improvements at various parks, specifically the tot lot at Buffalo Hills Park ($50,000); and delete Item #14, Replace restrooms and ( utility buildings at Eastbluff Park ($125,000). Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. suggested the project be looked at o a long term basis and said he felt:the pool.could be started in two years. He recommended funding'$125,000 per year and making it a 3-year project. CITY OF, NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Konwiser suggested pulling the Eastbluff project and the restroom project for a total of $210,000, which would be one -third of the $625,000 requested. Chair Brenner advised this would then be adequate if they are willing to fund over a three year period. Commissioner Springer asked if there were any major capital improvements in the next 2 -3 years that would have an Impact on• capital projects. Director Whitley advised there are no major facilities being planned, nor are there any major developments by The Irvine Company. There may, howeveN, be an opportunity to purchase a private school in West Newport which would provide an excellent recreation center for the'community. Motion x Commissioner Konwiser moved to delete Item 12, Replace Ayes x x x x asphalt pathway at Eastbluff Park, and Item 14, Replace restrooms and utility buildings at Eastbluff Park, totalling $210,000 from the capital improvement projects and apply-this money toward the Corona del Mar Olympic swim pool subject to a joint use agreement with the School Board approved by staff and this Commission at a later date; and commit to approving $415,000 for the same purpose over the following two years until a total of $625,000 is reached Unanimous. Item. #7 - Parcel Map, 2919 Cliff Drive Parcel Map, 2919 Cliff Director Whitley referred to the report submitted,which Drive outlines the project as approved by the'Planning Commission. There is impact in this Commission's sphere insofar as the private land is surrounded by public land, i.e., Cliff Drive Park. There should be assurance that the two public parcels are treated well; that public access connects the two parcels; and that there be no impact of development as to views and aesthetics. The developer has presented a very detailed report to the Commission as to what is proposed, i.e., public access in a 30' right -of -way and tree relocation program. When specific plans are availabl.e, they would then be reviewed and-approved by this Commission. Mr. Hal Woods, 3505 Cddillac Avenue, Costa Mesa, addressed the Commission. He explained the parcel map and the construction of the four single family homes between the parks. They are proposing to put a• sidewalk in the area and relocate trees /shrubs in a landscape plan to be further defined. The houses have not yet been designed and there 11 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX would be minimal grading to be presented at a later date. He explained the tree relocations which would leave the three Targest trees on the site. They intend to re- utilize the Palms and would donate the remaining ones. -Mr. Woods also explained the improvements to be made on the Riverside Drive sidewalk and-installation of a retaining wall. 1. Director Whitley explained the right -of -way easement for utilities. -The pedestrian pathway that is being proposed links the two parks and consideration should be made as to -impact. He suggested the Commission address the sidewalk issue, tree relocation and regrading as it affects the retaining wall. - Gail Demmer, 2812 Cliff Drive and President of the Newport Heights Community Association, addressed the Commission. She stated some homeowners like the project, however, many do not. The Association agreed they did not want concrete sidewalks around the outer rim of the park in order to discourage skateboarding, etc. and encourage a wilderness atmosphere. They aPe.also concerned that the developer is asking for a resubdivision of the area.- Marian Rayl, 426 San Bernardino, addressed the Commission. She stated the Community Association expressed disapproval of­the.project which would encroach on public property at the Avon Street site. They also do-not want more parking at Avon Street. Many are opposed to grading on any portion of the park as this would affect the creek, trees, etc. -The homeowners association is opposed to a sidewalk around the rim of the park or connected in any way to the stairway. They would like a stipulation that there be no grading or tree removals. Mr. Hal Woods addressed the Commission. He stated they were proposing to extend the sidewalk because of the dangerous corner. He thought that a cond'ition•of approval was that the sidewalk be put in. He then presented-pictures showing; the tree removals /relocations. Marian Rayl, 426 San'Bernardino, addressed the Commission. She stated the sidewalks have purposely been submerged and the neighbors looking at the green'belt area do not want a sidewalk. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Brion Jeannette, 400 Santa Ana Avenue, addressed the Commission. He said he felt the major issues are the scale of the buil-ding and how it will interface with the park and the view area. Dr. Vandersloot, 2221 16th Street, addressed the Commission regarding grading and the vegetation that-would be removed. He stated a biological study was sent to Commissioner Herberts showing an ecological unit in the park which is a bird refuge. -If there is,grading to be done, the area should be replaced with native plants. He also referred to an Indian tar mine-on the west hillside where grading would• destroy Indian-artifacts. He stated that as he has young children he prefers the sidewalks but feels the proposed project is too dense as it is'presented. Commissioner Konwiser stated that since there is a major objection to the sidewalk, this should not be part of the issue. If and when a.-p'reliminarycgftding °plan is submitted, the other items should be addressed. He recommended a 30' right- .of-way-be approved without the sidewalk. Commissioner-Grant motioned to delete the sidewalk, accept the trees, review the grading proposal' if- it reduces the project's impact on parks,.and review the view plane. During discussion Commissioner Grant withdrew his motion. Motion x Commissioner Springer motioned to delete the sidewalk, Ayes x x accept the trees and refer to the. Street Tree Committee Nays x Ix .: x and not approve grading changes for the two adjacent - parks. In addition.th.is Commission recommends the'City Council- review the view planes. -Motion fails. Chair-Brenner stated. that.as:.a parent of. young children and as a resident of an area also deficient in sidewalks, she opposed this motion•as she feels more input from the entire community should occur. Motion x Commissioner Springer amended the motion to state this - Ayes x x x x Commission does not address the view plane or any grading Nays, x x changes. Motion carries. Item #8 - Coral•Tree Removal Request,-280 Evening Canyon Rd. Coral Tree Removal Director Whitley repofted Mr: Jacklin is appealing the Request Street Tree Committee's decision to deny his request for tree removal. .Jack Brooks feels the tree can be root pruned to eliminate some damage to water lines..,. G� CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 8 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. stated he saw one small cut in the sidewalk and curb. He feels this is a'beautiful tree that' shouldn't be-removed if it doesn't cause damage to the sewer or water lines. Commissioner Grant agreed-and recommended more severe trimming. Motion x Comamissioner Konwiser moved the tree be retained providing Seconded x it is trimmed-on-an 18 month cycle and the roots be pruned Ayes x x x x x so there is minimal damage. Seconded by-Grant. Unanimous. Item ,#9 ­Park Place Tract Map 12873 Park Place Tract Map Director Whitley reported this was brought to the Commission 12873 two years ago and there'is confusion as to what the Commission approved. The developer is bringing the matter back to this 'Commission concerning trees on City owned property as they relate to the Park -Place home sites. The original plans showed 3 trees would be, removed and this Commission must decide whether-they should be removed for cbnstruction. Staff feels "there is liabil'ity now.with respect-to the 3 Eucalyptus Trees and-one of the following can be done:. (1) Remove the trees; (2) Raise the wall; or (3) Grade to the wall. Robert Newberry, 555 Fullerton, addressed the Commission. He explained that"they tried their best to work with neighbors, homeowner associations and '.the•.City. The plans are designed to"specific'heights; and, at neighbors' suggestions, they-put in view corridors, limited height, and have-an easement for access to the park in addition to making-park improvements. They did not ask-this Commission's approval. of the plan as the conditions of approval specifical y •state•regrading , of the park and-tree removal/'trimming would be approved by•the'Department. 'They did'not know,they were in violation of-,the process and•are,'now asking this Commission's•"approval. Howard Tuttle,-1-1-36 Somerset Lane, addressed the Commission. Mr. Tuttle stated they conferred with-the Traffic Division regarding minor grading. He explained drainage, slopes, and',swale down the property line.: They are proposing to take out the first four trees and two-by the parking lot. Rae Cohen, 1501 Antigua Way, addressed the Commission. Mrs. Cohen is-past Chair of the Parks,'Beaches and Recreation I Commission,-active-at the Theatre Arts Center, and an immediate neighbor to the site. She voiced her concern over Motion Ayes Abstain Motion Ayes CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council, Chambers 7 p.m. how.far the area will be graded and future plans to re- plant trees /foliage. She stated the park is used a great deal by the Theatre Arts Center and-they want to keep it private and attractive. She asked that grading be kept at a minimum. They would prefer the trees not be removed, however, if-they are, they want replacements. Marian Rayl,• 426 San Bernardino, addressed the Commission and voiced-her concern over preserving public views from the park. She stated no permission was given to grade or remove•trees. Brion Jeannette, 410 Old Newport Blvd., addressed the Commission. He-stated-adequate site distance was a conditi of approval. The neighbors wanted the trees removed at Park Place•and Cliff Drive to help preserve views and they also signed the plans. Robert Newberry, 535 Fullerton, addressed the Commission and reported on the analysis of view preservation from a public area over private property. Their report as submitted to.the Commission is to be made a part of the minutes. Vincent Harris, 250 Cliff Drive, addressed the Commission. He explained-the $200,000 increase in the appraisal of his home with a view•compared to the loss with no view. He stated the Eucalyptus Trees in question and the bushes now block his- view,. Commissioner Wolfe-, Jr. motioned to-approve the request of the developer to remove the first four trees, put in a 10' swale, and grade according to the approved plans. Motion carries. Commissioner Grant motioned that the two small trees at the bottom and back of the parking lot be removed and that the balance be trimmed to enhance views; and that these two trees and the four Eucalyptus be replaced in the park area without blocking views. Unanimous. Director Whitley suggested staff work with the developer and come back with a plan to mitigate the tree relocation problem. Chair Brenner recommended that if locations can't'be found at the Theatre-Arts Center, acceptable sites could be found within the City. INDEX CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Ayes Abstain arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 10 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item i1O - Libraa Use of Mariners Multi- Purpose Room Library Use of Chair Brenner reported Mark Deven,•Karen Evarts, the Mariners 'Library Director and herself•Met:to effect a compromise. Multi - The Library Has been given a six month period to use the Purpose multi- purpose room; they will provide a•.detailed report as Room to usage made of the room. 'After six months this Commission wilt review and'decide if they can have the six month period in•the future. Commissioner Taft stated he felt three months is sufficient. Commissioner Springer agreed. Mark Deven reported City Council Policy I -5 states recrea- tion activities and City-initiated activities' take first priority, however, the Library Board'feels this reference is vague and may entitle Library use as equal priority. Chair Brenner felt-the close proximity of the room to the Library gives them priority,'however, their forthcoming report after six months use shoul-d answer most questions. x Commissioner Konwiser moved to authorize the Library to x x••x x use the Mariners Park facility for a six month period of x R 'time and -report-back.after that time for further action. Motion carries. IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS Commissioner Springer referred to a.letter received from Karen Smith, 3309 Clay Street, in which she refers to the deficiency of parks in the Newport• Heights area. She also wrote that the one park in the area, Cliff-Drive Park, has a tot-lot which she can't use due-to its difficult access location: -Chair Brenner directed that this be on the May 3 agenda as'a discussion item. V. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #11 - Commission-Committee Reports Commission Committee a. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. stated there was no report Reports on'Capital Improvements. b. Commissioner Grant reported the Street Tree Committee . wil'1 look at places to plant trees. c. Commissioner Taft reported the next Recreation Program Committee meeting is April 21. �3 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks,.Beaches .& Recreation Commission Page 11 City Council Chambers. 7 p.m. INDEX d. Commissioner Springer passed out a report from the - Beach and Oceanfront Committee. She-reviewed the volleyball court posting and noted there are some dangerous conditions existing on the beach. Mark Deven will investigate and report back on these conditions. -Mark Devem will meet on April 6•to realign the Colton Street volleyball'couris to•the satisfaction of a resident. Chair Brenner referred to the liability issue at Corona del Mar'Beach when there are no-lifeguards and charge is made for parking in the Corona del Mar lot. This•wi'11 be a discussion item at the May 3 meeting. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. asked about the status of restrooms next year. Director Whitley said there will be one built at West Newport Park and Channel Park. -The-56th Street restrodm will be replaced and expanded. The 15th Street site will be refurbished. He will i provide a report at the Commission's next meeting: Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. suggested a restrbom be built At the River-Jetty. Commissioner Grant-said he felt better maintenance is needed at the Balboa Pier restrooms and he will contact the General Services Director. ' e. •Commissioner Konwiser will' submit a Facilities Evaluatio Report at the,next meeting. f. There was no report from Commissioner Konwiser on the Budget Committee. g. There was no report from the Chair. h. Commissioner Springer said she looked at the encroach- ments on Ocean Boulevard'and there have been no improve- ments. Director Whitley will investigate. Chair Brenner expressed concern over the continuing hazardous condition which exists on the Peninsula boardwalk-when used by both bicyclists and pedestrians. A"s.the Commission has 'already taken this position, she asked that the liability to the City be restated. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 12 City Council. Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX •Item #12 - Commission Liaison Reports Commission Liaison a. Mark Deven reported a new Recreation'Supervisor for Reports •Oasis'has been selected. Celeste Jardine -Haug will . begin full-time on May 9. b. There was no report on the Theatre Arts Center from ­Commissioner Grant. Item #13 - Status of Capital Projects Status of Capital Director Whitley reported the dedication for.West'Newport Projects Park will be April 16'at 10:dO A.M. and 61.1 the Commissioners are invited. Item #14 : Recreation Division Recreation Division Report received and filed. Item #15'- Park and Street Tree Division _ Park and Street Tree Chair Brenner expressed dismay-that approximately 50 Division trees•were planted in Grant Howald Park. She felt-this have occurred'when'the public.sentiment in the _should•not• past has been opposed and Councilman Sansone has requested a study of feasibility of leveling. Director Whitley -will provide Public Works' report on Councilman Sansor 0s request at the next Commission meeting. Item #16 - Future Agenda.Items Future Agenda No report. Items VI. INFORMATION ITEMS Item #17- In- Lieu'Park Dedication Fees In -Lieu Park Dedica• Director Whitley reported in lieu fees have been raised tion Fees' to $612,833•per acre. Item #18 - Classroom at Oasis Classroom at Oasis Director Whitley stated the detall sheet on the construc- tion °process at Oasis•is,.provided for the Commission''s information. VII. SPECIAL';, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH ,Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 13 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX VIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned at 11:40 P.M. The-agenda for this meeting was posted on March 29, 1988 at 3:45 P.M. outside the City Hall-Administration Building. Dottie.Flohr, secretary