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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/03/1988 - PB&R CommissionCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH' Item No. 3 Mo..jn Ayes 3 arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission May, 3, 1988 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. .INDEX Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Mark Deven, Recreation Superin- I tendent Dottie Flohr, Secretary I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS ' Item #I. - Call to Order Call to Order The meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:05 P.M. - Item #2 - Roll Call Roll Call Roll call was taken.' Commissioners Brenner, Grant Herberts, Konwiser,•Springer, Taft and Wolfe, Jr. were present. -Item #3 - Approval of Minutes Approval of Minutes x Commissioner Taft moved the minutes of the April 5, 1988 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 Avon Street Wetlands, Bonita Creek Park, Big Canyon and PCH Boat Ramp. II. ACTION ITEMS Item #5 - Volleyball Court - China Cove' Volleyball Court - Mark Deven referred to the subject report and reviewed China Cove staff's recommendations to either retain the court in its present location or remove the court. He pointed out that the existing court is in the best location from the stand- point of safety, high tides•, etc. Following posting for removal on April 6, 1'988, an equal number of fetters and petitions were received supporting,retention and removal. As a result, the matter is now being presented to this Commission for their consideration. Chair Brenner opened the meeting to Public Testimony. David Beauchamp, 2605 Way Lane, addressed the Commission. He stated his home directly faces the court and feels the problems such as traffic, noise and parking in China Cove are not related'to the volleyball court. He added that L) CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 P.M. INDEX volleyball is a great beach amenity and that those who do play there pick up litter on the whole beach area and are courteous and respectful of the beach and the property owners. He added that if the poles were removed, there would be more beach chairs, games, etc., resulting in even more problems. Debbie Douglass Ogorek, 2609 Cove Street, addressed the Commission.. She stated their home is at the street end, 10 steps away from the court, and too close to their home since it is very noisy'and they can easily hear profanity. She added that the parking problems are-bad since the players either block or park in their driveway. She would like the court removed and suggested players go to the main beach. Jack Hall, 2619 Cove Street, addressed the Commission and referred to a letter addressed to Council from Ben Douglass. Chair Brenner pointed out that each of the Commissioners has received and read the letter. Mr. Hall stated he feels the court causes illegal parking problems and cited instances where the players were very offensive. He added that if the court were to remain, parking, restrooms and a turn around area should be provided. Commissioner Springer arrived at 7:25 P.M. David Beauchamp, 2605 Way Lane, again addressed the Commission and pointdd out the.court services a variety of people, including residents. Since the court has a permanent net and line, he suggested pulling the net might help the situation. Jack Hall, 2619 Cove Street, addressed the Commission again and stated establishing hours would not work unless supervised. He was under the impression that originally no play was allowed from June to September, on.Holidays and from 12 Noon - 4 P.M. during peak periods. Julia Gold, 2601 Way Lane, addressed the Commission. Ms. Gold referred to Resolution No. 88 -14 to which this Commission is being asked to make an exception for the court's location. She stated she is appearing on behalf of beach goers and sun bathers.who are being pushed into the ocean. This is the last swimable beach in the area which is used by an elite group of volleyball players. She feels that since this is a small beach it should be designa- ted a passive swimmers beach. Three blocks away is a main, large beach with amenities such as lifeguards, restrooms, parking, etc. for the players. Ms. Gold also referred to J CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. • INDEX the liability of emergency access, reckless driving on alley -like streets, cars blocking fire hydrants, and use of neighbors' homes since there are no bathroom facilities. She feels that if the court is to remain•, there be per- manent hours-posted, lifeguards, a restroom•installed and maintained, and a method of control for illegally parked . cars. In summation, she asked that the-beach be preserved as a swimming cove and passive area. Bruce Kahl, 7151 Narcissus, addressed the,Commission. As a volleyball player and frequent user of the beach, he stated the players are sensitive to the neighbors, do not park in their driveways, do not-use profanity or litter the beach. He referred to a petition with 25 signatures in favor of retaining the court. Rob Walker, 2575 Elden Avenue, Costa Mesa, addressed the Commission. He stated-many professional people from other -areas go to this site and-he feels there-is plenty of beach for the swimmers. He feels-the players do not cause the parking problems, but that the jet skiers-and swimmers do. 'There i- s•only one small dumpster at the•Cove which is overflowing by the-end-:of the weekend. Debbie-Douglass 0gorek, 2609 Cove Street, again addressed the Commission.-She reported the'cars - that• block her -driveway-are-the volleyball players':' Richard Larson, 23,Canyon Ridge, Irvine, addressed the Commission. He stated he felt that the court is used as a scapegoat for China Cove's problems; that the problems would exist if there is or is not a court. Tom Moore,. 1219 Blue Gum, addressed,the•Commission. He said that- although he is a volleyball' player,' he also sunbaths at the Cove since it is a less crowded beach. He feels the players get blamed for the problems and he has never seen a time when there was not enough room for sunbathers. He suggested adding more trash cans'si•nce one is not sufficient -and feels a restroom would only make the situation worse. He stated the positives of a volleyball court outweigh the negatives. Tony-Ferguson, 215A-Carnation, addressed the Commission. He reported that since the area is shielded, players favor 'this site since it protects them from the wind. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council' Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Tom Miller, 6308 W. Pacific Coast Highway, addressed the Commission. He referred to Corona del Mar State Beach where the prevailing wind blows smoke from the fire pits onto the volleyball courts. Mrs. Cleo Jones, 2608 Cove Street, addressed•the Commission. She said she lives 40' away from the court and, although not against the sport, feels it takes away too much of the beach. She also cited instances where windows have been 'broken and children hit by the ball. Richard Lewis, 2600 Cove Street, addressed the Commission. He suggested making the *court conform to the 50' minimum from every property line. He stated there are two beaches here and feels there is a reasonable amount of beach; that the situation has worked for years. He objects to the launching.of jet skis at the site and feels many problems center around those who do not play volleyball. He recommended a one year trial period during which the permanent net would be removed. This would free up the beach area when volleyball is not in use and would dis- courage some who just park and play. He also suggested posting'reasonable hours and shifting the court slightly away from the homes so they are a minimum of 50' away. Tracy Riddle, 6151 Orchid, addressed the Commission. Tracy stated players would lose quality of play and a well protected area should the court be removed. Chair Brenner closed Public Testimony and discussion by the Commission ensued. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. stated he.felt the site is a great place to play 'vol 1eyba1l but feel's the rights of the home- owners should be respected. He suggested a compromise be sought such as removing the net and posting hours which the players could enforce'themselves for a trial period. Motion x Commissioner Taft motioned the net'be removed and reasonable hours-,be posted. Commissioner Grant stated he felt the court is unauthorized under the new guidelines and there needs to be a balance of needs between the homeowners and the public. He suggested slightly relocating the court. He felt removing it would cause more parking and traffic problems. Commissioner Konwiser stated he felt this public beach should be used by as many as possible. He felt that since Motion Ayes CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH XIX I XIX Parks, Beaches .& Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX posting of hours cannot be enforced, this be eliminated from the motion. Commissioner Springer proposed the hours be 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. year round'and enforced by the players. Chair Brenner suggested the posting of hours be referred to the Oceanfront and Beach Committee. When the hours-are posted, it should-be noted the court is on a trial basis. Commissioner Herberts and.Grant concurred. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. suggested the Oceanfront and Beach Committee meet with the players and residents'to implement a compromise. Commissioner Taft announced he and Commissioner Springer will meet with the China Cove community and the volleyball pl.ayers. He asked that those involved leave their name with Mark Deven so they can be-contacted when a meeting date Is•establi•shed. Commissioner Taft amended his motion to state the volleyball court at China Cove be retained with the condition that the net be taken down when people are not playing; that the hours, regulations, and location will be referred to the Oceanfront and Beach Committee for a-decision which will be made in conjunction with the China Cove Association and the volleyball players using the courts. Unanimous. The Commission will review the Oceanfront and Beach Committee's report at their June 7, 1988 meeting. Chair Brenner pointed•out this will be on a trial basis and asked the volleyball•players to notify other players. Commissioner Konwiser also asked the players to notify Mark Deven so there can be a proper follow up. Item #6 - Newport Heights Park Needs Director Whitley referred to a letter received from Karen Smith, 3309 Clay Street, which was presented at the April 5 meeting add continued to this meeting. Ms. Smith referred in her letter to church property for sale at Clay and Bolsa, and suggested it be purchased for a green belt area since the Heights area is deficient in parks. . Chair Brenner opened the meeting to Public Testimony. Newport Heights Park Needs CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks,, Beaches .& Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Shari Rooks, 3308 Clay Street, addressed the Commission. She reported that the church property has been purchased, however, there•is property in foreclosure at 3262 Broad Street at the corner of Clay, Bolsa and Broad Streets which will be available. Ms. Rooks reported the Heights area is in•'need of more parks and-none is accessible with a baby stroller. She presented a petition from the residents in the area supporting the inclusion of a small,•passive City park. She stated the residents would help with landscaping, architecture, etc. to help defray the costs. Mr. Bill.Gadero addressed the Commission and presented and explained alternative plans for a small park. Director Whitley questioned if Bolsa Street can-be legally abandoned and used for a park. This matter would have to be directed to the Public Works Department. Commissioner Springer advised that there are•many speeders on Ol,d Newport Blvd. and a park would alleviate these•problems and act as a buffer zone between the residential and commercial areas. Chair Brenner suggested the street end issue be referred to Public Works and Commissioner Konwiser agreed that the -matter be postponed until there is an answer on the street closure. Commissioner Grant thanked the residents for their input. He noted that the first phase priority of the General, Plan does not include open space in Newport Heights. ..Commissioner Herberts stated she supports a small park in the Heights area and 'appreciates the residents' work identifying what they would like. Karen Smith, 3309 Clay Street; addressed the Commission. She said the old area of Newport Heights is very neglected. If a park cannot be put in this area, one should be put in the Heights area. She said the:--residents wanted their desires called to the Commission's attention and they will be willing to help fund raising and provide other services. Chair Brenner asked Director Whitley to bring back informa- tion on the street end and the possibility of establishing a small tot lot area. v 0 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Motion Seconded Ayes Motion Ayes 0 arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX x Commissioner Konwiser moved staff investigate closing x Bolsa Street and investigate the possibilities of a tot lot x x x x x x x next to Bolsa. Seconded by Taft. Unanimous. Item #7 - Pro ositi02 70, The California Wildlife, Coastal Proposi- an Par land Conservation Act tion 70 Director Whitley reviewed Proposition 70 and reported that from a state wide view such measures are all successful, get on the ballot and pass. Commissioner Grant advised that funds for the Lincoln facility came from one of the bond acts and Director Whitley explained that this was the first time the Depart- ment pursued it competitively. x Commissioner Grant motioned recommendation be made to x x x x x x Council to support Proposition 70 by making it a Resolution and instruct staff to transmit a letter and this information to homeowner groups so they can get their members out to vot . Unanimous. Item #8 - Tree Removal Appeal, 1936 Leeward Tree Removal Director Whitley reported that in compliance with Policy, Appeal the resident is appealing the Street Tree Committee's• decision to.retain the Thomlinson Ash Tree. The Park and Tree Maintenance Superintendent recommends the tree be removed since it has caused considerable sidewalk damage. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. advised this is one of the trees designated to be removed during a Public Works project, however, this may take 1 -2 years. He recommended the tree be retained. Commissioner Konwiser stated he believes the tree, which is beautiful, should remain since it is nearing'maturity and will remain stabilized for 50 years or more once the side- walk is repaired. He felt there was only minor sidewalk damage. Commissioner Herberts stated she feels this street has many -beautiful Thomlinson Ash Trees, that the sidewalk should be repaired and the trees be retained. She asked that the Commission request the funds to repair sidewalks more fre- quently, if needed, in areas where there are exceptionally beautiful and mature trees. Motion Ayes Motion Ayes 10 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH Parks, Beaches .& Recreation Commission Page 8 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Mkt Commissioner Springer stated she feels the tree should be removed and •replaced. Commissioner Grant suggested there be guidance from Council and, referring to Policy,-there is an overwhelming reason not to remove the tree. Director Whitley advised the Commission could ask Council to transmit to Public Works that they put in new sidewalks and save the trees. x Commissioner Konwiser motioned the tree be retained. x x x x x x Unanimous. Director Whitley will notify.the homeowner that the entire street project may be'reconsidered and that they can appeal this Commission's decision to the City Council. Item #9 - Facility Fees Facility. Fees Mark Deven reported staff-recommends approval of the pro- posed facility fee schedule. He reviewed.the report submitted'and pointed out that fees have not been reviewed since 1983. It'is timely to increase them due to finalizing Bonita Creek Park, the Grant Howald Community Center, re- furbishment of fields,, etc. Mr. Deven explained that all, facility fees are deposited into the self- supporting revenue fund. x Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. moved to accept the fee schedule x x x x x x as. proposed by staff. Unanimous. Item #10 - Proposed New Recreation•Actiyities, 1988 Proposed New Rec- Summer Program reation Mark Deven reported there are 37 new activities summarized Activities and presented in rough form which have been approved by the Recreation P- rogram Committee. Upon Commission approval, they will be transmitted to Council for approval so they can be included in the summer brochure. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr.-questioned the difference between introductory sculling /kayaking and beginning sculling/ kayaking. Mark Deven explained that the introductory clinic is on -going at no charge offered by the Newport Aquatic Center. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. asked that this be in- cluded in the description to clarify the two programs. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Taft said he appreciated getting the programs in advance which should also generate new interests. Commissioner Grant suggested a one page summary outlining new programs be distributed to schools, organizations, etc. and-Mark Deven advised they are provided at Mariners Park and CYC. Motion x Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. motioned to accept the proposed Ayes x x x > x Y x recreation program activities. Seconded by Grant. Unanimous. III. 'PUBL•IC COMMENTS Commissioner Herberts passed out communications from Dr. Jan Vandersloot, 2221 -16th Street, and Robert House of . Newport -Mesa Unified School District's Science Department regarding Avon Street Wetlands. This area directly ad- joins Cliff Drive Park and should excavation occur and a retaining wall put in, it would severely impact the park. Chair Brenner opened the meeting to Public Testimony and Dr. Vandersloot, 2221 16th Street, addressed the Commission. Dr. Vandersloot reported the Wetlands area is used by Newport Harbor High School to gather specimens for their science-class. He commissioned a biologist to analyze the nature of the water and flora /fauna on the hillside. The results showed a flow-of fresh water which supports fish, plants and other aquatic forms. Dr. Vandersloot stated that Cliff Drive Park by definition is a view park.- If a parking lot is bui'1t, usable park space will be lost and impact biological, educational and -historical aspects'of -the hillside and wetland. Dr. Vandersloot is also concerned about the homes being planned which would result in removing vegetation, con- densing the park and losing the wetlands and habitat. He suggested the definition of Cliff Drive Park be expanded to include the value of•the wetlands and hillside. He suggested other alternatives to the parking lot be pursued. Director Whitley advised the Avon Street Creek site is outside the boundaries of the actual park and thus out of the purview of this Commission. The entire matter was reviewed at the City Council's last meeting and was con - tinued. Commissioner Herberts referred to the impact this matter �I will have on the park and which the Commission should be CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 10 City Council Chamber's 7 p.m. INDEX made aware. Preserving natural resources womit reflect on anyone's property. Chair Brenner stated it is the consensus of this Commission to direct Mr. Whitley to ask Council if they want this Commission to-consider the matter. VI. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item #11 - Commission Committee Reports Commission Committee a. Capital Improvements —Director Whitley advised the Reports Commission's recommendations eliminating Items 14 -and 16 will be presented to the City Council at their next meeting on May 9. Big Canyon - Commissioner. Grant requested staff gather information from other Departments reviewing Big Canyon so that the Commission can decide whether to continue a study on the subject. Director Whitley advised the Public Works Department has not yet responded to his memo asking for information on Big Canyon. He will ask for a response to his orig.inal memo. West Newport - Commissioner Wolfe,.Jr. asked about the status of the restroom and Director Whitley advised Public Works is in the process of responding. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. asked about the status-of the West Newport Community Center. Director Whitley advised the City Council gave'approval for the City to apply to HUD for funds,to be used for this purpose. Site Plan of CYC and Oasis Passive Park - Commissioner Grant will respond to Councilman Sansone's request that there is not enough room to provide a flat ballfield. b. Street Tree - Commissioner Herberts reported the Committee met Apri•1 27 and received many requests for re =-.. moval. They agreed with staff on all except one. Commissioner Herberts requested a memo from Commissioner Konwiser regarding the trees on Leeward. She also re- quested Public Works provide more information on the Corona del Mar project and recommended input be solicited from those directly involved. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 11 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. asked -that the Committee be pro- vided a list of replacement trees that have been approved by this Commission. Commissioner Herberts asked for a list of addresses where trees have been replaced. Commissioner Grant recommended the dates of removal and replacement for each address be includedlin the Park and Street Tree Division report. Commissioner Wolfe, Jr. questioned the trees encroaching on Ocean Blvd: Chair Brenner and Commissioner Springer will pursue. Commissioner Herberts reported that.2 trees at 509 Begonia referred to-Councilman Sansone will be removed. Chair Brenner asked Director Whitley to relay to the Park and Tree Maintenance Superintendent that trees not be removed in Corona del Mar until the involved homeowners association has provided input. Commissioner Herberts concurred. Commissioner Grant said he will contact Mr.'Brooks about asking The Irvine Company for their study on-diseased Palms. c. Recreation Program : Report received and filed. 'Commissioner Wolfe, Jr.•asked that a group picture of the Commission be taken at their June meeting. d. Oceanfront and Beach - Commissioner Springer reviewed the report and recommendations submitted on Lifeguard Staffing at Corona del Mar. The committee concurred with the Marine Department's program which is working well with no major problems. Chair Brenner reported Council is raising the parking permit fees and Director Whitley advised these are established by-Council and are consistent with other beach cities. Commissioner Taft-complimented Commissioner Springer on her excellent report. Mark Deven reported timely posting of voll-eyball court removals will take place.in.order• that the'Commission can consider them-as soon as possible. �3 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 12 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX e. Facility Evaluation - Commissioner Konwiser reported Carnation, Bayside, Begonia and Old School Parks all look fine. Commissioner Taft stated the park signs look great, however, the slopes at Westcliff Park need attention. f. Budget - Director Whitley reported Council will review the maintenance and operation budget on May 23 at their Study Session. f. Chair Brenner asked Director Whitley to provide a draft of the Commission's orientation manual at-their June meeting. She also asked that:-the Implementation portion of the General Plan be reviewed at the June meeting. She asked that-the Commission think about subjects to be addressed at their joint meeting with Council on June 27. Item #12 - Commission Liaison Reports Commission Liaison a. Friends of Oasis --No report. Reports b. Friends of the Theatre Arts Center - Commissioner Herberts reported the TAO Board was upset that six trees 'were removed and that they were not consulted. Discussion ensued regarding clarification of the trees removed. Director Whitley'reported'it has not been decided where the • replacement trees-will be-located on- site. Item #13 - Status of Capital Projects Status of Capital Director Whitley reported the West Newport Park dedication Projects date has been changed from May 21 to June-'4, 1988. Commissioner Grant stated the red roof on the Bonita Creek building is not compatible with the surrounding development. He asked that an investigation be pursued towards changing 'the color at no expense. Director Whitley announced the Grant Howald Community Center will be dedicated on June 25. Mark Deven advised the Commission will be reviewing the pre- liminary plans for the-Lincoln facility at•their next meeting ILI CITY OF NEWPORT 'BEACH Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 13 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Director Whitley stated tiie preliminary plans for.Newport Island have been reviewed and construction should begin in a'few weeks. PCH Boat Ramp - Director Whitley will contact the Marine Department for a written report. Item #14 - Recreation Division Recreation Division Report received and filed. Item #15 - Park and Street Tree Division Park and Street Report received and filed. Tree Division Item #16 - Future Agenda Items Mark Deven announced the Friends of Oasis would like to meet jointly with'the Commission at their June 7 meeting. Status of construction will be discussed and the new Recreation Supervisor will be introduced. He also advised that the Police Department does not have funds for a crossing guard, however, they'would be willing to train a volunteer. VII. SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS VIII: ADJOURNMENT There being no further business,-the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned at 11:00 P:M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on April 26, 198&6t 2:00 P.M. outside the City Hall Administration Building. Dottie Flohr, Secret ry