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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/03/1990 - PB&R CommissionCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH r) U Item No. 3 arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission April 3, 1990 City Council Chambers • 7 p.m. INDEX Ex- Officio Member Present: Ronald A. Whitley Staff Present: Nancy Beard, Recreation Superintendent Jack Brooks, Park and Tree Maintenance Superintendent Maggi Craven, Acting Secretary I. PROCEDURAL MATTERS Item #1 - Call to Order Call to Ordei The meeting of the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission was called to order at 7:00 P.M. Item #2 - Roll Call Roll Call Roll call was taken. Commissioners Compton, Demmer, Taft, Konwiser and Vandervort were present. Commissioners Herberts and Grant were absent. Item #3 - Approval of Minutes - Meeting of March 6, 1990 Approval of Minutes Commissioner Compton moved the minutes of the March 6, 1990 meeting be approved. Unanimous. Item #4 - Adoption of Agenda kdoption of Benda The agenda was adopted as presented with the addition•of Greenbelt Area /American Legion to be addressed under Item #15, and that Jim Tucker, friends of the Pool, would address-.the Commissidn under-Public Comments. II. ACTION ITEMS Item #5 - Tree Removal Appeal, 1624 Anita Lane Tree Removal ppeal The Commission determined that the tree under-discussion at the last meeting was the wrong tree. The tree to be removed is adjacent to the one under discussion at the last Commission meeting. Chair Taft opened the meeting to Public Testimony and Pearl Cotliar of 1618 Anita Lane addressed the Commission. Ms. Cotliar referred the Commission to the letter of her neighbor, Frances Ciaccio. Ms. Cotliar added that she needs to remove this tree for a new driveway. She noted that there are presently four trees on the property and the _ CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 2 City Council Chambers 7 D.m. INDEX removal of this particular tree would not lessen the beauty of the neighborhood. Ms. Cotliar said her sidewalk is lifted in several areas. Ms. Cotliar also advised that she has had to put in a new draining system. She submitted pictures to the Commission. There being no further Public Testimony, public hearing was closed. Commissioner Demmer noted she observed that the sidewalk was in excellent condition and that Ms. Cotliar's property was in excellent condition. Commissioner Compton asked Jack Brooks if there is a prob- lem putting in a tree at this location. Mr. Brooks advised the Commission that staff had recommended removal and re- placement. Commissioner Konwiser noted that sprinklers had been put in and that the property was greatly enhanced by parkway trees. He observed that the curb and sidewalk were in good condition. He was not satisfied with the driveway but suggested that the property owner could put in a "cold joint." Commissioner Vandervort noted that there was some cracking in the driveway, but it was not in the main pathway. She was impressed with the overall condition of the property. Chair Taft had observed the property and favored retaining the tree. Motion x Commissioner Konwiser moved the tree be retained in its Ayes x x x x present condition. Unanimous. Item #6 - Tree Removal Appeal, 2301 Holly Lane Free Removal %ppeal Commissioner Demmer addressed the Commission advising that the Street Tree Committee went to the site and observed no physical damage to the curb or parkway and noted that the tree was healthy and appeared to be causing no detri- mental effects to the street or neighborhood. �) Following Commissioner Demmer's opening statement, Chair Taft opened the meeting to Public Testimony. I� Melissa Donaldson of 2301 Holly Lane addressed the Commis - 1 sion. Ms. Donaldson reported that she has incurred an CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 3 City Council Chambers 7 n_m_ INnFPX increased number of root cleanage bills and there has been damage to her pipes. Ms. Donaldson requested removal of the Ficus Tree because of these problems. There being no further Public Testimony, public hearing was closed. Chair Taft asked Jack Brooks whether Ms. Donaldson could remove this tree if the City will not. Mr. Brooks reported that if the tree in question is within five feet of the sewer line, then the City can remove and replace with another tree in some other section of the property. He further added that staff recommends no removal and that Ms. Donaldson be required to have a tracer to determine proximity of the sewer line. He further noted that her property. is within the Costa Mesa Water District. Commissioner Demmer reported that she observed a Pine Tree on the property that may be causing problems. She further noted that there, is obviously a problem, but it may be the Pine Tree which is causing the problem. Commissioner Konwiser noted that the underlying sentiment is whether the Pine Tree might be the real problem. He observed that the Pine Tree was very misshapen. Commis- sioner Konwiser recommended removal of the Pine Tree and retainment of the Ficus Tree. Commissioner Compton recommended finding the sewer line. If the Ficus is on the sewer fine, then he would be in favor of removing the Ficus Tree. Commissioner Vandervort noted that Ms. Donaldson's letter referred to the owner's water line. Commissioner Vandervort recommended that the property owner take out the Pine Tree now and if the problem continues, then have the property owner return in a year with bill's substantiating further problems. Chair Taft agreed with Commissioner Vandervort concerning removal of the Pine Tree. Jack Brooks advised-the Commission that the City has de- tectors which could determine the proximity of the sewer line. Commissioner Konwiser recommended that staff not be involve in the detection if the property owner could not afford the cost. He advised that he had other sources for detec- tion if the owner so desired. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 4 City Council Chambers . 7 D.M. INDEX Motion x Commissioner Vandervort motioned the property owner Ayes x x x x x determine whether the Ficus Rubinginosa at 2301 Holly is within five feet of the sewer line and, if It is not, there be no removal of said tree for at least one year. Unanimous. Item #7 - Tree Removal Appeal 506 Begonia Tree Removal Appeal Commissioner Compton advised the Commission that the Street Tree Committee met and there was a split vote on this item. Chair Taft opened the meeting to Public Testimony and Mr. Whitney J. Grant, 506 Begonia Avenue, addressed the Commis- sion and advised that the two trees on his property are very healthy but they are extremely hazardous for the parking area. He advised that the pavement had been replaced twice in 12 years. He further noted that the trees are 58" in diameter and still growing. Mr. Grant was concerned with - the hazardous conditions on the parkway strip. There being no further Public Testimony, public hearing was closed. Commissioner Demmer submitted that a compromise might be the answer: She recommended that one tree be taken out and one tree remain. Commissioner Vandervort recommended that the tree in front of the front entrance walkway, i.e., the southern of the two trees, be removed. Commissioner Compton recommended that one of the trees be removed and the remaining tree be trimmed. Commissioner Konwiser noted that the property owner was overburdened'and he agreed that one tree should be removed. Chair Taft agreed that the property owner had a significant burden with two trees. Motion x Commissioner Konwiser moved the tree closest to the ocean Ayes x x x x x be removed. Unanimous. Item . #8 - 38th Street Park, Basketball Courts 38th Street ark Director Whitley opened this item with a,brief history of the park. Mr. Whitley reported that this park had been re- furbished three or four years ago and at the time the boule- vard was widened, thus the park lost one -third of its CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 5 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX original space. Mr. Whitley further °advised that the park in its present condition has won State wide awards for.the usage of space. Mr. Whitley submitted that staff be given the opportunity to monitor the park-for a period of time and assess the situation on the basketball courts, and then make a recommendation as.to whether compliance signs should be used or some other steps taken. Director Whitley further noted that a half court in the' West Newport Park has been added and it is 'having good use. Commissioner Demmer asked staff how the monitoring would'be 'accomplished and would it ultimately alleviate the problem. Chair Taft opened the meeting to Public Testimony, Gary L. Wyatt, 3704 Park Lane, addressed the Commission and advised that 38th Street Park has become inundated all day 1 j and hight with basketball players. There are 25 players on any afternoon and on weekends- there are as many as 50 to 60 players. There are tournaments and the players are mostly older and from other cities. The use of profanity and the sounds of portable radios are increasingly loud. He further addressed the issue of parking and heavy traffic in the neighborhood. Mr. Wyatt recommended that the City allow the shrubs to grow longer and not be trimmed in order . to create a buffer for the neighborhood. He expressed his desire that if the problem of noise cannot be rectified he would like the courts closed and replaced with grass and trees. Art Campos, 3608 Park Lane, addressed the Commission and expressed his love of the courts and he added that he felt . the City was doing an excellent job in providing playing courts. He told the Commission he wanted:the• park to remain in its present condition. Commissioner Konwiser submitted that the West Newport area is of high density right now. He'added'that he agreed with Director Whitley that monitoring the courts would be a good . start along'.with the use of stronger signs for the public. Commissioner Compton expressed that the key to the problem is enforcement. He further added that rowdy behavior cannot continue. He agreed with Director Whitley concerning monitoring the park and the use of signs. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 6 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Commissioner Vandervort reported to the Commission that she had visited the park and observed about twenty four people on an afternoon. She did not observe any parking problems. She agreed that the shrubs were very short. Commissioner Vandervort suggested the placement of more half courts to defuse the present conditions. Chair Taft reported that the park was well used and the utilization of space was excellent for a small area. He added that he would be in favor of monitoring the courts and perhaps in the near future adding a court at Channel Place-Park. - - Commissioner Compton expressed his empathy to Mr: Wyatt -with regard to the noise and the inability of smaller children getting court time. He expressed that the City must not let the parks become a problem for the neighborhood. Commissioner Compton recommended that the City take.steps F) to monitor the park. He is opposed to closing down the full court, and recommended that staff establish an effective monitoring system to alleviate the noise. Commissioner Konwiser concurred that staff should monitor this park. Director Whitley recommended to the Commission that staff gather the following -information to implement rules and regulations: (1) Parking; (2) Language and profanity; noise from radios; (3) The hours when courts are in use; i and (4) The stronger enforcement of effective signs. Director Whitley, added that he would like to.begin the monitoring of the courts as soon as.possible so that the situation could be rectified by the summer. Chair Taft agreed that staff should start as soon as possibl so that some guidelines and regulations would be enforced. Commissioner Compton had questions concerning police enforce- ment and the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Department. Motion x Commissioner Compton motioned that staff take immediate Ayes x x x x x steps to monitor the 38th Street Park basketball courts and initiate enforcement, whether they be in the form of signs lam' or other measures. Unanimous. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 7 City Council Chambers 7 .D.m. INDEX III. 'PUBLIC COMMENTS Friends of the Pool Friends of tl Pool Jim Tucker addressed the Commission requesting that an Ad Hoc Committee of volunteers.be recognized and formed as a non - profit corporation under Section 401C(3). The purpose of the corporation would be to raise funds for the future maintenance of the pool. Mr. Tucker advised that approxi- mately $240,OOQ has been raised from individuals and alumni; approximately $215,000 from corporations; $625,000 from the City; approximately $22.5,000 from the County of Orange; and about $420,000 from the School District. IV. DISCUSSION Item #9 - Rul'es.and Regulations, Corona del Mar Hi h School Rules and Olympic Pool Regulations. Corona del Commissioner Compton opened the discussion reporting to the Mar Olympic Commission•that the Recreation Subcommittee and staff had a Pool fruitful meeting and that an agreement was reached for joint use of the pool. Hours are specified in the agreement. 'He further added that the finalization of the rules and regulations will- be determined next month. Chair Taft inquired as to the disposition of the existing pool. Commissioner Compton advised that it may become a practice pool for the School District. Commissioner Compton also advised the Commission that Oasis had been invited to participate, but there were some questions about the footage in the shallow end of the pool for aerobic exercises and whether the showers would have hot water. Commissioner Demmer congratulated Mr. Tucker for the success- ful completion of the pool. Mr. Tucker told the Commission the success of the new pool was contingent on the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Department's support. Chair Taft noted that the pool was a great asset to the City and reminded everyone that on April 25, 1990, Corona del Mar vs. Harbor High School has a swim meet which is open to the public. Commissioner Compton submitted to the Commission that the Agreement between the City and the Newport -Mesa Unified CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission City Council Chambers . 7 p.m. INDEX School District Title I, Division III, Chapter 'V covers the Friends of the Pool. The Commission agreed to table adoption of Rules and Regula- tions concerning priority of use of the pool until the next meeting when it will be an Action Item. Item #10.- Girl Scout Lease Agreement Girl Scout Lease Director Whitley reported to the Commission that staff had Agreement recommended the following with regard to the lease agreement: (1) Modify automotive insurance; (2) Add provision for use b Parks, Beaches and Recreation and also use by.local communit -and civic organizations; and -(3) Add-provision requiring One Dollar compensation to the City. Director Whitley further advised that City Council did not elect to put in No. 2 provision because they had received numerous letters from Girl Scouts requesting that the facility not be made available to the public. Mr. Whitley further added that the .lease is.presently a 13 year term and it is staff's position that this facility should not have a City sign. Commissionerjandervort inquired of staff why liability automotive insurance was,necessary. Director Whitley ad- vised that all Girl Scouts transport the children all over the County, therefore, the City requires insurance. Item #1.1 - Trees on•200 Block of Larkspur Trees on Director Whitley opened this discussion by advising the 200 Block of Larkspur Commission that a letter was received from a homeowner on the 200 block of Larkspur at the approximate time-a neighbor- hood petition was received. Director Whitley recommended that this item be tabled and brought up as an Action Item at the next Commission meeting so that staff may have an opportunity to review the ordinances and discuss the•issue with the Planning Department and City Attorney. Jack Brooks reported to the Commission that the Department advised the homeowner that parkway trees were permitted, but not more than three trees. The tree acceptable for the parkway is the Magnolia. Chair Taft opened the meeting, to Public Testimony but I� tempered the time factor,•reminding the public that this item will be an Action Item at the next meeting. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 9 City Council Chambers 7 D.m_ INnFX Betty Bottorf, 221 Larkspur, addressed the Commission - - - advising that there are no trees on her block.-'She further - advised that these trees impact the view of six homes at the present time and that trees have never been planted in this area. Keith Burnett of 215 Larkspur addressed the Commission advising that he purchased his home one year ago specifically for the great ocean view. He further advised that no trees have been planted for 40 years. He said that his property value is decreased by these trees. E.J. Mueller, 222 Larkspur, addressed the Commission ad- - - -vising-the Commission-that he asked the owner of 3128- - - Larkspur.to refrain from planting the trees. It is Mr. Mueller's understanding that there is an established City Ordinance with regard to planting trees on Ocean Boulevard. Mr.. Mueller further advised that his view is now 30% im- paired by these trees. Michael E. Bayer, M.D., 3128 Ocean Boulevard, addressed the Commission. He stated that Jack Brooks approved the planting of 5 or 6 Magnolia Trees with the proviso that the property owner keep them back from the-stop sign. Dr.'Bayer further advised that when the neighbors saw the holes for trees, an uproar ensued. Dr. Bayer immediately called Mr. Whitley. •Dr..Bayer also stated that Mr. Brooks came out to the property and observed that one of the trees was too close to the fire hydrant, and Mr. Brooks told him to plant only three trees. Dr. Bayer expressed his confusion and dismay with the City concerning what his rights are with respect to tree planting. Commissioner Konwiser reported to the Commission that he had visited the area and observed the area. He expressed to the homeowner that view impact is crucial to the homeowners in the area and he hoped that the neighbors and Dr. Bayer could reach a happy medium. Commissioner Compton encouraged the homeowners to try to work out their differences before next month's meeting if possible. Commissioner Demmer noted that the Commission needed to review the Ordinances in.their entirety and be advised of U the legal interpretations as they apply to this request by the homeowner on Larkspur prior to the next meeting. Chair Taft advised the Commission that this is an Action Item for next month's meeting and closed the discussion. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 10 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #12••- Status of Capital Projects FY 1989 -90 Status of Capital Director Whitley opened the discussion reporting that for 'Projects the last two months there has been little activity on this matter. He further stated two projects are presently awaiting Public Works to coordinate plan-checks-with the Building Department. Inspiration Point is awaiting planting of slopes, and two restrooms are being installed at the Community Youth Center and Eastbluff Park. Jack Brooks reported that one island on Jamboree Road has been completed: He'further stated that the other projects will be accomplished when the construction of Jamboree Road - is completed. - — Nancy Beard, Recreation Superintendent, reported that the lights at the Lincoln facility, will remain off until April 2 at which time shields will be installed. �^ 1 Commissioner Konwiser noted that a sign should be placed at Inspiration Point. Jack Brooks advised that he is in the process of placing one on a bench at the site. Item #13 - Recreation Division Recreation Division Nancy Beard reported to the Commission that the spring quarter has started and that the Department has been very busy and all programs are in progress,. Ms. Beard noted that the Scenic 5K Run is on schedule. Commissioner Vandervort expressed an interest in the Bay Watchers program. Nancy Beard submitted that she will re- port on this program at next month's meeting. Item #14 - Park and Street Tree Divisiom Park and Street Tree Chair Taft inquired of staff about the steps that lead no- Division where in Begonia Park. Jack.Brooks advised.that a bid has been received and that these steps will be removed within one month. Commissioner Demmer addressed the issue of the green area next to the American Legion building and inquired of staff l C ' if the'City owns the green strip. Director Whitley advised that the turf is area City owned. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission, Page 11 City Council Chambers 7 r).m. INDFX .Commissioner Demmer stated that the turf area might be an appropriate place for a basketball court, as there is a wide street and it is adjacent to tennis courts. Director Whitley reported-that the American Legion has plans to.extend their lease and possibly develop this area .themselves. Mr. Whitley reported that originally staff made a•proposal that this piece of turf be used as a dry dock for boats, but the proposal was turned down. Chair Taft requested staff to follow through with the Park and:Open Space Committee and to check with the American Legion and Central Newport concerning future plans for this turf. V. COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED Item #15 - Card Received Re.. Do s on Beach Card Re- ceived Re. The Commission noted receipt of the postcard concerning Dogs on dogs on the beach. Beach VI. COMMISSION COMMITTEES Item #16 - Capital Improvements Capital III Improvement No report from Chair Konwiser. Item #17 - Street Tree Street Tree Commissioner Compton reported, that four tree requests have been completed and the next committee meeting is April 5. Item #18 - Recreation Program Recreation Program Chair Compton advised that this program had been addressed under Item #9. He also noted that the committee was meeting with staff. Nancy Beard reported that a message for the summer recrea- tion brochure program is needed. Commissioner Compton noted that the Department should have a credit in the message. Chair Taft advised that Commissioner Compton work with staff to create two messages, namely (1) A message from the Chair of the Commission and (2) A message from the Commission recognizing the Department's diligent work. CITY OF NEWPORT .BEACH r. arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 12 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Nancy Beard advised staff should receive these messages by April 9, 1990. Item #19 - ;Oceanfront and Beach Oceanfront and Beach Committee Chair Vandervort reported that she was gathering information on the replacement of existing poles with a new type of poles. Commissioner Konwiser reported that the beach encroachment issue has been turned over to the Planning Department and City Council. It will be decided by City Council how many feet for a residence and establish a yearly fee. Item #20 - Budget Budget No report from Chair Taft. item• #21• - .Parks and Open Space Acquisition Parks and Open Space No report. Acquisition Item #22 - Newport Shores Park Newport Shores Park No report from Chair Compton. Item #23 - Chair's Report Chair's Report Chair Taft reported that the recreation conference in San Diego was very enjoyable. As a result of�this conference Chair Taft proposed that the Commission effect the following: New commissioners be introduced to all Department Super- intendents and Supervisors and apprised of their duties and be given a brief tour of all recreation facilities so that the Commissioner(s) can be knowledgeable about the activities within the Department. Chair Taft further noted that inter - community programs have been initiated in Irvine, Laguna and Huntington Beach to help solve common problems. Director Whitley noted that a group of Recreation Departments had formed called L.A. Basin but it was too widespread and did not continue. Recreation Superintendent Nancy Beard -re ported that a new Youth Council had'been formed in conjunction with'City Counci involving Newport Harbor High School and Corona del Mar High School and City Council Members Sansone and Watt. CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH arks, Beaches & Recreation Commission Page 13 City Council Chambers 7 p.m. INDEX Item #24 - Commission Liaison Assignments Commission Liaison Friends of Oasis - Commissioner Demmer reported that Assignments .A. .Norma Gilcrest had been elected President. She further noted that Oas -is wants to extend its services to the West Newport Community Center and is meeting with the Long Range.Planning Committee to make plans to that effect. B. Friends of the Theatre Arts Center - Commissioner Compton reported that the parking lot light is out of order. Director Whitley advised he would'•rectify the ' problem. Commissioner Compton also reported the back side of the hill needs planting. Jack Brooks reported the back side hill had been planted. VII SPECIAL, URGENT OR LAST MINUTE ITEMS Chair Taft noted that Arbor Day is set for April 27, 1990. Chair Taft advised that Item #7, Tree Removal Appeal at 1100 Pembroke Lane, be placed on next month's agenda for clarification. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission adjourned at 10:30 P.M. The agenda for this meeting was posted on March 27, 1990 at 10:00 A.M. outside the City Hall Administration Building. ��