HomeMy WebLinkAboutHarbor Commission Agenda October, 14 2015CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
HARBOR COMMISSION AGENDA
City Council Chambers – 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach
Wednesday, October 14, 2015 - 6:30 PM
Harbor Commission Members:
Dave Girling, Chair
Paul Blank, Vice Chair
Joe Stapleton, Secretary
Brad Avery, Commissioner
Bill Kenney, Commissioner
Duncan McIntosh, Commissioner
Doug West, Commissioner
Staff Members:
Chris Miller, Harbor Resources Manager
Shannon Levin, Harbor Resources Supervisor
The Harbor Commission meeting is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act. Among other things, the Brown Act requires that the
Harbor Commission agenda be posted at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance of each regular meeting and that the public be
allowed to comment on agenda items before the Commission and items not on the agenda but are within the subject matter
jurisdiction of the Harbor Commission. The Chair may limit public comments to a reasonable amount of time, generally three (3)
minutes per person.
The City of Newport Beach’s goal is to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an attendee or a
participant at this meeting, you will need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, we will attempt to accommodate
you in every reasonable manner. Please contact Chris Miller, Harbor Resources Manager, at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to
the meeting to inform us of your particular needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible at (949) 644-3034 or
cmiller@newportbeachca.gov.
NOTICE REGARDING PRESENTATIONS REQUIRING USE OF CITY EQUIPMENT
Any presentation requiring the use of the City of Newport Beach’s equipment must be submitted to the Harbor Resources Division
24 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
1)CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2)ROLL CALL
3)PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4)PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments are invited on agenda and non-agenda items generally considered to be
within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. Speakers must limit comments to
three (3) minutes. Before speaking, we invite, but do not require, you to state your name for
the record. The Commission has the discretion to extend or shorten the speakers’ time limit on
agenda or non-agenda items, provided the time limit adjustment is applied equally to all
speakers. As a courtesy, please turn cell phones off or set them in the silent mode.
5)APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approval of September 9, 2015 Minutes
Approve.
Draft Minutes
6)CURRENT BUSINESS
Mooring Revocations1.
Mooring permits may be revoked due to failure to pay annual rental fees. According to Newport
Beach Municipal Code (NBMC) Chapter 17.70, the Harbor Commission shall conduct a hearing
prior to revoking a mooring permit.
1) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit H-79 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
2) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit H-813 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
3) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit J-0087 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
4) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit J-0110 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
5) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit J-513 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
6) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit S-140 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
7) Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC Sections
17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit W-032 for failure to pay annual rental
fees.
Staff Report
Harbor Commission 2015-16 Objectives: Review and Approve2.
The Harbor Commission ad hoc committee will review the proposed Objectives and recommend
approval.
1) Approve the proposed Harbor Commission’s Objectives for 2015-16.
Staff Report
Harbor Patrol Update3.
Lieutenant Mark Alsobrook, harbormaster, will update the Commission on the Harbor Patrol’s
operations.
1) Receive and file.
Staff Report
Copper in Newport Harbor - An Overview4.
Staff will present an overview of the copper Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL) for Newport Harbor
as required by the Water Board.
1) Receive and file.
Staff Report
Public Piers Report: Time Limits, Usage Characteristics and
Recommendations
5.
Harbor Commissioner Paul Blank will present the ad hoc committee’s findings and proposals for
time limits and usages at the City’s public piers.
1) Review and endorse the Public Piers Ad Hoc Committee’s proposals, then recommend to the
Harbor Resources Manager that they be implemented.
Staff Report
7)SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
8)QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH COUNCIL LIAISON ON HARBOR RELATED
ISSUES
9)QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH HARBOR RESOURCES MANAGER ON
HARBOR RELATED ISSUES
10)PUBLIC COMMENTS ON SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS OR QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS WITH COUNCIL LIAISON OR HARBOR RESOURCES MANAGER
11)COMMISSION ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE
PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION, ACTION OR REPORT
(NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
12)DATE AND TIME FOR NEXT MEETING: Monday, November 16, 2015 (different
date than normal)
13)ADJOURNMENT
NEWPORT BEACH HARBOR COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
City Council Chambers
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
6:30 PM
1) CALL MEETING TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM.
2) ROLL CALL
Commissioners: Dave Girling, Chair
Brad Avery
Paul Blank
William Kenney, Jr.
Duncan McIntosh
Joe Stapleton (Absent/Excused)
Doug West
Staff Members: Chris Miller, Harbor Resources Manager
Shannon Levin, Harbor Resources Supervisor
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Chair Girling
4) PUBLIC COMMENTS
Lt. Mark Alsobrook, Orange County Sheriff Department, Harbor Patrol, introduced himself to the
Commission.
5) APPROVAL OF MINUTES – July 8, 2015 Minutes
Chair Avery opened public discussion. Chair Avery closed public discussion.
Commissioner Blank offered a correction to the minutes.
Motion: Commissioner Kenny made a motion to approve the minutes of the Harbor Commission meeting of
July 8, 2015, as corrected. Commissioner Blank seconded the motion, which carried with 6 ayes, 0 noes,
with Commissioner Stapleton, absent. Approved.
6) CURRENT BUSINESS
1. Launching Vessels in Newport Harbor
Harbor Resources staff will review the various locations in the harbor to hand-launch vessels. In
addition, Planning Manger Patrick Alford will review the terms of the Newport Dunes Settlement
Agreement which describes the operational characteristics of the launch ramp for trailered vessels.
Recommendation:
1) Receive and file.
Planning Manager Patrick Alford provided a PowerPoint presentation addressing background on Newport
Dunes, allowed uses and development, Settlement Agreement and subsequent amendments, development
limits, boat-launch facilities, parking, wash-down and other marine facilities, dry-boat storage area, and
charter vessels. He added that the Dunes is also a venue for special events and commented on issues in
regards to access.
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Discussion followed regarding whether the Dunes has a continuous obligation to operate the launch ramps
and parking area, costs to launch, special events and related parking and ramp closures, number of spaces
per the Settlement Agreement, minimum number of spaces required to be maintained for people to launch
boats, and maintaining spaces for beach users and boat-launches during special events.
Commissioner Kenney commented on keeping the launch ramp open whether or not there is available
parking.
Continuing discussion occurred regarding use of the west-side parking area, accommodation of vehicles with
trailers and tents and semi-permanent structures.
Planning Manager Alford reported that the Settlement Agreement specifies the type of facilities the Dunes
has to provide. He added that it is fairly silent on how the operation occurs and as long as they maintain the
launch ramp and provided the minimum amount of parking spaces, they are in compliance with the
agreement. Additionally, he noted that the primary focus of Code Enforcement, during special events, deals
with noise control.
Discussion followed regarding enforcing the Settlement Agreement, ensuring that the ramp remains open
during special events, amendments to the Settlement Agreement to clarify specific issues and avoid
miscommunication and misunderstandings and special event permits.
In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Kenney regarding the possibility of making a presentation to the
Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission, Planning Manager Alford indicated he is unsure whether they
deal with special events. He pointed out that staff is currently working with the Dunes Management on a
CUP to deal with special events and that there is a possibility of including conditions that during special
events, the launch ramp must be kept open.
Chair Girling suggested having a discussion with the Dunes Management to ensure that everything is
understood and they abide by the Settlement Agreement.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller suggested establishing an Ad Hoc Committee to work with the Recreation
and Planning staff in that regard.
Chair Girling opened public comments.
Jim Mosher stated he does not recall City staff asking the PB&R to weigh in on special event permits. He
addressed the tent structure and an adjacent trailer parking area and asked whether the Dunes is required to
maintain the trailer parking area during special events in a specific area.
Planning Manager Alford reported that the Settlement Agreement establishes the minimum number of
spaces in the general area close to the boat ramp.
Chair Girling closed public comments.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller commented on the newly-developed Lower Castaways noting that it is
more user-friendly and has the capability of hand-launching vessels. He also commented on the 18th Street
launch pad as an area where hand-launching could be allowed but noted there is an existing bollard that
would need to be addressed. Additionally, he commented on many street-ends in the Peninsula where
hand-launching could occur and reported that there are no locations that are publicly available for larger
vessels that on trailers.
Chair Girling commented on, along with working with the Dunes, establishing a committee that could look at
sites for potential boat-launching.
Discussion followed regarding launching kayaks and paddleboards at Marina Park, private launching areas
(28th Street Marina), the Castaways, the importance of outreach, adding signage at Lower Castaways and
the Harbor Patrol's County Beach.
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Chair Girling opened public comments.
Jim Mosher commented on the written staff report for this item and expressed confusion in terms of allowing
and prohibiting hand-launching in specific areas. He wondered whether the City has kept track of locations
where hand-launching has been approved, by resolution, over the years. He commented on whether other
restrictions are permissible and referenced the State Constitutions relative to restricting access to the State's
navigable water.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller stated the item is something that needs to be updated at the time when
the Code will be updated.
Len Bose, Huntington Beach, commented on launching on 18th Street and noted there is a lot of space at
the NAC area and suggested the possibility of building another launch ramp there.
Carter Ford commented on launching vessels on trailers and stated he is only aware of two that are privately
operated. He commented on the variety of vessels used that are hard to carry on sand, and suggested the
Harbor Commission consider Regulation No. 4 in the Code. He stated that launching also relates to being
able to tie up boats and commended Commissioner Blank for his work on that matter (Item No. 4 on the
agenda).
Chair Girling agreed that it would be good to designate areas where hand-launching can occur.
Chair Girling closed public comments.
2. Harbor Commission Objectives: Review 2014-15 Objectives, and Form an Ad Hoc Committee
to Create 2015-16 Objectives
Commissioner West will review the Harbor Commission’s Objectives from 2014-15. The
Commission will form an ad hoc committee to create objectives for 2015-16.
Recommendation:
1) The Harbor Commission will form an ad hoc committee to create objectives for 2015-16.
Commissioner West introduced the item and addressed the need to review the objectives for 2014-15 as
well as to develop objectives for 2015-16. He noted that the development of objectives were delayed by the
transition of City Council and that the objectives were not presented to Council until after the transition. He
reported that ten goals were identified under two categories. The categories include ensuring the long-term
welfare of the Harbor and promoting Newport Harbor as a preferred and welcoming destination. He reported
on the approval of the Newport Specific Shallow-water Eelgrass Mitigation Plan and the progress of the
RGP54.
Chair Girling addressed use of Lower Castaways and thanked Harbor Resources Manager Miller, Harbor
Resources Supervisor Levin and staff for their efforts on this matter. He asked for a status update and steps
moving forward.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller reported that the status is "quo" and that it is not part of this year's budget.
He suggested Commissioners "plant a seed" with their respective Council Members so that it will be
considered in next year's budget. He added that it is the desire of some Council Members to make Lower
Castaways more accessible and open to the public. He stated that staff is open to suggestions.
Chair Girling reported meeting with Cal Rec and that they are open to participating in some way. He
suggested removing this as one of the goals and objectives and determining whether to maintain or remove
subsequent goals as they are reviewed.
Commissioner West addressed adjustments to the Harbor speed limit for certain racing events and
suggested that goal be carried over for another year.
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Relative to creating a forum for dialogue with representatives of the harbor charter fleet to promote the
development of a shared vision and charter operations standards to be achieved collaboratively, in the
future, Commissioner Avery stated he would like to carry that goal over for another year.
In terms of a collaboration with the Marine Committee of the Newport Beach Chamber of strategy
recommendations to support the preservation of water-dependent commercial and recreational activities as
prescribed in the Harbor Area Management Plan and the Harbor and Bay element of the General Plan,
Commissioner Avery reported that the Marine Committee has been revived and there is good collaboration,
but no specific action resulting from the last four meetings. He added that meetings will continue, going
forward. He suggested that it continue to be an objective for 2015-16.
Commissioner West addressed continuing the evaluation of alternatives, specifically in terms of an
anchorage in the turning basin, Commissioner Avery provided an update on the temporary anchorage. He
reported that there have been no complaints and recommended keeping this on and getting input from
neighbors and providing an evaluation of the program. He stated he would like to keep it on the list of goals
and objectives with the possibility of extending the trial period next year.
Brief discussion followed regarding the anchorage area being shifted from the initial installation for the boat
show.
Commissioner Avery suggested carrying this goal over to next year.
Commissioner West commented on development of a cruising guide noting that no progress has been made
on it and suggested carrying it forward to 2015-16.
Regarding investigating the availability of launch-ramp facilities in the Harbor, he referenced an earlier
discussion of the item and noted that is a continuing item.
In terms of a potential water-bus service, Commissioner West addressed the work done over this past year
and reported that the concept lost momentum during Council's transition and was not presented to Council.
It remains to be determined whether it should be presented to Council and suggested that Commissioners
explore the idea in their individual liaison relationships with Council members. He added that this was a
direction of the previous Council.
Discussion followed regarding tabling this matter for now and listing it as item needing further direction by
Council.
Commissioner West addressed the operation of water-propelled vessels and Commissioner Kenney
provided an update on the item and suggested removing it.
Chair Girling thanked Commissioner West for his leadership and suggested forming an Ad Hoc Committee to
develop goals for the upcoming year.
Chair Girling opened public comments.
Len Bose, Huntington Beach, reported there was a large water taxi taken to Newport Shipyard today.
Jim Mosher commented on the water-bus matter and agreed with the recommendation to table the matter
but in terms of letting Council know the Commission's decision, he referenced the Brown Act and the need to
notice the matter and inform Council during a public meeting.
Chair Girling closed public comments.
Motion: Commissioner Blank made a motion to form an Ad Hoc Committee to create objectives for 2015-16
consisting of Commissioner West and Chair Girling. Commissioner Kenney seconded the motion, which
carried with 6 ayes, 0 noes, with Commissioner Stapleton, absent. Approved.
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3. Status of Shellmaker, Inc.’s Scow “Gemini”
Harbor Resources Manager Chris Miller and Shellmaker, Inc. will provide an update as to the status
of Shellmaker’s sunken scow “Gemini” currently on mooring J-98.
Recommendation:
1) Receive and file.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller stated he had hoped to have an update. He stated that in his latest
communication with Shellmaker, Inc., they would like two groups of piles, fabricate a gantry between the two
pile clusters, and use that to wench up the debris to begin cutting it in the dry versus in the water. He stated
he will continue to work with Shellmaker, Inc. and enlist the help of Meeks to move the effort forward.
It was noted that the hazard is much better marked than it ever has been.
Discussion followed regarding the adjacent mooring holder, the City stepping in at some point, giving the
mooring permittee until the end of the year to comply and the availability of Meeks.
Chair Girling opened public comments.
Chair Girling closed public comments.
4. Public Piers Report: Usage Characteristics and Recommendations
Harbor Commissioner Paul Blank will present the findings of the Ad Hoc Committee which was
tasked to study the usage characteristics of the City’s public piers and to recommend changes which
would be discussed at a future meeting, if applicable.
Recommendation:
1) Receive and file.
Commissioner Blank provided a brief background on the item and presented a preliminary report of the Ad
Hoc Committee's findings. He addressed objectives, the Ad Hoc Committee's approach, steps taken,
current relevant Harbor Codes, public piers, data collection, number of boats accommodated and other
limitations observed. Additionally, he reported on the supply and demand, assumptions, normalization of the
data, additional findings, conclusions and recommendations. He thanked Mr. Carter Ford and Retired
Harbor Master Mike Jensen and addressed next steps. Additionally, he thanked Commissioner Kenney and
Harbor Resources Manager Miller for their help in this effort.
Discussion followed regarding the need for public piers near anchorages, piers where you can limit the size
of boats, availability of funding for additional public piers, possible grant funding, the possibility of Council
providing funding for the next fiscal year and the possibility of a budget amendment.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller suggested developing a firm plan and trying to get it under next year's
budget. He added that DJM is responsible to design and permit the public pier at Central Avenue and the
City will build it.
It was noted that DJM is not paying for it, but rather, facilitating it.
Commissioner Blank reported that Cal Rec will build the Balboa Marina pier.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller added that the project is in the entitlement phase and may not happen
next year, but the year after.
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Discussion followed regarding convincing DJM to move ahead with their plans for Central Ave Pier, the
possibility of enlarging public piers to increase capacity, reconfiguring floats to accommodate more boats
and opportunities to install cleats at the M Street pier.
Chair Girling opened public comments.
Chuck South, South Mooring Company, reported that the M Street pier belongs to fishermen who may
remove cleats if they are installed. He added there are not a lot of people in the immediate area, in terms of
demand but that it is a busy dock. He commented on the possibility of issuing permits for working on skiffs.
Chair Girling closed public comments.
Harbor Resources Manager Miller suggested requesting that the Ad Hoc Committee return, at a later date,
with firm recommendations.
Chair Girling asked placing the matter on the Commission's agenda for November.
7) SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS - None
8) QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH COUNCIL LIAISON ON HARBOR RELATED ISSUES
Chair Girling suggested removing this item from the next agenda.
9) QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH HARBOR RESOURCES MANAGER ON HARBOR RELATED
ISSUES
Harbor Resources Manager Miller provided an update on Harbor related issues noting that his division is
very busy, especially with the opening of Marina Park. He addressed current RFPs, managing the marina,
the status of other marinas, the Grand Opening of Marina Park, installation of docks, the results of a recent
hearing for the vessel Cheyenne and Harbor pump-outs.
Brief discussion followed regarding the possibility of adding signage on the pump-outs, the bait barge RFP
and the current location of the bait barge.
10) PUBLIC COMMENTS ON SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS OR QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH
COUNCIL LIAISON OR HARBOR RESOURCES MANAGER
Lt. Mark Alsobrook, Harbor Patrol, reported that one of his goals for this coming year is to establish a
collaborative relationship with the Harbor Commission. He added that the Harbor Patrol is willing to provide
a quarterly report to the Harbor Commission as an agendized presentation, on a quarterly basis.
Chair Girling stated that the Commission is open to that and will work with Harbor Resources Manager Miller
to address that, going forward.
Chair Girling acknowledged the tragic accident in Catalina and offered his thoughts and prayers.
11) COMMISSION ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A
FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION, ACTION OR REPORT (NON-DISCUSSION ITEM)
A suggestion was made to add a report on the current status of the Water Board's effort to establish new
TMDL limits in Newport Harbor to the next meeting agenda.
Commissioner West commented on the need for him and Harbor Resources Manager Miller to work on an
eelgrass "elevator" speech to practice with Harbor Commission Members.
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Harbor Resources Manager Miller suggested focusing on that in November.
Chair Girling stated he will work with Lt. Mark Alsobrook regarding the Harbor Patrol quarterly report.
12) DATE AND TIME FOR NEXT MEETING: October 14, 2015
Discussion followed regarding the date for the November meeting. The Commission concurred to hold the
November meeting on November 16, 2015.
13) ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Harbor Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45
PM. The next meeting of the Harbor Commission will be held on October 14, 2015, at 6:30 PM.
NEWPORT BEACH
Harbor Commission Staff Report
COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
CITY OF
Agenda Item No. 1
October 14, 2015
ABSTRACT:
Mooring permits may be revoked due to failure to pay annual rental fees. According to
Newport Beach Municipal Code (NBMC) Chapter 17.70, the Harbor Commission shall
conduct a hearing prior to revoking a mooring permit.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit H-79 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
2. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit H-813 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
3. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit J-0087 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
4. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit J-0110 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
5. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit J-513 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
TO: HARBOR COMMISSION
FROM:
Public Works Department
Chris Miller, Harbor Resources Manager
949-644-3043, cmiller@newportbeachca.gov
TITLE: 2015 Mooring Revocations: H-79, H-813, J-0087, J-0110, J-513,
S-140, W-032
2015 Mooring Revocations: H-79, H-813, J-0087, J-0110, J-513, S-140, W-32
October 14, 2015
Page 2
6. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit S-140 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
7. Hold a public hearing, consider the relevant evidence, and if justified under NBMC
Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5), revoke mooring permit W-032 for
failure to pay annual rental fees.
FUNDING REQUIREMENTS:
The mooring permittee shall be entitled to recover all of the permittee’s mooring
equipment within 30 days of reversion. If the mooring permittee does not recover his
equipment, the permittee shall be entitled to payment from the City of the fair value of
the mooring equipment as depreciated by use in an amount to be determined by the
Harbor Resources Manager as set in the City’s master fee resolution, NBMC
17.60.040(M)(2).
DISCUSSION:
The City of Newport Beach (“City”) manages the tidelands pursuant to various
legislative grants from the State of California. The City leases the tidelands to third
parties through a series of permits, franchises, and leases. One of those permits
administered by the City is the mooring permit. A mooring permit is a temporary use of
a specific location within Newport Harbor; and the Harbor Resources Manager may
issue a mooring permit to allow the mooring permittee to temporarily use a portion of the
waters of Newport Harbor for the mooring of a vessel.
Seven mooring permittees failed to pay the annual mooring rental fees despite repeated
attempts by City of Newport Beach (City) staff to collect the fees. The City’s Revenue
Division issued three notices:
1. January 28, 2015 – Original Billing Issued
2. March 1, 2015 – Delinquent Notice Sent
3. June 1, 2015 – 2nd Delinquent Notice Sent
Additionally both Harbor Patrol staff and Harbor Resources staff attempted contact with
the permittees by telephone or email in an effort to collect the annual rental fees.
Originally, the list of delinquent fees had 23 names and has been trimmed to seven.
On September 15, 2015, Harbor Resources staff sent letters to each permittee noticing
the revocation hearing and advising of the process of revocation due to failure to pay
the associated mooring fees for a period of sixty (60) calendar days or more pursuant to
2015 Mooring Revocations: H-79, H-813, J-0087, J-0110, J-513, S-140, W-32
October 14, 2015
Page 3
Newport Beach Municipal Code (“NBMC”) Sections 17.60.040(D), 17.60.040(L)(1), and
17.70.020(A)(5).
According to NBMC Sections 17.60.040(L)(2) and 17.70.020(B) a revocation hearing is
scheduled before the Harbor Commission to provide a forum for the permittee to
present written and verbal evidence to the Harbor Commission explaining why the
mooring permit should not be revoked. The Harbor Commission presides over the
hearing, receives relevant evidence, and renders a decision.
Mooring Permit Conditions
The mooring permit is subject to permit requirements and the permittee shall be
responsible for all activities related to that mooring permit. According to Newport Beach
Municipal Code Section 17.60.040(B)(2)(b), the permittee shall agree to be responsible
for permit fees, maintenance, and repair of mooring equipment.
Grounds for Revocation
NBMC Sections 17.60.040(L)(1) and 17.70.020(A)(5) provide that when a mooring
rental fee is in arrears for a period of sixty (60) days or more, the Harbor Commission
may revoke the permit.
Additionally NBMC Section 17.70.020(A)(5) authorizes the Harbor Commission to
revoke the permit upon the grounds of failure to pay fees and breach of terms of the
permit.
Should the Harbor Commission render a decision to revoke the mooring permit(s), staff
will send a Notice of Decision to the permittee. The decision to revoke a permit shall
become final fourteen (14) days after the date of the decision unless appealed.
Decisions of the Harbor Commission may be appealed to the City Council by a member
of the City Council within fourteen (14) days of the decision per NBMC Chapter 17.65.
The following mooring permits are subject to revocation for unpaid 2015 mooring fees:
Mooring Permittee Past Due Fees
H-079 Donald Credell $2,494.35
H-813 Chris Panknin $2,494.35
J-0087 Valerio Ramirez Ramos $1,662.90
J-0110 Arthur & Patricia Parent $2,771.50
J-0513 Todd Dillman $1,662.90
S-140 R. Speich $190.47
W-032 Paul Spradling $353.73
2015 Mooring Revocations: H-79, H-813, J-0087, J-0110, J-513, S-140, W-32
October 14, 2015
Page 4
Moorings Reverted to the City
Should the Commission vote to revoke one or more of the mooring permits, those
moorings will revert to the City, per NBMC Section 17.60.040(M). Should a mooring
revert to the City, the mooring permittee shall be entitled to recover all of the permittee’s
mooring equipment within 30 days of reversion. If the mooring permittee does not
recover his equipment, the permittee shall be entitled to payment from the City of the
fair value of the mooring equipment as depreciated by use in an amount to be
determined by the Harbor Resources Manager as set in the City’s master fee resolution,
NBMC 17.60.040(M)(2).
The mooring then may be offered to an individual from the interest list. No mooring that
reverts to the City for assignment off the interest list shall have any right to a later
assignment by a mooring permittee whatsoever.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
Staff recommends the Harbor Commission find this action is not subject to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not
result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment)
and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378)of the CEQA
Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no
potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.
NOTICING:
The agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of
the meeting at which the City Council considers the item).
Submitted by:
_____________________________
Shannon Levin
Harbor Resources Supervisor
ATTACHMENTS:
None