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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-02-10_BVAC_Minutes_Approved CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH BALBOA VILLAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES Location: Marina Park, Bay Island Room (2nd Floor) 1600 West Balboa Boulevard, Newport Beach Wednesday, February 10, 2016 - 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. I. CALL MEETING TO ORDER Mayor Dixon called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. The following persons were in attendance: Balboa Village Advisory Committee Members: Diane Dixon, Mayor (Chair) Tony Petros, Council Member Gloria Oakes, Balboa Peninsula Point Association Ralph Rodheim, Balboa Village Merchant Association Grace Dove, Central Newport Beach Community Association Linda Mayer, ExplorOcean Representative Jim Stratton, At-Large Representative Staff Members: Kimberly Brandt, Community Development Director Brenda Wisneski, Deputy Community Development Director Tony Brine, City Traffic Engineer II. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS (comments limited to 3 minutes) Interested parties were invited to address the Committee on Non-Agendized Items. Jim Mosher commented there was no free public Wi-Fi at Marina Park. He was told it was not available to the public. III. ITEMS FOR REVIEW 1. MINUTES OF JANUARY 13, 2015 (ATTACHMENT 1) Recommended Action. Approve January 13, 2016 Minutes. Mayor Dixon opened public comments. Jim Mosher stated that the minutes appeared to be well written, however, he had a comment on handwritten page 8 regarding the mention of no public comments when there were several public comments included. Mayor Dixon closed public comments. MOTION: A motion was made by Committee Member Stratton, seconded by Council Member Petros, to approve the minutes from the January 13, 2016 meeting. The motion carried (6 — 0, 1 abstention) by the following vote: AYES: Dixon, Petros, Oaks, Rodheim, Mayer, Stratton NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: Dove 2. BVAC TERM AND PURPOSE (ATTACHMENT 2) Recommended Action: Recommend City Council amend BVAC term and purpose Deputy Director Wisneski reviewed the overall purpose of the Committee as the governing body for the distribution of the Parking Benefit Funds. A document was presented and it was recognized there was inconsistency in who was governing body for the funds. It was also noted that the Balboa Village Advisory Committee (BVAC) is scheduled to sunset in December 2016. It was suggested that a recommendation be forwarded to the City Council that the BVAC remain as the governing body for recommending distribution of the Parking Benefit District funds and to extend the term to 2018. It is also proposed the BVAC continue to meet on an as needed basis with the schedule to be determined by the Committee. Council Member Petros inquired as to which elements of the implementation plan are left outstanding. Discussion ensued regarding the remaining projects including the shuttle program, wayfinding signage and the streetscape plan. Council Member Petros would like to ensure the efficiency of the meetings so that there is movement forward on outstanding projects. Deputy Director Wisneski noted it would be helpful for the BVAC Committee to assist with shaping the shuttle program as well as its marketing. Discussion ensued among the Committee Members and staff regarding ongoing discussions to determine the use of the parking benefit funds. Mayor Dixon inquired whether monthly or quarterly meetings would be more appropriate and whether the Committee should link up with the Balboa Merchants Association and the Newport Pier area. Committee Member Stratton suggested the Central Newport Beach Community Association would be more engaged in BVAC's activity, as they are involved in the eastern end. Mayor Dixon suggested connecting with the Peninsula Point Association to see what their issues are going forward. She would like to generate more participation and awareness from participant groups. Council Member Petros cautioned that when every Committee has the same role and constituents then it loses its purposes. The sole and express purpose of this Committee was for the revitalization of the Balboa Village area only. Mayor Dixon expressed support for keeping a narrow scope, but noted that she would like to keep people engaged in the process. The proposed amendments to the BVAC's term and purpose were summarized by Deputy Director Wisneski. Mayor Dixon welcomed the BVAC's newest member, Linda Mayer, representing ExplorOcean. Mayor Dixon opened public comments. Jim Mosher supported Council Member Petros' point that the original purpose of the BVAC has been largely fulfilled and whether there is an ongoing need for a governing body for the distribution of the parking benefit funds. He expressed confusion regarding whether the "term" refers to how long the BVAC will continue to exist or how long each individual's appointment on the Committee will last. He recommends the old system of the permanent Charter with four-year terms that are staggered and questioned whether Council involvement was required. He also stated the operational names in the documents presented were given at the time the Implementation Plan was conceived and should be revised to reflect the current names. W.R. Dildine commented that the City adopted an "A-Frame" sign program which has sunset. The Balboa Village Merchants Association includes residents who were represented in the 92661 zip code when the first Merchants Association was formed back in the 1940s. At that time there were more residents then there were businesses and many businesses were locally owned. He would like to see if we can create an organization within that to help them fund their program and noted that he knows a local resident who is very active. Committee Member Rodheim stated that there are three residents on the Board including Craig Smith and Nancy Smith. He added they want to include residents, as without them the businesses will not succeed. Residents are important in everything the Merchants Association does. Community Development Director Kim Brandt stated that there were other members who were representing Homeowners Associations as residents. It was confirmed that the 92661 zip code extends to 15th street. Staff confirmed that they would review the title for the district (Parking Benefit versus Area Benefit District) and make the appropriate corrections. Seeing no further speakers, Mayor Dixon closed public comments. MOTION: A motion was made by Committee Member Rodheim, seconded by Committee Member Oakes, to send proposed amendments to the City Council. The motion carried (7 - 0) by the following vote: AYES: Dixon, Dove, Petros, Oaks, Rodheim, Mayer, Stratton NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 3. BVAC ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND PRIORITIES (ATTACHMENT 3) Recommended Action: Review and Comment Accomplishments and Priorities Deputy Director Wisneski provided an overview of the BVAC's accomplishments, ongoing priorities and future goals. She referenced the Balboa Village Implementation Plan and described the accomplishments on the document provided including: parking, streetscape, tenant attraction program, code enforcement, ExplorOcean, theater, and also spoke about the current efforts underway. Mayor Dixon opened public comments. Committee Member Rodheim stated that moving forward he would like to keep the big picture in mind which was to rejuvenate the heart and soul of Balboa Village, as now it appears the Village is not as vibrant as it once was and needs revitalization. He expressed the need for a five year plan of something that will create an identity of place, as Balboa Village is the heart and soul of the City. Council Member Petros stated that one company came in and assembled everything for Lido Village and they had a large bankroll. If everything was turned over to one company the Balboa Village revitalization may be completed at a greater speed. Committee Member Rodheim expressed his support for that type of program. Committee Member Mayer stated she would like to see the revitalization of Balboa Village and inquired as to the continued role of the BVAC. Leopold Avalonne stated he owns a building on Main and Bay with a Japanese restaurant. He inquired about parking permit information and who should be passing along the information to tenants. Fiscal Specialist Caryl Bryant noted that time limits on meters are still in place. The nearest lots are tiered and the far lots have changed. There is an employee parking permit program where employees can purchase permits at reduced prices. They park in the Pier lot in the off-peak season and during the peak season they park along the Balboa Boulevard median. Committee Member Rodheim confirmed there is a validation program. In response to Mayor Dixon, staff confirmed the "park mobile" app is a different concept from the parking permit program and that permits attach to the license plate of the vehicle. Mr. Avalonne commented that in the past, if you did not have a parking space on your property you had to pay an in-lieu fee, and now it appears as if it is "park wherever you want." Staff responded that the in-lieu fees were developed during the time when redevelopment was in place to intensity or expand development in the area. Payment of the in-lieu fees were required if you could not provide adequate parking on your own property. Committee Member Rodheim thanked members of the public in attendance and referred questions to the President of the Balboa Village Merchants Association who was also in attendance. The Association meets the first Tuesday of the month, 5:30 p.m. in the Old Newport Realty building and they talk about everything that is happening in the Village. In response to an inquiry from Howard Hall, staff noted that fees are higher for parking in the summer as peak demand creates the peak rates. He also noted that everyone has been concentrating on the summer business and one of the problems is the long winter. The meters are not inviting for people to stop by and shop locally in Newport Beach. Making it through the long winter is the hardship. Mayor Dixon inquired as to how the Merchants Association is advertising their parking validation program. Staff indicated that business owners need to communicate the program to their patrons. Jim Mosher missed one of the meetings in June and expressed puzzlement over the ongoing and current efforts of the BVAC and the purpose of this agenda item. He inquired whether this was to be presented to the City Council. He understands this item is to review and comment on where we are and to help in identifying what priorities are for budget expenditures. He stated that the number one priority is the "targeted tenant traction program" but does not understand what that is. He also inquired regarding Item No. 3, support of a cultural facility at the Balboa Theater. He thought the City was trying to disconnect itself from the Theater. In terms of current efforts, this was the first time he had heard about the BVAC trying to pursue adoption of a local coastal program. Deputy Director Wisneski commented that many of the aforementioned concepts come directly from the Balboa Village Implementation Plan that is why they are worded that way. The terms and concepts may need to be updated. The targeted tenant attraction program was part of the Implementation Plan; however, it has proved harder to implement. The City's Building Official and Real Estate Coordinator assist in marketing the City to encourage and attract needed tenants. Committee Member Mayer inquired as to whether there was a tenant goal set when the Implementation Plan was developed. Staff mentioned that the Balboa Village Merchants Association could report on that matter. Committee Member Rodheim would like to know when buildings are vacant and when they are coming up for lease. Mayor Dixon inquired as to what the Merchants Association was doing to help generate business. Discussion ensued on the importance of the Merchants Association to work with tenants and property owners and that many businesses are not taking advantage of the building facade program. There was no action required on this item. 4. PARKING BENEFIT DISTRICT FUND EXPENDITURES (ATTACHMENT 4) Recommended Action: Discuss and recommend expenditure of Parking Benefit Funds Deputy Director Wisneski provided an overview report on the Parking Benefit District Fund Expenditures and referred to the document which listed recommendations in consideration of next year's budget. The list identifies the anticipated ending balance of June 2016, showing expenditures that were not awarded in this year's budget for facade improvements and the wayfinding system. Two projects were identified for potential funding: the shuttle program at $25,000, and the streetscape improvement program. Committee Member Stratton inquired whether all of the projects needed to be funded through the parking benefit funds and whether the City has some responsibility to maintain and improve streets where necessary. He clarified that the original idea for the parking benefit district was that the funds would be used to improve or support functions within Balboa Village not necessarily the maintenance of infrastructure and those types of things. He would like to see the parking benefit funds allocated directly to programs that publicize the Village. Committee Member Rodheim expressed concerned about the $375,000 for wayfinding improvements in the Village as he felt the cost was too high. He would like to see a specific accounting for what they are receiving for $375,000. He also expressed support for a study session to review the appropriate and allowable uses for the parking benefit funds. Staff noted the consultant is not just repairing streets, but also improving landscaping, furniture, and creating a comprehensive look and cohesive feel to the public realm on the streets. There is a $4 million dollar budget for this project. Committee Member Stratton expressed concern about the $375,000 and he suggested looking at more simplified designs. Staff confirmed the next item on the agenda would be discussion of the signage program. Council Member Petros stated the City has an obligation to maintain a certain level of infrastructure and the Balboa Village streetscape plan was created specifically to enhance this area and to sustain infrastructure here. The modifications, landscape plan, embellishments, and wayfinding are feasible because they are extraordinary funds. The City does have an obligation to maintain basic infrastructure citywide; however, if more is to be done, the Committee must find ways to do more outside of the General Fund. These specialized funds are a result of the parking funds. In response to the inquiry by Committee Member Stratton, he further added that the beautification of Balboa and Newport Boulevards came from a Citizens Advisory Panel effort and there were funds allocated for those particular projects, as well as demonstration projects in both areas. Mayor Dixon stated that visitors to the area are creating the funds derived from parking. Staff confirmed that funding is available for the fagade improvement program and less than $30,000 has been expended to date. Committee Member Rodheim was thankful we have these funds and inquired as to the best method for expenditure. He suggested hiring a professional to get the right mix of businesses in Balboa Village and wanted to give more thought as to how the parking benefit district funds should be expended. Mayor Dixon opened public comments. Marcel Ford stated he met with Newport Beach and Company who could provide a three- year strategic plan. He requested to have advice on the commercial merchant and added they are following the consultant's plans to improve the merchant mix. This may include getting rid of low performing tenants. Jim Mosher stated noticing the February 10th budget process was rolling along and the dollar amount for the parking benefit district is well known. He wondered how to apportion that, and noted there was no great urgency. He suggested continuing this item to the next meeting to help the Committee decide how to allocate. He suggested reviewing the Ordinance for the benefit district, but was unable to access it due to the lack of public Wi- Fi at Marina Park. Title 15 of the Municipal Code references what the district was created for and what the money was designated for. He stated it was difficult to review the particular streetscape improvements without a reference point. Staff reported they could come back and provide the additional information the BVAC requested. Mayor Dixon closed public comments. MOTION: A motion was made by Council Member Petros, seconded by Committee Member Stratton, to table this item to the next meeting. The motion carried (7 - 0) by the following vote: AYES: Dixon, Dove, Petros, Oaks, Rodheim, Mayer, Stratton NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 5. GENERAL UPDATES a. Gateway Sign (specifications provided as Attachment 5a) b. Wayfinding Sign Program (approved concept plans provided as Attachment 5b) c. Public Works Items - Main Street Twinkle Lights and LED Street Light Status d. Shuttle Grant Program — Partnerships (Visit Newport, BVMA, Hoag) e. Fagade Improvement Program f. Residential Permit Parking Program (RP3) Deputy Director Wisneski reported that the Gateway sign specifications referenced at the previous meeting are included as an attachment to the agenda and that the project is on schedule to be completed by summer. The wayfinding conceptual plans were reviewed and approved by the City Council several months ago and funds were allocated in last year's budget for implementation. In response to Mayor Dixon, staff confirmed what was presented were the existing signs and where they would be removed in order to provide better direction to parking and other facilities. Discussion ensued regarding the participation of the businesses in the signage program and there was positive feedback regarding the signs. Mayor Dixon opened public comments. Jim Mosher stated he might have missed something when it was approved, and wanted to confirm that the Balboa Ferry sign in place above the pathway will remain. Mayor Dixon stated they are not pursuing replacement of the Ferry sign. Mr. Mosher expressed it was one of the iconic signs in Balboa Village. W.R. Dildine inquired regarding the wayfinding signs past the Crab Cooker. In response to in inquiry regarding the gateway sign, Tony Brine stated it would be completed during the summer. It would take three months to fabricate and then it would be dropped in and installed. The impact during the summer months would be minimal, as the pedestal construction would done in the spring. The fully fabricated sign would then be craned into place during the evening. It would be a fairly quick installation of a few hours with just nominal noise. There will be some noise impacts with the construction of the pilasters on either side. City Traffic Engineer Tony Brine provided an update on the twinkle lights proposal. Based upon his conversation with both the Public Works and Municipal Operations Directors, City staff is in support of the proposal as long as the electricity access is on private property. The lights could be approved with an encroachment permit and the private property owners would have to make the formal request and go through the permitting process. Committee Member Rodheim suggested the lighting be promoted with the Merchants Association members. Tony Brine stated the street lights in the Village are a unique installation in that they are "acorn" light fixtures. Marcel Ford expressed concerns with any type of amber or yellow light. Tony Brine stated that at this point he has not had an opportunity to coordinate with the Public Works Director; however, he believes the LED lights in the Village are part of the 15th Street Project and will be brighter than the existing fixtures. A Committee Member expressed support for a brighter type of light. Mayor Dixon mentioned a retrofit with Edison. Deputy Director Wisneski stated the grant for the shuttle would be submitted the last day of February and there is every indication it will be accepted. She also indicated she spoke to Hoag Hospital executives and they are evaluating the City's proposal to use their parking lot. She is also looking for alternative locations. Committee Member Stratton stated he was glad to see many electric cars going up and down the Boulevard. He would be supportive of and encourage an arrangement to extend the footprint down into the Village. Jake Allsop with the Newport Downtowner was in attendance and commented that they have submitted an application to extend their service down to The Wedge, and they have transferred over 5,000 people in the first three months of the program. The BVAC Committee Members encouraged staff to assist the owner in his application for a new place to park the vehicles. Deputy Director Wisneski noted there have been a few more applications for the fagade improvement program. Marcel Ford stated there has been resistance from the property owners regarding the fagade improvement program. Deputy Director Wisneski noted the Coastal Development Permit application for the Residential Permit Parking Program was submitted and is currently under review. Mayor Dixon closed public comments. There was no action required on this item. IV. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Dixon opened public comments. In response to an inquiry regarding the Streetscape Master Plan, Deputy Community Development Director Wisneski confirmed that the Master Plan and related documentation can be found on the City's website on the link for the BVAC. Marcel Ford questioned whether the theater sale proceeds return to the Village area. Community Development Director Brandt indicated the proceeds would go to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and there is a public process for the allocation of those funds. It was confirmed that the funds have to go toward a qualifying project which does not have to be Balboa Village. It must be within a qualified area in Newport Beach. Mayor Dixon closed public comments. V. ADJOURNMENT (Meeting End Time: 5:30 p.m.) The meeting adjourned at 5:21 p.m. Next Meeting Date: March 9, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. — Location: Bay Island Room, Marina Park.