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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-07-08 PRC Minutes1-1 Parks and Recreation Commission MINUTES Council Chambers, 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA Wednesday, May 7, 2008, 7:00 p.m. CALL TO ORDER: Chair Lemieux called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL: Chair Jill Lemieux, Vice Chair Craig Kincaid, Commissioners: David Hensinger, Rick May, Kylie Hatch, Gary Havas and Ron Regier ABSENT: STAFF: Director Betsy Kiser, Linda Fitzgerald, Todd Bunte, Todd Beights, Marti Reynolds 1. Public Comment Richard Kriet, San Luis Obispo, commented on the budget process urging a change in the process. Mr. Kriet framed his example with that of Mitchell Park in that 18 months ago the PRC made recommendations to Council for the financial plan process. Council then developed major city goals at a workshop that was open to the public, however the public could not comment. Feels excluding the public comment at that time led to the Mitchell Park debacle and that excluding community input is wrong and insults the advisory bodies. Would like to see another step in the process where the preliminary major city goals are taken back to the public for comment. Sarah Ybarra, San Luis Obispo, spoke regarding the online reservation process for facilities reservations. Likes the availability of making reservations on line but suggested a calendar be posted online showing different facilities available to assist in planning events. Director Kiser noted a calendar is available on the website but as per a comment by Commissioner May, will look into making it more clear. Deanna Haskell, San Luis Obispo, commented regarding possibility of artificial turf being used in future and information from its use already in parts of California. Ms. Haskell shared that, although replacing grass with artificial turf would alleviate the costs of watering, artificial turf can become extremely hot to the touch and in some instances must be cooled by water, can discourage activities, Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 2 of 9 1-2 is petroleum based and therefore its manufacture contributes to global warming whereas real grass has the opposite effect. Asks Commissioners to consider heavily before decide in future. Ryan Chapman, San Luis Obispo, feels because of the countywide interest in dog walking areas, feels the dog leash laws & policies should be posted on the City’s website. End of Public Comment. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES: MOTION: (Lemieux/Kincaid) Approve the April 2, 2008 minutes as submitted. Approved: 7 yes: 0 no: 0 absent Chair Lemieux proposed that United Way Item on the Agenda be moved up from number 4 to number 1 right after Volunteer of Month. 2. Volunteer of the Month The May Volunteer of the Month honoree was Boy Scout Troop 322. Members of Troop 322 assisted with the annual Easter Egg Hunt in Mission Plaza on March 20 where they helped hide over 3,000 prize-filled eggs. This is the second year Troop 322 has helped with the event. Special thanks were given to Austin Dalley, Chris Bremer, Nicholas Eaton, Cameron Wright, Andrew JaWorski, Henry Bordeaux, Eddon Bordeaux, and Michael Lambert. Troop 322 is led by Scout Master Jeff Dalley and Assistant Scout Master Mike Ross. There are 22 boys in Troop 322 ranging in age from 11-17. In addition to the Easter Egg Hunt, this group volunteers for Toys for Tots during the Holidays. Troop 322 also has taken a number of exciting trips skiing, backpacking, rock climbing and camping. Scouts are taught that they are part of a community and to promote this shared value, volunteering is encouraged. Parks and Recreation is grateful for their contributions to the community of the City of San Luis Obispo. 3. United Way Donation of Born Learning Trail – Kiser Director Kiser read the staff report to the Commissioners. The Born Learning Trail is a component of the Born Learning program, an innovative public engagement campaign that helps parents, caregivers and communities create quality early learning opportunities for young children. Created by United Way of America and United Way Success by 6, in partnership with the Ad Council, Civitas and Families and Work Institute, Born Learning is designed as a tool for long-lasting Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 3 of 9 1-3 community change that supports early learning and the healthy development of young children. The kit, consisting of ten Born Learning Trail units and signs and reusable stencils, costs approximately $1200 not including sign posts and would be purchased and installed by United Way of San Luis Obispo County with funding support from the First Five program. Director Kiser explained that although the City’s Donation Policy permits the Parks and Recreation Director to accept donations that do not exceed $5,000, she felt it important the Commissioners be involved to give direction, particularly due to possible park location and with concerns expressed by Parks Maintenance staff. An alternative may be a par fitness course program if it is found the Born Learning Trail System is not durable or appropriate for our parks. Mr. Rick London, Chief Operating Officer for United Way of San Luis Obispo, then spoke to the Commission about the Born Learning Trail system and their proposed donation to one of the City’s parks, preferably Johnson Park. Feels this is a particularly appropriate time to install considering the new Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights. Also noted that the program would fit in well with the Johnson Park location because of other similar activities already there and the close proximity to the families living nearby who would benefit from the program. The Commissioners thanked Mr. London for the offer of the donation and discussed various concerns with Mr. London such as the installation being considered permanent rather than a trial, particularly due to the concern about the durability of the signs and permanent nature of the sidewalk paint. Commissioner Regier does not find the signage aesthetically appealing and would prefer a trial period while gaining the public’s viewpoint after installation, although supports the intent. Mr. London explained the signs are graffiti proof and used across the country. Although there has been minor tagging at the YMCA location which has been cleaned up quickly, would like to see program develop even if that was a challenge rather than succumb to it, that it would be cleaned up quickly. As far as permanency, Mr. London stated the signs and posts could be pulled up at any time although the sidewalk paint is permanent. The sidewalk paint would be maintained to keep its visual integrity over time, although there is not an official maintenance plan in place at this time with the program. Parks Maintenance Supervisor Todd Beights then shared strong concerns regarding safety, durability of the product, and maintenance after installation and the feeling that the proposed Johnson Park location is inappropriate. Of particular concern are the signs, posts and painting of the sidewalk. Beights then elaborated on the injury potential associated with an obstacle such as the 2-3’ tall posts in open setting where there are turf activities such as playing ball, throwing Frisbees, or bikes. Pointed out the pathway is also a utility access way for maintenance equipment such as the wastewater collection’s large Vactor truck which accesses the sewer line that runs across park. That the added posts along the sidewalk would require staff to weed eat rather than mow around them, as the 12’ wide deck of riding lawnmower would not maneuver between posts. It is the opinion of Parks Maintenance that the signs would not be of a quality that would withstand chemicals used to remove tagging by vandals and the introduction of stenciling of the sidewalk would not only be permanent on the concrete, it may encourage more graffiti which is already heavy at Johnson Park. Noted concrete permanency is due to inability to sandblast because of air quality control laws or hydroblast without a recovery system because of stormwater runoff issues. Supposes it would be the responsibility of Parks Maintenance staff which does not have the Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 4 of 9 1-4 manpower levels to maintain. Beights appreciates the concept of the trail and its value in our community however in a more protected environment. Feels a location similar to Emerson Park would be more appropriate for this program and recommended focusing on accepting the much needed fitness trail proposal specifically at Meadow Park instead. Mr. London stated they would welcome the idea of Emerson Park as an alternative and Commissioners discussed further with Parks Maintenance Supervisor Beights. Commissioner Havas asked of the possibility of embedding a number in the ground that would be flat, for example, corresponding to a number on a brochure or online which would then explain the activity as opposed to signage and posts. Also inquired about other Counties involved in project and who they could contact to hear their evaluations. Commissioner Regier discussed with Director Kiser the process of removal if the program did not work but was accepted on a permanent rather than trial basis. (Would be dealt with by staff - donor would be contacted of removal and to see if signs could be reused elsewhere.) MOTION: (Hatch/May) Accept the donation upon meeting approval of Parks Maintenance and Parks and Recreation to determine best park location for the program as to what will be most beneficial to the community and cause the least maintenance issues. (And amended to include) And upon receipt of installation upkeep plan by donor submitted to staff to review adequate and addresses needs first. Approved: 7 yes: 0 no: 0 absent 4. Skatepark Needs Assessment - Kiser Director Kiser gave the Commissioners the background report and on the Skate Park and the Needs Study. Mr. Mike Sherrod of RRM Design then gave a PowerPoint presentation detailing results of the Needs Assessment Study and brief history of the Skate Park. Council identified as a major City goal and funded needs assessment to identify equipment, minimum/maximum sizes, terrain preferences, current and future events and budget ranges. Mr. Sherrod explained input from two public workshops that followed. In the first workshop the in-ground design was preferred by skateboarders to pre-cast and modular. Other aspects such as size range, events, design elements and availability were discussed at the workshops. There was an even split of votes between all of the terrain types. A skate park between 8,000 and 18,500 square feet was determined to be needed from the results of the assessment. Size range was determined by carrying capacity of the park. Cost estimate is for an 8,000 sq. ft. park is $533,250 whereas an 18,500 square foot park would be $1,267,950. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 5 of 9 1-5 With the skate park being one aspect of Santa Rosa, ideas to shape the park were also discussed such as seating, showcasing areas to host ceremonies and events, lighting for evening skateboarding and extending hours of operation, different interest groups, and looking at design of park to see if matches staff ideas on use. Mr. Sherrod thanked the skateboarders for addressing their needs in the workshops. Commissioners discussed with Director Kiser and Mr. Sherrod current hours of operation and less obtrusiveness of current lighting technology to reduce “light pollution”, reflective surface of in-ground material, the sewer line crossing the park and RRM as being able to design around those areas, noise being minimized by putting “bowls” closer to buildings, the choice of using current location of park as being already accepted by the surrounding neighborhood, proximity of 30’ from fence for 18,500 sq. ft. design, height of fence being no more than waist high, and how other municipalities police their parks or put in creative fencing or turnstiles. Also discussed was positive sharing of facility with roller hockey and accommodating competitions. Director Kiser reinforced that neighbors would be invited if Master Plan amended. Chair Lemieux then opened up Public Comment: Pam Horton, San Luis Obispo, expressed that their family searches specifically for skate parks to visit when they go out of town. Feels “if we build it, they will come” and that a new skate park would increase revenue to the City. Derrick Connahan, San Luis Obispo, thanked the Commissioners and Mike Sherrod and stated if approved the plan for a new skate park he would be happy to get them a skateboard. Tom Brubaker, San Luis Obispo, has been out of the country for a year and appreciates work RRM has done. Feels if Skate Park is done right will be beneficial for everyone: could attract such things as video of tour of skate parks that has been made, the Monster Skate park series events, and will ultimately help fund itself as an income-generating facility. Feels the town is losing its “draw” and this would be an inviting feature. Johnny Miller, San Luis Obispo, thanked Mr. Sherrod for his work and stated as a 44-year old professional skateboard racer feels the community will benefit from having a facility unique to the Central Coast. Potential would exist to bring in revenue from events. Cameron McCheny, San Luis Obispo, a Cal Poly student here two years and with Central Coast Skateboards, shocked at how poor the skate park was when first moved here knowing the rich history of surfers and skateboarders. Discouraged to skate under those conditions. Also when sees gate closed at 3pm has no other choice but to go to Los Osos or Cayucos parks but this is not an option for 15 year olds who can’t drive. Feels a new skate park would keep kids off the streets and encourage happier and healthier lives and better accommodate Central Coast lifestyle. Chair Lemieux confirmed that Cal Poly does not have a skateboard club. Mikey Gaumann, Arroyo Grande, supports the skate park and commented on Grover Beach street skateboarding issues. Feels new skate park would solve the problem of kids skating on Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 6 of 9 1-6 streets because there would no longer be a need to. Commended RRM’s designs. Daniel Parks, San Luis Obispo, lifetime skateboarder and teacher, feels skateboarding is a great outlet for those not accepted in other areas of sports or who don’t care to play on teams. As a culture it incorporates artwork as well. Current Skate Park is like “skating on garbage” but still crowded by users. Feels the community deserves a better skate park. End of Public Comment. MOTION: (Regier/Kincaid): Recommend to City Council to: a) Approve an amount, not to exceed $37,000, to develop a Santa Rosa Skate Park Master Plan; and b) Authorize staff to spend up to $50,000 on new skate park equipment to assure the interim safety of the facility and that this temporary equipment may be pre-owned or purchased from re-sale if possible. Approved: 7 yes: 0 no: 0 absent Commissioner May thanked the audience for speaking and giving points to give to Council and confirmed that RRM would facilitate a plan that meets all users’ needs. Commissioner Hatch also thanked the audience but reminded funding will be difficult. Recommended audience encourage Council and search for support and fund donors. Also noted would like to see stainless steel as part of edges for in-ground design. Commissioner Regier advised the audience to marshal forces and be organized before Council. Chair Lemieux noted the longer the project is put off the larger the dollar figure will become. Thanked audience and shared feeling of skateboarding being important part of community. Director Kiser reminded audience of cost and the importance of their attendance at Council on May 20 at 5 p.m. 5. Laguna Lake Golf Course Rate Review – Fitzgerald/Bunte Recreation Manager Fitzgerald reviewed the 2007-08 annual golf fund financial report and explained fee rates with the Commissioners. Explained the framework of working capital and carryover from last year as well as comparison to other County courses. Advised not expecting any more operating changes other than 2009/2010 software purchase. Discussed Hole #3 construction from November through this coming July and other delays due to irrigation system and weather have contributed to drop in play and revenue this year. Repair to barrier netting first established in 1977 is also needed due to rain in uncapped poles rusting the bases. It is expected that the revenue from new carts will pay for themselves and additional savings will be realized Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 7 of 9 1-7 this year from vacant position which has only recently been filled. Rate increase will minimize expense and close gap between operating costs and revenues. Golf Course Supervisor Bunte and Recreation Manager Fitzgerald addressed Commissioners questions on wood versus metal poles, concerns on poor visual appeal of putting green from street, full-sized practice range would increase revenue, signage regarding distances, and the 25 cent increase only being approved for one year at a time. Also discussed were future speculations of a food/beverage concessionaire, and the history of past small scale food vendor attempts. Chair Lemieux stated would support addressing options of alcohol/food sales at a future time, feeling this would possibly encourage more play. Also expressed pride in low rates for seniors, and the tight ship and positive welcoming environment created by Golf Course Supervisor Bunte. MOTION: (Kincaid/May): Recommend the City Council : a) Authorize the transfer from the General Fund to the Golf Fund of $2,700 for 2007-08 from $509,200 to $511,900 and an additional transfer of $1,300 for 2008-09 from $308,000 to $309,300 to supplement operating costs b) Approve the Capital Improvement Project request of $55,000 for barrier netting and pole replacement along Hole #5 c) Adopt a resolution to raise green fees by $.25/round and 10-play cards by $2.50/card, effective July 1, 2008. Approved: 6 yes: 0 no: 1 absent (Hensinger) 6. Annual Park Tour – Kiser Director Kiser confirmed the following places of interest of the Commissioners for the annual park tour July 9:  Bridge and Hole No. 3 at Laguna Lake Golf Course  Damon Garcia Sports Field  Bob Jones Bikepath and Ranger Facility  Johnson Ranch  “Drive-by” Public Art  Jack House Tour (internal, not gardens)  French Park  Eto Park  Disc Golf at Laguna Lake  Islay Park  Sinsheimer Tennis Courts Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 8 of 9 1-8 7. Director’s Report– Kiser Director Kiser briefed the Commission on the following projects:  Mitchell Park Master Plan amendment was approved 3:2 by Council May 6 to allow for construction of parking lot behind the senior center. Plans and specifications will go to Council to be bid on and awarded by December if not sooner.  The SLO Blues and SLO Rattlers executed an agreement May 6  The Registration Fair April 19 was a success with over $30,000 taken in within two hours  To date there are already 800 registrants for the SLO Triathlon  The Children’s Services division will host CPRS training on customer service the end of the month. Training is open to District 8 members and will be located at the Ludwick Community Center  3 on 3 basketball is scheduled for May 17 and 18. This is the first year of the privately hosted event. 12 teams are signed up to date.  Slacklining will be discussed at next months meeting  The Golf Course and Skate Park Needs will come before Council May 20 at 5 p.m. 8. Committee Reports Commissioners provided the following reports:  Tree Committee – Kincaid  Joint Use Committee – May  Mayors Youth Task Force – Regier  Jack House Committee – Hatch  Open Space – Havas  Golf – Hensinger Commissioner Kincaid did not attend the last Tree Committee meeting – nothing to report. The Mayor’s Youth Task Force meeting was cancelled for May. Commissioner Regier will attend on June 12. Commissioner Havas will meet with Neil Havlik regarding the Open Space Sub-committee in the near future. Commissioner May reported on the Joint Use Committee as having new officers and that information on contract of two semi-professional teams went to Council. The Committee is reviewing how it operates the grant programs that allow sports organizations to fix assets at facilities, and lowering number of times per year facility grants available for consideration. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes May 7, 2008 Page 9 of 9 1-9 Commissioner Hatch reported that at last months meeting of Jack House Committee there was one change in officers and discussed donated items of which only some were accepted. The inventory and its completion being critical to pre-construction was also discussed. Mother’s Day Concert May 11. Commissioner Hensinger was not available to report on the Golf Course. 9. Communications Commissioner Regier discussed Richard Kriet’s comments earlier in the meeting on changing the process, goal ranking, and input passed on to Council. Director Kiser clarified process as set by Council and City Administrator. Commissioner May feels process functions well as it is. Chair Lemieux expressed options of individual communications with Council separate from the Commission. 10. Adjourned The meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m. to the Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting on June 4, 2008, at the Council Chambers. Approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission on June 4, 2008. /S/ _________________________ Martha M.S. Reynolds Supervising Administrative Assistant