Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
06-20-2017 Item 08 Resolution authorizing Petsafe Bark for your Park Grant Program Application
Meeting Date: 6/20/2017 FROM: Shelly Stanwyck, Director of Parks and Recreation Prepared By: Melissa C. Mudgett, Parks and Recreation Manager SUBJECT: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PETSAFE® BARK FOR YOUR PARK™ GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATION RECOMMENDATION 1. As recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission, adopt a Resolution (Attachment E) authorizing the application by the City for the Bark for Your ParkTM grant for a total amount not to exceed $25,000 for the design and construction of a new PetSafe® dog park within City limits. 2. Authorize the City Manager to take necessary action to include the project in the budget and Capital Improvement Program upon grant award. DISCUSSION The City’s Financial Management Manual Policy 740 requires that the City Council authorize the submittal of grant applications that are $5,000 or greater. The purpose of this item is to seek the City Council’s approval of the application and to authorize the City Manager to execute documents should the grant be awarded to the City. Background The Dog Off-Leash Area at Laguna Lake Park began many years ago as a pilot program and quickly evolved into a popular and consistently utilized recreation opportunity. Taking note of this community need, the Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council formally ado pted the area into the Park Master Plan in 2005. It is the only area of the City’s facilities and parks in which owners may allow their canines to be off-leash, running freely, and interacting with other dogs. Dog parks have grown in popularity throughout the country as more people have pets and are asking that communities provide these dog-friendly recreational opportunities. The City of San Luis Obispo is no exception. Currently, the City has an “off-leash” area at the Laguna Lake park but does not have a “fenced dog park”. The closest fenced dog park is located at El Chorro Regional Park (Highway 1 across from Cuesta College), which is approximately 4 miles outside of City limits and about 9 miles from the Laguna Lake park. Future Needs and Community Outreach Both Public Works and Parks and Recreation Department staff provide for the maintenance and operations of the dog “off-leash” area at Laguna Lake Park. In the 2015-17 Financial Plan, $50,000 was allocated to fund the most immediate maintenance needs of the Dog Off-Leash Area. To identify future needs, recently, the Parks and Recreation Department conducted a user Packet Pg 65 8 survey about the existing dog “off-leash” area. The survey is intended to solicit feedback from users that will help shape the current maintenance needs, as well as future improvements. As part of the survey, users were asked to prioritize future improvements to the area should funding become available (such as with grants or community donations). At this time, based on preliminary survey results user’s top priorities are as follows: While there may be potential for multiple park areas to establish a fenced dog park within the City, this initial effort has identified locations near the existing Laguna Lake Park designated dog “off-leash area” as the ideal location for the addition of a fenced dog park. Staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) recommend pursuing this location for grant funding as the survey indicates general support for such a park, there is existing compatibility of use as the area is regularly visited by dogs and nearby residences, and formalizing a portion of the park into a fenced-in dog park would be less costly due to existing infrastructure (such as accessibility to public restrooms, parking and utilities). The following is a preliminary list of benefits of establishing such a fenced dog park at Laguna Lake Park: 1. Provides for defined, controlled area to allow dogs off leash (great for dog wanderers, bolters); 2. Allows for the separation of large and small dogs; 3. Keeps dogs away from water bodies that may be polluted; 4. Provides for defined area to apply all-weather material (e.g. woodchips); 5. Minimize potential conflicts within the existing off-leash area and uncontrolled dogs from entering other parts of the park (e.g. children’s play area or open space). 2017 PetSafe® Bark For Your Park™ Program In May 2017, staff received notification of the availability of a nationwide grant to fund the development and construction of a dog park in our community. The 2017 PetSafe® Bark For Your Park™ Program is committed to creating safe, off-leash areas for pets and their owners to enjoy for years to come. The PetSafe® Grant Program will award communities nationwide $25,000 to help build new dog parks. If awarded, PetSafe® grant funds, in an amount not-to- exceed $25,000, could be used to construct a fenced-in dog park at Laguna Lake Park. (Attachment A – Grant Rules) Packet Pg 66 8 The PetSafe® grant application deadline is June 30, 2017. Communities awarded the grant will be publicly announced in September 2017. The City of San Luis Obispo meets the grant eligibility requirements (Attachment A – Grant Rules). The Parks and Recreation Commission and staff request approval to seek grant funding and pursue a more shovel ready project at Laguna Lake Park which would entail the following steps. A project proposal to establish a fenced dog park at Laguna Lake Park and potential locations within the park is provided as Attachment B. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The proposed project is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to 15301. Existing Facilities as the project consists of minor alteration of existing public involving negligible or no expansion of use. The project consists of minor structures and will not result in new uses as the amenities will support existing uses. CONCURRENCES The Parks and Recreation Commission met on June 7, 2017 and provided unanimous support for the PetSafe® Bark for Your ParkTM Grant application and terms as presented. (Attachment C – Draft PRC Meeting Minutes) Parks and Recreation and Public Works Parks Maintenance staff have been collaborating on the PetSafe® grant application and materials for the Laguna Lake Park dog “off-leash” area. Public Works Parks Maintenance staff hav e reviewed the terms of the grant application and concur that they are maintainable as identified. Through community Packet Pg 67 8 outreach efforts, local dog park advocates and park users have expressed support for an improved dog park area as indicated in the preliminary survey results. FISCAL IMPACT There is no fiscal impact in authorizing the PetSafe® grant application resolution. However, if grant funds are awarded, construction of the dog park must be completed no later than three years from the date of the grant announcement; completion estimated by September 2020. The Parks and Recreation Department will be required to comply with grant reporting and auditing requirements on funding usage. ALTERNATIVE Deny Grant Application. The City Council could deny the PetSafe® Bark for Your ParkTM Dog Park Grant application and direct staff to identify alternate funds for maintenance and/or construction of a new dog park. Staff does not recommend this alternative as funding for construction of a new dog park is not included in the 2017-19 Financial Plan and would be largely dependent upon private donations or sponsorships. Additionally, the grant funding will enhance staff’s ability (both in Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments) to provide this unique recreational opportunity and meet a community need in a manner that is safe for both pets and their owners. Attachments: a - PetSafe Grant Rules b - Project Proposal Laguna Lake Park c - Draft PRC June 7 2017 Minutes d - SLO Land and Support Letter e - PetSafe Grant Auth Resolution Packet Pg 68 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules By applying for a PetSafe Bark for Your Park Grant, you accept and agree to be bound by these Official Grant Rules. Applicants further agree to be bound by the decisions made by the Sponsor, which are final and binding in all respects. The Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify Applicants and/or applications that do not comply with the Official Grant Rules. 1. No Purchase Necessary: No purchase necessary to apply. A purchase will not increase your Community’s chances of being awarded a Grant. 2. Sponsor: The PetSafe Bark for Your Park Grant Program (the “Grant” or the “Program”) is sponsored by Radio Systems Corporation, 10427 PetSafe Way, Knoxville, TN 37932 (the “Sponsor”). 3. Grants Awarded: The number and amount of Grants to be awarded by Sponsor may change each year based on the financial commitment available from the Sponsor. Sponsor reserves the right not to award any Grants in a given year. A Grant may include park equipment provided by Sponsor and/or a cash award, as determined by Sponsor. The total value of each Grant will include the value of any park equipment provided by Sponsor plus the amount of the cash award, if any. Each Grant request cannot exceed $25,000 in value. The Sponsor will not fund more than $275,000 in Grants per year, with the total amount of Grants, if any, funded in a given year to be at the sole discretion of the Sponsor. No Grant will exceed $25,000 in dog park equipment and/or cash. Grants will be awarded a minimum of one time per year, in September. 4. Eligibility: The Program is open only to Communities of the United States, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico (each, a “Community” or interchangeably an “Applicant”). The term “Community” as used in these Official Grant Rules means (a) a county, city, municipality or other local governmental unit, legally organized, constituted and existing under state law (a “Local Government”) or (b) a non-profit, public benefit organization legally organized and existing under state law which has received tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and which manages or operates park facilities on behalf of a Packet Pg 69 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules Local Government or which owns, manages and/or operates park facilities which are open to the general public at no charge (an “Eligible Non-profit Organization”). When the word “you” is used in these Official Grant Rules, it means the Applicant. Employees, officers, directors, affiliates, licensees, distributors and fulfillment agencies of the Sponsor, and respective immediate family members (a spouse, sibling, parent, child or grandparent and the spouses of such persons) and other persons living in their same households are not eligible to participate in the Program. 5. Applying for a Grant: To be eligible to be selected for a Grant, a Community must agree to accept and be bound by these Official Grant Rules and must submit the following to the Sponsor with their application: an executive summary of the community dog park project to be funded which may include proposed budgets and plans, if available; a verification letter from the land owner where the current or proposed dog park will be built that confirms the availability of land for the project; and letter(s) from the city or county mayor, city manager, the director of parks and recreation, or other civic leader within the Community that document their support of the proposed dog park and their willingness to complete the project if the Community is chosen as a Grant recipient. letter from a Community official that agrees in writing to be bound by these Official Grant Rules. All submissions may be made to the Sponsor via the petsafe.net/barkforyourpark website. To be eligible for a Grant, a Community must meet the Community Eligibility Requirements set forth in paragraph 6(d) below in addition to the foregoing requirements and must otherwise comply with these Official Grant Rules. Previous Bark for Your Park Grant recipients are not eligible to apply for additional Grants for a period of three (3) years from their Grant announcement. Previous winners of the PetSafe Bark for Your Park Contest are not eligible to apply for Grants for a period of three years from their park opening. 6. Description of the Program: (a) Community Designation. Packet Pg 70 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules In the event multiple applications are submitted on behalf of overlapping or contiguous Communities or on behalf of multiple Eligible Non-profit Organizations which are in the same general geographic area or overlapping geographic areas (such as a city and a county or an Eligible Non-profit Organization and the city in which it is located), Sponsor, in its sole discretion, may elect to designate which of the nominated Communities will be considered for a Grant. (b) Grant Selections. Grants will be awarded on a combination of factors, including Need (location/presence of park or condition of existing park), Impact (dog population, number of existing parks and recreational pet opportunities), and Support (commitment to building/operating a public dog park or prior community efforts). Preference will be given to allocating Grants equally across the United States. Based on the applications received, this distribution model may be adjusted. Grant applications will be reviewed by the Sponsor. All decisions of the Sponsor will be final, binding and non-appealable. (c) Award of Grants. The Communities designated as Grant recipients will be awarded a Grant by Sponsor for use in development and construction of a dog park project in the Community, subject to compliance with these Official Grant Rules and satisfaction of all Community Eligibility Requirements. Grant recipients will be contacted directly by telephone and/or email and will then be posted on the Bark for Your Park website. Potential recipients who cannot be contacted within ten (10) business days following the selection process, despite best efforts, may be disqualified and another recipient may be selected. Grants will be publically announced and awarded in September and Grant funds must be used within 3 years of the announcement. (d) Community Eligibility Requirements. To be eligible to receive a Grant, each Community selected as a Grant recipient must: provide land for construction and operation of the dog park, the location and suitability of which are subject to Sponsor’s reasonable approval. provide a budget for the design and construction of the dog park project, which shall be subject to Sponsor’s reasonable approval. provide evidence of appropriation or availability of sufficient funds to complete construction of the dog park project in accordance with the proposed budget. Packet Pg 71 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules provide a budget for operation of the dog park, which shall be subject to Sponsor’s reasonable approval, and commit to maintain and operate the dog park for at least three (3) years from the date the dog park opens to the general public. make the dog park available for use by the general public at no charge, subject to reasonable rules and regulations concerning such use. agree to include Sponsor’s PetSafe brand name and logo in all materials related to the dog park. for each Community accepting a grant at the $25,000 level, agree to permanently include Sponsor’s PetSafe brand name in the name of the dog park. agree to install signage for the dog park that includes the Sponsor’s PetSafe brand name and logo, which shall be subject to Sponsor’s reasonable approval. coordinate the opening/reopening/unveiling of the dog park with Sponsor and participate in promotional activities related to the Program and the dog park as reasonably requested by Sponsor. 7. Use and Funding of Grants: Grants cannot be used to purchase land and must be used only for direct costs of development and construction of the dog park, such as design fees, permits, site preparation, construction services, building materials, installation of utilities, and other capital expenses related to development and construction of the dog park, which shall be set forth in a project budget and subject to Sponsor’s reasonable approval (the “Approved Expenses”). The grand opening or reopening of the dog park should take place no later than three years from the date of the Grant announcement, subject to weather and other factors beyond the Community’s control. Sponsor will not be responsible for delays in approvals, construction, planning, or other issues outside of Sponsor’s control. If the grand opening or reopening of the dog park has not occurred by three years from the date of the Grant announcement, the Community agrees to donate the Grant funds to animal shelters, animal welfare groups, animal rescue groups, or animal advocacy groups as decided by the Community’s Chief Executive Offer. 8. Advertising and Promotion: The Sponsor and each of its respective affiliates, distributors, licensees, suppliers and advertising/promotion agencies (collectively, the “Sponsor Affiliates”) shall, except to the extent prohibited by law, have the right Packet Pg 72 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules and permission to use each Applicant’s name as well as any and all portions of their application for advertising, promotion, trade and/or any other lawful purpose in any media or format now or hereafter known without further compensation, permission or notification. By applying, each Applicant grants such rights and permission and agrees to release Sponsor from any and all claims that any advertising produced, presented, and/or prepared by or on behalf of the Sponsor infringes upon the Applicant’s rights with regard to any portions or ideas contained in their application. Each Community grants such rights and permission and agrees to release Sponsor from any and all claims that any advertising produced, presented, and/or prepared by or on behalf of the Sponsor infringes upon the Community’s rights with regard to any portions or ideas submitted by the Community. 9. Privacy: The names of Communities may be announced publicly in connection with any application or Grant. Any information posted on Facebook will be subject to their respective privacy policies. 10. Limitation of Liability: The Sponsor and Sponsor Affiliates, and all of their respective officers, directors, employees, representatives, agents and affiliates, expressly disclaim, shall have no liability and shall be held harmless from and against any liability, loss, injury or death to any Community or any other party, including without limitation damage to personal or real property, due in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by reason of the acceptance, possession, use or misuse of any Grant (including any travel or activity related thereto), such party’s participation or attempt to participate in this Program or ability or inability to upload or download any information in connection with participating in the Program, or any fraud, viruses or other events that compromise the integrity of the Program. Each Community further acknowledges that neither Sponsor, the Sponsor’s affiliates nor any of their respective officers, directors, employees, representatives and agents, has made or is in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation or guarantee, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relative to any right or Grant, including, but not limited to, the value, quality, condition or fitness of any Grant, other than the dollar amount of the Grant. All Grants are provided “as is” and Sponsor disclaims all warranties, whether express or implied with respect thereto. use of the Program web site is at each user's own risk. Each Community participating in this Program agrees to indemnify, release and hold sponsor and sponsor’s affiliates, including but not limited to Facebook, and all of their respective officers, directors, employees, representatives, agents and affiliates, harmless from any and all claims, damages, expenses, costs (including Packet Pg 73 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules attorney’s fees) and liabilities (including settlements) due to or arising out of or in any way related to their participation in this Program or their acceptance or use of any Grant. 11. Miscellaneous: (a) Taxes, if any, are the sole responsibility of each Grant recipient. SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO PROSECUTE AND/OR SEEK DAMAGES FROM ANY PERSON(S) THAT DAMAGES OR UNDERMINES THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE PROGRAM TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW. (c) Sponsor reserves the right, without notice and at any time, to disqualify and remove the application of a Community who violates these Grant Rules. Sponsor has no obligation to correspond with persons regarding applications or disqualifications of any Community. (d) Sponsor reserves the right, without prior notice and at any time, to terminate the Program, in whole or in part, or modify or suspend the Program in any way, for any reason, including if Sponsor determines, in its sole discretion, that the Program is impaired or corrupted or that fraud or technical problems, failures or malfunctions have destroyed or undermined the proper integrity, and/or feasibility of the Program. (e) All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Grant Rules or the rights and obligations of the participant or Sponsor in connection with the Grant shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Tennessee without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of any other state, provincial or federal laws. Exclusive jurisdiction and venue for any action arising out of or relating to the Grant shall be in the state or federal courts of record located in Knox County, Tennessee. By participating in this Program, each Community hereby agrees to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of such courts for all purposes in connection with these Official Grant Rules and the Program. (f) Sponsor shall not incur any liability to any Community for any losses or damages of any nature whatsoever incurred or suffered by a Force Majeure Event including but not limited to: acts of God (such as, but not limited to, fires, explosions, earthquakes, drought, tidal waves and floods), power outages, war, riot, commotion, strikes, or acts or threats of terrorism. (g) Sponsor has the sole right to decide all matters and disputes arising from this Program and all decisions of Sponsor are final, binding and unappealable. Packet Pg 74 8 The PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Grant Program - Official Grant Rules (h) VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. (i) Community agrees that all installation of equipment included in a Grant award from the Sponsor is the sole responsibility of the Community. © 2017 Radio Systems Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Packet Pg 75 8 PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A FENCED DOG PARK AT LAGUNA LAKE PARK 1 VISION STATEMENT To establish a successful fenced dog park at Laguna Lake Park, which would include the creation of formal guidelines regarding the placement and management of a fenced dog park in the City of San Luis Obispo. INTRODUCTION Dog parks have grown in popularity throughout the country as more people have pets and are asking that communities provide recreational opportunities for them. The City of San Luis Obispo is no exception. Currently the City does not have any formal off-leash dog parks. The closest such park is found at the El Chorro Regional Park (a regional County of San Luis Obispo park located Highway 1 across from Cuesta College) approximately 4 miles from the closest city limits and about 9 miles from Laguna Lake Park. While there may be potential for multiple areas to establish off-leash dog parks within the City, this preliminary effort intends to focus its efforts on a portion of the existing ‘dog off-leash area’ located within the Laguna Lake Park. A couple of reasons for this focus, if there is general support for such a park, include time savings given that the area is already being used by dogs and existing compatibility with nearby residences, and formalizing a portion into a fenced-in dog park would be less costly due to existing infrastructure (e.g., within existing park, bathrooms, water, electricity, access road, etc.). WHY ESTABLISH A FENCED-IN DOG PARK? The following is a preliminary list of benefits of establishing such a dog park at Laguna Lake: 1. Minimize potential conflicts within the existing park and to surrounding uses as dog use is currently established; 2. Provides for defined, controlled area to allow dogs off leash (great for dog wanderers, bolters); 3. Allows for the separation of large and small dogs; 4. Keeps dogs away from water bodies that may be polluted; 5. Provides for defined area to apply all-weather material (e.g. bark chips, mulch, pea gravel, etc.); 6. Reduces number of uncontrolled dogs from entering other parts of the park (e.g. children’s playground and protected natural conservation areas). NEXT STEPS Initial steps may include the following: City Parks and Recreation and Public Works Parks Maintenance staff seek input from community park users to determine the best course of action to develop a Laguna Lake Fenced-In Dog Park Plan (Plan) that is consistent with existing regulations and plans, and determine which, if any, of these would need to be amended to support the creation of a fenced-in dog park; Work with staff to define the approval process with advisory and decision making bodies (Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council) which could include establishment of goals, create design parameters, identify construction and maintenance elements and responsibilities, identify rules of Park use; Packet Pg 76 8 PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A FENCED DOG PARK AT LAGUNA LAKE PARK 2 Identify funding and support opportunities; and potential limitations and liabilities; etc. City Council approval to seek grant funding. Outreach to interested parties to solicit: general support and/or interest in development of such a park; determine potential interest in establishing a volunteer group to help construct and/or help the City maintain such a facility; provide input on the Plan design; Prepare preliminary design alternatives for consideration to formalize such a fenced-in Dog Park at Laguna Lake. Find funding sources for construction and operations. EXHIBITS 1. Exhibit 1 – List of Dog Park Considerations a. provides an initial list of the major elements that will likely require additional consideration as the design phase begins 2. Exhibit 2 – Laguna Lake Park possible locations a. provides a possible location and preliminary design for a fenced-in dog park at Laguna Lake 3. Exhibit 3 – Local Dog Park Examples a. provides some pictures of various features that exist at the County’s Regional El Chorro Dog Park (Hwy 1 across from Cuesta College) and Vineyard Dog Park (Templeton) Packet Pg 77 8 Exhibit 1 – General List of Dog Park Elements Preliminary Considerations Size: The recommended minimum size for City dog parks is generally between ½ acre and one acre; the initially proposed area is about one acre. Buffer from Residential: the distance from the closest residences is about 1,200 feet. The existing dog off-leash area use along with this ample separation will minimize conflicts; furthermore, having a ‘dawn to dusk’ hours of operation will further minimize conflicts. Water Source: The existing dog area already has a source of potable water; new lines would need to be installed to create several new points within the fenced dog park. Parking: There is limited existing parking lots located at Laguna Lake Park. Consideration of ADA requirements from parking area designs. Drainage: It is important that the site be relatively flat and have permeable soils; the suggested area is generally flat and gently sloping towards the lake; the soils are mostly clay and not very permeable (all of the soil within Laguna Lake area is not very permeable); all-weather material would likely be needed to make the area useable year round. Shade: Dog parks should include some shade as desirable, but not heavily shaded to allow for grass growth (if used as ground cover) and for the ground to dry; the proposed area includes a couple of trees, but many could be planted to achieve this objective (Plan could include a ‘memorial tree’ program to allow individuals to pay for such plantings). Use Conflict Avoidance: Guidelines should include avoiding play areas and other recreational amenities, high use areas, natural areas and water sources, wildlife, trails, community gardens, and historic sites; proposed area would not conflict with any of these activities or resources. Protect Wildlife and Natural Areas: Portions of Laguna Lake include sensitive plants and animals; the initial area being suggested appears to have only non-native annual grasses; an in- season survey may be needed to confirm that no sensitive resources within proposed area. Design Fence Height and Material: To be determined. Common examples include galvanized or vinyl coated chain link fences, with a minimum height of 4 feet. Double gated entries to allow for dog owners to unleash the dogs in a corral prior to letting the dog run free are the norm; service gates should be added to allow flatbed size trucks entry for maintenance/operations; El Chorro Park fence is made up of wooden posts and top rail with wire mesh buried into the ground (sized so tennis balls will not escape). Surfacing: To be determined. There may be multiple surface types including crusher fines or decomposed granite around the entrance area, concrete, grass, and mulch. For the larger areas, to minimize water use, mulch or bark may be the most likely material; ADA will likely require concrete walkways. Each type of material will have different maintenance requirements. Separate Small and Large Dog Areas: Initial proposal includes separated areas. Site Furniture and Other Amenities: Likely amenities could include benches, community bulletin board, a shade structure, storage building(s) (especially if volunteer group established to help on operational maintenance), trash containers and bag holders. Signage: Signage could include one or more of the following: entry signs, rule signs, etc.. ADA Access: Any design will need to comply with ADA regulations for access to the site. Management Packet Pg 78 8 Exhibit 1 – General List of Dog Park Elements Staffing: Laguna Lake Park is already staffed by City personnel (Public Works Parks Maintenance), and there is an existing dog area already in use. Once built, there may be a moderate increase in use, but should not require additional staff for daily use. As there will be new infrastructure, there may be a slight increase in maintenance activities. Having a controlled area for dogs to run may reduce rangers or other park staff needing to cite illegal off-leash activity outside of the dog park, or make it much clearer to users where off leash use is allowed. Fines: The existing citation program within the Laguna Lake Park would not change. Entry Fees: No fees are collected to use the Park and none would be proposed unless there is consensus that such fees should be collected for construction/operation costs. Hours of Operation: park operation hours are dawn to dusk per City Ordinance. Use Permit: To help offset construction and/or maintenance costs, a dog park permit (maybe as part of purchasing a county dog license?) could be required. Volunteers: To be determined. Volunteers could be involved with the park’s construction and/or maintenance and activity programming. Involvement of community members may increase acceptance of the dog park and help to minimize problems. High probability that such resources could be available. Packet Pg 79 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park LAGUNA LAKE PARK FENCED-IN DOG PARK PROPOSAL EXISTING LOCATION OF DOG-OFF LEASH AREA Existing Off- Leash Area (Un-Fenced) Public Restrooms & Parking Packet Pg 80 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS El Chorro Regional Dog Park (4 Miles Outside of City Limits) Shade, Signage and Designated Entrance Packet Pg 81 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS Dog Park Signage Info Kiosk Packet Pg 82 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS All Weather Surface of Fenced Area. Shaded. Packet Pg 83 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS Vineyard Dog Park - Templeton (22 miles Outside of City Limits) Dog Park Signage Packet Pg 84 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS All Weather Surface & ADA Accessible Pathway Packet Pg 85 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS Kiosk & Shade Structure Packet Pg 86 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS Public Art: Dog Park Amenities Packet Pg 87 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS Sponsorship Plaques Packet Pg 88 8 EXHIBIT 3 – VARIOUS FEATURE OF COUNTY REGIONAL DOG PARKS Water Amenities: Doggie Pool Packet Pg 89 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park Packet Pg 90 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park Laguna Lake Dog Off-Leash Area: Photographs Packet Pg 91 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park Fenced-In Dog Park Options: Potential Locations of a Fenced-in Dog Park adjacent to ‘Off-Leash” Open Space Area” OPTION ‘A’ OPTION ‘B’ OPTION ‘C’ OPTION A: Adjacent to existing off-leash area. Proximity to parking and restrooms. Corner of Dalidio & Laguna Lake Park Loop OPTION B: Extends along Laguna Lake Park Loop, adjacent to Parking lot #2. Near to “off-leash” area. Next to Community Playground and Public Restrooms. OPTION C: Corner of Dalidio near Memorial tree grove. Across of Parking lot #3. Packet Pg 92 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park OPTION A OPTION ‘A’ Packet Pg 93 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park OPTION B OPTION ‘B’ Packet Pg 94 8 EXHIBIT 2 – Possible Location of Fenced-In Dog Park OPTION C OPTION ‘C’ OPTION ‘C’ Packet Pg 95 8 Minutes - DRAFT PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION 7 June 2017 Regular Meeting of the Advisory Body Committee Commission CALL TO ORDER A Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order on the 7th day of June 2017 at 5:34 p.m. in the Parks and Recreation Administration Conference Room located at 1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, California, by Chair Avakian. ROLL CALL Present: Chair Greg Avakian, Vice Chair Rodney Thurman, and Commissioners Susan Olson, Keri Schwab and Jeff Whitener Absent: Commissioner Single Staff: Parks and Recreation Director Shelly Stanwyck, Recreation Manager Melissa Mudgett PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA None CONSENT AGENDA AND CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES ACTION: APPROVE THE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF MAY 3, 2017, MOTION BY COMMISSIONER WHITENER, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER THURMAN. 1. Consideration of Minutes CARRIED 5:0:0:1 to approve the amended minutes of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Body for the meeting of 5/3/2017. AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, SCHWAB, THURMAN, WHITENER NOES: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE ABSENT: SINGLE PUBLIC HEARINGS AND BUSINESS ITEMS 2. Review and Adopt Proposed Recreation Partnership Agreement Between the City of San Luis Obispo and Central Coast Soccer. Staff Melissa Mudgett presented an overview of the proposed recreational partnership agreement between the Parks and Recreation Sports program and Central Coast Soccer (CC Soccer) to offer adult soccer league programming at Damon Garcia Sports Fields. CC Soccer has been providing adult soccer opportunities, with the support of the City, since 2008. The proposed agreement memorializes the long-standing relationship and provides for improved Packet Pg 96 8 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of June 7, 2017 Page 2 liability management through standardized trainings and collection of liability waivers. Staff Mudgett also added the proposed agreement is in alignment with adopted cost recovery policies for adult recreational activities. She elaborated that the proposed agreement has the support of CC Soccer, Parks and Recreation and Public Works Parks Maintenance staff, whom maintain the sports fields. Public Comment Tim Townley, Vice President of CC Soccer, explained the adult soccer league program for the Commissioners. Mr. Townley said that the soccer league is non-competitive and changes teams every two months. CC Soccer provides additional assistance to the City, such as turning on-off fields lights, which reduces the impact to City staff. Mr. Townley expressed CC Soccer’s desire to continue to partner with the City. He said he was h opeful that the new kikuyu grass will improve field conditions and allow for more play. He concluded that he appreciated the Commission and Parks and Recreation Department staff and their support in this program. Gary Havas, SLO Resident, said he was supportive of the new kikuyu grass and is was nice to see strong partnerships like this between the City and recreational groups. Commission Comments followed. Commissioner Whitener said he was supportive of the proposed agreement and that CC Soccer has been a good partner for the City. Commissioner Olson was in support of the one-year terms to reassess field conditions annually. Vice Chair Thurman asked about the timeframe of the kikuyu grass renovation. Director Stanwyck responded that is it expected to take the summer growing season. She added that kikuyu grass is at the golf course and its growth responds well to recycled water. Director Stanwyck concluded that the City will know how the grass responds after the first playing season and if play can be expanded. Chair Avakian asked if the 30% ratio of registration fees collected by CC Soccer is adequate. Staff Mudgett responded that the revenue share equates to full (100%) cost recovery for the City, although less teams this first year will mean less revenues received by the City. ACTION: BY RECOMMEND TO THE CITY COUNCIL THAT IS ADOPT A RECREATION PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO AND CENTRAL COST SOCCER, MOTION BY COMMISSIONER WHITENER, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER SCHWAB. CARRIED 5:0:0:1 to Recommend the City Council adopt a Recreation Partnership Agreement between the City and Central Coast Soccer to provide an Adult Recreational Soccer League program. AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, SCHWAB, THURMAN, WHITENER NOES: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE ABSENT: SINGLE Packet Pg 97 8 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of June 7, 2017 Page 3 3. Receive Preliminary Dog Off-Leash Survey Results and Consider a Recommendation to Council that it Authorize staff to Pursue PetSAfe Bark for Your Park Grant. Staff Mudgett provided a brief background of the Laguna Lake Dog Off-Leash Area. She said that currently the City has an “off-leash” area at the Laguna Lake park but does not have an enclosed “fenced” dog park. The closest fenced dog park is located at El Chorro Regional Park (Highway 1 across from Cuesta College). Staff Mudgett provided an update of current maintenance activities at the “off-leash” area. Staff Mudgett added that a recent community survey was conducted to identify future needs of the “off-leash” area. The survey was intended to solicit feedback from users to help shape current maintenance needs, as well as future improvements to the area should funding become available (such as with grants or community donations). Preliminary survey results identified top priorities to be all-surface material and other amenities, such as a shade structure. Staff Mudgett responded that overall, the users are happy with the “off-leash” area’s maintenance and do not wish to completely enclose it; however, users were in support of adding a fenced-in dog park at another location within the park. Staff Mudgett presented on the benefits of an enclosed dog park and added that a nationwide grant to fund construction of a dog park is being offered through PetSafe, Bark for your Park program. Through the user survey and collaboration with Parks Maintenance staff, potential locations were identified at the Laguna Lake Park for a “fenced” dog park. Parks and Recreation staff requested the Commission’s approval to seek grant funding and pursue a more shovel ready project at Laguna Lake Park and to provide feedback on these potential locations. Staff Mudgett said that, should the City be awarded the dog park grant, there would be significant public outreach efforts and staff would return to the Commission for direction regarding public engagement, preliminary design, estimated project costs and construction progress. Public Comment Bill Hallum, SLO resident and daily “off-leash” area user, as the Commission to consider a broader policy and develop a City plan for dog parks. Mr. Hallum asked the Commission to consider a more robust more discussion about dog park needs before seeking a grant. He commended staff for their responsiveness to users. He expressed apprehension that he would hate to be locked into a dog park “location” as a result of this grant opportunity. Gary Havas, SLO Resident and former Parks and Recreation Commissioner, commented that it had been a long time since an enclosed “fenced” dog park has been sought and he appreciated staff efforts. He would like to see more dog parks within the City and expressed his support for pursing the dog park grant. Commission Comments followed. Commissioners Olson, Thurman and Avakian were concerned if the PetSafe grant “locked” the City into deciding a “fenced” dog park location in advance of more study and design efforts. Director Stanwyck confirmed the dog park grant was restrictive to city-owned land only and did not “lock” the city into a location should that change in the future. Staff Mudgett added that, should the city be awarded the grant, funds would need to be expended within three (3) years of award. Packet Pg 98 8 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of June 7, 2017 Page 4 Commissioner Olson expressed dissatisfaction with woodchips as an all-surface material for dog parks and it is damaging to dog paws, preferring grass. She asked about the standard “fenced” dog park size. Staff Mudgett responded that a typical dog park is .5 to 1 acre. Commissioner Olson asked if receiving grant funds would preclude the City from applying for future grants. Director Stanwyck did not believe this would have an impact on the City’s competition for other grants. Commissioner Schwab asked if other City Parks were considered. Staff Mudgett responded that five potential city park locations were identified, however preliminary survey results showed Laguna Lake Park as the top selection by survey takers. Director Stanwyck added that having an enclosed “fenced” dog park at this location would be consistent with other uses. Director Stanwyck provided additional information about Council’s support for an update of Parks and Recreation Element and Master Plan as part of the 2017-19 Financial Plan and future dog park planning and long-term visioning would be a part of that future policy document and plan. Vice Chair Thurman asked if it made sense to have both a “fenced” and unfenced dog area together. He was in support of more community analysis and incorporating dog park planning into the Parks and Recreation Element update. Commissioner Whitener as about the total cost of constructing a dog park. Staff Mudgett said that, in collaboration with Parks Maintenance staff, it believed a dog park could be constructed at this location for approximately $40,000 which assumes community donations of some materials, in-kind services, volunteer efforts, and partnerships. Commissioner Whitener was in support of the Laguna Park as a location for a “fenced” dog park. He was not in support of a “fenced” dog park at another City park location if it took away from, or negatively impacted, current uses. Chair Avakian said he is a dog lover and past dog owner who often frequented the Laguna Lake dog “off-leash” area. He supported the concept of a new dog park that had a large/small dog separation. He appreciated knowing that the grant had flexibility in determining the exact location of a “fenced” dog park. Chair Avakian asked if the area adjacent to the restrooms was considered as a potential location. Director Stanwyck responded that area could encroach into sensitive open space area and trails, and therefore was not recommended by staff. ACTION: RECEIVE PRELIMINARY DOG OFF-LEASH SURVEY RESULTS AND RECOMMEND TO COUNCIL THAT IT AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PURSUE PETSAFE® BARK FOR YOUR PARK™ GRANT, MOTION BY COMMISSIONER OLSON, SECOND BY WHITENER. CARRIED 3:2:0:1 to recommend to Council that it authorize staff to pursue a Bark for Your ParkTM grant application submitted to PetSafe®for a total amount not to exceed $25,000 for the design and construction of a new dog park at Laguna Lake Park. AYES: AVAKIAN, OLSON, WHITENER NOES: SCHWAB, THURMAN ABSTAIN: NONE ABSENT: SINGLE COMMITTEE COMMUNICATIONS Packet Pg 99 8 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of June 7, 2017 Page 5 4. Director’s Report Director Stanwyck provided a brief update of current Parks and Recreation programming and City updates. Council preliminarily included an update to the Parks and Recreation Element as part of the Preliminary 2017-19 Financial Plan. Next steps will be adoption of budget on June 20th. Following that staff will return to the PRC with to focus on identifying new and creative ways to engage the public (who recreate and who do not) in this process as well as to develop a project plan. Community Development planner, Rebecca Gershow, will be assisting with this effort. Council provided clarifying direction to staff regarding the continued pursuit of a park in the north of Broad Street neighborhood. Public Art Olas Portola installation on Friday, June 9th. Dedication planned for early August. Strategic Plan Summit, sharing five months of subcommittee results on the six Department Goals. There will be a presentation and annual report for the Commission. Summer Planning frenzy! Summer Camps start on June 19th with 150 kids daily. Recreation Swim starts June 12th. Jr Ranger Camp starts June 12th. Swim lessons provided to over 1,000 patrons. Golf program, “Free for Kids” w/ paying adult - all summer. Blues Games are under way. Friday Night Skate at the SLO Skate Park with music. Cancellation of August meeting and community whiffle-ball concept on agenda forecast. Sinshiemer Park Playground construction updates. Construction severely delayed by rain, but hopeful it will be completed before the SLO triathlon in July. PixOnPeaks 2.0 Campaign launched June 1st and includes seven new “loop” hikes LIAISON REPORTS 5. Subcommittee Liaison Reports Adult and Senior Programming: Commissioner Single was absent. No Report. Bicycle Advisory Committee: Commissioner Olson said the BAC had its annual traffic safety report; lowest collisions on record for auto, bike related accidents up 12% (56 collisions). Half of severe injuries are due to speeding and DUIs. The BAC has not yet concluded if it will lead the pedestrian plan. BAC will revisit at next meeting in July. City Facilities (Damon Garcia, Golf, Pool & Joint Use Facilities): Chair Avakian reported on the new pool ambassador program. Facility staff hosts have new polo shirt uniforms. The Golf Course has had 26,000 rounds played to-date. Golf Course added a Super Twilight rate. Tree Committee: Vice Chair Thurman said there was no Tree Committee report. Jack House Committee: Commissioner Whitener said the Jack House meeting was a synopsis on past, present and future of the Jack House. Most of the art is off the walls and awaiting analysis and cataloging and preservation (as most are in various states of deterioration). City staff is working with the groups for future Recreational Partnership agreements, implementation of operational best practices for historic homes managing and training for volunteers. The Jack House is now a Blue Star Museum, which allows military and their families a free tour of the home from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Youth Sports: Commissioner Schwab said there was no YSA meeting. Commission Communications Packet Pg 100 8 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of June 7, 2017 Page 6 Vice Chair Thurman corrected the pronunciation of “Sinsheimer” as “Sins-Heimer”. Commissioner Olson shared there is a group called “See Spot Run” that is dedicating efforts towards the City allowing a dedicate spot or trail in open space to hike with dogs off-leash. Director Stanwyck added that the City is starting a new program called “Hikes with Hounds”, which is a monthly Ranger led hike in the open space in June, July and August. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 7:11 p.m. to the regular Parks and Recreation Commission scheduled for 05, July 2017 at 5:30 p.m., in the Parks and Recreation Department Conference Room located at 1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, California. APPROVED BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION: 07/05/2017 Packet Pg 101 8 City of San Luis Obispo, Office of the City Manager, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401-3249, 805.781.7114, slocity.org June 20, 2017 PetSafe® Bark for Your Park Committee Radio Systems Corporation 10427 PetSafe Way Knoxville, Tennessee 37932 Subject: City of San Luis Obispo Grant Application - Land and Support Letter Dear PetSafe Bark for Your Park Committee, Thank you for your consideration in this unique grant opportunity. I am pleased to announce my support for our community’s participation in the 2017 Bark for Your Park™ grant program, with efforts to build, enhance and maintain the first ever dog park for the City of San Luis Obispo (SLO). As you are aware, dog parks have grown in popularity throughout the country as more people have pets and are asking that communities provide these dog-friendly recreational opportunities. The beautiful coastal City of SLO is no exception. Currently the City has one defacto “off-leash” area where dogs are permitted to roam off-leash without citation but does not have a “fenced dog park” within City limits (the closest fenced dog park being 4 miles outside of City limits). To identify future needs, the Parks and Recreation Department recently conducted a user survey to solicit feedback to help shape the current maintenance needs, as well as future improvements. As part of this survey, users were asked to prioritize future improvements and potential dog park locations should funding become available (such as with the PetSafe grant or community donations). Through this initial effort, the City-owned Laguna Lake Park (located at 504 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, California) was identified as an ideal location for the addition of a fenced dog park due to the community’s preliminary support for such a dog park, current compatibility of uses and existing park infrastructure (such as accessibility to public restrooms, parking and utilities). The City believes that following benefits will result from establishing such a fenced dog park at Laguna Lake Park: 1. Providing a defined, controlled area to allow dogs off leash (great for dog wanderers, bolters); 2. Allowing for the separation of large and small dogs; 3. Keeping dogs away from water bodies (compliant with Environmental Health Standards); 4. Providing a defined area to apply all-weather surface material (e.g. woodchips); Packet Pg 102 8 5. Reduces number of uncontrolled dogs from entering other parts of the park (e.g. children’s play area or natural conservation habitats). By way of this letter, the City of SLO and its community members pledge support for the future construction of a fenced dog park within City limits. Should our community be selected as recipient of a PetSafe grant, the City agrees to commit resources to support the construction, operation and maintenance of the dog park or help our citizens organize such efforts once the park is complete. In conclusion, the City of San Luis Obispo acknowledges and agrees to abide by the 2017 Bark for Your Park™ official grant rules. Respectfully, Katie Lichtig City Manager and Dog Owner Packet Pg 103 8 R ______ RESOLUTION NO. _____ (2017 SERIES) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR, OR THEIR DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE AND FULFILL ANY RELATED PETSAFE® BARK FOR YOUR PARK™ GRANT APPLICATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, ASSURANCES, FORMS, AGREEMENTS, AND ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY WHEREAS, City of San Luis Obispo Parks and Recreation Department and Public Works Department operates, programs and maintains city parks; and WHEREAS, the City of San Luis Obispo (City) does not have a fenced-in dog park within city limits; and WHEREAS, the City is an eligible applicant for the 2017 PetSafe® Bark for Your Park™ grant program; and WHEREAS, the City, through a recent community outreach survey, has identified the City-owned Laguna Lake Park as the ideal location for the construction of a future PetSafe® dog park; and WHEREAS, the City acknowledges and agrees to abide by the 2017 Bark for Your Park ™ Official Grant Rules. WHEREAS, the City support for our community’s participation in the 2017 Bark for Your Park ™ grant program, with efforts to build, enhance and maintain the first ever dog park for the City of SLO. WHEREAS, if awarded a grant, the City agrees to commit resources to support the operation and maintenance of the dog park or help our citizens organize such efforts once the park is complete; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City if San Luis Obispo City Council does hereby authorize the Parks and Recreation Director, or their Designee, to execute and fulfill any related PetSafe® Bark for Your Park™ program grant applications, certifications, assurances, forms, agreements, and associated documents on behalf of the City. Upon motion of _______________________, seconded by _______________________, and on the following roll call vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: Packet Pg 104 8 Resolution No. _____ (2017 Series) Page 2 The foregoing resolution was adopted this _____ day of _____________________ 2017. ____________________________________ Mayor Heidi Harmon ATTEST: ____________________________________ Carrie Gallagher City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: _____________________________________ J. Christine Dietrick City Attorney IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of San Luis Obispo, California, this ______ day of ______________, _________. ____________________________________ Carrie Gallagher City Clerk Packet Pg 105 8 Page intentionally left blank. Packet Pg 106 8