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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-16-2018 Item 05 2017 Annual Progress Report for the 2020 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan Meeting Date: 1/16/2018 FROM: Shelly Stanwyck, Parks and Recreation Director Prepared By: Melissa C. Mudgett, Parks and Recreation Manager SUBJECT: 2017 ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE 2020 PARKS AND RECREATION STRATEGIC PLAN RECOMMENDATION As recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission, receive and file the 2017 Annual Progress Report for the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan (Attachment A). DISCUSSION Background On November 1, 2016, the City Council adopted the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. The Plan outlines the Department’s vision, goals, and objectives over the course of four years (2017-2020) with a primary focus on operational and programmatic priorities. 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Focus The Strategic Plan is organized into six goals with key objectives followed by actions. It provides guidance for Department operations and programming in support of the Parks and Recreation mission statement: inspiring happiness by creating community through People, Parks, Programs, and Open Space. The six goals are summarized below. 1. Department is well-managed, smart and healthy: Parks & Recreation is a vibrant, thriving department with effective leadership and practices which ensure a sustainable future. 2. Staff is high performing, professional and provides excellent service: Parks & Recreation demonstrates a culture of valuing human capital and expecting the best from all team members. Staff is hired for department compatibility, is set up for professional success in serving the public, contributing to the team, and pursuing advancement in municipal government careers. 3. Programming is directed to diverse users: Parks & Recreation provides high quality programs that are responsive to industry trends and changing community needs. Programming encourages participation and builds community amongst all users. 4. Expand parks and facilities: Parks and Facilities are contemporary, desirable to use, and meet the needs of diverse users. 5. Nurture Open Space: The City’s open space is preserved and protected to ensure its health and wellness as well as the community’s continued stewardship while continuing to grow the next generation of land stewards. Packet Pg 63 5 6. Maximize community resources and collaborations: Parks & Recreation increases its programming and positive impact, shares resources, and meets needs through community partnerships. First Annual Progress Report on the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan The first ever Annual Progress Report on the Department’s Strategic Plan is provided as Attachment A and is intended to highlight major accomplishments at the objective level. The Plan is in no way a recitation of all work completed throughout the year, but rather is focused on fully completed projects, tangible results, metric-based activities, and often group and community activities that were visual in nature and expressive of the diverse work undertaken by all staff in the Department. The Open Space Maintenance Annual Progress Report, provided under separate report, details activities in furtherance of Strategic Plan Focus Area no. 5 (Nurture Open Space). Strategic Plan Subcommittees and Highlights of 2017 2017 was the first year of the Department’s strategic plan implementation and created the opportunity to identify meaningful metrics by collecting baseline data for future year-to-year comparisons and determining performance measures for the Department. Staff worked collaboratively on identifying the various means of achieving the Plan’s goals and objectives. Each goal objective was assigned a staff member action-lead and eight separate subcommittees were formed as a unique way to expose staff from all levels in the Department to new professional development opportunities and inspire innovative ways to accomplish these goals. The eight Strategic Plan subcommittee groups consisted of 34 full and part-time staff from various divisions throughout the Department. Throughout the year, these subcommittee groups met on a regular monthly basis to work towards accomplishing objectives, as well as bi-annually at the Parks and Recreation Summit events to share information about their progress, receive peer feedback and identify opportunities to align related objectives and maximize positive results. The 2017 progress report for the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan highlights numerous accomplishments and progress made throughout the year, as well as the Department’s commitment to creatively provide programs and services to the community in addition to being a healthy and smart workplace for exceptional staff. A brief outline of the 2017 Annual Progress Report highlights is provided in the table below. Packet Pg 64 5 Table 1: 2017 Annual Progress Report Highlights: 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Public Input to Parks and Recreation Commission Regarding an Action Item Public Comment was received in advance of the December 6, 2017 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting regarding the exploration of a new park l in the North Broad Street neighborhood. Staff continues to work on this action item as part of Goal 4 Objectives and has meet with the Church of Latter Day Saints and neighborhood leadership on this topic. This is a work in progress and there is no completed project to report on currently. Several members of the neighborhood provided correspondence to the Parks and Recreation Commission ahead of its meeting and staff had the opportunity to respond with additional information. A summary of this information is as follows: 1. Council Direction regarding a park in the North Broad Street neighborhood was Packet Pg 65 5 given during the Financial Plan development process. Specifically, during the June 1 and 20, 2017 Council meetings this topic was discussed in the context the City’s 2017-19 Financial Plan and use of a prior General Fund contribution to the Park Land Fund for that purpose. During these two meetings Council made formal adoption of the budget and from staff’s review of the videos, presentations, and discussions, by consensus Council directed staff to: a. Pursue a park site in the North Broad Street neighborhood that facilitates a park and the Broad Street Bike Boulevard together. b. The General Fund contribution to the Parkland Development Fund for a park in the North Broad Street neighborhood shall be reevaluated as part of the 2019-21 Financial Plan if no active pursuit of property is underway. c. Council approved the transfer of $160,000 from the General Fund designated contribution in the Parkland Fund to fund the Parks and Recreation General Plan Element and Master Plan update. This leaves $740,000 of General Fund allocation in the Parkland Fund for future acquisition purposes. 2. Status of Park and North Broad Street Bike Boulevard between Ramona and Foothill. Staff has received word from the Church of Latter Day Saints which owns property bounded by Foothill Boulevard and Ramona Drive and that was identified as a potential park/bike path location. The good news is the Church is comfortable beginning negotiations for a bike path. However, the church is not interested in sale or other form of acquisition of it for park purposes by the City at this time. Church representatives have indicated that they are considering utilizing that space themselves, but will let staff know if that goal changes in the future. Given this, a new park at this location and the Broad Street Bike Boulevard cannot at this time be pursued together. 3. Property Identification Exercise Underway to Give Council and the Neighborhood an idea of what properties may be available for this purpose. Staff however believes that a property review and discussion with the North Broad Street neighborhood should continue consistent with the existing Parks and Recreation Element which identifies the need for a park in this particular neighborhood. Staff and the neighbors have met three times and a mapping exercise is currently underway to identify undeveloped properties that may have potential for park purposes in this neighborhood. Once this identification exercise is complete, staff would need to return to Council for further guidance given the direction received in the 2017-19 Financial Plan process. Looking Ahead to the 2018 Implementation of the 2020 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan Staff will continue to work on Plan objectives and will return to both the Parks and Recreation Commission and the City Council with annual progress reports on the Plan. In 2018, staff will focus on core areas to help the Parks and Recreation Department maximize limited available resources, provide an array of programming designed to meet the needs of diverse park users, Packet Pg 66 5 and better define our future relationship with the community; together crafting an exciting future for Parks and Recreation. A sneak peak of coming attractions for 2018 include the following: CONCURRENCE The Parks and Recreation Commission received a presentation on the 2017 Annual Progress of the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan at its December 6th meeting and concur with the information provided in the annual report. (Attachment B – Draft Meeting Minutes). FISCAL IMPACT Receiving and filing the 2017 Annual Progress Report does not result in a direct fiscal impact to the City. The completion of the annual goals and objectives listed in the report were completed in-house by Parks and Recreation staff and within available resources and budget. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW All activities undertaken as part of the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan implementation are done in a manner that is consistent with all adopted City policies, ordinances and open space maintenance and/or natural preserve conservation plans. Attachments: a - 2017 Annual Progress Report of the P&R Strategic Plan b - Draft PRC Minutes 12.06.17 Packet Pg 67 5 2020 Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan 2017 Annual Progress Report Packet Pg 68 5 Programming is directed to diverse usersgoal 3 staff is high performing, professional & provides excellent service goal 2 Expand Parks & Facilities goal 4 Nurture open spacegoal 5 maximize community resources & collaborations goal 6 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan goal 1 Department is well managed, smart & healthy 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Nov. 16, 2017 Bi-Annual Strategic Plan Summit where staff shared accomplishments and sought input on Strategic Plan Goals. YEAR 1! This year was an opportunity to create meaningful metrics by collecting base-line data for future year-to-year comparisons & determining performance measures for the Department The plan provides guidance for Department operations and programming in support of the Parks and Recreation mission Page 22017 Annual Report Packet Pg 69 5 Department is well managed, smart & healthy goal 1 Enhance Department Structure for Sustainable Success Build financial stability to ensure outstanding levels of service Optimize technology to facilitate effective work processes Page 32017 Annual Report Packet Pg 70 5 GOAL #1 DEPARTMENT IS WELL MANAGED, SMART & HEALTHY 2017 Annual Report Page 4 Update of Parks and Recreation Element and Master Plan funded in the 2017-2019 Financial Plan FINANCES The Cost of Services Study adopted by Council in April 2017 provided foundational information for data-based user fees STAFFING FUTURE Onboarded 116 new hires Provided outstanding services and programs Complied with state licensing/regulations with continued focus on public safety Packet Pg 71 5 2017 Annual Report Website Landing Page revised to be more responsive Council approved New Use Agreements with YMCA and CC Soccer for shared youth sports and Adult Soccer. Helped to reduce risk and increased management of City’s liability. GOAL #1 DEPARTMENT IS WELL MANAGED, SMART & HEALTHY Page 5 INCREASE COMMUNITY AWARENESS of Parks & Recreation programs 14 % Increase in Website Visits REDUCE RISKNEW AGREEMENTS WITH Packet Pg 72 5 Sustain Supportive & Progressive Work Environment Staff is motivated & trained to provide outstanding service Maximize use of Volunteers staff is high performing, professional & provides excellent service goal 2 Page 62017 Annual Report Packet Pg 73 5 GOAL #2 STAFF IS HIGH PERFORMING, PROFESSIONAL & PROVIDES EXCELLENT SERVICE 2017 Annual Report HEALTHY Parks and Recreation works to create a culture with “WOW”. Work-Out-Wednesdays, World-of-Wellness, (Department library & healthy resources) and Working-on-Wellness (Newsletter) are all in support of employee health. INNOVATIVE New whimsical directional signs at selected Parks and Recreation facilities offer a fun way to increase community awareness about our services. Golf cart leasing option saves $1,200 annually and added a new maintenance cart vehicle resource. Increased access to shared fleet at SLO Swim Center & Golf Course allowed staff to transition away from using personal vehicles for required work; helping to reduce City’s liability. SMART Staff Appreciation Committee recognized 28 Parks & Recreation staff for their outstanding work throughout the year with Department hydroflasks and a “Shout-Out-Board” to note individual accomplishments. Page 7Packet Pg 74 5 VOLUNTEERS TRAININGS 1,491 volunteers 10,946 hours Valued at $146,999 2017 Annual Report Page 8 15 staff participated in the California Professional Recreation Society (C.P.R.S.) Fall Forum with 3 staff serving on the CPRS Board 40 staff became American Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid certified 3 staff obtained professional certifications for lifeguard instructor training, mechanized trail equipment training and certification for pesticide & herbicide applications 7 promotions of staff both within the Department and City Wide Parks and Recreation continues to demonstrate a culture of valuing human capital and expecting the best from all team members. In 2017, 22 Parks and Recreation staff participated in trainings provided by the Centre for Organizational Effectiveness (S.T.A.R.T., Supervisors Academy, Leadership Lab and Disc Assessments) GOAL #2 STAFF IS HIGH PERFORMING, PROFESSIONAL & PROVIDES EXCELLENT SERVICE New City-wide volunteer system (CERVIS) launched in February 2017 with website “volunteers” link making it easier to connect volunteers with opportunities Resulted in Packet Pg 75 5 Maximize the Use of Existing Parks and Facilities Programming is directed to diverse users goal 3 Page 9 Optimize and implement innovative programming in three priority areas: Golf, Aquatics and Racquet Sports Increase Community’s awareness of programs, services, events and needs Strengthen operational commitment to programming across all ages 2017 Annual Report Packet Pg 76 5 GOAL #3 PROGRAMMING IS DIRECTED TO DIVERSE USERS 2017 Annual Report Parks and Recreation provides high quality programs that are responsive to industry trends and changing community needs. New programming in 2017 encouraged participation, built community amongst all users, and strengthened the Department’s operational commitment to programs across all age groups. ALL EVENTSLISTED ONFACEBOOKMONTHLY Page 10 PROGRAMMING FOR ALL AGES DOWNTOWN ATFARMERS MARKET INCREASED PLAY 400% Packet Pg 77 5 SOCIAL MEDIA METRICS 880 New Followers in 1 year 2,076 Total Followers 1,000+ New Followers in 1 year Facebook Instagram Twitter 958 Total Followers As of November 28, 2017 50% 32% 30% 15% Family Water Safety Day from 75 to 150 people Gobble Wobble from 374 to 550+ people September Scramble from 385 to 550+ people Boo Bash from 800 to 1,000 people 2016 to 2017 Event Attendance Increase 2017 Annual Report Page 11 GOAL #3 PROGRAMMING IS DIRECTED TO DIVERSE USERS Packet Pg 78 5 Increase access to non-City turf facilities & increase the number of City turf facilities Maintain current facilities & infrastructure to optimal levels Pursue new neighborhood parks and maximize existing parks to provide amenities beyond Parks and Recreation existing resources Expand Parks & Facilities goal 4 Page 122017 Annual Report Packet Pg 79 5 GOAL #4 EXPAND PARKS AND FACILITIES 2017 Annual Report Investment in Capital Projects to Expand the Use of Parks & Facilities New Kikuyu Grass at Damon Garcia Sports Field New Kikuyu grass planted on Field B in 2017 on a trial basis. Renovations are planned for fields A, C, D in 2018. Regular field visits with user groups support ongoing communication, active problem solving and innovative ideas. Sinsheimer Park Playground Page 13 Re-Opened November 2017 with hundreds of community members using it every day! Packet Pg 80 5 2017 Annual Report Page 14 GOAL #4 EXPAND PARKS AND FACILITIES French Park Pickleball Multi-Use Lines on Tennis Courts ADA Trail at Laguna Lake Park ¼ mile long ADA accessible nature trail installed at Laguna Lake Park Surveyed Dog Park Users and Explored PetSafe Dog Park grant opportunity. Results of survey; users like unfenced. 178 people responded, 41% people prioritized woodchips as the preferred surface, 77% of Laguna Dog Off-Leash Area users want to keep it open and unfenced. Laguna Dog Off-Leash Area capital project for safety enhancements allocated $50,000 for site improvements, including visual boundary markers, pavement collars at water stations to reduce mud, 900+ feet of new fencing to improve safety along parking lot, new signage & woodchips filled in cracks to increase pet & owner safety when walking. Dog Off-Leash Area Safety Enhancements Increased use of sports courts: 190 pickleball players weekly at 4 city locations = 9,880 players annually. North of Broad Street Neighborhood Park Communications with Church & Neighborhood Leadership. Staff continue work to identify potential park locations. Packet Pg 81 5 Implement the adopted Open Space Maintenance Plan as well as the City adopted Conservation Plans Enhance the user experience with emphasis on education, conservation and collaboration Build an effective management structure reflective of the size and scope of the City’s open space Nurture open spacegoal 5 Page 152017 Annual Report Packet Pg 82 5 Climbing Experience & Impact Even when considering its limited elevation and the total amount of climbable rock face, the hard dacite rock that is characteristic of the Morros, and Bishop Peak, provides a high quality climbing experience. This, combined with a pleasant year round climate, make Bishop Peak an ideal location for moderate climbing. Many of the crags are accessed by ‘social trails’ which have been created by frequent travel over previously undisturbed habitat. As more climbers come into the area it is important to consider the impacts of climbing on the Peak. Many of these social trails have become impacted and worn and new trails have begun to appear, particularly between the different walls. Unfortunately, these new unsanctioned trails lead to greater impacts on the land including: soil compaction, erosion, and vegetation loss at the base of climbs, and on approach and descent trails, destruction of cliffside vegetation and lichen, disturbance of cliff-dwelling animals, litter, and the visual blight of chalk marks, pin scars, bolts, and gear that has been left behind. All climbers, be they visitor or regular, are encouraged to use existing trails and be mindful of the impacts your use has on this natural resource. History Rock climbing is a long standing historic use at Bishop Peak, with evidence of early use going back as far as the World War II era. Regular climbing activity appears to have begun in the mid to late 1970’s. Most of the “roped climbing” at Bishop Peak has focused on the north facing cliffs and crags known as P-Wall, Shadow Wall and Cracked Wall as well as the Summit Blocks. In recent years, bouldering has become popular at Pete Boulder, Clorissa Boulder, Hummingbird Boulder, the Boulder in the Woods and the Potato. Climbing at bishop peak Minimum Impact Practices It is important to remember that climbing should not interfere with the overall management of Bishop Peak, which is designated as a Natural Reserve with natural resource protection its primary goal*. These impacts can be eliminated or greatly reduced by following minimum impact practices and leave no trace ethics. Though you may consider the individual impacts of your actions as insignificant, when multiplied by all of the people who climb here every year they can have a significant, long lasting effect.. *San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.22.050 Hard dacite rock, combined with a pleasant year round climate, make Bishop Peak an ideal location for moderate climbing !Climb at your own risk PHOTO BY: Douglas Bush Wildflowersour local “A world without open country would be universal jail.” — ED ABBEY Each year our springtime brings a profusion of wildflowers. When our surrounding hills turn green, it’s soon after they appear dusted with yellows, oranges and other colors. From the California Poppy to Mustard and the stately Yucca, the change of our seasons bring about the changing beauty of our open spaces. But the spectacular display of wildflowers neither begin nor end with the passage of Spring. All Flowering plants have their own particular bloom period. The annual wildflowers appear first and rapidly bloom, undergo pollination, and set seed before the dry summer can end their life cycle. Look for Chinese Lanterns in Oak Woodlands and Gold Fields and Baby Stars in open grass land. Perennial herbs can persist longer and into the summer months before going dormant. Late-blooming bulbs can be seen veiled on the dried grassy slopes where you’ll find Mariposa, Golden Stars and other Lilies mid-summer. In the Chaparral surrounding the City, Black Sage, Ceanothus and Sticky Monkey Flower all come into bloom to delight the observant hiker. Winter-blooming shrubs are Chaparral Current and Fuchsia- flowered Gooseberry. There are hundreds of wildflowers in our area that many can be found at any given time of the year. Most have lived here since pre-Columbian times, but many have arrived in recent years. The vast fields of mustard, the noxious thistles and the escaped ornamental plants have contributed to our springtime palette of colors. Take your time and look closely at your surroundings as you pass through them to further enjoy your outdoor experience. Wildflowers of San Luis Obispo, California is an excellent guide to initiate the trail user to our treasures that bloom. It was written by a consortium of botanists, enthusiasts and photographers with a passion for our flora and can be found at the Parks and Recreation office (1341 Nipomo Street in San Luis Obispo). Club-Haired Mariposa Lily Calochortus clavatus spp. clavatus Twinning SnapdragonAntirrhinum kelloggii Tidy Tips Layia platyglossa Coast Indian Paintbrush Castilleja affinis Palmer’s Monardella Monardella palmeri Gum PlantGrindelia hirsutula PHOTO BY: Ranger Service Staff Our open spaces are home to some of the most diverse and unique wildflowers found in the country. Wildflowers exist here that can survive in no other environment. Palmer’s Monardella (Monardella palmeri) is unique to serpentine soils. Uncommon Jewel flower (Streptanthus albidus ssp.peramoenus) is an inconspicuous flower found on disturbed serpentine slopes. NEW TRAILHEAD KIOSKS Informative Trailhead Panel Inserts GOAL #5 NURTURE OPEN SPACE NEW EQUIPMENT 2017 Annual Report Page 16Packet Pg 83 5 VOLUNTEERS 528 hrs 500+ PAPER TRAIL MAPS GIVEN AWAY 1,500 LEASHES GIVEN AWAY AT TRAIL ENTRANCES3 5 °1 7 '3 0 "N3 5 °1 7 '3 0 "N3 5 °1 7 '0 "N3 5 °1 7 '0 "N3 5 °1 6 '3 0 "N3 5 °1 6 '3 0 "N3 5 °1 6 '0 "N3 5 °1 6 '0 "N 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 MILES Open Spaces san luis obispo Please respect private property and stay on trails. Please observe the City of San Luis Obispo Open Space rules found at each location. Violators will be cited under San Luis Obispo Municipal Codes; Fines in excess of $561. Hikers and mountain bikers can explore 52+ miles of trails running through over 3,500 acres of Open Space properties belonging to the City of San Luis Obispo. In case of emergency dial 911. For Ranger Service call (805) 781-7302. For more information and downloadable trail maps visit Ranger Service page at www.slocity.org Reservoir Canyon NATURAL RESERVE South Hills NATURAL RESERVE Terrace Hill OPEN SPACE Johnson Ranch OPEN SPACE Laguna Lake NATURAL RESERVE Bishop Peak NATURAL RESERVE Irish Hills NATURAL RESERVE Cerro San Luis NATURAL RESERVE Stenner Springs NATURAL RESERVE Islay Hill OPEN SPACE PUBLIC EDUCATION 2017 Annual Report Page 17 GOAL #5 NURTURE OPEN SPACE Every Wednesday morning Volunteers meet Rangers out at a designated location - info found on our website and social media. Saturday Work Days: Once a month at various locations Packet Pg 84 5 goal 6 maximize community resources & collaborations Develop partnership opportunities with SLO County Parks Leverage community stakeholders for citizen-driven programming, funding, and problem-solving Expand partnerships with Cal Poly and Cuesta College to increase the City’s facility options and provide development opportunities for their students Page 182017 Annual Report Packet Pg 85 5 GOAL #6 MAXIMIZE COMMUNITY RESOURCES & COLLABORATIONS Cal Poly 3Wins Exercise Program partnership begins in 2018 – pilot program at Golf Course Ongoing Construction of Laguna Lake Golf Course Community Garden (Donation from Kiwanis Clubs and One Cool Earth) (120 volunteers, 72 volunteers hours/12 community workdays/$7,200 value) Public Art Maintenance Day at “Oh Great Spirit” in October 2017 by Rotary volunteers (A value of $1,200) AmeriCorp Worker: leveraged funding for city-wide volunteer program launch LOVE SLO 2017 Parks and Recreation Projects (Laguna Lake Golf Course Community Garden, SLO Swim Center landscape and Rock Around SLO) A DAY OF VOLUNTEERING Page 192017 Annual Report STAKEHOLDERS Packet Pg 86 5 COLLABORATION Parks and Recreation collaborates with student volunteers for events like the Gobble Wobble, Senior Center classes and 3Wins Parks and Recreation hosts Cal Poly “Week of Welcome” booth Special Trail Maintenance Class at Cal Poly taught by Ranger Doug Carscaden Ranger Led Hikes in collaboration with Cal Poly Professors & field professionals Partnerships with local hotels (Embassy Suites & Avila Bay) assisted in pool use during hotel construction down time allowing local businesses to provide their patrons with this amenity AQUATICS Supports Special Olympics Training, Navy Seal Training, Arts for Living Therapy, SLO County Reading program at the SLO Swim Center New Pool Ambassador Program offers community collaborations for programming and innovative ideas at the SLO Swim Center + 200 maps handed out 300 student contacts Page 202017 Annual Report GOAL #6 MAXIMIZE COMMUNITY RESOURCES & COLLABORATIONS Packet Pg 87 5 What’s Ahead in 201 Growing Parks and Recreation’s Healthy & Smart culture Launching the Parks and Recreation Element Update and Master Plan Continuing to Recognize Staff for Outstanding Work Maximizing Community Collaborations to make the most of limited resources, facilities & volunteers Expanding Programming to Reach Diverse Users including Young Adults (20-30s) and Seniors Measuring Customer Satisfaction What’s Your Happiness Score? 1 2 3 4 5 6 Page 21 8? 2017 Annual Report Packet Pg 88 5 Minutes - DRAFT PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION 06 December 2017 Regular Meeting of the Advisory Body Commission CALL TO ORDER A Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order on the 6th day of December 2017 at 5:32 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 Kari Applegate, Keri Schwab, Bob Spector Absent: Commissioner Olson, Commissioner Whitener Staff: Parks and Recreation Director Shelly Stanwyck, Recreation Manager Melissa Mudgett, Recreation Supervisor Ranger Service Doug Carscaden, Recreation Supervisory Aquatics/Facilities Devin Hyfield, Administrative Analyst Lindsey Stephenson PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA Representative of the SLO Pickleball Club, Brian O’Kelly, thanked the Commission and staff, specifically Rich Ogden Sports Supervisor, for the pickleball pilot program, the multi-use lines at French Park Tennis Courts and the future dedicated pickleball courts. The SLO Pickleball Club invited the Commission to come out and play. CONSENT AGENDA AND CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES ACTION: APPROVAL OF THE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FOR NOVEMBER 1, 2017. 1.Consideration of Minutes CARRIED 5:0:0:2 to approve the minutes of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Body for the regular meeting of 11/01/2017 as amended as motioned by Vice Chair Thurman and second by Commissioner Spector. AYES: APPLEGATE, AVAKIAN, SCHWAB, SPECTOR, THURMAN, NOES: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE ABSENT: OLSON, WHITENER Packet Pg 89 5 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of December 6, 2017 Page 2 2. Consideration of 2018 Meeting Schedule ACTION: APPROVAL OF THE 2018 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION ADVISORY BODY MEETING SCHEDULE. CARRIED 5:0:0:2 to approve the 2018 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting schedule as motioned by Vice Chair Thurman and second by Chair Avakian. AYES: APPLEGATE, AVAKIAN, SCHWAB, SPECTOR, THURMAN, NOES: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE ABSENT: OLSON, WHITENER 3. Discussion of the 2020 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan Parks and Recreation Director Shelly Stanwyck, Recreation Manager Melissa Mudgett and Recreation Supervisor Devin Hyfield provided an overview of the Departments’ first annual 2020 Strategic Plan report. Strategic Plan progress and accomplishments made in 2017 were highlighted. Baseline data for future year-to-year comparisons and determining performance measures for the Department was collected in 2017. In response to public comments received and some confusion over Council direction and budget allocation Director Stanwyck summarized information on a specific action item of the 5- year plan, the pursuit of a park North of Broad Street. Staff Hyfield said that in 2018 staff will focus on core areas to help the Parks and Recreation Department maximize limited available resources, provide an array of programming designed to meet the needs of diverse park users and better define our future relationship with the community. Public Comment Kit Gould, SLO Resident, asked the Commission to add information about staff’s work in exploring a park North of Broad Street in the 2017 Progress Report of the Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. Ms. Gould asked to be kept in the loop regarding progress. Mila Vujovich-LeBarre, SLO Resident, said that Council previously allocated $750,000 for a park in the North of Broad Street neighborhood. She asked the Commission to consider active bike paths with the development of new parks. Ms. Vujovich-LeBarre recommended the City partner with the School District, use public service announcements and outreach to caregivers for Senior programming. Commission Comments followed Commissioner Spector asked about the process for the Parks and Recreation Element Update and Master Plan. Director Stanwyck responded that there will be significant public engagement to determine the community’s top priorities. Commissioner Spector asked about other Senior programs offered by the City. Staff responded that in addition to the SLO Senior Center and activities, the Golf Course is largely used by active senior citizens, adult volleyball and adult table tennis is available at the Ludwick Community Center and drop-in Boomer Softball is played year-round. Packet Pg 90 5 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of December 6, 2017 Page 3 Commissioner Applegate shared that she had conversations with a neighbor and relayed their input that if a new park is not feasible in the North of Broad Street neighborhood then an installation of restrooms at Anholm Park would greatly assist in activating the park. Chair Avakian thanked staff for the hard work and programming this year. 4. Presentation of the Open Space Maintenance Plan: 2017 Annual Report The Recreation Supervisor for Ranger Service, Doug Carscaden, provided an overview of the Open Space Maintenance Plan progress and reported on accomplishments in 2017. Staff Carscaden said the 2017 Open Space Maintenance and Protection efforts addressed both new and deferred projects which included new trail amenities, the purchase of specialized equipment, and public outreach and education efforts. Staff Carscaden provided a highlight of 2018 Opening Space Maintenance projects which could include major improvements at Johnson Ranch and Reservoir Canyon trailheads, parking and fencing improvements, more kiosks, bridge and gate repairs as well as fire fuel reduction, mitigation projects, and new directional blade signage throughout the city’s trail system. Staff Carscaden concluded that the Ranger program has benefited from an enormous number of dedicated volunteers and volunteer hours that make ranger service, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup possible. Public Comment Harry Busselen, SLO Resident for Bishop Peak neighborhood, expressed his concerned with fire issues and night activities at Bishop Peak. He asked for data on Open Space rescues. Director Stanwyck responded that data is being collected for Open Space in city-limits but that a challenge is that not all Open Space is within City limits; for which the City would not have data available. Director Stanwyck added that Ranger staff continue night patrols of Open Space and performed fuel reduction activities this summer at Bishop Peak. Commission Comments followed Commissioner Schwab asked about the comparison between enforcement citations from last year. Ranger Carscaden responded that less citations were issued this year; a result of compliance. Commissioner Spector asked about the interaction between Ranger staff and the transient population during creek cleanup. Ranger Carscaden responded that Ranger Service works collaboratively with the Police Department and local social services. Director Stanwyck added that the construction of Prado Day Center may help alleviate some of issues if staff can connect individual with services. Commissioner Spector asked if anyone has completed all trails for PixonPeaks. Staff Stephenson responded that the PixonPeaks program has helped to introduce many people to new trails. Commissioner Applegate thanked staff for their efforts on trail maintenance and public education. She added that she has experienced many of the trails and have enjoyed the new kiosks and maps. Packet Pg 91 5 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of December 6, 2017 Page 4 5. Update of the Parks and Recreation Element and Master Plan Project Director Stanwyck provided the Commission with an update on the Parks and Recreation Element and Master Plan project. Director Stanwyck said on November 7th the Council approved the Request for Proposals for consultant services. Director Stanwyck said that the City received four proposals today and consultant interviews are scheduled for early January 2018. She added that the Department has hired an intern to assist staff in gathering baseline parks data. COMMITTEE COMMUNICATIONS 6. Director’s Report Director Stanwyck provided a brief update of current Parks and Recreation programming and City updates. • Rich Ogden Sport Supervisor is retiring after 31 years of City Service • Night Golf Thursday at Laguna Lake Golf Course • Facility Closures for annual maintenance December 25 through January 5, 2018. Parks and Recreation offices closed December 25-29, 2017. SLO Swim Center has various closures over Christmas and New Year holidays. • Sinsheimer Park Playground still a huge success with hundreds of visitors and families daily. Construction project planned to extend the artificial turf. • Council Meeting December 12th for Fiscal Health Response Plan LIAISON REPORTS 7. Subcommittee Liaison Reports Director Stanwyck provided a background on Commission liaison assignments. The Commission discussed past practice, current assignments, and desired changes to assignment or the practice. By consensus the Commission nominated Commissioner Spector to serve as the liaison for Adult and Senior Programming. • Adult and Senior Programming: Liaison position is currently vacant. • Bicycle Advisory Committee: Commissioner Olson was absent. No Report. • City Facilities (Damon Garcia, Golf, Pool & Joint Use Facilities): Chair Avakian reported the AYSO season is over and Field C is closed for renovation, Jack House Garden will be closed for maintenance beginning in January. Golf Course has installed new driving range nets, received new golf carts, Gobble Wobble a huge success in partnership with SLO Food Bank, and night golf is Thursday. Adult softball concluded and Youth Basketball starts in January 2018. • Jack House. Commissioner Whitener was absent. No report. • Tree Committee: Vice Chair Thurman said there was no Tree Committee Report. • Youth Sports: Commissioner Schwab said YSA meets in January. There was no report. 8. Commission Communications None Packet Pg 92 5 DRAFT Minutes – Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of December 6, 2017 Page 5 ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 7:32 p.m. to the next Special meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission held on January 10, 2018 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: 1/10/2018 Packet Pg 93 5 Page intentionally left blank. Packet Pg 94 5