HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-22-2008 Approved PCSC Min
CITY OF DUBLIN
PARKS AND C(yMMiJNITY SERVICES COMMISSION
MINUTES QV: .Tariuary 22, 2408
The January 22, 2008 special meeting of the Parks & Community Services Commission was called to
order at 7:01 pm at the Dublin Civic Center, Dublin, California, by Chairperson Flores.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chairperson Flores led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Flores, Jones, Guarienti, Lorenzo, and Muetterties
Commissioners Absent: Elias
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
3.1 BRIEF INFORMATIONAL ONLY REPORTS FROM SENIOR CENTER AND YOUTH
ADVISORY COMMITTEES
Senior Center Advisorv Committee
Ms. Beth Wood reported that the Committee held elections and elected her as Chairperson and Mr. Marty Baron
as Vice Chairperson. She stated that the Superbowl party would be held on Sunday, February 3, 2008. She
stated that the Senior Center's quarterly reports continue to show growth. She stated that work on the marketing
plan has been put on hold in order to remain in sync with the Parks & Community Services Depar[mental
marketing plan. She stated that the Committee discussed 2008-09 Goals & Objectives, and also discussed
creating a plan that addresses goals for the Senior Center over the next five or ten years. She offered the
assistance of the Committee to the Commission and Staff on any project or program on which the Committee
could be of assistance. She discussed the 2"d annual L.I.F.E. event being held in May 2008 and stated that the
Committee is open to receiving assistance from Staff and the Commission in planning the event.
Youth Advisory Committee
Cm. Lorenzo reported that the Committee discussed 2008-09 Goals & Objectives. She stated that some of the
Committee's recommendations included providing non-profit groups, such as Planned Parenthood and Hope
Hospice, more on-site access at libraries and schools; and exploring additional event ideas for teens such as teen
movie night, and special interest courses such as photography.
3.2 PUBLIC COMMENTS - None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - DECEMBER 17, 2007
On a motion by Cm. Muetterties, seconded by Cm. Lorenzo, and by a vote of 5-0-0, with Cm. Elias absent, the
Commission voted to approve the minutes of December 17, 2007 as submitted.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - None
PUBLIC HEARING - None
P&CSC Minutes - January 22, 2008
Page 2 of 7
UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None
NEW BUSINESS
8.1 ELECTION OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON
Ms. Diane Lowart, Parks & Community Services Director, presented the specifics of the item as outlined in the
Staff Report.
Cm. Elias submitted a letter in absentia that outlined his comments on the item.
Chair Flores opened the floor to Chairperson nominations.
On a motion by Cm. Guarienti, seconded by Cm. Muetterties, with Cm. Elias absent, and by a vote of 5-0-0, the
Commission elected Chair Flores as the Chairperson.
Chair Flores opened the floor to Vice Chairperson nominations.
On a motion by Cm. Guarienti, seconded by Chair Flores, with Cm. Elias absent, and by a vote of 5-0-0, the
Commission elected Cm. Jones as the Vice Chairperson. •
8.2 COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Ms. Diane Lowart, Parks & Community Services Director, presented the specifics of the item as outlined in the
Staff Report.
Cm. Elias submitted a letter in absentia that outlined his comments on the item.
After brief discussion, the Commission made the following committee appointments:
Senior Center Advisorv Committee
Representative: Cm. Guarienti
Alternate: Cm. Jones
Youth Advisorv Committee
Representative: Cm. Lorenzo
Alternate: Chair Flores
Youth Sports Liaison Committee
Representative: Cm. Elias
Alternate: Cm. Jones
Special Events Logistics Committee
Representative: Cm. Muetterties
Alternate: Cm. Guarienti
The Commission agreed to delete the Art Selection Committee for the Shannon Community Center and Bicycle
Master Plan Committee from the list of committees.
P&CSC Minutes - January 22, 2008
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8.3 STAGECOACH PARK PLAY EQUIPMENT PROPOSAL
Ms. Rosemary Alex, Parks & Facilities Development Coordinator, presented the specifics of the project as
outlined in the Staff Report.
Cm. Elias submitted a letter in absentia that outlined his comments on the item.
Cm. Guarienti asked about the effect the wind would have on the canopy. Ms. Alex explained that the
manufacturer recommends fabric removal when winds exceed 80 miles per hour due to the potential of the
canopy to fail during such wind speed. Cm. Guarienti asked about the durability of the canopy with winds less
than 80 miles per hour. Ms. Alex explained that the canopy fabric is weaved and is designed to withhold winds
up to 80 miles per hour. Cm. Guarienti asked about the canopy's attachment to the frame, and Ms. Alex pointed
it out on the diagram. Cm. Guarienti asked about the height measurement of the slides. Ms. Alex explained
that the slides are measured from the top of the deck to base of slide.
Cm. Flores asked about the time of day the site photographs were taken. Ms. Alex stated that they were taken in
the morning during the winter.
Chair Flores opened the floor to public comments.
Mr. Ron Boggs, resident, asked why the play equipment was being upgraded. Ms. Alex explained that City
conducted an audit and found that a number of play structures were not in compliance with current accessibility
and safety standards. As a result, the City has been systematically replacing the play structures from the play
structures with the most concern to the play structures with the least concern. Mr. Boggs expressed concern
about the potential of the structures being removed for safety reasons after installation; similar to what occurred
at the Dougherty Hills Dog Park. Ms. Alex briefly explained the procedural differences between installing Dog
Park structures and Children's Play Structures and stated that the play structures have to adhere to specific
Federal safety, and ADA guidelines and specifications. Mr. Boggs stated that he preferred Option 2.
Mr. Jim McCarrick, resident, asked about the new play surface. Ms. Alex stated that the sand would be
removed and replaced with engineered wood fiber composition. Mr. McCarrick stated that he prefened Option
2 in the blue/green color scheme. He asked if the water fountain would be replaced or upgraded. Ms. Alex
explained that a water fountain was not scheduled as a part of this project. Mr. McCarrick asked about the
history of Ross recreational equipment. Ms. Alex gave a brief history of City parks with Ross recreational
equipment.
Ms. Laura Moore, resident, also preferred Option 2 in the blue/green color scheme. She asked if it was possible
for the sand play surface to remain. Ms. Alex explained that the sand had to be replaced in order to comply with
accessibility requirements. Ms. Moore stated that she would like the park to maintain a sand area in which the
children can play. Ms. Moore continued to express her concerns, likes, and dislikes regarding the new play
equipment.
Cm. Muetterties asked if it was possible to have an area with sand. Ms: Alex stated that Staff would research
the possibility of including a sand area.
Cm. Guarienti asked about differences in cost, maintenance, and length of service between the wood-chip and
rubberized play surfaces. Ms. Diane Lowart, Parks & Community Services Director, explained that there is
quite a cost difference between the two. She stated that the current budget would not accommodate the cost of
the rubberized play surface; however, there may be recycled grant funding available that could assist with the
P&CSC Minutes - January 22, 2008
Page 4 of 7
costs. If the grant funding is available, Staff would recommend the rubberized play surface to the City Council
for approval.
Cm. Jones asked if any of the City's parks currently utilize the rubberized play surface. Ms. Lowart stated that
the Emerald Glen Park - Water Park area uses the rubberized play surface.
Cm. Muetterties stated that she prefers Option 2 in the blue/green color scheme.
Cm. Guarienti stated that he appreciates the residents coming to the meeting and voicing their concerns. He
stated that it would be nice to have a sand box at the Park. He stated that he is concerned about the durability of
the fabric canopy and hopes that it will be easy to remove if necessary.
Cm. Jones agreed that it would be nice to have a sand box at the Park.
Cm. Lorenzo stated that she felt the canopy would increase the use of the Park. She stated that she preferred the
rubberized play surface over the wood chips. On a motion by Cm. Muetterties, seconded by Cm. Jones, with Cm. Elias absent and by a vote of 5-0-0, the
Commission voted to recommend to the City Council Option 2 in the blue/green color scheme, with a sand area
and rubberized play surface if feasible.
The Commissioners thanked the residents for attending the meeting.
8.4 PAL PROGRAM FEASIBILITY REPORT
Mr. Paul McCreary, Parks & Community Services Manager, presented the specifics of the program as outlined
in the Staff Report.
Cm. Elias submitted a letter in absentia that outlined his comments on the item.
Cm. Guarienti thanked Mr. McCreary for the detailed report. He asked how donations would be channeled to
the program. Mr. McCreary explained that donations would most likely be held in an allocated reserve fund and
be set aside for program uses. Cm. Guarienti stated that he preferred Option 2.
Cm. Jones commented that this type of program seems better suited for metropolitan cities. He stated that the
City is already doing what the program offers. He stated that more Police presence at youth sports events could
have a similar effect of the program. He stated that Staff is doing a great job and that he prefened Option 2.
Cm. Muetterties stated that Staff is doing a great job. She stated that she recognizes the program as a great
vision; however, Option 2 would be a good starting point towards implementing the program.
Cm. Lorenzo stated that she supports Option 2.
Chair Flores stated that she also likes the idea of Option 2.
On a motion by Cm. Guarienti, seconded by Cm. Muetterties, with Cm. Elias absent and by a vote of 5-0-0, the
Commission voted to support Option 2- Begin fundraising for City fee assistance program for youth.
P&CSC Minutes - January 22, 2008
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8.5 DUBLIN SWIM CENTER COMPETITIVE POOL ANALYSIS
Mr. Paul McCreary, Parks & Community Services Manager, presented the specifics of the item as outlined in
the Staff Report.
Cm. Elias submitted a letter in absentia that outlined his comments on the item.
Cm. Muetterties asked if there were plans for an indoor pool at Emerald Glen Park. Mr. McCreary explained
that there is a plan for a 9,000 square-foot recreational pool that would be an outdoor pool during phase I, and
would later be modified to an indoor pool during phase II.
Cm. Muetterties asked if there would be an area for recreational swim in the future competitive pool, and Mr.
McCreary said yes. Cm. Muetterties asked if the main purpose of the future competitive pool is for the use of
the swim team's activities. Mr. McCreary explained that the future competitive pool would be used for both
swim team and recreational activities. Ms. Diane Lowart, Parks & Community Services Director, clarified that
the future competitive pool would be used by various swim teams, not just the Dublin High School Swim Team.
Cm. Guarienti agreed with the proposal to keep the future competitive pool at Emerald Glen Park. He stated
that there could be too many issues with regard to parking and available times of use.
Cm. Muetterties asked about the origins of the proposal to relocate the future competitive pool. Ms. Lowart
explained that the idea was introduced at a City Council Strategic Planning Workshop. Cm. Muetterties asked
if the relocation would lower future overall operational costs. Mr. McCreary stated that it is anticipated that the
operational costs would increase. Ms. Lowart explained that the reason for the increase is due to anticipated
lower revenue potential.
Cm. Jones stated that, due to issues concerning the Joint Use Agreement and location of the Swim Center, he
supports leaving the future competitive pool at Emerald Glen Park.
Cm. Muetterties stated that her vote is to leave the future competitive pool at Emerald Glen Park.
Cm. Lorenzo stated that she supports leaving the future competitive pool at Emerald Glen Park.
Chair Flores stated that, due to the issues concerning the Joint Use Agreement and the location of the Swim
Center, she supports leaving the future competitive pool at Emerald Glen Park.
Cm. Guarienti asked if the City could work with the School District to upgrade the Swim Center to keep it as a
practice facility for the High School so that it is more convenient for the students. Ms. Lowart explained that
the Swim Center has been upgraded and would continue to be upgraded when needed until such time upgrading
is no longer feasible.
On a motion by Cm. Jones, seconded by Cm. Guarienti, with Cm. Elias absent and by a vote of 5-0-0, the
Commission voted to support leaving the future competitive pool at Emerald Glen Park.
8.6 PARKS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Ms. Diane Lowart, Parks & Community Services Director, presented the specifics of the item as outlined in the
Staff Report.
P&CSC Minutes - January 22, 2008
Page 6 of 7
Cm. Guarienti asked about the status of the item #10, the Police Activities League program, on the adopted
2007-08 Goals & Objectives (G&O). Ms. Lowart stated that it is estimated that this item would be completed
by then end of this Fiscal Year.
Chair Flores opened the floor to public comment.
Ms. Beth Wood, Senior Center Advisory Committee Chair, stated her concerns regarding increased marketing
for the Senior Center Advisory Committee.
Chair Flores asked the Commissioners if they concurred with the ratings of the 10 high priority goals, and the
Commissioners said yes.
Cm. Guarienti suggested a new objective that would be similar to the California Outdoor Bill of Rights. Ms.
Lowart stated that this item could be researched and brought back to the Commission as a Staff Report
identifying the cunent similar activities of the Department.
Cm. Guarienti asked about the Milestone property. Ms. Lowart explained that East Bay Regional Park District
has contacted the property owner about selling the property. To date, it remains undetermined if the property
owner is interested in selling the property.
The Commission discussed the 2008-09 Preliminary Goals & Objectives.
On a motion by Cm. Lorenzo, seconded by Cm. Muetterties, with Cm. Elias absent and by a vote of 5-0-0, the
Commission voted to accept the 2008-09 Preliminary Goals & Objectives with the following changes: move
Goal # 15 -"In cooperation with the DUSD, update the existing agreement regarding use of facilities between
the City and DUSD" up to #12; and add "Add a Senior Center Advisory Committee webpage to the City's
website" as a high priority to the Additional Objectives from the Parks & Community Services Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS
9.1 BRIEF INFORMATION ONLY REPORTS FROM PARKS & COMMUNITY SERVICES
COMMISSIONERS AND/OR STAFF
Cm. Guarienti reported that he attended the following meetings/events:
• Fallon Sports Park Phase I meeting on January 9, 2008;
• Senior Center Advisory Committee meeting on January 10, 2008;
• Band Concert & Dance on January 12, 2008; and
• Plans for a User Advisory Group for Conservation Strategies meeting on January 17, 2008.
Cm. Jones stated that he attended the Youth Sports Liaison Committee meeting. He stated that Mr. Dean
McDonald, MCE Maintenance Supervisor, along with his team, do a great job with the user groups.
Cm. Lorenzo reported on the success of the "So You Think You Can Dance" teen event. She continues to work
on "Going Green" for Dublin.
Cm. Muetterties reported that she attending two theatre performances.
P&CSC Minutes - January 22, 2008
Page 7 of 7
Ms. Diane Lowart, Parks & Community Services Director, asked if the Commission would be available on
Thursday, February 14, 2007, at 6:00 p.m. for a joint meeting with the Heritage & Cultural Arts Commission.
The Commissioners stated that they would be available for the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:21 p.m.
Respectfully submitte
Rhonda Franklin
Administrative Technician
APPRO D:
Chairperson