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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-18-2007 Approved PCSC Minutes CITY OF DUBLIN PARKS ANI)COMMUNITY SER VICES COMMISSION MINUTES OF:,:JUNE 18,2007 The June 18, 2007 meeting of the Parks and Community Services Commission was called to order at 7:01p.m. 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,Guarienti,Jones,Muetterties and Elias Commissioners Absent: Deering Oral Communications 3.1 Brief Informational Only Reports from Senior Center and Youth Advisory Committees Senior Center Advisory Committee Al Edge reported that the attendance at the L.I.F.E. (Learn Information for Empowerment event conducted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 was less than expected. It seems that many of the other senior centers in the area had events that same weekend. Many seniors were not aware of the event. He suggested that the planning and advertising for the event next year begin earlier. Overall,the event went well. Cm. Muetterties asked how many vendors participated in the event. Edges replied about 20 vendors which included Hope Hospice,Valley Care Hospital and the Dublin Police. Youth Advisory Committee-None 3.2 Public Comments—None Approval of Minutes—May 21,2007 Cm. Guarienti referred to Page 5,Other Business,Item 4;inserting"Iron Horse"before"trail to commute to BART". ON A MOTION BY CM. ELIAS, SECONDED BY CM.GUARIENTI, THE COMMISSION VOTED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF MAY 21,2007,AS CORRECTED. ABSTAIN—FLORES - Written Communications-None Public Hearing-None Unfinished Business-None New Business 8.1 Bikeways Master Plan Parks & Community Services Director Diane Lowart presented the Staff Report. In Fiscal Year.2005-2006, the City Council approved a City Council High Priority Goal to develop a City-wide Bikeways Master Plan. In response to this goal, the Public Works Department initiated a Capital Improvement Program project that would develop the Plan and evaluate existing bicycle conditions and access to parks and open space areas. It is anticipated that the Master Plan will be used to prioritize future bicycle projects. Lowart introduced Senior Civil Engineer Ferd Del Rosario who gave an overview of the process undertaken to develop the Bikeways Master Plan. Rosario stated that the firm of Fehr and Peers was hired in December 2005 to develop the Bikeways Master Plan. In order to maximize public input in developing the Plan, the City held three public meetings and invited city residents, public agencies,businesses and other stakeholders that showed interest in having a Bikeways Master Plan. Following the three public meetings, Staff further reviewed the draft Bikeways Master Plan to make certain that the proposed policy recommendations and proposed capital projects contained in the Plan were achievable. Based on this review, further revisions were made to the Plan to clarify the policies and capital projects included in the Plan. Del Rosario reviewed Minutes—June 18, 2007 'Page 2 of 6 Attachment 2 to the Staff Report which identified proposed revisions to the Plan. He then introduced Seleta Reynolds of Fehr&Peers,who gave a PowerPoint presentation outlining the Plan. Commission Input Cm. Guarienti thanked Del Rosario and Reynolds for a great job and the public who were on the committee for showing up tonight. The dialogue was really important in developing this plan. He referred to Page 11 of the report which talks about the Alameda County CMA currently updating the Alameda County Bicycle Plan. He reported that the County Plan has now been adopted and this should be reflected in the City plan. He also stated that the some of the maps need to be reviewed so that they accurately reflect the text and suggested that the maps be looked at. Chair Flores asked Cm. Guarienti if he had any questions for Ms.Reynolds before opening the discussion to the public. Cm. Guarienti stated he had a question having to do with the modification in the report to the East/West Connection on Dublin Boulevard. The projects getting to the West Dublin BART were deleted. He asked if that was tied in with the Dublin Boulevard project in total,because there was also a project to look at to get to the West corridor. Del Rosario stated that they are somewhat connected. Because of the limit of the width of the existing lanes on Dublin Boulevard, we felt that we need to do a more detailed analysis in order to look at the impact to utilities, businesses, etc. In addition, the West BART Station has not opened yet and we want to see how the circulation of cars and traffic going in and out of the BART station is going to affect bicycling. Cm. Guarienti clarified that the study will be to study the whole area. Del Rosario replied,yes. Public Input Zev Kahn, Dublin resident, stated that he initially has attended all three meetings. At that point he was representing ACTIA's Citizens Watchdog Committee. He is here tonight just to follow-up and completes his duties, since he is no longer on the committee. One of the prime aspects discussed had to do with safety. If we do not have something written that addresses how the bicyclist should have a code of ethics or conduct in the city, he thinks that at some point we may be faced with the critical mass like in San Francisco that we do not need here. Otherwise,the report was very well done. Edwin Osata, Dublin resident, stated that he has been involved in several of these meetings before. He drew attention to Attachment 3, Modification of the Dublin Boulevard East/West and its allocation to Class 3. That section is very busy, the roads are narrow and does not lend itself to Class 3 and is very dangerous to ride your bike there. He also commented that he lives off Dougherty Road and has been involved in the Alamo Creek Park Trail. He would have wished that the opening of the gate would have been independent of the Alamo Creek bike path which gets closed at sunrise and sunset. . Richard Osborne, 10717 Inspiration Circle, stated that he commutes 2-3 days a week on his bike to Dublin Ranch Middle School. He just saw the ad in the paper for the meeting tonight and was not aware of any of the previous meetings. He called the City Engineer and reported that he comes down Dublin Boulevard going east to San Ramon Boulevard and turns left. Because there is East and West traffic turning left at the same time, it is a frightening situation. He wished that something could be done about that and asked if it would be possible to look at left turns so that only one side of the street is going left. In addition, you cannot setoff the street lights with a bike, so he cuts sideways and goes on the sidewalks. This also needs to be addressed. David Buelly, 1166 Brittany Lane, stated that he attended the meetings in the past. He would like to see this item put before the City Council with as much urgency and forthrightness as is possible. The overall goal is to have a readily available and useful trail system throughout the City. This would be a great amenity to the city and will add value to the community. We have the opportunity to try to see that it develops as much as possible. There are existing areas that we can connect to and the Iron Horse Trail is a prime example. He has ridden the Alamo Creek Trail and the gate is locked. However the City Council has resolved this matter which is now in the hands of San Ramon. However it is taking a long time to open the gate. A lot of people are going to benefit from it being opened. Cm. Guarienti has spoken on this matter many times in the past and was accurate. All the negative comments about it were speculative in nature. Buelly referred to page 67, Alamo Creek Trail City of San Ramon Gap Minutes—June 18, 2007 'Page 3 of 6 Elimination, which was assigned a prioritization number. It should already be a done deal and reflected in the report. The hours should be extended and encouraged for riding at night. Commission Discussion/Recommendation Cm. Guarienti stated that he wants to see this item move forward. He would like to have the Commission look at having a committee in place to meet 2-3 times a year with staff input. Chair Flores stated that the agenda summary includes staffs process as to why they have suggested against an advisory committee. Lowart stated that the reasons included the fact that it is a new plan and that it is something we want to take a look at to see how it can be implemented internally. Staff does not feel that there is a compelling need for a committee at this time. Chair Flores asked if the Public Works Department currently have committees that they staff. Lowart referred this question to Melissa Morton,Public Works Director. Morton stated that there is not a Public Works committee. The principle objective of this document is to be well placed to compete for grant funds. It is meant to create part of a cohesive multi model transportation plan to make sure that all citizens have varied opportunities to access the amenities that are being developed in the City of Dublin. When we looked at whether a specific committee for bicycles was necessary, we concluded that the commissions we have already marry the multiple model objectives very proficiently through the goals and objectives process. What we have advocated is basically a "wait and see"posture. Instead of creating a committee, we will examine how the document functions in bringing in the grant funds we are hoping for. If we are still lacking,then examine the need for a committee in the future. Chair Flores asked the Commissioners if they had any comments or input. ='Cm. Jones stated that he would like to see how the plan as is works out and if down the road a committee is needed and then look at it at that time. Cm. Elias stated that he appreciates the fact that the public came out tonight to share their views of the plan and to voice their concerns. This needs to be a living and breathing document that serves as the master plan. He is trying to understand after approval by the City Council, how additions to the plan will be made over time and how it will be reviewed and additional public input that might come along. Morton stated that the Bicycle Master Plan is scheduled for review every five years. Renewal of the objectives and examining the projects already constructed and how they are working or not working,will occur over a five year basis. Chair Flores stated that she understands the importance of public comment about having a committee,but if it is going to take staff time, she would like to wait and see where we are going and go from there before deciding on having a committee. Our staffs time is precious. Cm. Jones stated that the public's input tonight has been great. If down the road the public feels that things are not being. looked at or their comments not being taken seriously, they can always come to a Parks Commission or City Council meeting and state their concerns. He truly believes that our staff will take into consideration the input provided here tonight,particularly the concerns regarding Dublin Boulevard. Cm. Guarienti stated that the reason he wanted to see a committee formed was to have the opportunity for when projects go out for funding,that you have the public input to do that. A process to get people involved. Cm. Jones stated that he would like to see that education of youth and adult bicyclists as part of the plan,particularly for adults. Minutes—June 18,2007 'Page 4of6 Reynolds stated that there are a lot of marketing materials for rules of the road, courtesy, right of way, etc. A code of conduct may be a little strong, but we can put a sidebar or box outlining those things directed to bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. She pointed out on Page 64,that there is a description of a Bicycle Diversion Program,which has been done in Arizona and Texas and locally in the City of Sunnyvale for juveniles. The officers go out and issue warnings to bicyclists that are running stop signs or not being courteous. The bicyclists then have to go to bicycle traffic school. It is only a suggestion and would require a great deal of resources from the Police Department. Morton stated that Commander Thuman has included in 2007-08 budget adult education as part of their bicycle training. ON A MOTION BY CM. JONES, SECONDED BY CM. MUETTERTIES, THE COMMISSION VOTED UNANIOUSLY TO ADOPT THE BIKEWAYS MASTER PLAN AS PRESENTED. 8.2 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program 2006-2011,Proposed Update FY2007-2008 Parks and Community Services Director Diane Lowart presented the Staff Report. The City's Five Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is developed for the purpose of identifying future capital facility needs and resources available to meet those needs. A new Five-Year Program for Fiscal Year 2006-2007 through Fiscal Year 2010-2011 was adopted last year. For Fiscal Year 2007-2008, an update to the 2006-2011 CIP has been prepared. The park and recreation facility projects recommended by Staff for inclusion in the CIP reflects the City's priorities with respect to creating and enhancing community park, recreation and open space facilities for Dublin residents. Priorities were determined based on the need for the project and the availability of funding for the project. The Parks and Community Services Commission are requested to review the proposed CIP for input regarding the park and recreation facilities included in the program. The recommendations of the Commission will be presented to the City Council at the Budget Hearing on June 28,2007. Lowart reviewed the Projects Completed during Fiscal Year 2006-2007 including: Dublin Historic Park Master Plan; Dougherty Hills Park— Dog Park; Park Furniture Replacement for A lamo Creek and Stagecoach Parks; and Park Play Area Renovations for Alamo Creek Park. She reviewed the projects included in the Proposed CIP Update 2006-2011 including: Parks & Community Services Needs Assessment; Stagecoach Park Assessment District Water Meter; Shannon Community Center Reconstruction; Dublin Historic Park Acquisition; Emerald Glen Park Recreation and Aquatic Complex; Park Furniture Replacement; Park Play Area Renovations; Dublin Ranch Neighborhood Parks; Dublin Sports Grounds Renovation; Fallon Sports Park; Eastern Dublin Parks; Schaefer Ranch Neighborhood Park; Wallis Ranch Neighborhood Parks and Dublin Historic Park Development. Unfunded park projects include: completion of the final phase of Emerald Glen Park; completion of the Emerald Glen Park Recreation and Aquatic Center; one additional neighborhood park in the Dublin Ranch development; Dublin Sports Grounds Turf Renovation; construction of the final two phases of Fallon Sports Park; Cultural Arts Center; Eastern Dublin Parks; Emerald Glen Park Community Center; Transit Center Park; and future phases of the Dublin Historic Park. Lowart recommended that the Commission confirm project priorities as proposed by Staff or determine alternate priorities for recommendation to the City Council. Commission Input Cm.Elias asked what level of construction contingency is built into the numbers. Lowart stated that on an annual basis the costs are increased by the engineering news record construction cost index at a minimum. We also look at the costs we are getting for current projects now and at a minimum have another 15% contingency on top of that. We have large contingencies on most of the projects. Minutes—June 18,2007 Page 5 of 6 Cm. Elias encouraged the City to find ways of funding projects. Staff did a great job on the CIP. He is excited to be on the Commission where we are not just worrying about sprinkler head repairs. To the extent possible, please build these parks with the right drainage,turf in the beginning without having to go back and fix things like we are doing now. Lowart stated that after completing the preparation of the budget and CIP, it turns out that the City is very good financial shape. The City Council will be considering approximately $6.5 million to go towards additional projects at their June 28 meeting. The City Manager is recommending that the some of the money be used for park projects. The Commission concurred that staff did a great job on preparation of the CIP. Public Comment—None ' ON A MOTION BY CM. GUARIENTI, SECONDED BY CM. JONES, THE COMMISSION VOTED.TO CONFIRM THE PRIORITIES AS PROPOSED BY STAFF TO THE FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 2006-2011. 8.3 Winter 2007 Quarterly Report Parks & Community Services Manager Paul McCreary presented the Staff Report and reviewed the programs offered during the 2007 Winter Quarter. LEISURE CLASSES-During the winter of 2007,26 instructors offered 82 leisure classes. SENIOR CENTER— Total Attendance was 8,945 with average daily attendance of 149. There were 2,345 volunteer hours. SHAMROCK PRESCHOOL - There are three curriculum levels and a total of five classes offered. There were 36 participants enrolled in the Red Rockets classes, 34 participants in Green Giants, and 20 in the Blue Explorers class. PLAYGROUND PROGRAMS - Session I of After School Recreation continued, which was reported on in the fall 2006 quarterly report. Session II began in February, which the Commission will receive a report in the spring 2007 quarterly report. Five After School Enrichment workshops/classes were offered during the winter 2007 quarter. Despite enhanced advertising of the program,participation decreased significantly and several workshops had to be cancelled due to insufficient enrolment. A total of 26 participants registered for the Winter Break Camp Emerald Glen. TEEN PROGRAMS -During the winter quarter, Session I of Student Union continued, which was reported in the fall 2006 quarterly report. Session II began in February, which the Commission will receive a report in the spring 2007 quarterly report. Also during the winter three events were offered including Capture the Flag,Paintball Trip and a Middle School Dance. Total attendance was 197. YOUTH SPORTS - The City of Dublin / Junior Warriors Youth Basketball League is for boys in first through twelfth grades and girls in first through eighth grades. There were 548 participants on 59 teams. The City offered two pre-season youth basketball clinics with 93 children attending. The City initiated a new program offering private and semi-private hour-long training sessions for players in first through tenth grades and 54 youth took advantage of the training. Each quarter the City offers several youth sports programs through independent contractors in addition to those operated directly by the City. During the winter 2007 quarter the City offered Kidz Love Soccer(KLS)classes. ADULT BASKETBALL LEAGUE -Two leagues (Men's 5-on-5 "C &D") were conducted during the winter quarter. The league had 16 teams this season which was a 45%increase over the previous year. SPECIAL EVENTS - The 23rd Annual Community Tree Lighting Ceremony was held at the Dublin Civic Center on Thursday,December 7th,2006. The estimated attendance at this year's event was over 350. Minutes—June 18,2007 'Page 6 of 6 Breakfast with Santa is a family-oriented special event co-sponsored with the Dublin High School Band Boosters. This year the maximum attendance was increased to 190 participants for each sitting, creating an 8% increase in registration from the previous year and establishing a new attendance record. The "Letters from Santa"program was offered for the twelfth consecutive year during the winter quarter. This year 124 letters were mailed,representing a 32%increase from the previous year and setting a new record. Other Business Brief INFORMATIONAL ONLY Reports from Parks &Community Services Commissioners and/or Staff Cm. Jones asked if a sign will be posted at the Dougherty Hills Dog Park for the closure. Lowart stated that a sign will be posted to refer people to access the cities website for information regarding the closure of the dog park. Cm. Muetterties asked why the dog park is being closed. Lowart stated that the dog park is getting a tremendous amount of use. The dogs are playing in the newly installed water fountains which have now created a drainage issue. Cm. Jones inquired when the non-profit groups can be trained on use of the senior center kitchen. McCreary stated that once the group has reserved the facility for an event, they need to pay the $25 Orientation Fee and then they would contact Camille to schedule the training. Cm. Muetterties reported that she attend the Shannon Park Art Selection Committee. Maquettes should be available for display in August or September. It is hoped that the maquettes can be displayed at the Library as well,however there are security issues. She also attended the Day on the Glen meeting. There is a lot of planning involved for this event and things that will need to be fine tuned. Cm.Flores asked if the Commissioners Dinner is an annual or bi-annual event. Lowart replied, annual. Staff Reports Lowart reported the following: • The Fathers Day Picnic on Sunday,June 17 was very successful with 250 participants. • The first Summer Concert is scheduled for Friday,July 6 from 7-9pm in the fountain plaza. McCreary reported on the following: • The final family event is the Family Camp Out scheduled for Saturday, July 7th at Alamo Creek Park. To date there are 119 participants registered. • The Teen Dive-In was last Friday,June 15. The move Grease was shown. Adjournment Being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:02p.m. Respectfully submitted, ■ 0 Char J.Young ^ / Administrative Techn can . <44 r ;I / 4 PA/A. airper on