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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-22-2007 Approved PCSC Minutes CITY OF,DUBLIN PARKS AND COMMUNITYSERVICES'COMMISSION MINUTES.OF JANUARY 22,2001 K The January 22, 2007 meeting of the Parks and Community Services Commission was called to order at 7:09p.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,Jones,Muetterties and Deering - Commissioners Absent: Guarienti and Elias • Oral Communications 3.1 Administration of Oath of Office to Newly Appointed Commissioners by City Clerk City Clerk Fawn,Holman administered the Oath of Office to newly appointed Commissioner Muetterties. 3.2 Brief Informational Only Reports from Senior Center and Youth Advisory Committees Senior Center Al Edge, Chairman of the Senior Center Advisory Committee, introduced newly appointed members Diane Bonetti and Marty Baron. Edge reported that at the last meeting of Senior Center Advisory Committee, discussion was held regarding extending the operational hours and programs, improving the identification and expanding the marketing of the center. If the expansion of the hours and programs is rated as a "high" priority by the Commission and the Council, the committee will provide input on how to expand the programs. The Committee recommends that the hours of the center be expanded to include week nights and/or weekends for working seniors. In addition the Committee would like to expand volunteer operated programs and create an ambassador program. Edge also reported that over the last several months' staff has been in transition learning the program computer system. He commented that what is nice about the computer program is that you can instantly identify Dublin residents. Youth Advisory Cm. Deering reported that Parks &Community Services Manager Paul McCreary attended the last meeting of the ' Youth Advisory Committee and talked about department goals for the upcoming year. The Committee added a goal to setup an intramural sports program. 3.3 Public Continents—None Approval of Minutes—December 18,2006 , - ONA MOTION BY CM. MUETTERTIES, SECONDED BY CM. JONES AND BY UNANIMOUS VOTE, THE COMMISSION VOTED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF DECEMBER 18, 2006 AS PRESENTED. ABSTAINED: DEERING Written Communications-None Public Hearing-None - Unfinished Business-None New Business 8.1 Election of Officers Minutes—January 22,2007 Page 2 of 6 By consensus of the Commissioners present, this item was deferred to the February 2007 meeting of the Commission. 8.2 Committee Appointments By consensus of the Commissioners present, this item was deferred to the February 2007 meeting of the Commission. 8.3 Conceptual Designs for Area G Neighborhood Square Parks and Facilities Development Manager Herma Lichtenstein presented the staff report. At the October 10, 2007 meeting, the City Council approved the contract with Callander Associates, Landscape Architects to prepare the design and construction documents for the two-acre neighborhood square in Dublin Ranch, Area G located at the corner of Chancery Way and Finnian Way. A public meeting for the surrounding neighborhoods was held on December 13, 2006 to solicit input and ideas from potential park users. Based on these comments and the City's program from the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Callander Associates have prepared three design concepts. Lichtenstein introduced Brian Fletcher who presented a power point outlining the process and the three design concepts. Chair Flores opened the floor for public comment. Cindy Larsen, 4524 Chancery Lane, stated that she was involved with a portion of the wish list. Because the area is consolidated with mature people and adults with young children, she stressed the need for the splash play element. The consensus of the group at that time was that we wanted something for the community as a whole,not to serve just a certain group or age. She personally likes Concept A,but would not like to see the arbor be too ornate. With the retail shopping nearby, the neighborhood square would be a nice area for people to take a break and relax. She felt that Concept A is within what Toll Brothers is trying to do in the area. Jamey Lind, Clarinbridge Circle, inquired as to the timeline for completion of this project in conjunction with the retail stores. Lichtenstein stated that it is her understanding that currently there is no signed agreement for the retail development. She indicated that the Planning Depai tnient may have additional information. Robin Phillips-Darby, 3568 Finnian Way, stated that she would select either Option A or C. She likes the concept for a flower garden and arbor. She feels that seating would be very important because of the close proximity to the retail shopping. Dave Darby, 3568 Finnian Way, asked if the arbor would be constructed of metal or wood and would they look anything like the ones at the Villages pool. Lichtenstein stated that this would be more of a budget question. Typically the City tries to put in things that are maintainable over along period of time. If budget permits, we would more likely go towards a metal arbor. The arbor at Emerald Glen Park has a metal base with wood top. Chair Flores asked if the Commissioners had questions or comments on the design concepts. • Cm. Jones stated that he likes Concept A because it permits a buffer for people who may want to have a picnic. He thought that this would be a great park if it had an amphitheatre. The retail businesses could be used to sponsor events. He would like to see the park as a neighborhood park,keeping the sports groups off the grass areas. Cm.Muetterties concurred with Jones comments. She felt that Concept A is more neighborhood friendly. Cm. Deering stated that she likes Concept A because it has a little of everything for everyone. She also likes Concept B with the paved labyrinth. She would like to see the paved labyrinth incorporated into Concept.A. Minutes-January 22, 2007 Page 3 of 6 Chair Flores concurred with Jones Comments. She also voiced concerned regarding the large turf area and use by the sports groups. She would like to see the paved labyrinth in the turf area and also the amphitheatre incorporated into Concept A. She somewhat likes Concept C,however would like to see it flipped away from the retail. Marty Baron, Waterford Court, asked if there are guidelines for the restrooms and lighting. Lichtenstein stated that typically for a 2 acre square,we do not include restrooms. However there will be water fountain and electrical for the park. There are no plans to light the interior of the park because the street lights actually cast off quite a bit of ambient lighting in the evening. However spot lighting could be provided for the arbor or main plaza. Parks &Community Services Director Diane Lowart summarized by saying that there seems to be a clear direction toward Concept A with the addition of the paved labyrinth like in Concept B and some type of small amphitheater like in Concept C. 8.4 Alamo Creek Play Equipment Proposals Parks&Facilities Coordinator Rosemary Alex presented the staff report. In Fiscal Year 2000/01 the City completed an audit of all.of the existing play areas within the City parks. The report evaluated the conformance of the City's play structures with current safety and accessibility guidelines. Based on the conditions found at each facility, it was determined that the play equipment at Alamo Creek Park was in need of replacement. The 2006/07 Capital Improvement Program includes funds for the replacement of play equipment at Alamo Creek Park. Proposals were received from Ross Recreation Equipment Company and Kompan. Alex reviewed the proposals with the Commission. Cm. Deering asked if Ross's Option 1 for the 2-5 year olds was selected, would their option for the 5-13 year olds automatically be included. Alex replied, no. We can mix and match, however she would recommend that whatever options are chosen that they be with the same vendor. Once there is a consensus, she would like to get input on color selection. Chair Flores asked who installed the play equipment at Shannon and Dolan Parks. Alex stated that the equipment installed at Shannon Park was by Ross Recreation and Dolan Park was by Game Time. She pointed out that at the Dublin Sports Grounds the equipment was installed by Ross Recreation and at Kolb Park by Game Time. Chair Flores voiced concern regarding the use of the netting in one option and whether it is a strangulation hazard. Alex stated that there are guidelines for head entrapment which will be a universal component in anything that they design. Lowart pointed out that there are very stringent guidelines for play equipment. The safety standards have just recently been modified. All of the playground vendors for the most part, are at the table when the guidelines are negotiated so that they are 100% clear about what can and cannot be done. If they design something that does not meet the guidelines, they are held liable. The City is embarking on another safety inspection of playground equipment to make sure that we are continuing to meet the standards. Chair Flores opened the floor for public comment. Michelle Williamson, 7611 Quail Creek Circle, stated that the presentation was wonderful and it seems a lot of work went into it. She would select Ross Option 1 for both age groups. She likes the overall look of the equipment and that it seems safe. The.other options have metal parts which would get hot in the summer. She too was concerned regarding the netting. She pointed out that the umbrella shown in the plan may be a problem because of the wind. Rob Knabbe, 7929 Shady Creek, stated that he also likes Ross Option for both age groups. He has a five year old daughter who loves monkey bars and if there is anyway they can be added it would be great. He hoped that more 'Minutes_January 22,2007 Page4of6 people would have shown up for this meeting to give input, as there are many children in the neighborhood. He is also glad that Dublin is upgrading park equipment. Chair Flores asked if the Commissioners had questions or comments on the proposals. Cm. Deering stated that after.hearing what the public had to say, she really likes Ross Option 1 for both age groups, Cm. Muetterties stated that she likes Ross Option 1 for both age groups, but also likes the toddler rock in Ross Option 2. She also likes Kompan's option with the arched play structure. Cm. Jones stated that he likes Ross Option 1 for both age groups, but would. like to see the toddler rock incorporated into the design. He feels that Ross makes some of the best equipment that he has seen. Chair Flores stated that she is tired of seeing Ross. She knows that they do some of the best equipment out there, but their options looks like all of our other parks. If the Commission is going towards Ross, she would prefer their Option 2 for the toddlers, but does not like their design for the 5-12 year olds. She likes Kompan's Option 2 (Galaxy/Yellow and Blue) for the 2-5 year olds and Option 1 for the 5-12 year olds. Lowart stated that it is Staff's goal to make a recommendation to the City Council for their February 6 meeting. She indicated that Commissioner Guarienti did provide his.input on this item by email. Cm.Jones stated that Commissioner Guarienti likes Ross Option 2. Chair Flores stated that if she went with Ross she would go with Option 2 for both age groups. ON A MOTION BY CM. JONES SECONDED BY CM. MUETTERTIES, THE COMMISSION VOTED TO RECOMMEND ROSS OPTION 1 FOR THE PLAY EQUIPMENT FOR BOTH AGE GROUPS AT ALAMO CREEK PARK AND IF POSSIBLE TO INCLUDE THE TODDLER ROCK AS SHOWN IN OPTION 2. AYE—3,OPPOSED—1 (FLORES) Alex presented slides with the three (3) color schemes for the play equipment which included Yellow/Blue/Red, Green/Tan/Brown and the vendor's recommendation of Blue/Green/Maroon. By consensus the Commission elected color scheme Green/Tan./Brown. 8.5 Dougherty Hills Dog Park Parks and Facilities Coordinator Rosemary Alex presented the staff report. At the January 9, 2006 Parks and Community Services Commission meeting Staff presented the Dougherty Hills Park —Dog Park conceptual plan. As part of the presentation members of the public and the Parks Community Services Commission provided input on the design. In response to public input, the conceptual plan was modified and at the subsequent February 7,2006 City Council meeting the City Council approved the conceptual design. Alex indicated that staff is seeking input from the Commission on whether or not to install two additional drinking fountains to the park. Even though the dog park has not yet opened to the public, the City has heard from several residents who have a concern that the current location of the drinking fountain at the entrance to the dog park is not ideal: This is because the drinking fountain is not located within the fenced areas so it is not easily accessible to dogs while they are at play; pet owners would need to leash their dogs and take them out of the fenced area to access the drinking fountain. Alex indicated that the estimated cost to install two additional drinking fountains is$14, 500. Chair Flores asked when the dog park will be opened to the public. Alex stated that the completion walk-thru was. done last week and it is anticipated,that the dog park should open in mid-April. Minutes_January 22,2007 Page 5 of 6 Cm. Jones clarified that the drinking fountains were going to be moved 15 feet. Alex stated that actually two new drinking fountains would be installed adjacent to the entrance paving. Chair Flores stated that a friend complained that her large dog drinks constantly, so she has to leash the dog each time to take him for a drink. She suggested two separate drinking fountains for the large and small dogs. Even though it is an extra expense,we need to do it. Cm. Jones felt that $15,000 was a lot of money for two drinking fountains, but if we don't install them it could • cause problems. Cm.Muetterties concurred. Cm.Deering felt that it is a lot of money for two drinking fountains; however it would be worth it in the end. ON A MOTION BY CM. MUETTERTIES AND SECONDED BY CM. DEERING THE COMMISSION VOTED TO RECOMMEND THE PROPOSAL FOR TWO ADDITONAL DRINKING FOUNTAINS IN THE DOUGHERTY HILLS DOG PARK. 8.6 Parks and Community Services Goals and Objectives Parks&Community Services Director Diane Lowart presented the staff report. The City Council has scheduled the Annual Goals and Objectives Study Session for Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at 6:00 P.M. The Parks and Community Services Commission have been asked to provide input on the preliminary Goals and Objectives for Parks and Community Services. The adopted 2006-2007 Goals and Objectives included 11 objectives that were assigned to Parks and Community Services. Since adoption, two additional objectives were assigned bringing the total objectives to 13. Of the 11 adopted objectives, 5 objectives were given a high priority and 6 were given a medium priority; the additional , objectives were,not prioritized. Of the 13 objectives, 6 are complete.or will be complete by the end of the fiscal year, 3 are underway and will be carried over to the next fiscal year and 4 have had no progress. Lowart reviewed a preliminary list of 2007-2008 objectives for Parks and Community Services. Staff has identified 6 new objectives for 2007-2008. The remaining 7 objectives have been carried over from the previous year. Both the Youth Advisory Committee and Senior Center Advisory Committee were given the opportunity to provide input on objectives for 2007-2008. The Youth Advisory Committee unanimously recommended adding a high priority objective as follows: • Expand sporting events for youth and teens. • The Senior Center Advisory Committee unanimously recommended modifying objective#5 as follows: 5. Expand operational hours,and programs and marketing of activities at the Dublin Senior Center. Lowart concluded her presentation and recommended that the Commission rate the preliminary goals and objectives for 2007-2008. Cm. Jones stated that he is not sure that this should be a goal or not, regarding the proposal from Dublin United Soccer to have artificial turf fields installed at the Dublin Sports Grounds. Lowart stated that this will be considered as part of the update to the Capital Improvement Program. A meeting will be held with the sports groups to review potential renovation options for the Sports Grounds and the options will then be presented to the Commission. 'Minutes_January 22,2007 Page 6 of 6 ON A MOTION BY CHAIR FLORES SECONDED BY CM. MUETTERTIES AND BY.UNANIMOUS VOTE, THE COMMISSION VOTED TO RECOMMEND THE PRELIMINARY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES AS PRESENTED TO INCLUDE THE RECOMMENDED OBJECTIVE FROM THE YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE AS #8 AND MODIFYING OBJECTIVE #4 TO INCLUDE "AND MARKETING OF ACTIVITIES"AT THE SENIOR CENTER. Other Business Brief INFORMATIONAL ONLY Reports from Parks& Community Services Commissioners and/or Staff Cm. Jones stated that he attended the Youth Sports Liaison meeting. The City's youth basketball league seems to have really taken off and is growing every year. The Soccer League is convinced that we can put in artificial turf by this fall. He reminded them that this is a City and there are procedures that must be followed on all projects.He reported that on February 10th he will be in Utah for his son's 30th birthday. He thanked Staff for doing a great job in assisting with his event at the Senior Center on January 13th. - Cm.Muetterties asked Cm. Jones if he would be attending the Shannon Art meeting scheduled for this Thursday as she will not be able to attend. Cm.Jones requested Lowart to email him with the information. Chair Flores stated that she needs new business cards as her email address and phone number has changed. Lowart requested that the information be emailed to her for ordering. Staff Reports: Lowart distributed information on the upcoming CPRS Conference March 8-10, 2007 in Sacramento and the Commission to respond to Char Young by February 2,2007. Lowart indicated that the February meeting of the Commission is on a City holiday. She asked that the Commission respond to an email that she will send regarding potential meeting dates. - Lowart reminded the Commission of the upcoming Volunteer Recognition Banquet on February 23,2007. Adjournment Being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 9:04p.m. Respectfully submitted, Char J.Young Administrative Techmc an APPROVE Lk Chairperson - Diane Lowart From: Rich Guarienti [guari @comcast.net] Sent: Monday, January 22, 2007 11:33 AM To: Diane Lowart Subject: Commission Meeting Hi Diane: As you know, I will not be able to attend tonights commission meeting, but I offer the following comments for points of discussion. 8.2 If appointments are made tonight, I would like to continue to serve on the Bicycle Master Plan Committee and would be happy to volunteer to be appointed as the representative to the Senior Center Advisory Committee. 8.3 I have no specific preference for the conceptual designs for the Area G Neighborhood Square although Options B or C appear the most interesting. Public input should be considered in the decision. 8.4 The Ross Option 2 proposal for the play equipment at Alamo Creek Park looks the most interesting to me with its unique feature of the space net, plus the triple ring fling and climbing features for the older age group. 8.5 Having separate dog drinking fountains located inside each of the dog park areas sounds like a good idea. ' 8.6 I am in general support of the preliminary goals and objectives proposed by staff for 2007-2008. Also need a. date for the February meeting. Thanks, Rich • J 1