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HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks & Rec Cmsn - 9/20/05CITY OF PALM DESERT PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 CALL TO ORDER Chairman Guyer convened the meeting at 8:30 a.m. I1. ROLL CALL Present: Absent: Chair Randy Guyer Vice Chair Julie Munson Commissioner Phill Babcock Commissioner Dan Barnes Commissioner Gerald Dawson Commissioner Alternate Connor Limont Commissioner Terry Schukart Commissioner Van Tanner Staff Present: Bob Spiegel, Council Member Janis Steele, Parks & Recreation Services Manager Jay Niemczak, Parks Maintenance Supervisor Phil Drell, Director of Community Development Monica Loredo, Administrative Secretary III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Chairman Guyer announced that Commissioner Dan Seymour has resigned due to his work schedule. The City Council could consider that the Alternate Commissioner fill the position. IV. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 7, 2005 Minutes of Parks and Recreation Commission of September 7, 2005, were approved with a change on page 10 of the minutes to reflect that Commissioner Schukart seconded the motion for a second monthly meeting, and not Commissioner Scheurer. Motion moved/seconded by Dawson/Tanner and carried by a 7-0 vote with Commissioner J. Munson ABSENT. MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- V. PRESENTATIONS A. UNIVERSITY PARK PROJECT Mr. Drell presented to the Commission neighborhood parks that staff is recommending as part of a community development project. There are going to be 1,200 units in the development with most being single-family homes, and medium density with some low density. He indicated that the 1,200 units would require a dedication of approximately 12 acres for park usage. The developer also has a significant need for water retention similar to Freedom Park. Mr. Drell referred to the maps provided that half of each park is devoted to water retention. He noted that the developer has volunteered to not only dedicate the land for the parks, but also to develop them. He said that cost to build a neighborhood park costs approximately $500,000 an acre, which is about the cost of an acre of land in that area. Mr. Drell updated the Commission that they are also pursuing another regional park along the same lines as Freedom Park in the same area, which is north of Gerald Ford. Commissioner Tanner asked if that area would be in conjunction with the developer or part of the City. Mr. Drell responded that there would be some parkland dedication from the developer and fees from other developers. Commissioner Tanner asked if it would be going through the Commission. Mr. Drell replied yes. Commissioner Barnes asked for the approximate acreage of the parks. Mr. Drell responded that the three smaller parks are about 2 acres and the larger park is about 4.5 acres. Mr. Ron Gregory, Landscape Architect, addressed the Commission that they are proposing four parks. He explained that parks A, B, and D are vaguely similar in a sense that they offer non -structured type activities like Palma Village Park. Park B has two tot lots for two different age groups, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, pavilions for barbequing, and would be ADA compliant so everyone could use the facility. Park C is more of a dog park, which would be located at the corner of College Drive and University Park Drive. There is a large turf area that is separated for larger and smaller dogs, pavilions in the center, and provision of approximately 14 to 15 spaces of off-street parking. He mentioned all areas that do not have turf would have water efficient landscaping with drip irrigation. He also mentioned that they are retention type areas and they are trying to make use of the areas, which would otherwise be landscaped without play or accessibility. Mr. Gregory asked the Commission if they had any questions. 2 G.'DevServiceslMonica Loredo Word DalalParks&RecWinufes0-20-05 min.doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 Councilman Spiegel commented that from the Council's standpoint, it is better to have the parks in place before the homes are built so residents know where the parks are located before they move in. Commissioner Tanner asked what the schedule is for building the parks. Mr. Drell responded that the infrastructure would be built at one time along with parks. Councilman Spiegel noted that the project has not gone the City Council for approval. Mr. Drell mentioned that the bigger park has a softball backstop, although it is not diamond shape, but people can bring bases and play softball. Commissioner Scheurer asked how many homes would be in the development. Mr. Drell replied 1,200, and mentioned that there is one parcel that is being developed by another developer. All total there would be approximately 1,400 homes. Commissioner Scheurer asked what the anticipated start date is for the development. Mr. Mark Smith, V.P. of Operations, Hover Construction, responded that they are looking at grading the site at the end of this year, and expect construction of the models to start in the third or fourth quarter of 2006. He commented that within each area were there is a park, and that as the development is being built; the park would be built along with it. He said the goal is to have the park completed as people are moving in. Commissioner Scheurer asked if the homes are being built sequentially or parallel. Mr. Smith responded that it depends on how quickly the builders buy from them. Their goal is to have the parks built at the same time the homes are being built. Mr. Smith mentioned that the park is not in the backyard of homes, but across the street. Only the dog park is down a slope. Mr. Drell asked the Commission is if they would like to see bocce ball, horseshoes, or other activities in the parks. Commissioner Tanner asked what the demographics of the area are and what they are trying to accomplish. Mr. Drell responded that some homes would cost approximately $700,000 to $800,000, and in some other areas it would cost $400,000. Commissioner Tanner commented that it seems it would be mostly families moving into the community, and he was not sure if many kids play bocce ball. Chairman Guyer asked if there was any consideration in building two large parks. Mr. Smith responded that the parks were broken down to four parks due to the need to have areas for water retention. They tried to address 3 G. fDevServicesWonica LoredotWord Dafs1Parks&RecWinutesi9.20-05 min.doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 ---------------------- ------ ----------- ----------------- ------ the different uses for the parks such as having two tot lots for the older and younger kids. There is also open space where dads can play baseball with their children; there is basketball and sand volleyball. Mr. Drell also commented that the parks are on a hill. He indicated that they initially looked at having one large park; unfortunately, it is difficult to create a large flat area in this development. Chairman Guyer asked if the parks would be lighted at night. Mr. Smith responded that they would not be lighted. There will be normal security type lighting. Mr. Drell commented that there might be lighting around the basketball court and volleyball court, which would be more of the down shining parking lot type lighting. Councilman Spiegel indicated that assuming the Council approves the project, the project would return to the Commission for the final design of the parks. The Commission asked if there have been any complaints concerning the basketball lighting at Palma Village Park. Ms. Steele replied that there has not. Commissioner Barnes pointed out that he did not see parking on the maps and asked if there is separate parking. Mr. Drell responded that all the parks have street parking only, except for the dog park will have approximately 15 dedicated spaces. The parks are strategically located within walking distance of every neighborhood. Commissioner Barnes asked if there are going to be community pools or tennis courts within the 1,200 homes. Mr. Smith replied no. Commissioner Barnes asked if any the communities would be gated. Mr. Smith responded that there is only one community that would be gated. Commissioner Babcock asked how this project would fit in with the school systems. Mr. Drell responded that the school district felt the land was too expensive so he is not sure if they are still pursuing purchasing land in the area. He noted that it would be a joint use park similar to Washington Charter and Freedom Park. He also noted that if the school would not be built, the City would be back building their own park. Commissioner Barnes asked what the price range of the homes is. Mr. Drell replied that they would cost $400,000 to $800,000. Commissioner Tanner asked if there is any affordable housing dedicated to this area. Mr. Drell responded that the housing authority is working with 4 G:0evServrceslMorura Loredolftrd DolalParks&Rec'Minutesl9.20-05.miadoc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 the same developer that did Hovley Gardens to do a similar apartment project. He also mentioned that there is a project that was approved on Gerald Ford near Monterey that has an obligation for affordable units. Commissioner Barnes asked what golf course is shown on the key map. Mr. Drell responded that it is a potential future Desert Willow, which would be next to the hotel site. Commissioner Barnes asked if the City owns that land. Mr. Drell replied yes. Chairman Guyer asked if the project is on a hill, why are water retentions needed. Mr. Drell responded that it is required in accordance to the City's ordinance. Ms. Limont asked if water conservation was taken into consideration. Mr. Drell responded that the City has a water conservation ordinance and considered a serious issue. Mr. Smith stated that they are putting in four well sites. It was mentioned that all the parks would be brought back to the Commission once the project has been brought forward for changes and modifications. Chairman Guyer asked if the project is all residential and no commercial. Mr. Drell responded that there is commercial on Cook Street and Gerald Ford and Frank Sinatra and Gerald Ford. There might be more commercial on Technology Drive north of Cook Street. He said there might be approximately 35 acres of commercial. Chairman Guyer asked why the parks could not be put on the corners. Mr. Drell replied that they could not put the parks on the corners because they had to accommodate the water drainage. Chairman Guyer commented the City would have four areas to monitor and maintain, and that a couple of the parks are isolated. He mentioned that he was disappointed that there couldn't be two larger parks. Commissioner Scheurer moved to recommend the project to the City Council with a provision that they consider night lighting for the basketball courts. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Tanner and carried by a 7-0 vote with Commissioner J. Munson ABSENT. VI. NEW BUSINESS A. LEGENDS FIELD/SENIOR GAMES HONOREE Ms. Steele reported that she had done some research on the Senior Games dedication. She asked the Commission whom they would like to 5 G IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord Da1a1Parks&RecMinufes19-20-05 randoc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 ------ - ---- - - -- ---- -..--- select for the honoree dedication. She mentioned that last year Charlie Pasarell was selected, but he was unable to attend. She also pointed out the area on a map staff is recommending to add additional columns. Ms. Steele noted the budget and cost for the columns. Commissioner Babcock asked where the names for potential honorees came from. Ms. Steele responded that she found the names from previous meeting minutes. Chairman Guyer stated that Jeff Winklepleck and Ryan Stendell put the list together. Commissioner Barnes suggested that the columns for the baseball players are kept together. The columns could not be moved, but pictures could possibly be moved. The sign with their name and bio might be hard to move. Mr. Niemczak said that he would check if the signs could be moved. Commissioner Babcock commented that some of the columns/plaques are showing some wear and tear, and that maybe staff could take a look at them. The Commissioner's briefly discussed recommendations for the honoree. Commissioner Scheurer motioned to 1) Authorize staff to update the columns and review the costs; and 2) Authorize staff to contact Charlie Pasarell, Johnnie Lujak, and/or Don Baylor for the Senior Games honoree. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Schukart and carried by a 7-0 vote with Commissioner J. Munson ABSENT. B. AMPHITHEATER COMMITTEE Ms. Steele asked the Commission if there are volunteers to be part of the Amphitheater Committee to work with staff to begin a concept for renovations of the amphitheater. Chairman Guyer and Commissioner Dawson volunteered. VI1. CONTINUED BUSINESS A. LAWN BOWLING Ms. Steele referred to a letter she received from Mr. Ted Harper that she wanted to share with the Commission. She stated that she would like to continue this item until October 18, 2005, when the people that want make a presentation are back in town. 6 G OevServicesiMonica LoredoiWord DatalPBd(s&Rec Mlnutesl9.20-05.min.doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 She also provided a photograph of a possible site for lawn bowling. Staff believes the section of green space directly south of the Skate Park would be the best option. She asked the Commission if they could take a look at the site before October 18, and to let her know if they had any suggestions. B. DOG PARK RECOMMENDATIONS Ms. Steele asked the Commission to look at the recommendations for the Dog Park. She commented that Ms. Limont had done a lot of research, and that she also spoke to a couple of dog park people, and the Risk Manager. Ms. Steele briefly mentioned some of the issues in the dog park. Ms. Limont stated that the situation in the dog park is getting too crazy, and that she has had to change her schedule to go to the dog park at a different time. She stated that the City needs to take steps on how we are going to run our dog park; therefore, everyone understands the rules, and the City is not liable if something were to happen at the dog park, such as a toddler getting bit by a dog. Ms. Limont noted that they talked to a very successful park in Michigan, along with a dog park in Colorado and Texas. Mr. Niemczak stated that he talked to Santa Monica and Riverside. He stated that Riverside had no requirements. Santa Monica does require that they are a resident and the dog must be registered, but no enforcement. Commissioner Babcock recalls at a previous meeting that at one time it was being considered to add an animal control officer to City Staff. Councilman Spiegel responded that the animal control officer is out of Cathedral City, but will be moving into the new Animal Campus facility. Commissioner Babcock expressed that people are going to be in some shock with all the new rules. He said that there are rules out there now, but just need enforcement. Commissioner Babcock also expressed that if in the future there were to be an animal control officer, he could check the dog park in the morning and evening to ensure that dogs are licensed. The dog park people should handle it themselves. Ms. Limont responded that the card system is pretty simple, and explained the process and procedure. Note: Animal Control is now handled out of the Indio office. Commissioner Scheurer asked Commissioner Babcock if he disagreed with any rules. Commissioner Babcock feels having a card to get into the dog park is too much. 7 G iDevServicesiMonica LOredokWOrd DafelParks&RecMnoes19-20-05.min, doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 Ms Sharon Marshall (73-874 Masson Drive, Palm Desert) informed the Commission that majority of the people at the dog park want the card system and requested that staff look into the system. Commissioner Babcock asked Ms. Marshall why the system is not working now. Ms. Marshall responded that there is absolutely no control of who and what comes into the dog park. If something happens there is no recourse. She stated that an animal control officer would have to sit in the dog park 24 hours a day because people are in and out throughout the day. At this time there is no way of knowing if dogs have had their shots. Councilman Spiegel explained the system at the Skate Park, and that Council decided to have someone there to monitor that skaters have safety equipment and bikes are not allowed. The card system is like having someone there from his standpoint. Commissioner Barnes commented that the card system is a good idea and explained the process to request a dog license. The only problem he foresees with the card system is who would follow up that the license is up-to-date. Chairman Guyer responded that the card could only be good until the license expires. Councilman Spiegel asked if the card system would be added to both dog parks. Ms. Steele replied that the City would have to, and to any new dog parks as well. It was mentioned that the card system would be the same type of system as Desert Willow resident cards. There would be a charge for the card and a lesser charge for Palm Desert residents, Commissioner Babcock asked how much personnel would be needed to handle the card system. Councilman Spiegel responded that it would go through the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District (CVRPD). They handle the Desert Willow and Skate Park cards. Ms. Marshall also replied that if they need volunteers, some of the people from the dog park would be happy to volunteer. Ms. Steele commented that if the card system goes into place, initially volunteers would be needed. Ms. Limont voiced that a system needs to be put into place now and not continue to put it off. She is concerned that there is going to be a difficult situation, whether it is a little guy getting hurt or two people fighting. Commissioner Schukart commented that when he lived in Oregon, they had to close the dog park because it got so bad and it was paved over. Commissioner Scheurer commented that he has a concern with the cost of the card. He said an amount should be set for residents of Palm Desert. 8 G IDevServicesWonice LoredolWord Def& ParksBRecWinutesl9.20-05.min doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 Another concern is the volunteers; he also said the cards should be issued by the CVRPD and have them arrange an orientation. The volunteers will only last so long. Commissioner Tanner motioned for City Staff to research the cost and feasibility for the dog park card system, and present it to the City Council for a recommendation. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Dawson and carried by a 7-0 vote with Commissioner J. Munson ABSENT. Ms. Steele reported that staff looked into artificial turf. She reported that during the summer the turf would get too hot, and would not be useable for this area. Mr. Niemczak circulated a sample of artificial turf and explained that the turf could heat up to 130 degrees. He stated that he visited a facility in Indio that uses artificial turf, and they said that it is low maintenance and is hosed off for cleanliness. Their recommendation was to look at other alternatives. Commissioner Tanner communicated that he and Ryan Stendell looked at other artificial turf, and they found out that maintenance is too consuming. The Commission all agreed that no one was interested in artificial turf at the dog park. Mr. Niemczak noted that the small and large dog park would be closed for one month to overseed. Commissioner recommended putting a screen on the fence that separates the small and large dog areas to prevent dogs from biting other dog's noses. Commissioner Babcock asked Ms. Marshall what their thoughts are concerning artificial turf. Ms. Marshall replied that they prefer grass. Commissioner Barnes asked if the Commission had to go to City Council to split the Joe Mann Dog Park. Ms. Steele replied no, that they would go ahead and install the fencing. Vill. REPORTS A. ICE ARENA Ms. Steele updated the Commission on the Ice Arena. She mentioned that staff is looking at potential sites, but do not have any additional information at this time. She noted that Sheila Gilligan, ACM for Community Services, 9 G:09vServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutesl9.20-05.min doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 forwarded a letter from another group proposing an ice facility. Ms. Steele noted that this group is proposing two ice sheets, a theater of arts facility, and other sports activities. Ms. Limont commented that they need to consider more money is not going to be needed down the road to operate the ice arena. Councilman Spiegel responded that if someone came and presented a nice attractive building, and the City had the land including the parking, there would not be a problem. As long as they maintain and paid for everything that goes around it, there would be a pretty good chance. But if it goes to the City Council requesting $5 million dollars and for the City to be responsible for the building, they would not want to do it. Commissioner Barnes asked when the 30-acre park in the north sphere is going to be developed. Councilman Spiegel responded that the City does not own that land, and they are in middle of negotiations to own it. He said it would be on the north side of Gerald Ford. Commissioner Barnes commented that area would be a good place for an ice arena. B. DESERT SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (DSUSD) JOINT USE AGREEMENT AT WASHINGTON CHARTER Ms. Steele explained that the City was going to have a joint use agreement with DSUSD at Freedom Park similar to the agreement with Washington Charter. She indicated the City would be taking over the maintenance of the Soccer Field starting October 15, 2005, in accordance with the agreement. The cost should not be more than Palma Village Park. C. FREEDOM PARK SOIL STABILIZATION Ms. Steele reported that the documents for Freedom Park are currently with an outside contractor being reviewed, and hopefully would be out to bid next month. Mr. Niemczak informed the Commission that he has received complaints of blowing dust coming from Freedom Park to the school playground. He was asked to apply some stabilizer, which will be applied on Saturday, September 24. Commissioner Tanner asked who is responsible for the access road by Freedom Park. Mr. Niemczak replied that it is the developer's access road, and he is supposed to be cleaning the wall and road. 10 G:1DavSerwces1Wnica LoredolWord DataParks&ReclMinutest9-20-05.min.doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 D. LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AREAS 3 & 5 Mr. Niemczak stated that he wants to tie in the Landscape Maintenance Areas 3 & 5 into the park inspections. He stated that a landscape maintenance company maintains these areas under two contracts. The contract specifically discloses duties to be performed on a weekly, bi- monthly, monthly, and yearly basis. Mr. Niemczak is requesting that when the Commissioner's are doing the park inspections, to also look at any deficiencies that might be a contract issue, such as excess grass left on the lawns. The more feedback he receives, the more pressure he will put on the contractor. Commissioner Dawson asked if they could see a copy of the contract. Mr. Niemczak responded that he could make copies of the contract. Ms. Steele asked the Commission if they could bring in their park inspection lists by the second monthly meeting. E. MONTESSORI SCHOOL PLAYGROUND REQUEST Ms. Steele reported that the request was forwarded to Martin Alvarez, Senior Management Analyst. He has handled several grant requests; therefore, the information packet has been given to him. Ms. Steele reported that at the last meeting the Commission asked where the equipment for the water feature is located, and said that it is at the Joni Yard. She also mentioned that they have received some comments that the Palm Desert Community Center is aging and might need some renovations. Ms. Steele commented that she attends the CVRPD Board meetings in Indio, and has noticed that they have put in brand new equipment at that location. She said that they are also going to be doing a facelift, and have hired an architect to update the facility. Commissioner Limont asked if the two buildings (CVRPD and YMCA) compete against each other. Ms. Steele responded no, they each have different programs. Councilman Spiegel stated that majority of the money CVRPD receives is from the City of Palm Desert from Redevelopment dollars. If the City is not receiving what we should have, we need to let them know through Ms. Steele that we are not happy that they are doing all the good stuff at the Indio facility and not at the Palm Desert facility. 11 G IDevServicesWonica LoredolWord DatelParks&ReclMinutesl9-70-05.min doc MINUTES SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Commissioner Barnes asked Ms. Steele if she has received any additional information on the fountain at Palma Village Park. Ms. Steele replied that she has not. She said that she knows it is not an interactive fountain. Commissioner Babcock asked Ms. Steele if she has researched adding additional Pavilions in the park. She only has found money that was set aside for the pavilions, but is continuing with the research. Commissioner Scheurer thanked staff for preparing the packets and staff reports so that they are better prepared. He requested that packets are copied double -sided, and requested a project status schedule. Ms. Steele explained that staff will be going to a MS Project computer training class, and will soon be able to produce the project status schedule. Commissioner Babcock brought up a concern that there is no sign for Ironwood Park. It was mentioned that there is a sign on Haystack, and it is identified on the City map and website. X. ADJOURNMENT Chairman Guyer adjourned the meeting at 10:25 a.m. (z'_ Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary 12 G OevServiceslMonjca LoredolWord DatelParks&ReclMinuiesl9-20-05.m)n.doc