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HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks & Rec Cmsn - 01/05/2010 .� ����. �--��� �-�--� CITY OF PALM DESERT � � PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: Rachelle D. Klassen, City Clerk � � ;..1✓ FROM: Beth Longman, Administrative Secretary f � DATE: April 9, 2010 SUBJECT: Submission of Minutes for the Parks and Recreation Commission Attached for your records are the approved Minutes from the January 5, 2010, meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. Thank you. Attachment (as noted) CITY COUNC[LACTION API'ROVF.D �. �nf:NIFD RF.CEIVED f� OTH[?I2 MEF.TING DATE _.. "�1 ���� AYF,S:,��12�C=L1���=Sn��f-�P1� —" NOES: Iv'C��'1P AI�SENT: � Al3STAIN: VF.I21�'IEll I3Y: � Original on File with City Clerk's ffice G:\PubWorks\PARKS\Parks and Rec Commission\Minute 7ransmittal.doc CITY OF PALM DESERT �'•'� PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION � � MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 I. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Barnard convened the meeting at 8:30 a.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Absent Chairman Michael Barnard None Commissioner Phill Babcock Vice Chair Roger Dash Commissioner Jerry Dawson Commissioner Randy Guyer Commissioner Deborah Hall Commissioner Kim Housken Commissioner Terry Schukart Commissioner Christopher Thomas Staff Present: Angelica Chavez-Clarke, Office Assistant John Garcia, P.E., Engineering Manager Mark Greenwood, P.E., Director of Public Works Aaron Kulp, P.E., Associate Engineer Beth Longman, Administrative/Recording Secretary Jay Niemczak, Parks Facilities Manager Guests Barb Adair, Desert Recreation District Stan Ford, Desert Recreation District Tatiana Hinkle, Desert Recreation District Laura McGalliard, Desert Recreation District Steve Sims, Go Bike USA Robert A. Spiegel, Councilman Van Tanner, Chairman of Planning Commission Gina Tenorio, The Desert Sun 1 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 III. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Chairman Barnard called for nominations of officers for 2010. Commissioner Dawson nominated Commissioner Dash for Chairman, Commissioner Housken seconded, and Commissioner Dash accepted the nomination. The vote was unanimous, and the 2010 Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission is Roger Dash. Commissioner Schukart nominated Commissioner Housken for Vice Chairman, but she declined. Commissioner Housken nominated Commissioner Guyer, Commissioner Schukart seconded, and Commissioner Guyer accepted the nomination. Commissioner Dawson nominated Commissioner Hall, but she declined. The vote was unanimous, and the 2010 Vice Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission is Randy Guyer. IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Chairman Dash congratulated Commissioner Barnard on his recent appointment to the key position of Executive Director of the College of the Desert Foundation. Commissioner Thomas stated that the meeting between him, Ms. Janis Steel, and Mr. Jeff Ronci to establish posted pickleball times has not yet taken place. He would like to see this happen within the next ten days. V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM DECEMBER 1, 2009 Commissioner Housken stated that her comment on page 4 regarding all parks having pickleball courts should be changed to state that there are now pickleball courts at all parks that have tennis courts. A Motion was made by Vice Chairman Guyer, second by Commissioner Dawson, that the Minutes of the meeting of December 1, 2009, be modified as noted and approved. Motion carried 9-0. VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS — None 2 G:IPubWorksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission12010L4gendas and Minutes101-05-10 Minutes.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 VII. NEW BUSINESS A. MID-VALLEY TRAIL PRESENTATION Mr. Jay Niemczak reported that the City has been working on the Mid-Valley Bike Path feasibility study and introduced Mr. Aaron Kulp, P.E., Associate Engineer for Palm Desert. Mr. Kulp's intent is to advise the Commission of the current status of the project, obtain comments and input, and receive endorsement of the feasibility study and the bike path location. Mr. Kulp stated that the Mid-Valley Bike Path is a proposed 7.5-mile trail for use by bicycles, pedestrians, and golf carts. It would be located primarily within Palm Desert adjacent to the existing railroad tracks and would extend from Washington Avenue on the east to Bob Hope Drive on the west. Mr. Kulp reported that the largest challenge on this project has been working with the railroad. There are some locations where the plan proposes to use the railroad right-of-way; however, the railroad does not allow bike paths in their right-of-way, nor will they consider an easement. The exact locations of some of the rights-of-way are unknown, and a survey would be necessary. The railroad has indicated a willingness to work with the City to find alternatives. As a last resort, they may consider selling the property to the City. However, the railroad does not want to proceed with any options until the actual design of the project moves forward. Mr. Kulp noted that one of the areas where railroad right-of-way would be utilized is where the path intersects with underpasses. If the railroad right- of-way is unavailable, the path would be elevated, which may necessitate the installation of embankments that would require Caltrans approval. Mr. Kulp further noted that the City's right-of-way along Tamarisk Row is not wide enough to construct the path and maintain the minimum separation between the path and the curb as required by Caltrans. Railroad right-of- way would be required at this location also. Mr. Kulp further reported that alternatives involving modifications to Tamarisk Row are also being considered, but the preferred plan is one that utilizes railroad right-of-way. Commissioner Barnard asked about cost estimates, and Mr. Kulp stated that the current estimate is $4.2M for construction of the path only. An additional estimate for the acquisition of easements is $2.2M. Councilman Spiegel noted that this would bring the project total to approximately $6-7M. Mr. Kulp agreed and stated that the City has received a federally funded CMAQ grant of $2.2M for the project and that the balance would need to come from City funds and other grants. Councilman Spiegel 3 GIPubWorksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission120101Agendas and Minutes101-OS-10 Minutes.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 asked how much was currently committed to the project. Mr. Kulp responded that the City has committed $600,000 for design and the $2.2M CMAQ grant has been secured. Councilman Spiegel stated that any funding from the City would come through the Redevelopment Agency and not from the general fund. He also noted that the Commission shouldn't be concerned about funding for the project. Chairman Dash commented that a recent newspaper article reported that American Recovery and Restoration Act (ARRA) funds are being used for construction of a park in Palm Springs, but he didn't think ARRA funds were available for that type of use. Mr. Kulp replied that he was not sure about the use of those funds for this type of project, but that this project had been included on a list of projects for potential use of ARRA funds. Commissioner Babcock asked if other cities or the county were participating in the bike path project. Mr. Kulp responded that Rancho Mirage has provided him with initial environmental documents indicating that they are considering connecting to the Mid-Valley Bike Path. He also noted that the east end of the path will connect to an existing bike lane network. Vice Chairman Guyer noted that consideration should be given to whether the $6-7M would be better spent improving other bike trails. He is a proponent of the plan and feels that Palm Desert is the city that needs to begin the process and the sooner the better. He also asked if there was access to other developer fees or funds. Councilman Spiegel stated that to his knowledge there are no developer fees available for this type of a project. Mr. Kulp stated that some portions of the bike path have already been constructed as part of the requirements placed on residential developers, and cited the Spanish Walk development as an example. Mr. Kulp further stated that when they go to the City Council for approval, they will include a recommendation to revise the General Plan to include the Mid-Valley Bike Path, which would then require developers to construct portions of the path. Vice Chairman Guyer asked if commercial developers are required to pay park development fees. Neither Councilman Spiegel nor Mr. Kulp was certain if commercial developers pay this type of fee. Mr. Kulp explained that the next step is to hire a consultant to begin the design process. Once a preliminary design layout has been achieved, the City will begin the environmental process with Caltrans. Mr. Steve Sims, with Go Bike USA, stated that they are backing AB 1358 (the Compete Street Acts). He stated that, just like car drivers, most bicycle riders want to take the most direct route to their destination rather than going out of their way to take a specifically designated trail. He 4 G:IPubWo�ksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission12010L4gendas and Minutes101-OS-70 Minutes.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 believes funding should be spent on bike-friendly areas throughout the City, and hopes the City considers the many alternatives available to improve bike routes on existing streets. Commissioner Babcock indicated he would like to see the plan moved forwarded noting that adjoining cities have not provided safe areas for bicyclists. Commissioner Schukart would like to see the plan moved forward particularly if more grants can be secured. Commissioner Dawson is in favor of moving forward and hopes it provides a challenge to adjoining cities and the county to move ahead with portions of the path in their jurisdictions. Commissioner Hall feels that the bike path is the sort of family-friendly park facility that the City is seeking. Commissioner Housken doesn't think that having a dedicated trail detracts from the idea of improving the existing streets for bicycle use and thinks the plan should be moved forward. A Motion was made by Commissioner Dawson, second by Commissioner Babcock that a recommendation by made to the City Council to approve the next step in the process, and to energize the support for bicycle friendly certification for the City. Motion carried 9-0. B. PALM DESERT RALLY RACE Mr. Niemczak reported that Ms. Tatiana Hinkle, Desert Recreation District, has requested that the City sponsor a soap box derby behind the WalMart store on Gateway Drive. He introduced Ms. Hinkle who stated that the Desert Recreation District will cover the cost of staffing and operating the event and closing the road; however, the City is being asked to cover the $750 franchise fee and sweeping the road for the race. She then made a video presentation of various past and present soap box derby events along with a history of the event. Following the video presentation, Ms. Hinkle stated that the race proposed for Palm Desert is a rally race, which is different than a local race. A rally race draws racers from various locations and allows them to score points toward going to the annual Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio. Local racers can also enter rally races, but a local race is only for local racers and the winner advances to the annual race in Ohio. Ms. Hinkle stated that La Quinta sponsors a local race, and last year they drew 25 racers and had approximately 400 spectators. This year they hope to draw 40 racers to their event. The number of racers is dependent on the number people who either have cars already built, or who plan to build one from an authorized kit. Races are open to both boys and girls. 5 G:IPubWorksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission120101Agendas and Minutes101-OS-10 Minutes.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 Ms. Hinkle noted that the proposed rally race will bring people and revenue to Palm Desert, and the selected location is near hotels and restaurants. Commissioner Thomas asked about the short notice and whether that would affect the number of people who would plan to come to the Palm Desert race. Ms. Hinkle stated that this is the time of year that races are held and they are linked into the All American Soap Box Derby website, and that our climate is also a draw. Commissioner Housken asked if La Quinta could also hold a rally race. Ms. Hinkle stated they could. Commissioner Housken was concerned by the late request being made to hold the race, and the fact that it would not be advertised in the Desert Recreation District event catalog because the catalog has already been published. Commissioner Schukart asked if the Desert Gateway tenants would participate by providing parking during the event. Ms. Hinkle stated that the Desert Recreation District would approach the commercial/retail operations regarding the event. A Motion was made by Vice Chairman Guyer, second by Commissioner Schukart that a recommendation by made to the City Council to approve the rally race as presented. Motion carried 8-1, with Commissioner Housken voting no. VIII. REPORTS AND UPDATES A. GET FIT PALM DESERT Mr. Niemczak stated that Ms. Steele has been working with Mayor Cindy Finerty on the Get Fit Palm Desert program as a way to promote fitness. The first event, a three-mile walk in Civic Center Park, is on January 9. The events will be held monthly, and those shown on the calendar are preliminary at this. If there are additional suggestions for events, please contact Ms. Steele. Commissioner Schukart noted that there are numerous events that can be construed as fitness events, and asked if this is an effort to pull together the various organizations sponsoring these events. Mr. Niemczak stated that it is a way for the Mayor to promote fitness and health and incorporate local businesses and the community. B. AMPHITHEATER Mr. Niemczak reported that the Amphitheater reopened on December 11, 2009, with entertainment by The Side Street Strutters. The weather 6 GIPubWorksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission120101Agendas and Minutes101-OS-10 Minutes.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 wasn't great, but many compliments have been received on the new structure. C. BIG HORN WELL SITE CONSTRUCTION Mr. Niemczak noted that the work was basically completed, but with the addition of some plants that were not approved by the Landscape Department. Work should be finalized by January 8, 2010. Commissioner Housken asked if the wall would also be painted. Mr. Niemczak will check on the painting. D. CIVIC CENTER WATER FEATURE Mr. Niemczak reported that the water feature near the playground was recently resurfaced at a cost of$12,800. E. FREEDOM PARK BALL FIELD CLAY Mr. Niemczak reported that 24 tons of clay was added to each ball field and each field was laser leveled. The total cost was $14,858. F. FAMILY YMCA OF THE DESERT Mr. Niemczak noted that the December update was included in the packet for the Commission's review. G. DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT � Mr. Niemczak noted that the report included a list of events in the City and he noted that Division 5 is Palm Desert. H. DECEMBER PARK INSPECTIONS Commissioner Thomas asked, as a new commissioner, who should receive his inspection report. Mr. Niemczak stated that he can give them to either Ms. Steele or him. Commissioner Hall stated that her inspection report was not included and that she had sent it in via fax. Mr. Niemczak will check on what happened. Chairman Dash commented that it's good to stop and talk with people in the parks and ask for suggestions. Some women recently asked about timing for irrigation in Civic Center Park. Mr. Niemczak will look into the irrigation timing. I. NEWS ARTICLES 7 GiPub WorksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission120101Agendas and Minutes101-05-f 0 Minutes.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 5, 2010 Commissioner Thomas noted that Palm Springs has received ARRA funds for construction of a park. He asked if park improvements would fit the criteria. Vice Chairman Guyer stated that he believes Palm Springs refers to the project as landscape enhancement rather than construction of a park. Chairman Dash asked that Ms. Steele and Mr. Niemczak research the question and report back to the Commission. IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Commissioner Thomas noted that the parks section of the City's website lists some parks in one area but not in another area. He wants to make sure that it gets updated and is willing to work with someone on the project. Mr. Niemczak will discuss with Ms. Steele. Councilman Spiegel stated that he recently toured the Westin Desert Willow Timeshares and they are very nice with good amenities. They have tennis courts and he asked Westin staff if they offered pickleball, but they didn't know anything about the game. He suggested that someone contact Westin and provide information because this would be a good location for pickleball. Councilman Spiegel noted that Mayor Pro Tem Ferguson and Councilman Kelly are on Aquatic Center committee, and he suggested that members of the Parks and Recreation Commission should work with them. Vice Chairman Guyer stated that there is already a subcommittee. Councilman Spiegel wants them to make sure they get involved in meetings. X. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion by Commissioner Schukart, second by Vice Chairman Guyer, the meeting was adjourned at 9:50 a.m. ,r � , , f�I�C. . ,,. .-1,2,�- � Beth Longman, R , rding Secretary s G:IPub WorksIPARKSIParks and Rec Commission12010Wgendas and Minutes101-OS-10 Mlnutes.docx