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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1981-06-22; Parks & Recreation Commission; MinutesMINUTES MEETING OF: DATE OF MEETING: TIME OF MEETING: PLACE OF MEETING: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION June 22, 1981 6:30 P.M. Levante Community Center CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chairman Murk at 6:34 P.M. ROLL CALL Present - Vice-Chairman Murk, Commissioners Boone, Donovan, and Wright. Also present was Council Liaison Lewis. Commissioner McFadden arrived at 6:35 P.M. Commissioner Tarango arrived at 7:08 P.M. Absent - Chairman Dahlquist. CHANGE TO AGENDA Vice-Chairman Murk suggested that Item No. 5b, the Levante Park/School Proposed Field Alignment, be heard as the first item on the agenda, due to the number of people present to hear same. The Commission concurred. Levante Park/School Proposed Field Alignment David Bradstreet, Director of Parks and Recreation, gave some background on the Shapell Building. Director Bradstreet continued, explaining the safety problems of the existing two new softball fields with adjacent area residents. He pointed out that the major problems were with foul balls, and rock throwing into the yards of the area residents. He also reported on the complaints received by the Parks and Recreation Department, and explained what the Department has done to date to correct the situation. Director Bradstreet suggested such alternatives to the situation as fencing along the left and right field sides, the use of landscaping to buffer the noise, and a hooded backstop. He stated that the City could choose to eliminate the softball activities entirely; however, there are no conducive areas which could be utilized as active play areas elsewhere in the City. Director Bradstreet presented a plan to the Commission, which proposed relocating the existing backstops approximately forty feet in; however, this would require having to re-do the infields. Director Bradstreet stated that their recommendation was to purchase two portable backstops, and move the two existing backstops to Buena Vista and Jefferson. In response to Commission query, Director Bradstreet explained that moving the backstops would not affect the soccer activities; however, he indicated that some major irrigation changes would have to be made. He added that with the use of portable backstops, it becomes a multi-facilitated athletic area. Director Bradstreet concluded that the Encinitas School District would have to approve any changes that are made, and the plan is currently in front of the City Managers' office. Commission discussion reflected the drainage from the slopes, Staffs' proposal for the portable backstops, planting of the infield, and the relocation of the irrigation system. f r / MINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION June 22, 1981 Page 2 COMMISSIONERS The Commission recognized Don Taylor, 3109 Serrano Drive, Carlsbad. Mr. Taylor thanked Director Bradstreet for his assistance in the situation, and stated that he was concerned with the noise problem, and foul balls in his yard. Mr. Taylor indicated that he agreed with Staff's recommendation of relocating the fields, and feels this would alleviate the current problems of noise, foul balls, and intrusion. The Commission recognized Dave Kapich, 3111 Serrano Drive, Carlsbad. Mr. Kapich stated his concern dealt with the problem of noise, and voiced objection that an EIR was never done of the fields in question. He added that moving the fields to the center would definitely help the situation, in addition to a reduction in the adult scheduling. The Commission recognized Kathleen Taylor, 3109 Serrano Drive, Carlsbad. Mrs. Taylor explained that they did not have any problems until the baseball fields were put in. She stated that they bought their house, due to the closeness to the park and school site; however, now that the ball fields are in, her children can not even play in the back yard, because of the potential of foul balls. The Commission recognized Bernie Vitek, 7208 Manzanita Street, Carlsbad. Mr. Vitek indicated that he represented the La Costa Mens Softball League, and it is made up of approximately 99 percent of people living in the La Costa area. He stated that the League is willing to work with the people in the situation. The League held a meeting, and instructed the players to stop jumping fences to retrieve foul balls. He concluded by stating that he feels the idea of moving the backstops is a good one, and that the League did not wish to antagonize the residents of the area; however, wanted to play through the summer. The Commission recognized Arnie Goluboff, 2315 Caringa Way, Carlsbad. Mr. Goluboff stated that along with the La Costa Mens Softball League, he is also involved in Little League. He pointed out that they have an additional ten teams wishing to play; however, they can not accomodate them, due to the field situation. The Commission recognized Mike Marlowe, 7927 Arbusto Court, Carlsbad; representing the La Costa Youth Organization. Mr. Marlowe stated that they had requested fencing, and went to Council Member Kulchin with same. However, they only received negative results. He also pointed out that Levante is the only place with full size fields that can accomodate such activities as softball and soccer. The Commission recognized Charles Nuff, 2822 Luciernaga, Carlsbad; who inquired as to the effect on the soccer fields if the backstops were moved. ^Director Bradstreet responded that they were planning to wait until the middle of July,, because of the existing youth leagues currently using the \ fields. / The Commission recognized Paul Talley, 2586 Luciernaga, Carlsbad. Mr. Talley pointed out that the children in Pony League are hitting very far, indicating that it is not just the adults who are able to put the balls out of the field. Commissioner Donovan indicated that she visited the Taylor's home, and saw the situation from a different perspective. She stated that her main concern if that the residents who live in the surrounding areas be protected. MINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION June 22, 1981 Page 3 COMMISSIONERS The Commission recognized Mike Grew, 1628 Calle Permanente, Encinitas; who stated his opinion that the recommendation for relocating the fields is the only good solution. He also pointed out that 270 feet is a short field for some of the players in these leagues. He suggested putting up high fences in the outfields; however, added that noise and dust are also problems. He stated his opinion that Staff's proposal was a good one, if it would not interfere with the soccer fields. In conclusion, he indicated that field availability is a real problem, and those that are in use are under constant heavy pressure. Council Member Anear inquired if Pine Street School could be used for the tournaments. Director Bradstreet explained that there is only one adult lighted facility which is under high intensity playing by the Pony League, and is booked up on a continual basis. Following discussion, the Commission recommended that the existing backstops be relocated to Jefferson and Buena Vista sites, and that portable backstops be purchased for Levante, with an added stipulation for a chain link fence along the back of the property line. Director Bradstreet indicated that they wished to settle the matter without going to the City Council for funding. He added that he has contacted the Encinitas Optimist Club, and they are willing to assist in the matter. In response to Commission query regarding assistance from some of the teams, Bernie Vitek, who represents the La Costa Mens Softball League, indicated that they would make attempts to raise money to assist in moving the backstops; and also to receive donations for same. Director Bradstreet explained that in talking with the City Attorney, it was recommended that other organizations that use the fields should carry liability insurance. The Commission recognized Gertrude Lockwood, 3036 Levante, Carlsbad. Ms. Lockwood requested cooperation on the part of the teams and players that use Levante with respect to the parking situation. RECESS Vice-Chairman Murk called a recess at 7:44 P.M., and the Commission reconvened at 7:55 P.M. Vice-Chairman Murk indicated that he had to leave at this time, and turned the chair over to Commissioner Boone. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes of the Regular Meeting, held May 18, 1981, were approved as submitted. Murk Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango X X MINUTES VN \& PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION June 22, 1981 Page 4 COMMISSIONERS OLD BUSINESS Shapell Building The Coimnission recommended that a letter of commendation be sent to Doug Duncanson and the Park Crew for their work on the Shapell Building. NEW BUSINESS Review of Alga Norte and Stagecoach Park Design Director Bradstreet gave a brief report on the matter, and introduced John Ortgiesen, the park design consultant. With the aid of wall exhibits showing preliminary park schematics, John Ortgiesen continued the presentation, explaining the potential park design for Stagecoach Park. Commission discussion reflected different amenities for the parks, and alternatives to tennis court lighting. Commission concerns included the property was too close to the Encinitas border, and that the citizens of Carlsbad would not use the facilities as much as citizens of Encinitas. The Commission recognized Seena Trigas, who expressed concern with Stagecoach Park, and the 1982-83 designation. Mr. Ortgiesen explained that 1982-83 would cover the grading and the initial development. The City Manager explained that the question at hand is if it is built, is it a good design. Mr. Aleshire also inquired if it has been coordinated with the Park Master Plan. Mr. Ortgiesen explained that he has been working within the Capital Improvement Program Council Member Anear suggested contacting the County to ascertain if they are interested in participating with the plan. Director Bradstreet indicated that Staff would look into same. Mr. Ortgiesen continued the presentation on Alga Norte, with the aid of a wall exhibit, and explained the proposed amenities. Commission discussion reflected on the hours and closing of parks, and the amenities as proposed by the consultant. Director Bradstreet indicated that Alga Norte is Staffs' highest recommendation, along with Macario Canyon; however, explained that acquisition of the land is a long way off. Land Exchange - Occidental Director Bradstreet requested that this item be continued to the next meeting. The Commission concurred. Joint development of Fuerte Park/School with San Marcos School District. Director Bradstreet gave a report on the matter, with the aid of a wall exhibit showing the location of same. Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango MINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION June 22, 1981 Page 5 COMMISSIONERS Commission discussion reflected the individual Commissioners' feelings on the matter. A motion was made to reject the proposed joint development of Fuerte Park with the San Marcos School District. The motion failed due to lack of a majority. Commissioner Donovan requested additional information and investigation into the matter. The City Manager stated his opinion that it is a good idea to get some grading done now, and to do some preliminary planning. Doug Duncanson reported that studies are currently being done by the San Marcos School District to determine the costs. Following discussion, the concensus of the Commission was that they were interested in Alga Norte, subject to receiving information on grading costs and site preparation. COUNCIL LIAISON REPORT Council Liaison Lewis indicated that he had received a request from Camp Pacific, who runs an aquatics program at the lagoon, for a reduction in fees for their six vessels. They are requesting they be required to pay fees on three or four of their vessels, instead of all six. Following brief discussion, the Commission recommended denial of the request from Camp Pacific to the City Council. COMMITTEE REPORTS Commissioner McFadden reported on the Buena Vista Lagoon Day, and indicated that all went well. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Budget Hearing Director Bradstreet reported on the Budget Hearing, held June 15, 1981. Swim Complex Director Bradstreet reported that the swim complex may be approximately one week behind; however, engineering reports that it is on schedule. ADDITIONAL BUSINESS Director Bradstreet referred to the letter from Pastor J. Rommereim, and stated that Staff denied his request; and they are appealing the matter to the Commission for a facility use for the Levante Community Center. The concensus of the Commission was that the Facility Use Request states that no religious or political organization are to be included. The Commission agreed to bring the item up at a later date for discussion. Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango X Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango X X X X X X MINUTES PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION June 22, 1981 Page 6 COMMISSIONERS Review Jefferson/Buena Vista Park Plan Bob Wilkinson, the new Park Planner, gave a report on the matter. Council Member Anear expressed concern over the noise potential if there is playing activity in the area. Bob Wilkinson explained that there would be no problem, as the diamond was pulled forty feet away from the property line. He added that soccer is the primary use. Following brief discussion, the Commission accepted Staffs' conceptual plan. Request from the San Diego County St. Bernards' Association and the Department of Motor Vehicles Lynn Chase, Recreation Superintendent, reported that Staff has received a request from the San Diego County St. Bernards' Association for the use of Magee Park on August 22, 1981, for a dog show. Mrs. Chase also reported that Staff has received another request from the Oceanside Office of the Department of Motor Vehicles for the use of Holiday Park on September 26, 1981, for a fund raising rummage sale to buy appliances for their office. The Commission denied the request from the San Diego County St. Bernards' Association for the use of Magee Park on August 22, 1981. The Commission denied the request from the Department of Motor Vehicles for use of Holiday Park on September 26, 1981. ADJOURNMENT By proper motion the meeting was adjourned at 9:53 P.M. Respectfully Submitted, Ann R. Alleman Minutes Clerk Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango Boone Donovan Wright McFadden Tarango X X X