HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/16/1993 PRC MinutesJ
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CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
MINUTES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
DECEMBER 16, 1993
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. at the Heritage Park
Community Center, 2900 Brea Canyon Road, Diamond Bar,
California.
PLEDGE OF The audience was led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Chairman
ALLEGIANCE: Schey.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners: Goldenberg, Ruzicka, Medina, Vice Chairman
Johnson, and Chairman Schey
Also present were Community Services Director Bob Rose,
Administrative Assistant Sandy Barlow, Recreation Supervisor
Marla Pearlman, Senior Services Coordinator Lillian Orejel, and
Parks Maintenance Helper Lowell Frodesen
MATTERS FROM None
THE AUDIENCE:
APPROVAL OF Moved by C/Ruzicka, seconded by VC/Johnson and carried
MINUTES: unanimously to approve the minutes of November 18, 1993, as
presented.
Nov. 18, 1993
OLD BUSINESS:
DB Junior CSD/Rose reported that a letter was sent to the Diamond Bar
Women's Club Junior Women's Club outlining the Parks and Recreation
Request Commission's recommendation regarding their offer to donate a
trophy case for the Heritage Park Community Center. He stated
that the club's representative has indicated they will contact staff
once their organization has reviewed the letter. Staff will keep the
Commission informed on the status of the proposed donation of
the trophy case.
Pantera Park CSD/Rose reported that the Public Workshop Meetings for the
Design and Pantera Park project have been tentatively scheduled for January
Development 13, 1994, and February 3 or 17, 1994, subject to the concurrence
Project of the Commission. He stated that staff is in the process of
notifying residents within the Pantera Park area, user groups, as
well as residents who have expressed an interest in providing
input, to inform them of the workshop meetings. Staff has also
included an article in the newspaper and the City Newsletter
generally informing the public of the hearing process.
December 16, 1993 Page 2
Chair/Schey suggested that a notice be posted on the park site as
well.
Larry Ryan, of RJM Design Group, explained that the workshops
are intended to be an information sharing process, comparing the
park to existing facilities in the City and providing an
understanding or awareness of the site, through the use of graphic
illustrations, to demonstrate the site's potential to serve the
community. Hopefully, a concept can be agreed upon as a result
of the discussions. He then suggested that a Project Committee
be developed as part of the Master Plan process, consisting of
adjacent residents, Park and Recreation Commissioners, user
group representatives, and other interested members of the
community, who would be involved with the project as the project
evolves through the final approval process.
In response to C/Ruzicka, Larry Ryan stated that every attempt
will be made to be sensitive to any concern raised that the design
process may be going too fast or too slow. He reiterated that the
design process is intended to encourage the community to provide
input regarding possible concepts for the park, as well as to
provide information to the community regarding the needs of the
City and the constraints of the site.
In response to Chair/Schey, Larry Ryan stated that diagrams and
graphics of the site will be presented at the first workshop. The
community will be encouraged to express what they envision in
the design of the park. He stated that the information received at
that meeting will be used to develop. a variety of diagrams,
illustrating the feasibility of the suggestions made, which will then
be presented at the second workshop with the hope of attaining
an identified preferred alternative plan.
CSD/Rose, in response to C/Goldenberg, stated that the park site
is approximately 23 acres, 15 of which are developable, which is
considerably bigger than Peterson Park which is approximately 9
acres in size.
Following a brief discussion, the Parks and Recreation Commission
concurred to schedule the second workshop meeting for February
3, 1994.
Park Improvements CSD/Rose reported that the costs for the recommended projects
Update prioritized by the Commission at its July 22, 1993 meeting were
under estimated. Also, requests for four alternative or additional
projects have been received by staff since that meeting.
December 16, 1993 Page 3
Therefore, staff is recommending a revised priority list for park
improvements for fiscal year 1993/94. He then reviewed the
revised priorities list, and the estimated costs, as indicated in the
staff report.
CSD/Rose stated that it is also recommended that the
improvements to Paul C. Grow Park not be included on the
priorities list until such time that negotiations with the Walnut
Valley Unified School District have been completed regarding an
agreement for occupying the site.
C/Goldenberg suggested that part of the $50,000 budgeted be
used to develop additional athletic fields at the Pantera Park
School site adjoining Pantera Park.
Larry Ryan pointed out that the site has poor soils condition, and
it would be quite expensive to convert those fields to usable
playing fields, at an estimated cost of about $80,000 an acre.
CSD/Rose, in response to C/Medina, reported that the project to
resurface the tennis and basketball courts at Maple Hill Park is
already out to bid.
C/Ruzicka inquired if the increased lighting for the tennis courts at
Maple Hill Park will negatively impact the neighborhood.
CSD/Rose stated that since the new fixtures are designed to
minimize direct light, the additional lighting should not be a
concern.
Chair/Schey invited those wishing to comment to come forward.
Cindy Morton, representing Diamond Bars Girls Softball, reminded
the Commission of the City's agreement to donate the other half
of the bleachers donated by Diamond Bar Girls Softball League for
Peterson Park.
CSD/Rose reported that it has been confirmed that a commitment
had been made.
Abus Raja, a resident, stated that he and other neighbors are
willing to contribute funds for the installation of basketball/tennis
courts at Summit Ridge Park.
Chair/Schey stated that the City would first need to know the
level of contribution before making a decision.
December 16, 1993 Page 4
C/Ruzicka noted that there have been a couple of other requests
made for basketball courts at Summit Ridge Park.
VC/Johnson suggested that the lower half of the park be explored
for that use because there is immediate parking available, and the
lighting and noise in that area would have the least affect on the
neighborhood.
VC/Johnson and C/Ruzicka, members of the ADA subcommittee,
concurred to meet with staff and Larry Ryan on Wednesday,
December 29, 1993 at 9:00 a.m. at C/Ruzicka's house to discuss
the development of policies that will guide future retro -fit projects.
NEW BUSINESS:
Intro of CSD/Rose introduced Lillian Orejel, the Senior Citizens
New Community Coordinator, and Lowell Frodeson, the Parks Maintenance Helper,
Services Staff who are new Community Services staff for the Heritage Park
Community Center.
CSD/Rose stated that staff will do a preliminary research of the
measurements and estimated costs.
There being no one else wishing to provide comment, Chair/Schey
returned the matter back to the Commission for consideration.
Moved by C/Ruzicka, seconded by VC/Johnson and carried
unanimously to recommend to the City Council to accept the
revised priorities list for park improvements.
A.D.A.
CSD/Rose reported that the cost to retrofit Maple Hill Park to most
Retro -fit -
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is estimated at
Maple Hill
8100,000 dollars. Retrofitting is required in several areas,
Park
including the handicap parking, the restrooms, the play ground
equipment, the access to the tennis courts, and the relocation of
accessible picnic tables. He stated that it is recommended that
the Commission schedule a meeting of the ADA subcommittee to
meet with Larry Ryan, of RJM Design Group, to discuss the
development of policies that will guide future retro -fit projects.
Larry Ryan explained that the Intent of the ADA is to make
government buildings, facilities, and programs accessible to the
disabled. He suggested that the City establish a policy to correct
deficiencies that are readily achievable and establish a reasonable
time frame to correct those deficiencies.
VC/Johnson and C/Ruzicka, members of the ADA subcommittee,
concurred to meet with staff and Larry Ryan on Wednesday,
December 29, 1993 at 9:00 a.m. at C/Ruzicka's house to discuss
the development of policies that will guide future retro -fit projects.
NEW BUSINESS:
Intro of CSD/Rose introduced Lillian Orejel, the Senior Citizens
New Community Coordinator, and Lowell Frodeson, the Parks Maintenance Helper,
Services Staff who are new Community Services staff for the Heritage Park
Community Center.
December 16, 1993 Page 5
CDBG - CSD/Rose reviewed the requests submitted by staff for the
Requests for Community Development Block Grant (C.D.B.G.), as indicated in
1994/95 the staff report, which included requests for Senior Programming,
Community Center Furnishings, and ADA Retro -fit.
C/Medina inquired if CDBG funds could be used to subsidize
transportation services.
CSD/Rose explained that CDBG limits the amount of funds that
can be used for transportation projects; however, another source
of funding can be pursued through Proposition A funds.
VC/Johnson inquired if staff has communicated with Senior
Groups on the availability of transportation services for Seniors.
CSD/Rose stated that a resource list is currently being developed.
Chair/Schey volunteered to represent the Commission before the
City Council at its January 18, 1994 meeting should such
representation be requested by City Council.
Letter to CSD/Rose reported that a concern has been expressed by both the
User Groups Walnut Unified School District and the Pomona Unified School
District that certain user groups are misusing the school district
facilities. Staff has included a draft copy of a letter intended to be
sent to all user groups from the Parks and Recreation Commission
reminding them of their need for facilities and the importance of
using the facilities appropriately.
C/Ruzicka suggested that perhaps each user group should be
suggested to appoint someone to supervise the use of the
facilities. He also stated that the letter is fair waming to user
groups.
VC/Johnson suggested that the letter specifically indicate that the
City has limited facilities, and does not have additional space in
the event that a group is restricted from use of the school
facilities.
Chair/Schey stated that it is the consensus of the Commission to
request staff to modify the letter appropriately, and to present the
letter in final form to be signed by the Chairman, and mailed to
the user groups.
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December 16, 1993 Page 6
C.P.R.S. Chair/Schey inquired if any Commissioner is interested in attending
Conference the California Parks and Recreation Society annual state-wide
Registration conference scheduled in Anaheim from February 3 - 6, 1994.
CSD/Rose, correcting the staff report, stated that the pre-
registration fee for the conference is 0145, and on-site registration
is 0175, per person. He stated that the conference is conducted
locally every three years.
VC/Johnson expressed an interest in attending the therapeutic
recreation session, noting that it would be helpful with ADA
requirements in the future.
Chair/Schey suggested that Commissioners contact staff on any
session that they may be interested in attending.
Parks & Chair/Schey noted that the Commission has received a copy of the
Recreation current Parks and Recreation Commission Handbook which was
Commission last revised March 12, 1992.
Handbook
CSD/Rose reported that staff is in the process of up -dating the
handbook, to be tentatively completed by February 24, 1994.
Chair/Schey inquired of the type of changes staff anticipates
making to the handbook.
CSD/Rose explained that the handbook needs to incorporate the
1994 Brown Act revisions, the Parks facility update, a change
indicating the new location of the Parks and Recreation
Commission meetings, as well as any revisions or additions of the
concepts in the handbook that may be suggested by the
Commission.
Chair/Schey suggested that the Commission review the current
handbook and submit any comments to staff prior to January 28,
1994.
1994 CSD/Rose reported that a copy of the 1994 Ralph M. Brown Act,
Brown Act as supplied by the League of California Cities, has been included
in the Commission's packet for informational purposes.
December 16, 1993
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INFORMATIONAL
ITEMS:
AA/Barlow reported that staff is in the process of obtaining
information from Rodeo companies, and more finite plans will be
available by the next meeting.
5th
Anniversary
CSD/Rose stated that the 5th Anniversary Event, which is
scheduled April 18, 1994, will have a country western theme to
tie into the history of Diamond Bar, and is proposed to include a
barbecue, dance, rodeo, games and rides. He stated that in order
to stay within the budgeted 81,600, many of the activities will be
self sustaining.
RECREATION
PROGRAM
UP -DATE:
Breakfast
with Santa
CSD/Rose reported that 60 people have registered for the
Breakfast with Santa
event, scheduled at the Community Center
at 9:00 a.m., December 18, 1993. He stated that the Rotary Club
of Diamond Bar has donated 8750 towards catering the event.
Athletics/
Recreation
RS/Pearlman presented the staff report. She reported that the
Classes
revenue for contract classes at this time is $36,858, which is
slightly higher than
the 830,800 revenue received at the
completion of the fall recreation program in 1991, and the
833,000 revenue received in 1992. She reported that the Adult
Athletics program will be extended due
to rain. She also reported
that 3 out of the 6 Chaparral Middle School children that
competed in the San Gabriel Valley Cross Country Finals came in
first place.
Tiny Tots AA/Barlow reported that both the morning and afternoon sessions
of the Tiny Tots MWF classes are full at 18 participants each, and
the TTh session has 14 registered participants. She stated that
the afternoon TTh session has not received much interest at this
time.
AA/Barlow reported that the cruises to Huntington Harbor and
Newport, scheduled for the weekend of December 19, 1993, are
full, as is the cruise to Newport scheduled for December 23,
1993. She also reported that there are 6 spaces available on the
Rose Parade trip.
CSD/Rose stated that the fees for the Athistics/Recreation classes,
Tiny Tots, and Adult Excursions are based upon the costs involved
in operating these programs. The increase in revenue in 1992/93,
as reported by RS/Pearlman, is a resuh of an increase in the
December 16, 1993 Page 8
number of participants, as well as programs. The revenue is used
to pay for the costs associated with those programs.
Senior Citizens CSD/Rose reported that the Lively Seniors program, which meets
on Tuesdays, has just been expanded to Wednesdays to
accommodate individuals who like to play cards.
CSD/Rose reported that a Community Services Coordinator
position is currently being recruited for the Tiny Tots program.
COMMISSION C/Goldenberg requested staff to expedite the resurfacing of the
COMMENTS: basketball courts at Maple Hill and Ronald Reagan Park in any way
Possible. He also requested staff to try to improve the sound
system at the Community Center during the Commission
meetings. He then reported that the City Council rescinded the
General Plan at its December 14, 1993 meeting, and is seeking
volunteers from each Commission to participate on the General
Plan revision subcommittee. He volunteered to represent the
Parks and Recreation Commission.
VC/Johnson requested that staff gather information on the
equestrian trails in Diamond Bar, particularly the trails from the 57
freeway extending towards Chino Hills, as well as information on
trails linking into the Walnut, Chino Hills, and Brea area. The
information should be given to a subcommittee to discuss
dedicating at least the existing portion of the Schabarum trail, and
developing a timeline for the dedication process.
VC/Johnson then stated that the Diamond Bar/Walnut YMCA has
a Santa program where people can schedule a Santa visit for
Christmas parties now through Christmas eve.
C/Ruzicka wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy
holiday. He requested an update on the Parks Master Plan, as
well as an itemization of open space in the City.
C/Ruzicka inquired of the City Council's direction regarding the
revision process, and the participants to be on the committee to
revise the General Plan.
CSD/Rose explained that the City Council has not yet indicated a
final decision as to how the revision process is to occur. Since it
is to be a public process that will be appropriately noticed,
anyone interested has an opportunity to attend the meetings.
December 16, 1993 Page 9
C/Goldenberg stated that, to his understanding, the committee is
to be made up of members of the General Public, members of the
Commissions, and members of the City Council.
Chair/Schey stated that he had indicated an interest to the City
Council to be able to participate in the public process, but not
necessarily as chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
He suggested that since the City Council has not yet made a final
decision regarding the revision process, it may be more
appropriate at this time to simply acknowledge their desire that
each Commission be represented, without specifically naming that
representative.
C/Ruzicka inquired if there has been any action by the City Council
to dedicate the area off of the 57 freeway south to the Orange
County line as a scenic highway.
Chair/Schey noted that the rescinded General Plan did designate
that area as a scenic corridor.
C/Medina volunteered to assist in the preparation of the 5th
Anniversary event.
CSD/Rose, in response to C/Ruzicka, reported that, because of the
decision to revise the General Plan, the Parks Master Plan has
been postponed until the revision process has been completed.
Chair/Schey, concerned with pedestrian safety, as well as the
maintenance element of the guardrails installed on Grand Avenue,
recommended that the turf be eliminated and replaced with ground
cover.
VC/Johnson suggested that longer, tapered type banners be used
for the Entrance Signs.
CSD/Rose stated that staff will forward all comments regarding
the Entrance Signs to the appropriate bodies for action.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved by C/Goldenberg, seconded by VC/Johnson and carried
unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:56 p.m..
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December 16, 1993
Attest:
David Schey
Chairman
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Respectively,
Bob ose
Secretary
