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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-03-21 PRC Agenda Packet SPECIAL MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA March 21, 2019 City of Chula Vista Council Chambers 7:00 pm 276 Fourth Avenue, Bldg. A Chula Vista CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL: Commissioners Enriquez, Fernandez, Garcia-Lopez, German, Gregorio, Zarem, and Chair Doyle PUBLIC COMMENTS Persons speaking during Public Comments may address the Commission on any subject matter within the Commission’s jurisdiction that is not listed as an item on the agenda. State law generally prohibits the Commission from discussing or taking action on any issue not included on the agenda, but, if appropriate, the Commission may schedule the topic for future discussion or refer the matter to staff. Comments are limited to three minutes. CONSENT CALENDAR The Commission will enact the Consent Calendar staff recommendations by one motion, without discussion, unless a Commission Member, a member of the public, or staff requests that an item be removed for discussion. If you wish to speak on one of these items, please fill out a “Request to Speak” form and submit it to the Secretary prior to the meeting. Items pulled from the Consent Calendar will be discussed immediately following the Consent Calendar. 1. APPROVAL OF JANUARY 17, 2019, REGULAR MEETING MINUTES STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Commission approve the minutes 2. APPROVAL OF COMMISSIONER DOYLE’S ABSENCE FROM JANUARY 17, 2019, REGULAR MEETING STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Commission excuse the absence ACTION ITEMS The Item(s) listed in this section of the agenda will be considered individually by the Board/Commission and are expected to elicit discussion and deliberation. If you wish to City of Chula Vista Boar ds & Commissions Parks and Recreation Commission Page 2 ׀ Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda March 21, 2019 speak on any item, please fill out a “Request to Speak” form and submit it to the Secretary prior to the meeting. 3. CONSIDERATION TO ESTABLISH PILOT PROGRAM TO ALLOW OFF LEASH DOG ACCESS WITHOUT FENCED BOUNDARIES IN A PARK IN NORTHWEST CHULA VISTA STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Commission consider the proposed pilot program to allow off leash dog access without fenced boundaries, provide input, and, if approved, identifies a recommended park location in Northwest Chula Vista for the program. 4. RECOMMENDATION TO DEVELOP DESIGNATED OFF LEASH DOG AREA AT ROHR PARK STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Commission recommends for approval the development of an off leash dog area at Rohr Park 5. RECOMMENDATION TO CONSOLIDATE SDG&E PARK EAST & WEST, LOMA VERDE PARK, AND REINSTRA PARK INTO LOMA VERDE SPORTS PARK STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Commission recommends for approval the consolidation of SDG&E Park East & West, Loma Verde Park, and Rienstra Park into Loma Verde Sports Park OTHER BUSINESS 6. STAFF COMMENTS 7. CHAIR’S COMMENTS 8. COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS ADJOURNMENT to the Regular Meeting on May 16, 2019, 6:30 pm at City Hall Chambers. Materials provided to the Parks and Recreation Commission related to any open-session item on this agenda are available for public review in the Community Services Department Administration Office located at 276 4th Avenue Building C, Chula Vista, during normal business hours. In compliance with the AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT The City of Chula Vista requests individuals who require special accommodations to access, attend, and/or participate in a City meeting, activity, or service, contact the Human Resources Departm ent at (619) 691-5041 (California Relay Service is available for the hearing impaired by dialing 711) at least forty -eight hours in advance of the meeting. I declare under penalty of perjury that I am employed by the City of Chula Vista in the Community Services Department and that I posted this document on the bulletin board according to Brown Act requirements. Dated: __________________ Signed: _____________________ Page 1 | Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes January 17, 2018 MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA January 17, 2019 6:30 p.m. A Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of Chula Vista was called to order at 6:31 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, located at 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Commissioners Enriquez, Fernandez, Garcia-Lopez, Gregorio, and Zarem ABSENT: Commissioner Doyle ALSO PRESENT: Senior Planner Goddard, Parks and Recreation Administrator Farmer, and Director of Community Services Lamb PUBLIC COMMENTS There were none. CONSENT CALENDAR 1. APPROVAL OF NOVEMBER 15, 2018, REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Staff recommendation: Commission approve the minutes 2. APPROVAL OF CHAIR GERMAN’S ABSENCE FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2018, REGULAR MEETING Staff recommendation: Commission excuse the absence 3. APPROVAL OF COMMISSIONER GREGORIO’S ABSENCE FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2018, REGULAR MEETING Staff recommendation: Commission excuse the absence ACTION: Commissioner German moved to approve staff’s recommendations and offered Consent Calendar Items 1 through 3. Commissioner Gregorio seconded the motion, and it carried by the following vote: Page 2 | Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes January 17, 2018 Yes: 5 – Enriquez, Fernandez, Garcia-Lopez, Gregorio, and Zarem No: 0 Abstain: 0 ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR There were none. ACTION ITEMS 4. OTAY TRAIL ALIGNMENT STUDY ACTION: Commissioner Fernandez moved to accept the report. Commissioner Garcia-Lopez seconded the motion, and it carried by the following vote: Yes: 5 – Enriquez, Fernandez, Garcia-Lopez, Gregorio, and Zarem No: 0 Abstain: 0 OTHER BUSINESS 5. STAFF COMMENTS Parks and Recreation Administrator Farmer informed the Commission of Parks and Recreation’s new health and fitness campaign, “#ShapeUpChulaVista” and invited the Commission to follow @CVRec on Facebook and Instagram. Mr. Farmer provided an update on potential grant funding options for a park at the end of D Street. He also stated that Loma Verde pool will be closed for three weeks for lighting replacement. 6. CHAIR’S COMMENTS Vice Chair Zarem stated that Heritage Park has become more dangerous. Parks and Recreation Administrator Farmer stated that Park Rangers are patrolling Heritage Park more frequently. Vice Chair Zarem stated that only one water fountain is working at Voyager Park. Parks and Recreation Administrator Farmer stated that the fountains will be fixed using Measure P funds. 7. COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS Commissioner German thanked Karina for her professionalism, enthusiasm, and energy at a recent lifeguard in-service training. Page 3 | Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes January 17, 2018 ADJOURNMENT At 7:09 p.m., Vice Chair Zarem adjourned the meeting to the next Regular Meeting on March 21, 2019, 6:30 p.m. at Council Chambers, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California. ____________________________________ [insert name], Administrative Secretary Revised 6/10/04 1 RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES FOR THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF DOG PARKS Members of the CALIFORNIA JOINT POWERS INSURANCE AUTHORITY are encouraged to consider the following guidelines to create a safe and enjoyable dog park for the members of their community and to reduce the frequency and severity of claims associated with the design, construction, and operation of dog parks. I. DOG PARK DESIGN 1. Dog parks should be designed with input from residents, business owners, and public safety personnel to ensure a variety of issues are discussed prior to design and construction. 2. In order to maintain design immunities, dog parks should be designed by licensed architects or landscape architects that are qualified and experienced in the design and construction of dog parks. The City Council should review and approve of the dog park’s design in accord with Government Code § 830.6. 3. Dog park design should include the following features: • Public telephone (adjacent to the park). • Drinking fountains (adjacent to the park). • Rest rooms (adjacent to the park). • A sufficient number of secured trash receptacles should be provided to prevent the accumulation of litter and dog waste in and around the facility. • Fencing installed around the designated dog park area to prevent children from running into the area and to separate spectators or passersby from the dogs. ο The fencing should be a minimum of six feet above grade. ο The fencing should be chain link or wrought iron with spacing close enough to keep small dogs from escaping. ο Fencing installed should divide the park into two distinct areas so that dogs may be separated based on weight. The weight limit division should be 25 lbs. ο A double gate system for both weight limit areas should be installed. • Lighting should be installed if the dog park is to be open after dusk. • A water facility for dogs, placed on a grooved concrete pad to avoid slippery and muddy areas, should be considered. • Ample parking should be provided. • Consideration should be made to providing spectator seating. • The dog park should be visible from the street to enable observation by public safety personnel and staff. II. DOG PARK CONSTRUCTION The City, architect, and contractor should work together to ensure the dog park is constructed as designed and approved by City Council. Revised 6/10/04 2 III. DOG PARK OPERATION 1. The dog park is to be used by dog owners and their dogs only. All other activities should be prohibited. 2. The City should adopt a municipal code requiring that dog owners leash their dog(s) outside of the designated dog park. 3. The City should post signs giving reasonable notice to any person using the dog park. Signs should contain the following rules: Dog owners using the dog park are using it at their own risk. The City is not responsible for injuries to owners and dogs or illnesses dogs may contract from other dogs. The City reserves the right to eject anyone from the dog park at any time for any reason. Adults should accompany children under the age of 14. • Leashed dogs are not permitted within the dog park. • Dog Park hours are ________ to ________. • Dogs must never be left unattended. • All Dogs must wear a current license and vaccination tags. • Unruly dogs are not allowed. • Female dogs in heat are not allowed. • Dogs are not allowed in the area that is not designated for their weight class. • Dog owners must clean up after their dog(s). • Owners must stop their dog(s) from digging. Any holes created must be filled by the owner of the dog(s). • No alcohol or drug use is permitted. • No spectators are permitted in the designated dog park. • Unauthorized pieces of equipment, obstacles, or apparatus are not allowed in the designated dog park. • No food or eating is allowed in the park. • Glass containers are not allowed in the designated dog park. • Special events or contests are not allowed in the designated dog park without first obtaining written authorization from the City. • Failure to follow the rules will subject persons to citation (Municipal Code_____). 4. The municipal code must be enforced. 5. Weekly maintenance inspections should be conducted and documented. Any deficiencies reported by the public should be documented. All repairs should be completed in a timely fashion. The affected portion of the park should be closed when necessary until repairs can be completed or appropriate warning signs should be set in place. All repairs should be documented. Records should be maintained in one location for at least five years. Revised 6/10/04 3 6. All dog waste, excessive leaves, and trash should be removed on a regular basis. 7. The City should not charge admission to the dog park. DATE: MARCH 21, 2019 ITEM TITLE: CONSIDERATION TO ESTABLISH PILOT PROGRAM TO ALLOW OFF LEASH DOG ACCESS WITHOUT FENCED BOUNDARIES IN A PARK IN NORTHWEST CHULA VISTA. SUBMITTED BY: Tim Farmer, Parks & Recreation Administrator, Community Services Department REVIEWED BY: Kelley Bacon, Deputy City Manager SUMMARY At the request of Council, a pilot program is being proposed to allow off leash dog access in a park in Northwest Chula Vista for a period of up to 6 months. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW Environmental Notice The Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15061(b)(3). Environmental Determination The proposed Project has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and it has been determined that the Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. Thus, no further environmental review is required. RECOMMENDATION: The Parks and Recreation Commission consider the proposed pilot program to allow off leash dog access without fenced boundaries, provide input, and, if approved, identifies a recommended park location in Northwest Chula Vista for the program. Parks and Recreation Commission AGENDA STATEMENT 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 2 of 4 DISCUSSION: Councilmember Galvez requested staff to research the feasibility of allowing off leash dog access without fenced boundaries in parks in Northwest Chula Vista. The City of Chula Vista parks system comprises of 68 publicly maintained parks, of which, 6 have designated off leash, fenced dog runs. The first fenced dog runs built in Chula Vista were in the 2007 development of Veterans Park and Montevalle Park. The other parks with off leash, fenced dog runs are Mt. San Miguel Park, Orange Park, Stylus Park, and Eucalyptus Park. As identified in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update, which was adopted by the City Council on August 7, 2018, there are 9 additional future parks identified to have off leash, fenced dog runs as part of the park program. The City of Chula Vista currently does not have any identified parks or areas that allow off leash dog access without fenced boundaries. The City of San Diego has several examples of facilities that allow this. The City of San Diego parks system has a total of 17 off leash dog parks and areas, of which 6 are not fenced. This list includes Dog Beach, which is a stretch of beach bounded by the San Diego River on the north side, a rock jetty on the east side, the Pacific Ocean on the west side, and a large sand mound on the south side. The majority of Fiesta Island is accessible to off leash dogs as well. The remaining 4 facilities are parks: Grape St Dog Park; Nate’s Point Dog Park; Morley Park Dog Park; and Cadman Park Dog Park. Cadman Park is the only park that allows mixed use of off leash dogs near park amenities meant for users without dogs, such as a children’s playground, two tennis courts, two baseball fields, and a Recreation center. The boundary lines for off leash dog access is roughly 100 feet away from the edge of the playground. The proposed pilot program would allow off leash dog access to a park without fenced boundaries in Northwest Chula Vista. Currently, the parks in Northwest Chula Vista are used for purposes other than dog access, such as picnicking, sporting games, special events, or passive use. If approved, the pilot program would begin May 11 and end on November 10. At the completion of the pilot program, the Community Services Department would present an after-action report to City Council with an evaluation of the program, including a recap of solicited and unsolicited feedback, number of documented incident reports, and any damage caused due to the use of off leash dog access. If City staff feels the program is contrary to the safe and equitable use of park facilities anytime during the pilot program due to any incidents, City staff may suspend the program without notice and report to City Council for further direction of the program. With the implementation of this program, there will be signs posted along the boundary of the access areas stating rules and regulations including restrictions, along with contact information for Chula Vista Park Rangers or Chula Vista Animal Control Officers so users can report violations of the rules. Establishing a pilot program to allow off leash dog access in a park in Northwest Chula Vista would have several benefits, including the following: • A new activation of the parks, since all parks in Northwest Chula Vista, except the Eucalyptus Park off leash, fenced dog run, do not have off leash dog access • provide a socialization point for dog owners • encourage responsible dog ownership by signing and promoting sanitary practices, license policies, and vaccination requirements 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 3 of 4 • provide an opportunity for dog owners within walking distance a chance to allow their dogs to run in a park off leash. Staff have several concerns regarding the establishment of this pilot program. These concerns are: • Potential turf degradation due to the chemical composition of the dog’s urine burning turf as well as damage due to use on water-saturated turf • negative interactions between off leash dogs and human users of the park • negative interactions between multiple off leash dogs • dog waste not being picked up by the owners • dogs running into the streets • dog urinating or defecating on the park’s hardscapes, such as the pathways, Memorial Bowl and the Friendship Park Deck • park users not comfortable with dogs no longer willing to patronize the park out of fear. Additionally, the City Attorney’s Office reviewed the proposed program and advises the following: Dog parks must be fenced to segregate unleashed dogs from other park users. Segregation by fencing is necessary to protect the City from liability from foreseeable incidents on our property: loose dogs biting people in the parks or nearby areas, tripping people or knocking them down (particularly small children or people walking with a cane or walker), running into the street and causing a motor vehicle accident, chasing a bicyclist on the street and causing a wreck, biting dogs who are leashed in compliance with our existing laws, bringing claims attributed to disease from dog/urine waste in the grass. Dog owners are responsible for damage or injury caused by their pets, assuming they can be found, but the City would be subject to claims and brought into lawsuits for creating a dangerous environment. Additionally, the dog park must be professionally designed to ensure a safe facility and handicap access and to preserve design immunity for the City, to protect the City’s best interests in litigation. The Chula Vista Municipal Code allows for administrative provisions to designate areas of parks lawful to turn loose or allow dog access (CVMC Section 2.66.130). The Community Services Department would be required to post signage stating the boundaries of the off-leash dog access and regulations for the use of the designated areas. Posted regulations would include dog owners required to clean up after their dogs, dog owners required to maintain control of their dogs, dogs required to have current license, shots and no contagious diseases, and to limit excessive barking, among other regulations. In conclusion, we are seeking comments from the Commission and consideration to proceed with this 6-month pilot program to allow off leash dog access at a park without fenced boundaries in Northwest Chula Vista. DECISION MAKER CONFLICT Staff has reviewed the property holdings of the Parks and Recreation Commission members and has found no property holdings within 500 feet of the boundaries of the property which is the 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 4 of 4 subject of this action. Consequently, this item does not present a disqualifying real property-related financial conflict of interest under California Code of Regulations Title 2, section 18702.2(a)(11), for purposes of the Political Reform Act (Cal. Gov’t Code §87100,et seq.). Staff is not independently aware, and has not been informed by any Parks a Recreation Commission member, of any other fact that may constitute a basis for a decision maker conflict of interest in this matter. CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT To implement the program, staff will need to purchase and erect 4 signs and posts at each park identified to notify users of the boundaries as well as the rules and regulations. At each sign post, dog waste bag dispensers, with waste containers, will need to be added. Each week, Parks Maintenance staff must replace the dog waste bags. There may be additional costs for turf repair if damaged due to improper use of the facility. The current-year fiscal impact to the general fund is estimated at $2,500 per park. Additional costs may be incurred due to claims against the City for creating a dangerous condition. ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT Annual expenses would include the weekly replacement of dog waste bags, turf repair and power washing hardscapes. The annual fiscal impact to the general fund for subsequent years is estimated at $700 per park. Additional costs may be incurred due to claims against the City for creating a dangerous condition. ATTACHMENTS 1. CJPIA Recommended Guidelines for the Design, Construction, and Operation of Dog Parks Further illustrative material may be presented at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. Prepared by: Tim Farmer, Parks & Recreation Administrator Revised 6/10/04 1 RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES FOR THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF DOG PARKS Members of the CALIFORNIA JOINT POWERS INSURANCE AUTHORITY are encouraged to consider the following guidelines to create a safe and enjoyable dog park for the members of their community and to reduce the frequency and severity of claims associated with the design, construction, and operation of dog parks. I. DOG PARK DESIGN 1. Dog parks should be designed with input from residents, business owners, and public safety personnel to ensure a variety of issues are discussed prior to design and construction. 2. In order to maintain design immunities, dog parks should be designed by licensed architects or landscape architects that are qualified and experienced in the design and construction of dog parks. The City Council should review and approve of the dog park’s design in accord with Government Code § 830.6. 3. Dog park design should include the following features: • Public telephone (adjacent to the park). • Drinking fountains (adjacent to the park). • Rest rooms (adjacent to the park). • A sufficient number of secured trash receptacles should be provided to prevent the accumulation of litter and dog waste in and around the facility. • Fencing installed around the designated dog park area to prevent children from running into the area and to separate spectators or passersby from the dogs. ο The fencing should be a minimum of six feet above grade. ο The fencing should be chain link or wrought iron with spacing close enough to keep small dogs from escaping. ο Fencing installed should divide the park into two distinct areas so that dogs may be separated based on weight. The weight limit division should be 25 lbs. ο A double gate system for both weight limit areas should be installed. • Lighting should be installed if the dog park is to be open after dusk. • A water facility for dogs, placed on a grooved concrete pad to avoid slippery and muddy areas, should be considered. • Ample parking should be provided. • Consideration should be made to providing spectator seating. • The dog park should be visible from the street to enable observation by public safety personnel and staff. II. DOG PARK CONSTRUCTION The City, architect, and contractor should work together to ensure the dog park is constructed as designed and approved by City Council. Revised 6/10/04 2 III. DOG PARK OPERATION 1. The dog park is to be used by dog owners and their dogs only. All other activities should be prohibited. 2. The City should adopt a municipal code requiring that dog owners leash their dog(s) outside of the designated dog park. 3. The City should post signs giving reasonable notice to any person using the dog park. Signs should contain the following rules: Dog owners using the dog park are using it at their own risk. The City is not responsible for injuries to owners and dogs or illnesses dogs may contract from other dogs. The City reserves the right to eject anyone from the dog park at any time for any reason. Adults should accompany children under the age of 14. • Leashed dogs are not permitted within the dog park. • Dog Park hours are ________ to ________. • Dogs must never be left unattended. • All Dogs must wear a current license and vaccination tags. • Unruly dogs are not allowed. • Female dogs in heat are not allowed. • Dogs are not allowed in the area that is not designated for their weight class. • Dog owners must clean up after their dog(s). • Owners must stop their dog(s) from digging. Any holes created must be filled by the owner of the dog(s). • No alcohol or drug use is permitted. • No spectators are permitted in the designated dog park. • Unauthorized pieces of equipment, obstacles, or apparatus are not allowed in the designated dog park. • No food or eating is allowed in the park. • Glass containers are not allowed in the designated dog park. • Special events or contests are not allowed in the designated dog park without first obtaining written authorization from the City. • Failure to follow the rules will subject persons to citation (Municipal Code_____). 4. The municipal code must be enforced. 5. Weekly maintenance inspections should be conducted and documented. Any deficiencies reported by the public should be documented. All repairs should be completed in a timely fashion. The affected portion of the park should be closed when necessary until repairs can be completed or appropriate warning signs should be set in place. All repairs should be documented. Records should be maintained in one location for at least five years. Revised 6/10/04 3 6. All dog waste, excessive leaves, and trash should be removed on a regular basis. 7. The City should not charge admission to the dog park. DATE: MARCH 21, 2019 ITEM TITLE: RECOMMENDATION TO DEVELOP DESIGNATED FENCED, OFF LEASH DOG AREA AT ROHR PARK  SUBMITTED BY: Tim Farmer, Parks & Recreation Administrator, Community Services Department SUMMARY At the request of Council, the Community Services Department is planning to develop a fenced, off leash dog area at Rohr Park. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW Environmental Notice The Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities), Section 15303 class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), and Section 15061(b)(3). Environmental Determination The proposed Project has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and it has been determined that the Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities), Section 15303 class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), and Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. Thus, no further environmental review is required. RECOMMENDATION: The Parks and Recreation Commission recommends for approval the development of a fenced, off leash dog area at Rohr Park. DISCUSSION: Councilmember McCann requested staff to explore the feasibility of developing a designated fenced, off leash dog area at Rohr Park. Parks and Recreation Commission AGENDA STATEMENT 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 2 of 3 The City of Chula Vista parks system comprises of 68 publicly maintained parks, of which, 6 have designated off leash, fenced dog runs. The first fenced dog runs built in Chula Vista were in the 2007 development of Veterans Park and Montevalle Park. The other parks with off leash, fenced dog runs are Mt. San Miguel Park, Orange Park, Stylus Park, and Eucalyptus Park. As identified in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update, which was adopted by the City Council on August 7, 2018, there are 9 additional future parks identified to have off leash, fenced dog runs as part of the park program. The closest fenced, off leash dog area to Rohr Park is Eucalyptus Park, which is 4 miles away and serves a different community base. City staff have identified several viable locations within Rohr Park to develop the fenced dog area, including a Eucalyptus grove above Rohr Field #17, a flat dirt area between Rohr Field #17 and Field #18, a small section of grass just east of Lot A near a picnic shelter, and a large area of relatively unused space at the westernmost portion of the park. City staff has selected the large area in the westernmost portion of the park as the ideal location to develop the fenced dog area due to the proximity to restrooms, parking, and pathways, as well as the size of the location. The Eucalyptus grove and the dirt sites had ADA accessibility issues that would be too costly to address, and the smaller location did not provide enough space to warrant the development of a fenced dog area at Rohr. With the site identified, staff have estimated the design, including overall size, and amenities to be included in the fenced dog area. The estimated size of the identified area is about 1.4 acres in entirety. This would include one section for smaller dogs, and one section for larger dogs weighing more than 25 pounds. Since this area is not immediately accessible from the paved walking path, ADA accessibility would need to be addressed in the final design and development of the fenced dog area. The identified site is adjacent to 4 residences on the western edge of the park. The setback for the dog area would be at least 25’ from the property line of the park to allow for parks maintenance staff to maintain the grounds between the property line and the dog area, as well as provide a buffer for the new activated space and the residences. If the Parks and Recreation Commission recommends for approval the development of this fenced, off leash dog area at Rohr Park, and City Council approves of this project, the Community Services Department would work with the Development Services Department to professionally design this area and contract vendors to construct the project. DECISION MAKER CONFLICT Staff has reviewed the property holdings of the Parks and Recreation Commission members and has found no property holdings within 500 feet of the boundaries of the property which is the subject of this action. Consequently, this item does not present a disqualifying real property-related financial conflict of interest under California Code of Regulations Title 2, section 18702.2(a)(11), for purposes of the Political Reform Act (Cal. Gov’t Code §87100,et seq.). Staff is not independently aware, and has not been informed by any Parks a Recreation Commission member, of any other fact that may constitute a basis for a decision maker conflict of interest in this matter. 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 3 of 3 CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT The current year fiscal impact to the general fund to develop the fenced, off leash dog area would include construction costs of up to $95,000 for fencing around the perimeter of the identified area including double gate access, concrete mow curb under the fence line for reduced future maintenance, posts and signage for rules and regulations, dog waste bag dispensers and bags, waste containers, dog play equipment, and ADA accessibility retrofits to the turfed area. There may be additional costs for turf repair if damaged due to improper use of the facility. ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT Annual expenses would include the weekly replacement of dog waste bags and turf repair. The annual fiscal impact to the general fund for subsequent years is estimated at $500. ATTACHMENTS 1. CJPIA Recommended Guidelines for the Design, Construction, and Operation of Dog Parks 2. Proposed Site of Off Leash Dog Area in Rohr Park Further illustrative material may be presented at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. Prepared by: Tim Farmer, Parks & Recreation Administrator SCORP Community FactFinder is a service of the California Department of Parks and Recreation www.parks.ca.gov SCORP Community FactFinder created by GreenInfo Network www.greeninfo.org in consultation with CA Dept. of Parks and Rec Project ID: 4935 Coordinates: 32.6028, -117.0490 Date: 03/15/2019 California State Parks Community FactFinder Report This is your project report for the site you have defined. Please refer to your Project ID above in any future communications about the project. PROJECT AREA STATISTICS PROJECT AREA MAP County:San Diego City:Chula Vista Total Population:7,113 Youth Population:1,556 Senior Population:983 Households Without Access to a Car:54 Number of People in Poverty:748 Median Household Income:$63,663 Per Capita Income:$20,632 Park Acres:46.20 Park Acres per 1,000 Residents:6.49 REPORT BACKGROUND The project statistics have been calculated based on half mile radius around the point location selected. Only park acres within the project area's half mile radius are reported. Population and people in poverty are calculated by determining the percent of any census block-groups that intersect with the project area. The project area is then assigned the sum of all the census block-group portions. An equal distribution in census block-groups is assumed. Rural areas are calculated at a census block level to improve results. Median household and per capita income are calculated as a weighted average of the census block- group values that fall within the project area. More information on the calculations is available on the methods page » Demographics—American Community Survey (ACS) 5- year estimates 2012-2016; Decennial 2010 Census; the margin of error (MOE) was not analyzed. Parks—California Protected Areas Database 2017a CFF adjusted (5/2018) - more information at http://www.CALands.org. Parks and park acres area based on best available source information but may not always contain exact boundaries or all parks in specific locations. Parks are defined further in the 2015 SCORP (pg. 4). Users can send updated information on parks to SCORP@parks.ca.gov SCORP Community FactFinder is a service of the California Department of Parks and Recreation www.parks.ca.gov SCORP Community FactFinder created by GreenInfo Network www.greeninfo.org in consultation with CA Dept. of Parks and Rec Project ID: 4934 Coordinates: 32.6021, -117.0550 Date: 03/15/2019 California State Parks Community FactFinder Report This is your project report for the site you have defined. Please refer to your Project ID above in any future communications about the project. PROJECT AREA STATISTICS PROJECT AREA MAP County:San Diego City:Chula Vista Total Population:9,318 Youth Population:2,169 Senior Population:1,350 Households Without Access to a Car:155 Number of People in Poverty:1,842 Median Household Income:$51,488 Per Capita Income:$19,815 Park Acres:41.11 Park Acres per 1,000 Residents:4.41 REPORT BACKGROUND The project statistics have been calculated based on half mile radius around the point location selected. Only park acres within the project area's half mile radius are reported. Population and people in poverty are calculated by determining the percent of any census block-groups that intersect with the project area. The project area is then assigned the sum of all the census block-group portions. An equal distribution in census block-groups is assumed. Rural areas are calculated at a census block level to improve results. Median household and per capita income are calculated as a weighted average of the census block- group values that fall within the project area. More information on the calculations is available on the methods page » Demographics—American Community Survey (ACS) 5- year estimates 2012-2016; Decennial 2010 Census; the margin of error (MOE) was not analyzed. Parks—California Protected Areas Database 2017a CFF adjusted (5/2018) - more information at http://www.CALands.org. Parks and park acres area based on best available source information but may not always contain exact boundaries or all parks in specific locations. Parks are defined further in the 2015 SCORP (pg. 4). Users can send updated information on parks to SCORP@parks.ca.gov DATE: MARCH 21, 2019 ITEM TITLE: RECOMMENDATION TO CONSOLIDATE SDG&E PARK EAST & WEST, LOMA VERDE PARK, AND REINSTRA PARK INTO LOMA VERDE SPORTS PARK SUBMITTED BY: Tim Farmer, Parks & Recreation Administrator, Community Services Department SUMMARY Consolidate 4 identified park sites, SDG&E Park East & West, Loma Verde Park, and Reinstra Park, located on one contiguous corridor and redraw the boundaries of the unified park site to properly convey the community that is served at each location is the same. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW Environmental Notice The Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities), Section 15303 class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), Section 15323 Class 23 (Normal Operations of Facilities for Public Gatherings), and Section 15061(b)(3). Environmental Determination The proposed Project has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and it has been determined that the Project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 (Existing Facilities), Section 15303 class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), Section 15323 Class 23 (Normal Operations of Facilities for Public Gatherings), and Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. Thus, no further environmental review is required. RECOMMENDATION: The Parks and Recreation Commission recommends for approval the consolidation of SDG&E Park East & West, Loma Verde Park, and Reinstra Park into Loma Verde Sports Park. Parks and Recreation Commission AGENDA STATEMENT 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 2 of 3 DISCUSSION: Loma Verde Park and Reinstra Park have been identified as Chula Vista parks since 1974. These two parks are adjacent to one another yet provide significantly different recreation programming options. Loma Verde Park has a recreation center, aquatic center, and a children’s playground located on its premises servicing aquatic needs, recreation classes, rental space, after school youth recreation, and senior recreation programming. Reinstra Park has 7 baseball fields on its premises and services the recreational and club baseball needs of South Chula Vista. SDG&E Park East and West are park sites located on a public utility corridor and they are leased by the City from San Diego Gas & Electric. The original agreement was entered into between the City and SDG&E in 1977. On SDG&E West, there is a large multipurpose grass field and a playground. There is a large multipurpose field and current talks to develop a disc golf course on SDG&E East. Each current park site comprises of a unique recreation opportunity. With this proposal, consolidating the park sites into one unified park complex provides several benefits. The primary benefit is allowing the City of Chula Vista the opportunity to utilize the demographic data surrounding SDG&E West Park to count towards grant funding opportunities through the State of California’s Proposition 68 Statewide Parks Program to apply towards redevelopment of Loma Verde Park facilities and Reinstra Park facilities. Currently, demographic data surrounding Loma Verde Park and Reinstra Park does not qualify the City of Chula Vista to apply for the State grant funding through the Statewide Parks Program. If the City could qualify for this park site, the first grant application for grant funding would be to redevelop the Loma Verde Recreation Center and Aquatic Center to better service the community’s needs. Future grant funded redevelopment projects could include a redesign of Reinstra Park ballfields, better connectivity through all of the parks, and a robust disc golf course. Another benefit would be to create a more regional draw due to a much larger park site with combined amenities, which are currently being provided for through the individual sites. The combined acreage of the 4 parks would be 39.35 acres, putting Loma Verde Sports Park as the second largest park in Chula Vista, behind Rohr Park. Also, with the current discussion to develop a disc golf course at this site, it would be the first amenity of its kind south of Morley Field in Downtown San Diego. If the consolidation of the park sites into one Loma Verde Sports Park is approved, it would not decrease the number of park acreage per 1,000 residents, nor decrease the total park acreage for the City. It would reduce the total number of parks in the City but all of the current park amenities and acreage would remain. Also, the City needs to establish a long-term extension with San Diego Gas & Electric for continued recreational use of the currently named SDG&E East and West park sites. DECISION MAKER CONFLICT Staff has reviewed the property holdings of the Parks and Recreation Commission members and has found no property holdings within 500 feet of the boundaries of the property which is the subject of this action. Consequently, this item does not present a disqualifying real property-related financial conflict of interest under California Code of Regulations Title 2, section 18702.2(a)(11), for purposes of the Political Reform Act (Cal. Gov’t Code §87100,et seq.). 09/20/18, Item 6 Page 3 of 3 Staff is not independently aware, and has not been informed by any Parks a Recreation Commission member, of any other fact that may constitute a basis for a decision maker conflict of interest in this matter. CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT There is no fiscal impact this current year. ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT The consolidation of the park sites into one Loma Verde Sports Park would allow for the City to qualify to apply for grant funding from the State of California’s Proposition 68 Statewide Parks Program. The current grant cycle allows for requests of up to $8.5 million per project site. ATTACHMENTS 1. Loma Verde Sports Park Map 2. Demographic Data of Loma Verde Park 3. Demographic Data of SDG&E West Park Further illustrative material may be presented at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. Prepared by: Tim Farmer, Parks & Recreation Administrator Request for Excused Absence Form – 9/17 REQUEST FOR EXCUSED ABSENCE City of Chula Vista Boards, Commissions, and Committees Name: _________________________________________________ Date of Absence: _________________________________ Board/Commission/Committee: _________________________________________________________________________________ Chula Vista Municipal Code section 2.25.110 (C) allows board/commission/committee members, by a majority vote, to excuse a fellow board, commission, or committee member’s absence from a meeting for any of the reasons listed below. A member who is absent from three consecutive, regular meetings will be deemed to have vacated his or her membership, unless the member’s absence is excused by a majority vote of the other members. An absence is only recorded as “excused” upon receipt of a member’s request and majority vote of the board/commission/committee to excuse the absence. Accordingly, if you have been absent from a regular meeting, please complete and submit this form to the chair or secretary. Please indicate the reason for the absence:  1. Illness of the member, family member of the member, or personal friend of the member;  2. Business commitment of the member that interferes with the attendance of the member at a meeting;  3. Previously scheduled vacation of the member, notice of which was provided to the respective board, commission, or committee in advance of the meeting;  4. Attendance of the member at a funeral, religious service or ceremony, wedding, or other similarly significant event;  5. Unexpected, emergency situation that prohibits the member’s attendance; or  6. Other reason for which the member has given notice to the chair or secretary of his or h er unavailability 15 days in advance, as long as the unavailability is not expected to last for longer than 30 days. OR  The absence was not for any of the above-listed reasons. I understand that the absence will be recorded as unexcused. I certify the reason for the absence indicated above is true and correct. Member’s Signature: __________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________________ If completed by secretary or staff to board/commission/committee: Completed on member’s behalf by: _____________________________, per member’s  Verbal  Written request on: _________________. (date) (secretary/liaison’s name)