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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRC_2007-01-18_AgendaPacketCITY OF A TASCADERO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA Thursday, January 18, 2006 7:00 P.M. Regular Meeting Atascadero City Hall Council Chambers 6907 EI Camino Real Atascadero, California REGULAR SESSION: 7:00 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: ROLL CALL: Chairperson: Vice -Chairperson: Commissioner: Commissioner: Commissioner: Commissioner: Commissioner: Student Representative Student Representative Rick Mathews Jay Sechrist Barbie Butz Sandy Jack Sorrel Marks William Ausman Vacant Paige Buck -Moyer Ryan Carden COMMUNITY FORUM: (This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wanting to address the Commission on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Commission has jurisdiction. Speakers are limited to five minutes. Please state your name and address for the record before making your presentation. The Commission may take action to direct the staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda. A maximum of 30 minutes will be allowed for Community Forum, unless changed by the Commission.) APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Roll Call PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION REORGANIZATION: 1. Commission Appointment of Chairperson — Nominations from the Commission. 2. Commission Appointment of Vice -Chairperson — Nominations from the Commission. COMMISSION/ YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS: (On their own initiative, Commission Members may make a brief announcement or a brief report on their own activities. Commission Members may ask a question for clarification, make a referral to staff or take action to have staff place a matter of business on a future agenda. The Commission may take action on items listed on the Agenda.) PRESENTATION: 1. Recognition of Jill Robison for outstanding contributions to the Community Services Department. A. CONSENT CALENDAR: (All items on the consent calendar are considered to be routine and non -controversial by City staff and will be approved by one motion if no member of the Commission or public wishes to comment or ask questions. If comment or discussion is desired by anyone, the item will be removed from the consent calendar and will be considered in the listed sequence with an opportunity for any member of the public to address the Commission concerning the item before action is taken.) 1. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes — December 21, 2006 ■ Staff Recommendation: Commission approve the Parks and Recreation Commission minutes of the December 21, 2006, meeting. B. MANAGEMENT REPORTS: 1. Recreation Division Update: Youth Sports PAYS Program ■ Fiscal Impact: None ■ Recommendation: Informational item only. [Community Services] 2. USLT — RCD Atascadero Creek Enhancement Project ■ Fiscal Impact: None ■ Recommendation: Informational item only. [Community Services] 2 3. Review of Draft Commissioner Norms ■ Fiscal Impact: None ■ Recommendation: Commission Provide feedback as may be appropriate to City Council [City Attorney] C. COMMITTEE & LIAISON REPORTS: (The following represent standing committees. Informative status reports will be given, as felt necessary.): 1. Atascadero Youth Task Force - Next meeting: Feb. 6, 2007, 7:00 a.m. Lake Pavilion. 2. Ad Hoc Arts Committee. (Commissioner Butz) D. STAFF COMMENTS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS: 1. Father -Daughter Dance, Feb. 9th 2. Youth Basketball League Underway 3. T -Ball Opening Day, March 31st 4. Next Stadium Park Planning Meeting: 2/08/07, 6:30pm 5. Ice Rink Comments 6. CPRS AWARDS for Atascadero Magazine & Mayors Dinner promotion! 7. Temporary Banner Policy Approved by Council E. ADJOURNMENT: THE NEXT PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING WILL BE SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 15, 2007, AT 7:00 P.M., IN THE ATASCADERO CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS. I, Jenny Balson, Office Assistant of the City of Atascadero, declare under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing agenda for the January 18, 2007 Regular Session of the Atascadero Parks and Recreation Commission was posted on Friday, January 12, 2007 at Atascadero City Hall Annex, 6907 EI Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 and was available for public review in the Customer Service Center at that location. Signed this 12th day of January, 2007 at Atascadero, California. Jenny Balson, Office Assistant City of Atascadero 3 City ofAtascadero WELCOME TO THE ATASCADERO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONMEETING The Parks and Recreation Commission meet in regular session on the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., in the Atascadero City Hall, located at 6907 EI Camino Real, Atascadero. The Parks and Recreation Commission consider matters in the order of the printed Agenda. Copies of the staff reports or other documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the Agenda are on file in the Community Services Department and are available for public inspection during City Hall Annex, 6907 El Camino Real, during business hours at the Central Receptionist counter and on our website; www.atascadero.or. An agenda packet is also available for public review at the Atascadero Library, 6850 Morro Road. All documents submitted by the public during Parks and Recreation Commission meetings that are either read into the record or referred to in their statement will be noted in the minutes and available for review in the Community Services Department. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in a City meeting or other services offered by this City, please contact the Community Services Department at (805) 461- 5000. Notification of at least 48 hours prior to the meeting or time when services are needed, will assist the City staff in assuring that reasonable arrangements can be made to provide accessibility to the meeting or service. TO SPEAK ON AGENDA ITEMS Members of the audience may speak on any item on the agenda. The Parks and Recreation Chairperson will identify the subject, staff will give their report, and the Commission will ask questions of staff. The Chairperson will announce when the public comment period is open and will request anyone interested to address the Commission regarding the matter being considered to step up to the podium. If you wish to speak for, against or comment in any way: • You must approach the podium and be recognized by the Chairperson • Give your name and address (not required) • Make your statement • All comments should be made to the Chairperson and Commission • All comments limited to 5 minutes (unless changed by the Commission) • No one may speak for a second time until everyone wishing to speak has had an opportunity to do so, and no one may speak more than twice on any item. The Chairperson will announce when the public comment period is closed, and thereafter, no further public comments will be heard by the Commission. TO SPEAK ON SUBJECTS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA Under Agenda item, "COMMUNITY FORUM", the Chairperson will call for anyone from the audience having business with the Parks and Recreation Commission to: • Please approach the podium and be recognized • Give your name and address (not required) • State the nature of your business This is the time items not on the Agenda may be brought to the Commission's attention. A maximum of 30 minutes will be allowed for Community Forum (unless changed by the Commission). TO HAVE ITEMS PLACED ON AGENDA All business matters to appear on the Agenda must be in the Office of the Community Services Department 14 days preceding the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. Should you have a matter you wish to bring before the Commission, please mail or bring a written communication to the Community Services Department in the City Hall Annex prior to the deadline. Cl ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 CITY OF A TASCADERO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION DRAFT MINUTES Thursday, December 21, 2006, 7:00 P.M. REGULAR SESSION: 7:00 P.M. Chairperson Mathews called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. and Commissioner Livick led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL: Present: Commissioners Butz, Jack, Livick, Sechrist and Chairperson Mathews Student Representative Buck -Moyer Absent: Commissioner Ausman Others Present: Recording Secretary Grace Pucci Staff Present: Community Services Director Brady Cherry, Deputy Public Works Director Geoff English and Recreation Supervisor Jennifer Fanning. COMMUNITY FORUM: Hal Carden suggested the Parks and Recreation Commission lay the ground work for more cooperation between the School System and the City, and explained the benefits to be derived from that cooperation. He also spoke about the Charles Paddock Zoo and the need for more investment in the Zoo because of its age and many advantages to the community. PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 1 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 Bob Pittenger, representing Atascadero Babe Ruth, spoke about the partnership between Atascadero Babe Ruth and the City and explained why they would like to continue that relationship. Chairperson Mathews closed the Community Forum period. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: MOTION: By Commissioner Livick and seconded by Commissioner Jack to approve the agenda. Motion passed 5:0 by a roll -call vote. OATHS OF OFFICE: 1. Administration of Oaths of Office - Newly appointed Commissioner Sorrel Marks, Returning Commissioner Jay Sechrist and Youth Commissioners Paige Buck -Moyer and Ryan Carden will be sworn in by City Clerk, Marcia McClure Torgerson. City Clerk Torgerson administered the Oaths of Office to incoming Parks and Recreation Commissioner Marks, returning Commissioner Sechrist, incoming Youth Commissioner Carden and returning Youth Commissioner Buck -Moyer. COMMISSION/ YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS: Chairperson Mathews welcomed the new Commissioners and thanked outgoing Commissioner Castaneda for her work on the Parks and Recreation Commission. Commissioner Livick announced the Atascadero School District is applying for a Safe Routes to School Grant with the City of Atascadero for construction of a multi -use trail between Highway 41 and San Gabriel School. Commissioner Butz reported that this year the Loaves and Fishes Christmas Project had 352 families that come through and received toys, food, coats and jackets. She also complimented the youth in the community who came to help out. Student Representative Buck -Moyer reported on the charity events that Atascadero High School students had participated in this year. Student Representative Carden announced that the Key Club and CSF have been participating in bell ringing in front of grocery stores during the holidays. PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 2 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 Chairperson Mathews spoke about the community calendar produced by the Atascadero Native Tree Association and Groundwater Guardian. PRESENTATION: 1. Recognition of Andrew Charnley for outstanding contributions to the City and Community Services Department. City Council Member O'Malley spoke about Mr. Charnley, read the proclamation and, with Mayor Luna and Council Members Beraud, Brennler and Clay, presented it and a plaque of recognition to Mr. Charnley. Mr. Charnley thanked the city for the honor. A. CONSENT CALENDAR: 1. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes — November 16, 2006 ■ Staff Recommendation: Commission approve the Parks and Recreation Commission minutes of the November 16, 2006, meeting. [Community Services] MOTION: By Commissioner Jack and seconded by Vice Chairperson Sechrist to approve Item #A-1. Motion passed 5:0 by a voice vote. (Marks abstained) B. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. Strategic Planning Issues ■ Fiscal Impact: None. ■ Recommendation: Commission identify potential issues for City Council Strategic Planning process. [Community Services] Community Services Director Brady Cherry gave the staff report and answered questions of the Commission. PUBLIC COMMENT Andrea Liddie, Zoological Society, spoke about the Charles Paddock Zoo, what it needs to meet accreditation standards, and how beneficial it is to the community. Brian Yellin, Charles Paddock Zoo docent, stated that the Zoo is a gem for the City of Atascadero, has the potential to increase draw to the city and its businesses, and spoke about what the Zoo provides to the community. PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 3 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 D. J. Pittenger, Principal of Del Rio Continuation High School, spoke about the youth of Atascadero who helped out with community events this past week and encouraged the Commission to reach out to those students to ascertain their needs. Ron Poulin, Atascadero Babe Ruth Board of Directors, spoke about the funds spent by Babe Ruth to maintain Alvord field, and of their current and future needs for the fields. He said the City has not spent any significant funds to improve the fields and buildings in many years, and the League is looking forward to working with the City do some long overdue improvements to the facilities. Chairperson Mathews closed the Public Comment period. There was extensive Commission discussion regarding potential issues for recommendation to the City Council for Strategic Planning. MOTION: By Commissioner Jack and seconded by Commissioner Butz to identify Strategic Planning items for presentation to the City Council as follows: 1. Address deferred maintenance of parks and recreation facilities. 2. Operation of the new Recreation Center. 3. Begin implementation of the Zoo Master Plan with an emphasis toward accreditation. 4. Complete the Stadium Park Master Plan. 5. Review the Arts in Public Places policy for updating. 6. Develop a Paloma Creek Park Master Plan. 7. Explore partnering with the School District for Parks and Recreation projects and facility sharing. Motion passed 6:0 by a roll -call vote. C. MANAGEMENT REPORTS: Veteran's Memorial Ad Hoc Committee Report ■ Fiscal Impact: None. ■ Recommendation: Commission receive and file the Veteran's Memorial Ad Hoc Committee report on the memorial location. [Community Services] Community Services Director Brady Cherry gave the staff report, which suggested the Highway 41 and Portola Road site as the preferred location for the Veteran's Memorial, and answered questions of the Commission. PUBLIC COMMENT PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 4 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 Col. Bill Hatch spoke about the work of the ad hoc committee and how it helped the project along, and stated the Veterans Memorial Committee had identified the Highway 41/Portola Road location as their number two choice. He indicated this was a good location and hoped the Commission would move the recommendation along to the City Council for their approval. Student Representative Buck -Moyer questioned how funding would be handled for developing the park around the memorial. Ann Hatch, Veteran's Memorial Committee, stated that the individual who landscaped the Sunken Gardens has offered his services to design the landscaping around the Veteran's Memorial. Chairperson Mathews closed the Public Comment period. MOTION: By Commissioner Butz and seconded by Vice Chairperson Sechrist to receive and file the Veterans Memorial Ad Hoc Committee report on the memorial location, to accept the committee's recommendation and forward it on to the City Council. Motion passed 6:0 by a roll -call vote. 2. Aaaointment of Ad Hoc Public Arts Committee Members ■ Fiscal Impact: None. ■ Recommendation: Commission select a Chairperson from amongst the Commissioners and five committee members from the public to serve on the Public Arts Committee. [Community Services] Community Services Director Brady Cherry gave the staff report and answered questions of the Commission. MOTION: By Commissioner Jack and seconded by Commissioner Livick to nominate Commissioner Butz to serve as the non-voting Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Public Arts Committee. Motion passed 6:0 by a voice vote. Appointment of Committee Members: Commissioner Butz made the following recommendation of committee members and explained that all are very professional local artists in different media: 1. Ann Reich 2. Joe Ramirez 3. Tracy Di Vita Bass 4. Steve LaSalle 5. Sally Tipman PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 5 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 Alternate: Kathy Baker (would attend the meetings, but would not vote) PUBLIC COMMENT Col Bill Hatch stated that Kathy Mitchell Baker was one of applicants, and that she had lost her son in Iraq. He asked the Commission to weigh that as part of their decision making process. Ann Hatch commented that Ms. Baker has earned the right to vote on this committee. Director Cherry, in response to Commission questions on why the committee could not consist of six individuals, explained that the Council -adopted the policy states there shall be five members with a non-voting chair from the Commission. Commissioner Butz read from the policy that stated committee members should be "most knowledgeable about the art form". Col. Bill Hatch commented that the statue is military art and that Kathy Baker has sacrificed greatly and understands something of the military art. Chairperson Mathews closed the Public Comment period. MOTION: By Commissioner Butz and seconded by Commissioner Livick to select Ann Reich, Joe Ramirez, Tracy Di Vita Bass, Steve LaSalle and Sally Tipman for the Ad Hoc Public Arts Committee and with Kathy Baker as an alternate. Motion passed 5:1 by a roll -call vote. (Mathews opposed) D. COMMITTEE & LIAISON REPORTS: 1. Atascadero Youth Task Force - Next meeting postponed to new date of January 9, 2007, 7:00 a.m., Lake Pavilion. 2. Renaming of Traffic Way Park and Recreation Center Building: Selection of the top proposed name(s) to recommend to the City Council. (Commissioner Jack): Commissioner Jack explained how the voting was tabulated and that the top five names will be sent to the City Council. There was Commission consensus to send the name recommendations as follows: Park NamPc 1. Colony Park 2. Creekside Park 3. Mud Hole Sports Field PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 6 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: A - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 4. The Sandlot 5. Traffic Way Park Recreation Center Names 1. Colony Park Community Center 2. Creekside Community Center 3. Colony Oaks Recreation Center 4. Atascadero Recreation Center 5. Atascadero Oaks Recreation center E. STAFF COMMENTS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS: Community Services Director Cherry reported on the following items: 1. Upgraded George Beatie Skate Park Now Open 2. Spring City Magazine/ Recreation Guide 3. Recreation Center "Buy -A -Brick Campaign" Sale ends 12/31 4. Next Stadium Park Planning Meeting: 1/11/07, 6:30pm 5. Ice Rink Opens Dec. 22nd, 2006 6. Commissioner Norms to be on January Agenda F. ADJOURNMENT: Chairperson Mathews adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m. to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission on January 18, 2007. MINUTES PREPARED BY: Grace Pucci, Recording Secretary PRC Draft Minutes 12/21/06 Page 7 of 7 ITEM NUMBER: B - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 Atascadero Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report — Community Services Department City Introduces the Parents Association for Youth Sports (PAYS) Program RECOMMENDATION: Informational item only. Receive and file. DISCUSSION: The City of Atascadero, Community Services Department introduced the Parents Association for Youth Sports (PAYS) program for their upcoming 2007 Youth Basketball League. The Parents Association for Youth Sports (PAYS) is a membership association of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS). The purpose of PAYS is to educate and motivate parents to create the ultimate youth sports environment to make the child's experience safe, positive and meaningful. PAYS encourages good sportsmanship, positive participation and keeping youth sports in a proper perspective among members. We decided to kick off the PAYS program with our upcoming basketball league since it is our largest youth sports program. So far, the PAYS training has been well received and I have high hopes that other Atascadero youth sports associations will join us in making the PAYS training a requirement for all youth sports parents. Courtney Jones, Sports Coordinator with the City of Atascadero, is leading the initiative in city sponsored programs and in the youth sports community. The PAYS program also hopes to provide every child participating in youth sports the opportunity to learn, grow, develop skills, meet new friends, and experience the excitement and fun associated with participation in youth sports. The PAYS program was unveiled in 2000, and has been embraced by approximately 600 recreation agencies nationwide that have conducted the program to help ensure that parents act appropriately and are held accountable for their behavior. ITEM NUMBER: B - 1 DATE: 01/18/2007 If children are going to reap all the wonderful benefits that organized youth sports provide, then it's imperative that parents educate themselves and demand high standards for their children's sports programs. At least one parent from each family who has a child involved in youth sports must be members of PAYS in order to participate in programs. The membership process includes watching a 20 -minute video, signing a "Parents Code of Ethics," talking to a PAYS clinician and paying a $5 membership fee, which covers five years of participation in the PAYS program for City of Atascadero run youth sports programs. PAYS is a program of the National Alliance For Youth Sports, America's leading advocate for positive and safe sports for children. The Alliance conducts a variety of programs for parents, coaches, administrators, officials and children involved in organized youth sports programs. The Community Services Department will be implementing the PAYS program for all City -run youth sports leagues this coming year, including T -ball and volleyball. Status Report Paso Robles & Atascadero River Parkways Projects Upper Salinas — Las Tablas Resource Conservation District Fourth Quarter: October — December 2006 Fourth Quarter 2006 Progress Summary The end is finally in sight on the Paso Robles trail! The last three months have been very productive and much progress has been made. The CCC crews completed a major engineered structure — an extensive retaining wall and trail carved into the sloped bank north of the Niblick bridge. They completed this in early December and managed to seed and mulch all of the areas disturbed by construction before the first winter rains. They graded the balance of the trail and spread decomposed granite so it is now a continuous path from end to end. of the picnic tables, benches _ and trash receptacles and Salinas River Trail -Oct. 2006 Installed the decorative - Paso Robles Section (behind Wendy's Restaurant) fencing at the north trail They also installed all entrance. Invasive weeds were cleared to make way for native plants to be dug in with associated irrigation. And work has begun on the two bridges — the last major task to be completed. Once those are done, the only remaining task will be the design, fabrication and installation of interpretive signage. Although considerable progress has been made on designing the overall theme for the signs and developing content, this task remains significantly behind schedule. We are making every effort to try to have the signs available for the grand opening of the trail on March 24th, but it may prove to be impossible to have them fabricated and installed by then. They may have to go in shortly thereafter. In Atascadero, we plan to begin construction of the western section of the trail between San Gabriel and Atascadero Lake the first week in January. Although this section of trail lacks the complexity encountered in Paso Robles, we are starting construction during the rainy season and we are under much more significant time constraints. The CCC will be assigning multiple crews to the project to expedite construction and we will utilize mechanical advantage wherever possible without jeopardizing cultural or biological resources. Design is continuing on the Salinas River portion of the trail, but it is our intent to finish the western section in its entirety before starting a new section. We want to insure that we start only what we can finish by the end of April 2007. We will be examining the Governor's budget closely as soon as it is released, and aggressively lobbying for the approval of any reappropriated funds for our River Parkways projects should they be included. River Parkways Status Report Fourth Ouarter: October - December 2006 Project Management & Administration — Paso Robles & Atascadero ■ Summarized expenses for second quarter (July - September 2006) for both projects and submitted Payment Request Summaries; investigated delayed payments. ■ Prepared proposal for Paso Robles REC Foundation to augment project funds and help offset cost overruns. Request for assistance was turned down. ■ Initiated Payment Request Summary for 4th quarter of 2006 and anticipate a January 19th submittal date. ■ Worked with City of Paso Robles to schedule River Parkways Trail Grand Opening and Community Walk Day on Saturday, March 24. ■ Met with the Resources Agency Grant Administrator, Atascadero City staff and RCD staff on November 20th to discuss outstanding issues concerning the Atascadero trail sections and to determine a course of action. It was agreed that all parties would focus on getting the western section of the trail built in its entirety before starting construction on any other sections. ■ Prepared advance request for construction of first section of Atascadero trail. ■ Prepared fourth quarter project status report. Design, Surveys & Engineering — Atascadero ■ Submitted application for encroachment permit to CalTrans on 10/30/06 to permit trail access on Portola/41 right-of-way. Subsequent follow-up with agency staff indicated a determination would be made by 12/15/06, but it has still not been received. ■ Obtained letter from soil scientist to certify that there is not a significant presence of Naturally Occurring Asbestos for western reach of trail per City requirements. ■ Contracted with arborist to prepare tree survey for trail section near Atascadero Lake and to remove 25% of tree canopy of severely damaged oak; Obtained approval for pruning operation from the City. ■ Prepared Biologist's Report identifying threatened species which may be present at the project site and measures to protect them. ■ Prepared restoration plan for San Gabriel and Portola areas, including planting areas, plant palette and planting densities. ■ Prepared grading plans for the western section of the trail and began engineering for eastern Salinas section. ■ Prepared plans and structural calculations for timber pedestrian bridges and boardwalk structures for western trail section. ■ Submitted application for building permit to City of Atascadero and responded to subsequent comments and questions from Planning, Engineering and Public Works staff. ■ Developed aerial maps of trail route showing location of tables, benches and restrooms for directional signage on western section of trail. ■ Identified suppliers and obtained preliminary quotes on concrete curbing to match existing trail curbing in the Atascadero Lake Park area. River Parkways Status Report Fourth Ouarter: October - December 2006 Construction — Paso Robles ■ Completed work on the major retaining wall, railing and walkway above the large culverts behind Wendy's parking lot, sloping down to riverbed below. This was a very complex structure to build, and included installation of 150' of perforated drain tile with gravel envelope, 200' of wood post and plank retaining wall, 15' of railroad tie retaining wall, 50' of safety hand rail with soil backfill, and cutting the trail into the bank of the hill. It was made more difficult by the discovery that the ground above the culverts wasn't deep enough to properly anchor supports. This necessitated repairing the culvert and designing and installing an alternative support structure. ■ Installed grouted rock energy dissipater and 8'x16"culvert below pipe draining from a commercial parking lot at north end of trail to capture water and direct it under the trail to an existing drainage ditch. ■ Completed grading, spreading and packing over 500' of decomposed granite along remaining length of trail, including installation of 30' of rock beneath trail for surface water to through in an area with poor drainage. ■ Spread straw and erosion control blankets over approximately 4000 square feet of area disturbed by construction activities and broadcast native grasses and wildflower seed to prevent erosion during winter storms. ■ Continued to remove a large volume of invasive weeds, such as hemlock, bull thistle, Italian thistle and horehound, along the trail and in areas designated for planting. ■ Received order for native plants and planted over 100 shrubs and trees along the north section of the trail. All plants were purchased from Growing Grounds, a non-profit nursery which provides horticultural therapy for adults with mental illness. ■ Received order for irrigation components and began installation of irrigation system in late December. ■ Installed 4 redwood picnic tables, 8 benches, 6 trash and 3 recycling receptacles. All amenities were securely anchored to the ground in order to prevent theft. ■ Installed wood post and rail fencing at northern trail entrance. ■ Received order for 2 acknowledgement signs and 6 regulatory signs. Signs will be installed in early January. ■ Continued to work with professional graphics company, Gaia Graphics, on development of overall motif for interpretive signs and to refine individual content. Identified trail route and locations of amenities, restrooms on aerial photos for trailhead signs. ■ Continued picking up trash along the trail route; Coordinated with City maintenance to begin weekly trash collections. ■ Began excavating four foot holes for concrete footings for both bridges. This task was originally slated to be subcontracted out, but the bid for the job came in at over $16,000 which would have seriously exacerbated our cost overruns. ■ Performed routine monitoring of construction progress and consulted with CCC work crews on questions and problems. River Parkways Status Report Fourth Ouarter: October - December 2006 Looking uPiroll Q "CCC" crew W.01ng old slope Intl com ting --11 lottroll.. 2 ITEM NUMBER: B - 3 DATE: 01/18/2007 Atascadero Parks and Recreation Commission Staff Report - City Attorney's Office RECOMMENDATION ON COMMISSIONER NORMS Recommendation: Commission adopt the Draft Commissioner Norms to the City Council with any amendments as desired by the Commission. Introduction: Draft Resolution on Norms In 2003, the City Council adopted Council Norms for the Council itself and the Norms have been amended from time to time. There are no Norms that have been adopted for the Commissions. On December 12, 2006, the City Council considered the draft Commission Norms for the Planning Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Council also held the first reading, and on January 9, 2007 amended the ordinance code to provide a section in the Atascadero Municipal Code on the relationship between the Commission and the Council and staff. Below is a copy of the language adopted by the City Council on January 9, concerning the Parks and Recreation Commission: 2-13.11.05 — Parks and Recreation Commission — Relations to Council and Staff (a) The City Council establishes policies citywide and specifically as they relate to the duties of the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Parks and Recreation Commission is advisory to the Council except where the Council has delegated specific authority to the Commission. City Staff administers the policies of the City Council, forwards recommendations of the Commission to the Council and administers Parks and Recreation Commission action on issues delegated to the Commission by the Council. The Parks and Recreation Commission may recommend to the Council topics to be included in the City's work program. (b) The Commission and its members shall work through the Community Services Director, except for the purpose of inquiry, in carrying out the Commission's responsibilities. 847456.1 11335.1 1 ITEM NUMBER: B - 3 DATE: 01/18/2007 (c) Commissioners shall not attempt to coerce or influence staff in the making of appointments, the awarding of contracts, the selection of consultants, the processing of development applications, or the granting of City licenses or permits. Commissioners shall not attempt to change or interfere with the operating policies and practices of any City department. (d) Commissioners shall not attend internal staff meetings or meetings between City staff and third persons unless invited by City staff or directed by Council to do so. Commissioners may attend meetings of private organizations that staff may attend. Commissioners may attend any public meeting of the City and any public agency. This new section of the Municipal Code will become effective 30 days after its adoption (February 10, 2007). Commissioner Norms After reviewing the draft Commission Norms, the Council directed that the Norms be reviewed by each of the Commissions, and that staff also be given an opportunity to comment on the draft Norms. The City Clerk provided the draft Norms to staff and the only comments were as follows: 1. Number 8 be revised to include that "At the request of a member of the public, the Commission will vote to agendize an item for discussion in the public forum." 2. Number 15, bullets be added to state as follows: Commissioners will treat in all matters the way they would want to be treated if similarly situated. Commissioners will contact the City Manager regarding public complaints or newspaper stories that come to their attention, and make arrangements to speak with any affected staff member before making private or public promises, pronouncements, findings, condemnation, take provocative action, and/or in any other way legitimize unverified information without seeking to learn all the facts. This office does not recommend that the above revisions be made to the Draft Commission Norms. Number 8 is not necessary, as a member of the Board of Directors of the Parks and Recreation may request during Commissioner comments to add an item to a future agenda, and if a majority of the Commission agrees that the matter will be placed on a future agenda. On the additions to the Number 15, the first bullet, is covered in Number 9, which requires that "there be mutual respect between Staff and Commissions of their respective roles and responsibilities." Included in "mutual respect" would be to treat each other in a way that they would want to be treated if similarly situated. 847456.1 11335.1 2 ITEM NUMBER: B - 3 DATE: 01/18/2007 The second bullet point is too broad. If the concern is about the behavior or work of a city employee who reports to the Commission, I would recommend language similar to the following: Any concerns by a member of the Commission regarding the behavior or work of a City employee should be directed to the Community Services Director privately to ensure the concern is resolved. Commissioners should not reprimand employees directly nor should they communicate their concerns to anyone other than the City Manager. If the concern is the behavior or work of the Director of the Community Services than the contact person would be the City Manager. The Commission may amend the Norms, including any revisions, as the Commission desires, in adding, deleting or revising provisions. Fiscal Impact: None Alternatives 1. The Commission may make modifications to the proposed draft Commission Norms. 2. The Commission may determine that more information is needed on some aspect of the Draft Norms and may refer the item back to staff to develop the additional information. Attachments • Draft Parks and Recreation Commission Norms • Draft Council Norms 847456.1 11335.1 3 CITY OF ATASCADERO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONER NORMS ( , 2007) 1. When we disagree, we do it without being disagreeable. 2. We will work to further our support and trust of each other regardless of differences on issues or projects. 3. The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson are selected annually at the Commission's first meeting in January. 4. Respect the skills and perspective of all Commissioners. 5. Commissioners shall notify the Community Services Director when they are going to be absent from a Commission meeting. Commissioner attendance records will be reported to the City Council quarterly. 6. The Commissioners and Staff should not blindside each other in public; if there is an issue or a question a Commissioner has on an agenda item, that Commissioner should contact the Director of Community Services prior to the meeting. 7. Commissioners should be informed by Staff when an unusual event occurs that the public would be concerned about regarding a matter relating to the duties of the Commission. 8. If an agenda item is a controversial issue call the Director of Community Services to let him know. 9. There shall be mutual respect between ern both_Staff and Commissioners of their respective roles and responsibilities. 10. Commissioners shall acknowledge the Council as policy makers and Staff as administering the Council's adopted policies. 11. Commissioners shall not attempt to coerce or influence Staff in the making of appointments, the awarding of contracts, the selection of consultants, the processing of development applications, and the granting of City licenses or permits. Commissioners shall not attempt to change or interfere with the operating policies and practices of any City department. 12. If a Commissioner visits a site, has ex parte contact or receives information and evidence on any quasi-judicial matter pending before the Commission, the Commissioner shall disclose all such information and/or evidence acquired from such contacts, which is not otherwise included in the written or oral Staff report during the public hearing and before the public comment period is opened. Matters are "pending" when an application has been filed. 13. Commissioners may, but are not required to, clarify their votes when voting. Formatted: Font: (Default) Arial \ Formatted: Left 14. Commission Agendas and Staff Reports • Include as much information as possible • Include summaries and provide back-up information • No late reports • Work to have agendas out by the Thursday prior to the scheduled meeting. 15. Commissioner relations with City Staff Commissioners will route requests and Staff contacts through the Director of Community Services. Commissioners shall not attend internal Staff meetings or meetings between City Staff and third persons unless invited by City Staff or directed by the Council or Commission to do so. No surprises 16. Commissioner Conduct during Public Meetings • Be welcoming to speakers and treat them with care and respect • Be fair and equitable in allocating public hearing time to individual speakers • Give the appearance of active listening • Ask for clarification, but avoid debate and argument with the public 17. Commissioners shall comply with section 2-13.11.05 of the Atascadero Municipal Code. 18. The City Council will review these norms periodically. 19. Commissioners shall notify the Community Services Director of a problem with an employee. CITY OF ATASCADERO COUNCIL NORMS (Updated , 2007) 1. When we disagree, we do it without being disagreeable. 2. We will work to further our support and trust of each other regardless of differences on issues or projects. 3. The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem are selected annually by a rotation system designated in a Council Resolution that was adopted in October 2003 and amended in August 2006. 4. As a desired guideline, the Council supports two-year committee assignments to develop expertise and continuity. 5. Respect 't` ­ skills and perspective of all Council Members. 6. The Council and Staff should not blindside each other in public; if there is an issue or a question a Council Member has on an agenda item, that Member should contact 11'°f City Manager prior to the meeting. 7. Council should be informed by Staff when an unusual event occurs that the public would be concerned about. 8. If an agenda item is a controversial issue, call -he City Manager to let him know. 9. There shall be mutual respect frern both between Staff and Council Members of their respective roles and responsibilities. 10. City staff shall acknowledge the Council as policy makers and the City Council shall acknowledge staff as administering the Council's adopted policies. 11. Council Members shall not attempt to coerce or influence staff in the making of appointments, the awarding of contracts, the selection of consultants, the processing of development applications, the granting of City licenses or permits. Council Members shall not attempt to change or interfere with the operating policies and practices of any City department. 12. Council Members should not attempt to influence commission or committee recommendations, or to influence or lobby individual commission or committee members on any item under their consideration. It is important for commissions and committees to be able to make objective recommendations to the City Council on items before them. Members of Council that attempt to strongly influence commission positions on any item may prejudice or hinder their role in reviewing the commission's recommendation as a member of the City Council. 13. If a Council Member represents the City before another governmental agency, the Council Member should indicate the majority position and opinion of the Council, if known. Personal opinions and comments may be expressed only if the Council Member clarifies that these statements do not represent the position of the City Council. 14. If a Council Member visits a site, has ex parte contact or receives information and evidence on any quasi-judicial matter pending before the Council, the Council Member shall disclose all such information and/or evidence acquired from such contacts, which is not otherwise included in the written or oral staff report, during the public hearing and before the public comment period is opened. Matters are "pending" when an application has been filed. Information and evidence gained by Council Members via their attendance at noticed public hearings before subordinate boards and commissions (i.e. Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission) are not subject to this rule. 15. City Council Members should keep all written materials and verbal information provided to them on matters that are confidential under State law in complete confidence to ensure that the City's position is not compromised. No mention of information in these materials should be made to anyone other than Council Members, the City Attorney or City Manager. 16. City Council Members will receive agendas and minutes for Commission and Committee meetings, but Council Members are not required to attend the meetings. 17. Arrange for periodic presentations to the council by Department Heads on Department issues, priorities and functions. 18. Council Members may, but are not required to, clarify their votes when voting. 19. Conduct of Council Meetings • Make sure Council votes to continue meeting before 11:00 p.m. • Hear all Council Members out fully 20. Council Agendas and Staff Reports • Include as much information as possible • Include summaries and provide back-up information • Make sure Planning Commission vote is in report • No late reports • Include fiscal impact • Work to have agendas out by the Wednesday prior to the scheduled meetina. 21. Council Members relations with City Staff • Council Members will route requests and Staff contacts through the City Manager • No surprises 22. Council Members shall comply with section 2-4.18 of the Atascadero Municipal Code. 23. The City Council will review these norms periodically. 24. Council Members shall notify the City Manager of a problem with an employee.