parks and waterfront commission - berkeley, california · la pierre, 9/1/2014 ; brown act training...

PARKS AND WATERFRONT COMMISSION

Regular Meeting Wednesday, September 10, 2014, 7:00 P.M. Frances Albrier Community Center 2800 Park Street, Berkeley, CA

Parks and Waterfront Commission

AGENDA The Commissions may discuss any items listed on the agenda, but may take action only on items identified as Action.

Preliminary Matters 1. Call to Order (Chair)2. Roll Call (Secretary)3. Announcements (Chair)4. Approval of Agenda (Chair)5. Approval Minutes for July 9, 2014 * (Chair)6. Public Comment7. Director’s Report

a. Director’s Office * (Scott Ferris)b. Parks Division * (Sue Ferrera)c. Waterfront Division * (John Mann)

Action 8. Expansion of Donation Policy at City parks * (John Mann)

Discussion 9. Ohlone Dog Park Renovation Project – Update ** (Deborah Chernin)10. Ohlone Dog Park Plaque *11. Update on signage at Cesar Chavez Park (John Mann)12. Parks Tax Budget Report FY 2014-15 ** (Scott Ferris/Peggy Gibbons)13. Potential ban on certain tree species for fire safety purposes (Sue Ferrera / Dan Gallagher)

Information Items 14. Recent Council Reports *15. Communications: Invitation to East Bay Regional Park District 80th Anniversary Gala

Celebration, Saturday, Sept 13, 2014; SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge – Tideline Newsletter,Autumn 2014; Concept C plan for the basis of an alternate design for the Ohlone Dog Park, AliceLa Pierre, 9/1/2014 ; Brown Act Training for City Commissioners, Mark Numainville, 9/3/2014.

16. Adjournment

* document is attached to agenda packet. ** document will be provided at the meeting.

Parks and Waterfront Commission Agenda Packet

September 10, 2014 of 27

ADA Disclaimer: This meeting is being held in a wheelchair accessible location. To request disability-related accommodations to participate in the meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, please contact the Disability Services specialist at 981-6342 (V) or 981-6345 (TDD) at least three business days before the meeting date. Please refrain from wearing scented products to this meeting. SB343 DisclaimerAny writings or documents provided to a majority of the Commission regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at Parks Recreation & Waterfront Department Office at 2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA. Communications Disclaimer: Communications to Berkeley boards, commissions or committees are public record and will become part of the City’s electronic records, which are accessible through the City’s website. Please note: e-mail addresses, names, addresses, and other contact information are not required, but if included in any communication to a City board, commission or committee, will become part of the public record. All communications to the Commission should be received at least 10 days before the meeting date. If you do not want your e-mail address or any other contact information to be made public, you may deliver communications via U.S. Postal Service or in person to the secretary of the relevant board, commission or committee. If you do not want your contact information included in the public record, please do not include that information in your communication. Please contact the secretary to the commission or committee for further information. Commission Information: The agenda packets for the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Waterfront Commission are available for review at www.cityofberkeley.info/commissions; the Berkeley Main Library and the Parks Recreation & Waterfront Department Office at 2180 Milvia Street –3rd Floor, during their normal business hours. If you have questions, call Commission Secretary, Roger Miller at 981-6704 at 2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 or by email at [email protected]. MISSION STATEMENT – PARKS AND WATERFRONT: The Parks and Waterfront Commission shall be an advisory board and shall review the policies, projects, programs, planning efforts, activities, funding, and the physical condition of parks, pools, camps, recreation centers, the Marina, and public greenery, and shall advise the City Council on these matters.

COMMISSION MEMBERS

Mayor - Michael Veneziano District 3 - Jim McGrath District 6 - Karen Weinstein District 1 - Shirley Brower District 4 - Toni Mester District 7 - Dru Howard District 2 - Phil Catalfo District 5 - Susan McKay District 8 - Caitlin Brostrom



http://www.cityofberkeley.info/commissions
















mailto:[email protected]
















2014 Commission Meeting Dates

Name of Commission: Parks and Waterfront Commission

Commission Secretary: Roger Miller Location: Frances Albrier Community Center, 2800 Park St

Month Meeting Day and Date

Time

Notes

January Wednesday, January 8 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg February Wednesday, February 12 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg March Wednesday, March 12 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg April Wednesday, April 9 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg May Wednesday, May 14 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg June Wednesday, June 11 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg July Wednesday, July 9 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg August No Meeting September Wednesday, September 10 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg October Wednesday, October 8 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg November No Meeting December Wednesday, December 10 7:00 p.m. Regular Mtg



AGENDA ITEM 5 PARKS AND WATERFRONT COMMISSION – REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, July 9, 2014, 7:00pm, Frances Albrier Community Center, 2800 Park St., Berkeley

MINUTES – DRAFT 1. Call to Order (Chair). 7:10pm. 2. Roll Call (Secretary): Commissioners present: Catalfo; Howard; McGrath; McKay; Mester;

Weinstein; Absent: Brostrom; Brower; Veneziano. Staff present: Ferrera; Ferris; Mann; Miller. 3. Announcements (Chair) 4. Approval of Agenda, (M/S/C: Mester/Catalfo) Aye’s: Catalfo; Howard; McGrath; McKay;

Mester; Weinstein; No’s: None; Abstain: None; Absent: Brostrom; Brower; Veneziano. 5. Approval of Minutes * from June 10, 2014, (M/S/C: Howard/Catalfo), Aye’s: Catalfo; Howard;

McGrath; McKay; Mester; Weinstein; No’s: None; Abstain: None; Absent: Brostrom; Brower; Veneziano.

6. Public Comment. Naiomi Friedman, CCP signs; Steve Hapchick, Dolar Calendar/dog owner; Claudia Kwazinska, CCP dog area and signage subcommittee; Mindy Zelep, Echo Lake Camp; Deborah Sequoia, CCP dog area.

7. Director’s Report. a. Director (Scott Ferris) b. Waterfront (John Mann) c. Parks (Ferris)

Discussion

8. Discussion of East Bay Regional Park District projects at the Berkeley Meadow and Brush Peak to establish habitat on disturbed land and reduce prevalence of non-native grasses (Brad Olson, formerly of East Bay Regional Park district). Note: Brad was not available to give presentation.

9. Update on ground squirrels at Cesar Chavez Park (John Mann) 10. Update from subcommittee on signage at Cesar Chavez Park (P. Catalfo) 11. Update on City FY 2015-16 Budget (Scott Ferris) 12. Update on Council discussion of Parks Tax Increase ballot measure (Scott Ferris)

Information Items

13. Recent Council Reports. No discussion. 14. Capital Projects / Major Maintenance Update. No discussion. 15. Adjournment 8:50pm



Director’s Report (from July 9, 2014 P&W Commission) Parks Recreation and Waterfront FY 2015- Capital and Major Maintenance Projects Capital Projects- Construction o Willard Tennis Courts- 100% complete o Virginia- Mcgee Totland- In Contract – council approval 9/16 o Echo Lake Dining Hall- In Construction – council approval 9/9 o Ohlone Dog Park- In design-Out to bid in

December o Grove Basketball and Tennis- In design- Out to bid in October o Terrace View Phase 1 - In plan check- Out to bid in October Capital Projects- Design o Ohlone Basketball/picnic In Design o Rose Garden Trellis- In Design o Bay Trail Segment Three/South Cove In Design o Fishing Pier ADA renovation- In Design o Sidewalk in front of BORP/Waterside- In Design o James Kenney Play and Picnic Area FY15 o Willard Park Play Area and pathways In Design o Marina Float Replacement FY 15 o John Hinkle Playstructure/ Access FY 15 o Echo Lake Leach Field FY15 o Echo Lake Cabins FY15 Major Maintenance Update o Fire restriction signs (BBQ/open fire) Complete o Ohlone Play Surfacing Replacement Complete o 2945/2925 Bolivar- Install electrical Complete o Marina Corp Yd Drainage/Repaving Complete o Marina Parking Lot L/M Slurry Seal Complete o Marina Pathway (YC- FP) Slurry Seal Complete o Aquatic Park: Widgeon grass/algae Complete o Marina Bait Shop Wall repair In Process o 90 Bolivar – Brick Fireplace removal In Contract o City-wide Reservable picnic areas In Process o City wide ADA Restroom upgrades In Process

o 2925/2945 Bolivar – ADA parking In Process o Echo Lake Lodge Deck- In Permitting o Cesar Chavez Signage Replacement Complete o Park Signage Replacement In process o Design SP Electrical Meter Split In design o Design JK Electrical Meter Split In design o Design LO Electrical Meter Split In design o Echo Lake Make-up Air/ Hood In design o Echo Lake Water System FY 15 o Marin Fountain- Replace Pumps FY15 o Launch Ramp Gates/ Ticket Machine FY15 o John Hinkel Park- Hand Rails Complete o Live Oak Center Office In Design o James Kenny Office In Design o 125-127 University Deck Repair FY15 o 125-127 University Painting FY15 o Skate Park Safety Improvements FY15 o Median Project- Irrigation / Landscaping Replacement City Border- Alcatraz- FY15 o Cordinices Sports Field Renovation FY15 o Grove Sports Field Renovation FY15 o King Park Turf renovation FY15 o Marina H and I Parking Slurry Seal FY15 o Marina D and E Parking Slurry Seal FY15

Marina (Mann) Occupancy has stabilized and has begun to improve

to around 88% occupancy. We’ll continue to monitor and provide updates next month.

New signage has been installed in CCP, more signs are on order to complete the installation

Marina landscaping staff gave away a 100 yards of free compost to Berkeley residents last month

We’ve engaged a Landscape Architecture firm to begin design work on ADA and user amenities on the Berkeley Municipal Fishing Pier (funded by a grant from Cosco Busan)

Upcoming Special Events: o Compost Give Away (September 27th) o Day on the Water Concert CCP (September

29th) o International Shoreline Cleanup Day (Sept

20th)



AGENDA ITEM 7.

Office of the City Manager

2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 ● Tel: (510) 981-7000 ● TDD: (510) 981-6903 ● Fax: (510) 981-7099 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.CityofBerkeley.info/Manager

ACTION CALENDAR September 10, 2014

To: Parks and Waterfront Commission

From: Scott Ferris, Director

Subject: Expanding the City of Berkeley’s Park Bench Donation Policy

RECOMMENDATION Recommend Council adoption of an expanded donation policy for City parks.

CURRENT SITUATION AND ITS EFFECTS On December 17, 2013, Council directed the City Manager to explore other options for memorial/commemorative donations from residents that were more attainable than the current park bench donation policy. The Council report indicated that expanding the City’s donation policy to include other offerings that may be less costly would allow more residents to participate in the program. For example, other jurisdictions offer a living trees, drinking fountains, playground structures, rose bushes, public art, commemorative tiles and other options in their donation policies.

After researching a variety of options, staff propose an expanded parks donation policy that allows donations of $200 or more that could be deposited into five specific City Parks funds to be used for specific parks-related expenses. Donors would be acknowledged at the City’s Annual Parks Makes Life Better and Volunteer Event, and shall be printed in the City’s Activities Guide. Donors of $500 or more would also receive a Commemorative Certificate from the City. Per current policy, donations of $1,000 or more are formally accepted by an action of the City Council, and donations for larger projects receive specific recognition depending on the nature of the project (for example, donations of park benches, currently at a cost of $3,400, are recognized by a plaque on the bench). The expanded donation policy for City parks is summarized in the following table:

Donation Amount Acknowledgement

$200 - $499 Donors name shall be acknowledged at the City’s Annual Parks Makes Life Better and Volunteer Event, and shall be printed in the City’s Activities Guide.

$500 - $999 Donors name shall be acknowledged at the City’s Annual Parks Makes Life Better and Volunteer Event, and shall be printed in the City’s Activities Guide. In addition, donor shall receive a commemorative certificate from the City.

$1,000 or more The donation is formally accepted by the City Council, and a



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plaque may be placed on the proposed structure on a case-by-case basis for the life of the structure (e.g., memorial benches, etc.)

The donor shall have the option of designating a particular Parks program fund to donate towards, as follows: Fund Activities and Items to be funded by donation

Parks Fund This fund is used to purchase essential items throughout City parks, such as drinking fountains, trees, playground equipment, and waste receptacles.

Camps Fund This fund is used to purchase essential items used for the operations of City camps, such as vehicle transportation for children, t-shirt uniforms for staff, and games and recreation equipment.

Marina Fund This fund is used to purchase essential items used for the operation of the Marina, and can include items such as drinking fountains, trees, playground equipment, and waste receptacles.

Nature Center Fund This fund is used specifically to purchase essential items used by the Nature Center programs, such as microscope supplies, educational materials, and specialized aquarium and biology supplies.

Benches Fund This fund is used specifically to purchase park benches to be placed at City parks in accordance with the City’s Parks Bench Donation Policy.

BACKGROUND The City currently has two donation policies:

The City has had a long-standing policy of accepting donations of $1,000 or more through a formal City Council action. Most recently, this has been formalized with the adoption of the Open Governance Ordinance (OGO) that requires City Council approval of any gift to the City in excess of $1,000 (BMC Section 2.06.150, Ord. 7,166-N.S., adopted 03/08/2011). Through this policy, the City has received a wide range of donations over many years that has included items such as vehicles, ambulances, fire trucks, sweatshirts, t-shirts, park benches, food for special events, and cash donations for particular projects such as the Shorebird Nature Center, the Marin Circle Fountain, and dock facilities at the Marina, as well as donations of property and buildings, among many other things.

On July 22, 2008, Council adopted the most recent version of the Park Bench Donation Policy (Resolution No. 64,148-N.S.) whereby individuals may donate memorial benches to the City’s parks in selected locations, subject to the approval of the Director of the Parks Recreation & Waterfront Department, and



AGENDA ITEM 8.

Possible ban on planting certain tree species ACTION CALENDAR September 10, 2014

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pay for all associated costs, subject to Council approval of the gift donation. A commemorative plaque is placed on the new bench for the lifespan of the bench (approximately ten years).

CONTACT PERSON Scott Ferris, Director, PRW, 981-6700 John Mann, Waterfront Manager, PRW, 981-6737 Susan Ferrera, Parks Superintendent, PRW, 981-6667 Attachment December 17, 2013 - Expanding the City of Berkeley’s Park Bench Donation Policy, Councilmember Moore.



AGENDA ITEM 8.

CITY COUNCIL

Darryl Moore Councilmember District 2

2180 Milvia Street Fifth Floor Berkeley CA 94704 TEL: (510) 981-7120 FAX: (510) 981-7122

WEB: www.ci.berkeley.ca.us

CONSENT CALENDAR December 17, 2013

To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

From: Councilmember Darryl Moore, District 2

Subject: Expanding the City of Berkeley’s Park Bench Donation Policy RECOMMENDATION Direct the City Manager to explore other options for memorial/commemorative donations from residents. BACKGROUND Berkeley’s current Park Bench Donation Policy allows residents to donate a memorial bench or a “Friend of Berkeley Parks” bench to either commemorate a loved one or to contribute to the park visitor experience. While this may be an attractive option to many, it tends to be quite expensive, currently $1,200, and may not be attainable for every resident who may want to memorialize a loved one. Expanding the City’s donation policy to include other offerings that may be less costly would allow more residents to participate in the program. Other jurisdictions offer a living trees, drinking fountains, playground structures, rose bushes, public art, commemorative tiles and other options in their donation policies. FISCAL IMPACTS OF RECOMMENDATION Unknown CONTACT PERSON Councilmember Darryl Moore, District 2 981-7120



AGENDA ITEM 8.

rthomsen

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Parks, Recreation & Waterfront

2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 ● Tel: (510) 981-6700 ● TDD: (510) 981-6903 ● Fax: (510) 981-6710 E-Mail: [email protected]

DISCUSSION ITEM September 10, 2014

To: Parks and Waterfront Commission From: Deborah Chernin, Principal Planner Subject: OHLONE DOG PARK RENOVATION PROJECT Measure WW Improvements Introduction Ohlone Dog Park is a well-used dog park that has substantial drainage problems. During the rainy season, the wood chip groundcover migrates to the lower areas of the park resulting in large areas of bare soil that become muddy during the wet season and dusty during the dry season. In addition, straw bales have to be placed along the Hearst Street side of the park to prevent the chips and runoff from going onto the sidewalk and into the street. The straw bales have to be replaced annually, if not more often, increasing the maintenance costs of the park. Capital funding has not been available to make permanent drainage improvements in the past. Fortunately, Measure WW Bond funding is now available to make the needed drainage and other improvements at the park. As a result of a multi-year public process led by the Parks and Recreation Commission, a total of $325,000 of the City’s allocation of the 2008 Measure WW Bond funding has been identified for the renovation of the Ohlone Dog Park. Of the $325,000, a total of $260, 00 is available for construction (including a 14.3% contingency). The remaining $65,000 pays for the design and engineering costs, including a topographic survey, testing, permits, and construction management services. Improving the drainage is the first priority, and any remaining funding can be used for other site improvements and amenities. Background Five community meetings have been held since the renovation was first discussed in 2008:

Community Meeting #1—April 10, 2008

Community Meeting #2—September 12, 2012

Community Meeting #3—September 19, 2012

Community Meeting #4—April 17, 2014

Community Meeting #5—August 19, 2014 In addition, on January 24, 2014, staff and the design consultant (Harris Design) met with the Parks Division arborist and maintenance staff for technical feedback on the renovation design in order to minimize long-term operations and maintenance costs. The Ohlone Dog Park



AGENDA ITEM 9.

OHLONE DOG PARK RENOVATION INFORMATION ITEM Measure WW Improvements September 10, 2014

Page 2

Association (ODPA) also held a meeting in September 2007 to hear a presentation from a San Jose City staff member who had many years of experience working on the design of their dog parks. City of Berkeley PRW staff attended this meeting as well. Comments were diverse at each of the community meetings, with the need for a small dog park favored at some, and no need for a separate small dog area at others. At the last meeting, on August 19, 2014, the majority of people appeared to favor a “time-out” area in the northeast corner of the park rather than a separate Small Dog Area as shown on the Preliminary Plan. At these meetings, there have been some common themes and areas of agreement, along with some differing opinions. The primary issue raised was whether or not to provide a separate area for small dogs, which are present at many of the newer dog parks in the Bay Area. The main topics of discussion have been:

1) The need to improve grading and drainage (to minimize mud and dusty areas) 2) The need for more seating, including a variety of types of seating, e.g., seating for

individuals, small and large groups; seating in the sun and seating in the shade at different times of the day

3) The need to address the conflict between dogs that sometimes occurs, e.g., when dogs begin to form packs; and when aggressive behavior is exhibited; and the issues that can arise between small dogs and large dogs in a confined space.

Staff has contacted other cities with off-leash dog parks including San Jose, Fremont, Santa Rosa and Pacifica, and has been told that the newer dog parks include separate small and large dog areas, which has helped to minimize physical conflicts among the dogs. According to them, the other most important factor in minimizing conflict has been encouraging pet owners to continuously monitor their dog and immediately stop aggressive dog behavior before it escalates. Current Situation The existing Ohlone Dog Park is approximately 32,600 sq ft (3/4 acre). The primary purpose of the proposed renovation is to improve the site drainage and provide ADA access at the park. In addition, the renovation will include a small dog area and increased seating. Two preliminary plans based on public and maintenance staff comments were presented at the most recent public meeting on August 19, 2014 at the North Berkeley Senior Center. The public comments were largely directed toward the issue of providing a small dog area and, if so, where it should be located. To create a new small dog area, the primary considerations include:

1) The size of the small and large dog areas 2) ADA accessibility to each area (depending on the existing change of grade and other

existing conditions, such as utilities, tree roots, etc.)



AGENDA ITEM 9.

OHLONE DOG PARK RENOVATION INFORMATION ITEM Measure WW Improvements September 10, 2014

Page 3

3) The costs for new fencing and other amenities At the September 10, 2014 meeting of the Parks & Waterfront Commission, City staff and the design consultant, Harris Design, will present the current Preliminary Plan that has been revised after considering the input from the five (5) community meetings, as well as other public comments, and input from Parks maintenance staff. The Preliminary Plan includes the following:

1. Regrading the site to improve drainage and reduce muddy areas.

2. Adding a vegetated swale to filter the runoff water in order to “cleanse” it before it

seeps into the soil and groundwater.

3. Replacement of the large wood chips with engineered wood fiber which stays in place

better, is easier on dogs’ paws, and is easy to clean up and replace, as needed.

4. A new fenced Small Dog Area (approximately 7,550 sq ft) at the west side of the existing

dog park.

5. The fenced Large Dog Park area will be increased by approximately 3,600 sq ft to the

east. The Large Dog Area will see a minor net reduction of 3,950 sq ft or 12%.

6. Double gates and ADA access will be provided to both areas, as well as a gate between

them.

7. New benches, platform seats, picnic tables, square tables, a seat wall and trash

enclosures are included in the revised plan to provide a variety of options for seating

and gathering.

8. The existing paved “dog bone” area will remain as-is.

9. The existing memorial plaque and kiosk will remain as-is.

10. A new plaque recognizing the historical significance of the Park will be installed at the

park entrance.

Attachments

1: OHLONE DOG PARK – EXISTING PARK

2: OHLONE DOG PARK – PLAN (proposed)



AGENDA ITEM 9.

OHLONE DOG PARKCity of Berkeley 10 September 2014

OHLONE DOG PARK EXISTING PARK

Dog Park Fence Line

Dog Park Expansion Area

LEGEND

Northerly Limit of BART Right-of-Way

BART Right-of-Way Northerly Limit



AGENDA ITEM 9.

OHLONE DOG PARKCity of Berkeley 10 September 2014

PLAN

SMALL-DOG AREA

LARGE-DOG AREA

ACCESSIBLE WEST ENTRANCE WITH CONCRETE RAMP, HANDRAILS AND ADA-COMPLIANT GATES

EXISTING WATER FOUNTAIN/HOSE BIB TO REMAIN

TRASH RECEPTACLES

PARK RULES SIGN

TRASH RECEPTACLES

PARK RULES SIGN

EXISTING WATER FOUNTAINTO REMAIN

BART VAULT

PLANTED SWALE BETWEENSIDEWALK AND RELOCATED FENCE

ACCESSIBLE EAST ENTRANCE WITH SLOPED WALK, ADA COMPLIANT GATES AND PLANTING

WOOD BENCH, TYP.

4’-0” CHAIN LINK FENCE AT EXTENDED DOG PARK AREA

ENGINEERED WOOD FIBERSURFACING, TYP.

EXISTING ROOFED SIGN/BULLETIN BOARD

EXISTING MEMORIAL FIRE HYDRANT AND PLAQUE

REGRADING TO DIRECT RUNOFF TO SWALES ON SITE

4’-0” CHAIN LINK FENCE

RELOCATED EXISTING WOOD BENCH

BART RIGHT-OF-WAY NORTHERN LIMIT

PEDESTAL TABLE WITH ATTACHED SEATS

GATHERING AREA WITH BENCHES AND PLATFORM SEAT

GATHERING AREA WITH RELOCATED WOOD PICNIC TABLE AND NEW SEATING

EXISTING CONCRETE PATH AND “DOG BONE” PAVING TO REMAIN

GATHERING AREA AT DOG BONE PAVING WITH ACCESSIBLE PICNIC TABLE, CONCRETE SEATWALL AND PLATFORM SEAT

PICNIC TABLE

EXISTING SIGN AND BOULDERS TO REMAIN

PLATFORM SEATS -4-FT LENGTH

DOUBLE GATE BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE DOG AREA

DOUBLE-LEAF VEHICULAR GATE

DOG PARK FENCE LINE, TYP.



AGENDA ITEM 9.

BERKELEY HISTORY

Ohlone Dog Park(Martha Scott Benedict Memorial Park)

Berkeley’s Ohlone Dog Park, widely considered the world’s first dog park, is situated along a strip of land cleared in the 1960s for BART undergrounding. Development plans for the area were upended when activists occupied and dubbed the strip “People’s Park Annex.” In 1979 a group of residents gathered here to declare the area a park for dogs. What started as an experimental dog park was made official in 1983, and the non-profit Ohlone Dog Park Association (ODPA, pronounced “odd paw”) was formed to help maintain it. A fire hydrant in the park is dedicated to Doris Richards, the longest sitting ODPA president, and there is a sign honoring Martha Scott Benedict, the founders’ leader.

Berkeley Historical Plaque Projectwww.berkeleyplaques.org

2014

OHLONE_proof2.indd 1 12/17/13 8:24 AM



AGENDA ITEM 10.



AGENDA ITEM 10.

Office of the City Manager

2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 ● Tel: (510) 981-7000 ● TDD: (510) 981-6903 ● Fax: (510) 981-7099 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.CityofBerkeley.info/Manager

INFORMATION CALENDAR September 10, 2014

To: Parks and Waterfront Commission

From: Susan Ferrera, Parks Superintendent, Daniel Gallagher, Senior Forestry Supervisor

Subject: Possible ban on planting certain tree species for fire safety purposes

SUMMARY On June 10, 2104 Council referred the issue of a possible ban on certain tree species in Berkeley to the Fire and Disaster Commission and the Parks and Waterfront Commission for evaluation and reporting back to Council. The tree species to be evaluated included Monterey pine, Monterey cypress, red gum eucalyptus and blue gum eucalyptus. Staff considered a possible ban and developed three options for further consideration:

Option One a) Continue the City’s current practice of not planting plant blue gum eucalyptus and

Monterey pine trees on City property and in the City Right of Way, with the exception that would allow Monterey pine within the Waterfront;

b) Develop a public education outreach program with brochures and web links, to encourage and support property owners to maintain a fire safe property and a 30-foot defensible space around their homes, through the proper maintenance of trees and landscaping.

Option Two

a) Recommend a Council resolution that prohibits the City from planting blue gum eucalyptus and Monterey pine trees on City property and in the City Right of Way; with the exception that would allow Monterey pine within the Waterfront.

b) Develop a public education outreach program with brochures and web links, to encourage and support property owners to maintain a fire safe property and a 30-foot defensible space around their homes, through the proper maintenance of trees and landscaping.

Option Three

a) Recommend a City ordinance that prohibits planting blue gum eucalyptus and Monterey pine trees on both public and private property; with the exception that would allow Monterey pine within the Waterfront.

b) Develop a public education and outreach program with brochures and web links, to encourage and support property owners to maintain a fire safe property and a



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Possible ban on planting certain tree species INFORMATION CALENDAR September 10, 2014

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30-foot defensible space around their homes, through the proper maintenance of trees and landscaping.

Staff will bring this item back to both the Fire and Disaster Commission and the Parks and Waterfront Commission in the Fall of 2014 so that both commissions can send feedback to the City Council.

CURRENT SITUATION AND ITS EFFECTS With regard to private property, the City currently does not have any regulations that restrict the planting of trees. With regard to public property, the City’s Urban Forestry Division maintains a list of tree species that are appropriate based on the site conditions and suitability of the species selected for the location (e.g., climate, soil, and sunlight conditions, as well congestion factors such as utilities lines, structures, and other trees at the location). This list does not include blue gum or red gum eucalyptus or Monterrey pine or cypress.

The Urban Forestry Unit does not plant blue gum eucalyptus nor Monterrey pine in the City of Berkeley because they are not a suitable species for many urban sites due to their large mature size and need for high maintenance. However, Monterey pine could be a suitable species for the Berkeley Waterfront because it grows well in the shoreline environment and effectively serves to block the frequent winds. Monterey cypress can be a desirable species for the Waterfront and Aquatic Park for the same reasons. In fact, both locations currently have healthy stands of these trees that are maintained by the Urban Forestry Unit. Red gum eucalyptus is a general term used for many species of eucalyptus that have red features, such as bark and flowers. Some of these are acceptable species for the urban environment. Currently the City does not plant red gum eucalyptus because other species are better suited for the City of Berkeley, and blue gum eucalyptus is not commercially available.

In terms of fire risk, the State of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) website emphasizes that tree maintenance and debris removal is an important factor in keeping a property safe in fire prone areas. They state that there are no fire-proof plants and that a good landscape design will incorporate a defensible space within 30 feet of any structure. They recommend that plants in this 30 foot area should be kept green, be low-growing, non-woody and that horizontal and vertical space should be kept between the trees and plants. (See Fire Resistance Landscaping at http://www.fire.ca.gov/).

Consistent with CAL FIRE guidelines, the City has operated the Fire Fuel Chipper and Vegetation Debris Bin Program in specified areas of the City since 1982, whereby homeowners remove vegetative debris from their private property and a City crew picks up the material during designated weeks each summer. The program also provides customers an opportunity to have a debris bin delivered for the purpose of disposing of larger quantities of vegetation. The delivery and pick-up of the debris bins is managed



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by the City’s Solid Waste Division. This program is designed to provide residents a convenient means of disposing of vegetation to improve the fire safety of properties within the specified area.

In addition, the City’s Fire Department staff inspects the front yards of private properties annually that are within the Fire Department-designated Hazardous Fire Area, east of Grizzly Peak Boulevard. Non-compliant properties are initially sent a notice to abate any excess vegetation debris.

BACKGROUND Current tree management practices at several municipalities in the East Bay involve the following:

The City of Richmond’s Municipal Code requires property owners to maintain ornamental landscaping, encourages the use of fire-resistant plants and the removal of fire hazardous vegetation. No restrictions exist on the planting of specific species of trees. The Fire Marshall may order an owner or occupant to abate fire hazards and nuisances including flammable vegetation.

The City of Albany does not regulate the planting of trees on private property. The City does, however, prohibit inadequately maintained landscaping.

Chapter 10.90 of the City of El Cerrito Municipal Code is titled Obstruction of Views by Trees on Private Property. Section 10.90.190 prohibits the planting of certain trees. It states “Due to their rapid growth, height at maturity, dense foliage, shallow root structure, flammability, breakability or invasiveness, no person shall plant or allow a new tree that results from the sprouting or other self-propagation, on private property within the city, from any Monterey Pine, Monterey Cypress, Coast Redwood, Red Gum Eucalyptus or Blue Gum Eucalyptus.” The planting of any of these trees is deemed a public nuisance and may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor.

The City of Oakland does not regulate tree planting on private property. Monterey pines and all species of eucalyptus may be removed from private property without a permit. All other species of trees require a permit to be removed.

The Diablo Firesafe Council, an authority on wildfire issues in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, has created a list of plants for use in fire prone environments. Twelve tree species are listed as having a favorable fire performance and nine as unfavorable. Their website notes that a plant’s fire performance can be compromised if it is not properly maintained. http://www.diablofiresafe.org/index.html

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s website (CAL FIRE) includes many links and references to informative publications and texts on fire-safe landscaping. See: http://www.readyforwildfire.org/landscaping.



AGENDA ITEM 13.

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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY The maintenance of the urban forest and the prevention of destructive urban fires are essential in meeting the City’s Climate Action Goals over the long term. A public outreach and education program that supports the health and maintenance of the City’s urban forest will help the City’s long-term sustainability efforts. FISCAL IMPACTS OF POSSIBLE FUTURE ACTION Option One

c) Continue the City’s current practice of not planting plant blue gum eucalyptus and Monterey pine trees on City property and in the City Right of Way, with the exception that would allow Monterey pine within the Waterfront;

d) Develop a public education outreach program with brochures and web links, to encourage and support property owners to maintain a fire safe property and a 30-foot defensible space around their homes, through the proper maintenance of trees and landscaping.

Fiscal Impact: A small amount of staff time would be needed to produce a brochure and develop and implement a public education and outreach program. No additional resources would be needed to add links to the website or to continue staff’s current practice of not planting blue gum eucalyptus or Monterey pine trees. Option Two

c) Recommend a Council resolution that prohibits the City from planting blue gum eucalyptus and Monterey pine trees on City property and in the City Right of Way; with the exception that would allow Monterey pine within the Waterfront.

d) Develop a public education outreach program with brochures and web links, to encourage and support property owners to maintain a fire safe property and a 30-foot defensible space around their homes, through the proper maintenance of trees and landscaping.

Fiscal Impact: No additional resources would be needed to adopt the resolution. A small amount of staff time would be needed to produce a brochure and develop and implement a public education and outreach program. No additional resources would be needed to add links to the website or to continue staff’s current practice of not planting blue gum eucalyptus or Monterey pine trees. Option Three

c) Recommend a City ordinance that prohibits planting blue gum eucalyptus and Monterey pine trees on both public and private property; with the exception that would allow Monterey pine within the Waterfront.

d) Develop a public education and outreach program with brochures and web links, to encourage and support property owners to maintain a fire safe property and a



AGENDA ITEM 13.


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30-foot defensible space around their homes, through the proper maintenance of trees and landscaping.

Fiscal Impact: Significant resources would be needed to draft and implement an ordinance and inspect, monitor, and enforce the ordinance. In addition, significant resources would be needed for dispute mitigation and legal fees. Additional resources would be needed to remove trees from private property. The costs for removal might be recouped by billing the property owner. A small amount of staff time would be needed to produce a brochure and develop and implement a public education and outreach program. No additional resources would be needed to add links to the website or to continue staff’s current practice of not planting blue gum eucalyptus or Monterey pine trees. CONTACT PERSON Susan Ferrera, Parks Superintendent 981-6667 Daniel Gallagher, Senior Forestry Supervisor 981-6687 Attachment: June 10, 2014 - Referral to Fire and Disaster Commission and Parks and Waterfront Commission Regarding a Ban on New Planting of Certain Tree Species, Councilmember Wengraf.



AGENDA ITEM 13.

Susan Wengraf Councilmember District 6

2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 ● Tel: (510) 981-7160 ● TDD: (510) 981-6903 ● Fax: (510) 981-7166 E-Mail: [email protected]

CONSENT CALENDAR June 10, 2014

To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

From: Councilmember Wengraf

Subject: Referral to Fire and Disaster Commission and Parks and Waterfront Commission Regarding a Ban on New Planting of Certain Tree Species

RECOMMENDATION Refer to the Fire and Disaster Commission and the Parks and Waterfront Commission establishing a ban on the new planting of certain species of trees including Monterey Pine, Monterey Cypress, Red Gum Eucalyptus or Blue Gum Eucalyptus within the City of Berkeley and report back to Council with a recommendation after evaluation.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS None

BACKGROUND Due to their rapid growth, height at maturity, dense foliage, shallow root structure, flammability, breakability and invasiveness, the planting of Monterey Pine, Monterey Cypress, Red Gum Eucalyptus and Blue Gum Eucalyptus present a fire hazard.

Non-native species comprise close to 20% of the trees in the East Bay hills. These species tend to ignite easily and burn hot. Controlling the population of non-native species by prohibiting their planting is an important step towards reducing fire risk.

CONTACT PERSON Councilmember Susan Wengraf Council District 6 510-981-7160



AGENDA ITEM 13.

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PARKS AND WATERFRONT COMMISSION RECENT COUNCIL REPORTS

The following council reports are available for review at the Parks Recreation & Waterfront Department administrative desk, 2180 Milvia Street, 3rd floor, or can be accessed from the City Council Website by using the following URL’s: September 9, 2014 – Consent - 5. Contract: CNW Construction for Echo Lake Camp Dining Hall Structural Remediation URL: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/Clerk/City_Council/2014/09_Sep/Documents/2014-09-09_Item_05_Contract_CNW_Construction.aspx September 9, 2014 – Consent - 6. Lease Agreements: Five Businesses at 125-127 University Ave at the Berkeley Marina URL: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/Clerk/City_Council/2014/09_Sep/Documents/2014-09-09_Item_06_Ordinances_7361-7365.aspx September 9, 2014 – Consent - 17. Donation: Jauregui for Memorial Bench in Cesar Chavez Park URL: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/Clerk/City_Council/2014/09_Sep/Documents/2014-09-09_Item_17_Donation_Jauregui.aspx September 9, 2014 – Consent – 18. Donation: Rust for Memorial Bench in Cesar Chavez Park URL: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/Clerk/City_Council/2014/09_Sep/Documents/2014-09-09_Item_18_Donation_Rust.aspx September 9, 2014 – Consent – 19. Contract: United Site Services of California, Inc. for Portable Toilet Rental and Service URL: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/Clerk/City_Council/2014/09_Sep/Documents/2014-09-09_Item_19_Contract_United_Site.aspx September 9, 2014 – Communications to City Council URL: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/recordsonline/export/16446871.pdf

Off-Street Parking Glendale La Loma Park 2. Ferd Leimkuhler Foxtails at Cesar Chavez Park 3. Patricia Jones, on behalf of Citizens for East Shore Parks 4. Claudia Kawczynska, on behalf of Friends of Cesar Chavez Park Off Leash Area 5. Carol Denney Parks measures 7. Nancy Carleton



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80th Anniversary Gala of the East Bay Regional

Park District

Name: 80th Anniversary Gala of the East Bay Regional Park District

Date: September 13, 2014

Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Event Description:



AGENDA ITEM 15. COMMUNICATIONS

1

Miller, Roger

From: Alice [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, September 01, 2014 10:23 AMTo: Miller, RogerCc: Chernin, DeborahSubject: Ohlone Dog Park -- revised planAttachments: New Ohlone Concept C.png

Good morning Mr. Miller, Please include this email and attachment, Concept C plan for the basis of an alternate design for the Ohlone Dog Park, in the pack for the City Parks and Waterfront Commission, for the meeting on Wednesday, September 10th. This rough design includes the following key revisions: -- Relocation of the Quiet Dog area to the Northeast corner of the park, as per the consensus of the public attending the August 19th meeting for the Ohlone Dog Park -- Expanding the Quiet Dog area by altering the angle of the fence to include three trees currently in the existing park (this is key for providing enough usable space) -- Centralization of the waste cans in the original location -- Maintaining the original gate at the West end of the park -- Inclusion of an ADA gate at the Quiet Dog area, along with additional paving for ADA access -- Maintaining the "Dog Bone" plaza for use in wet weather I would personally appreciate a better location for the Notices board located inside the park, since the current angle of it makes it difficult to discover any new notices for the public. New notices are posted on the back side of the board, since the front side is locked and not updated by City staff on a regular basis (for example, a notice about the August 19th meeting is still behind a locked panel, and has not been updated to include the September 10th meeting.) A triangular kiosk on the south side of the park, centrally located near the Dog Bone Plaza, would encourage more people to read the notices and stay informed. Thank you for your help in this matter, Alice La Pierre 1900 Parker Street Berkeley, CA 94704 510-847-0252




City Clerk Department

2180 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 ● Tel: (510) 981-6900 ● TDD: (510) 981-6903 ● Fax: (510) 981-6901 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/clerk

September 3, 2014 To: Members of City of Berkeley Boards and Commissions From: Mark Numainville, City Clerk Subject: Brown Act Training for Commissioners Serving on a Commission is an important and effective way to serve your community. As a legislative body, City Boards and Commissions must follow certain rules and regulations to ensure that the public process works for everyone. To further these goals and to assist commissioners in their duties, the City Attorney’s Office and the City Clerk Department teamed up to offer Brown Act Training for all commission members in March 2014. This training session will be offered again later this month.

Date: Thursday, September 25, 2014 Time: 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm Location: Civic Center Building at 2180 Milvia Street, 1st Floor Please RSVP by Monday, September 22 by calling 981-6908 or by e-mailing [email protected].

Participants will learn about open meeting requirements, subcommittee rules, meeting conduct, conflict of interest, and much more! There will also be a question and answer segment. This training is optional. If you have any questions please contact the City Clerk Department at 510-981-6900 or [email protected]. cc: City Manager City Attorney Department Directors Commission Secretaries


































