2001/09/21 City Council MinutesROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING
for
SKATE PARK PROPOSED LOCATIONS
PUBLIC HEARING
Friday, September 21, 2001
7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.
The City Council of the City of Rohnert Park commenced a Public Hearing regarding
proposed skate park locations at 7:00 p.m., Friday, September 21, 2001 in the City Offices,
6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, California, with Mayor Mackenzie presiding.
Mayor Mackenzie announced two events being hosted by the City of Rohnert Park and
encouraged those present to attend:
1. Founder's Day Parade and Community Unity Celebration titled "Taking Pride in Our
Community ", Saturday, September 22, 2001, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
2. Rohnert Park Public Safety Officers Association (RPPSOA) will be sponsoring an open
house for the public to stop by and talk to the firefighters, 9:00 a.m. — 11:00 a.m. on Sunday,
September 23, 2001, at the North Fire Station located at the corner of Golf Course and
Country Club.
Call to Order:
Mayor Mackenzie called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll Call:
Present: (4) Councilmembers Reilly and Vidak- Martinez; Vice Mayor Flores; and
Mayor Mackenzie
Absent: (1) Councilmember Spiro
Staff present for all or part of the Skate Park Location public hearing: City Manager Netter,
Assistant City Manager Donley and Recreation Director Barry.
Acknowledging City Manager /Clerk's report on posting meeting agenda: City Manager
Netter stated that the agenda had been posted in accordance with the Brown Act.
Unscheduled public appearances: Mayor Mackenzie invited unscheduled public
appearances with no response from those present.
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION AND /OR ACTION:
SKATE PARK: Mayor Mackenzie announced that this meeting was held for consideration
of proposed locations as follows:
a) City -owned vacant lot on Snyder Lane, adjacent to Community Center
b) City -owned vacant lot on City Hall Drive, adjacent to the Vision Teen Center
City of Rohnert Park City Council
Special Meeting: September 21, 2001
SKATE PARK LOCATION PUBLIC HEARING
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c) Other optzons
Staff Report:
City Manager Netter reported that Recreation Director Tim Barry had prepared a report dated
September 11, 2001. The report points out that there are two possible sites. Mr. Netter
summarized Mr. Barry's report and the sites identified, adding that the site adjacent to the
Vision Teen Center would conflict with the present Housing Element. He also reviewed a list
of sites that had not been researched to date.
Mr. Netter pointed out that petitions with approximately 300 signatures from people opposing
the skate park site at the Performing Arts Center had been received, as well as letters in favor
of the site. Also a letter from Public Safety had been received indicating that the site next to
the Vision Teen Center was not an option due to emergency traffic from that location. Mr.
Netter also stated that Redwood Empire Municipal Insurance Fund (REMIF), the City's
insurance carrier, outlined several requirements in order to use the site at the PAC.
Mayor Mackenzie invited Mr. David Cohen, Chairman, Parks and Recreation Commission as
the first speaker.
Mr. David Cohen, Chairman, Parks and Recreation Commission: Mr. Cohen stated
points for the skate park sites. He reported that the Parks and Recreation Commission has
spent more than a year looking into various potential sites for the skate park. He also pointed
out that Recreation Director Tim Barry had done an exhaustive search for potential sites and
researched each one. One fear is that the selection of a site will be postponed due to the lack
of a perfect site. Mr. Cohen commented that there is no "perfect site."
Mr. Cohen produced a model of the Snyder Lane site and reported that the Skate Park
Coalition helped design the model. He described the model of the proposed skate park and
the position in which the park would be placed on the Snyder Lane site. Mr. Cohen reported
alternatives for access into the facility on Snyder Lane near the Community Center. The
Commission suggests the addition of a climbing wall. The fence is 8 feet tall enclosing the
facility. Recommended a wrought -iron fence. The skate park is lower than the surrounding
area and would be hidden from the view of people entering from Snyder Lane. Gary Young
talked about having art produced by young artists. Sponsor signs on the inside of the fence
and art work on the outside of the fence to help keep it visually hidden. Skaters will not
disturb attendees to events at the Performing Arts Center. Mr. Cohen shared that Performing
Arts Center Director Michael Grice indicated that he would prefer to have the park closed
when events are taking place at the Performing Arts Center. Mr. Cohen reported that the
skate park would be closed and locked during such events.
Once a site is selected for the permanent park, the cement pad left by the temporary park may
be used for parking for the Community Center, Sports Center and Performing Arts Center.
Mr. Cohen responded to Council inquiries regarding the projected costs of setting up and
landscaping the site. He estimated that with the help of volunteers providing the majority of
the labor, the cost would be estimated at $150,000. The estimated cost with a contractor
providing the labor would be approximately $200,000 to $250,000. Members of the Coalition
would perform fund - raising activities. Discussion ensued regarding materials to develop the
site, i.e. ramps, cement, fencing, etc. Mr. Cohen stated that the ramps and other facilities in
the park would be moveable so they could be relocated to the permanent site, leaving the
cement pad to be used as parking.
City of Rohnert Park City Council
Special Meeting: September 21, 2001
SKATE PARK LOCATION PUBLIC HEARING
Page 3 of 6
Further discussion included City Manager's response to questions regarding alternative sites
and a time frame for development. Discussion regarding the time period for the Wellness
Center (5 year) and the Vision Teen Center (5 year) time frame for development.
PUBLIC HEARING: (continued from September 11, 2001)
Mayor Mackenzie read the statement from the petition: "There is a proposal before the City
of Rohnert Park to build a skateboard park in the vacant lot in front of the Spreckels
Performing Arts Center on Snyder Lane. W, e the undersigned, do not support this location. "
The petition was given to the City Manager as part of the official record of the public hearing.
Mayor Mackenzie opened the Public Hearing stating that speakers will be limited to 5 minutes
for presentations and asked Mr. Netter to keep time.
Jonah Larkin, 1451 Southwest Blvd.: Mr. Larkin reported that the Skate Park Coalition of
Rohnert Park has been meeting every Monday evening at 7 :00 p.m. at the Community Center.
He invited participants and interested people to attend the meetings. He also pointed out that
the coalition had T -shirts for sale at the back of the room. Mr. Larkin inquired about the time
frame of the proposed northeast development. He questioned what would happen if the
northeast section is not developed for at least 10 years and the skate park is put on hold.
Cameron Yarbrough Co -owner of Gone Surfing, University _5q.. Member of Skate Park
Coalition said they must raise over $200,000 within the span of months to develop a park in
the community. He asked the Council to amend their commitment with a promise that a viable
site would be provided until a long term, permanent site is completed. Gone Surfing plans to
donate money to the park, but could not responsibly donate money to the project if it has no
guarantee of a long term viability.
Bill Adams, 716 Brett Ave.: In favor of skateboards, skateboarding and parks when they are
properly put together. He stated that he hopes it works and is in a place where people can use
it and discussed the ambiance for the Community Center with the skate park there. Mr.
Adams expressed his concern regarding graffiti. He talked about parks in other Sonoma
communities. He also expressed his concern for the safety of skaters if safety equipment is
not required and who would enforce its use.
Terriann McGowen 1040 San Francisco: Ms. McGowen thanked the City Council for
scheduling the special meeting in light of current events. She distributed the rules and
regulations and requirements to illustrate organization of skateboarding. She provided 409
signed petitions in favor of the skate park, indicating that the skateboarders would take part in
the Founder's Day parade, booth and demonstrations.
Ms. McGowen explained her reasons for preference of the Snyder Lane location for the skate
park, saying that it is close to an emergency medical center should anyone get hurt. The park
will close during Performing Arts Center special events. She explained that the boards to be
placed on the fence enclosing the park will be sold to local businesses for advertising. The
graffiti seen in other parks is usually done by visitors other than the skaters.
Ms. McGowen indicated considerations to think about concerning the Vision Teen Center
location. It is close to emergency vehicles with a new exit near Public Safety and children
may get in the way of vehicles coming and going. Have $60,000 bond money that can be
City of Rohnert Park City Council
Special Meeting: September 21, 2001
SKATE PARK LOCATION PUBLIC HEARING
Page 4 of 6
givell to t11e %Vtt11t1V11 wiles file periTiailcilt park is tv uc built. She aJl{ed fVr a pr olljiJe tjlat
the $250,000 be paid back if the park has to move.
Mayor Mackenzie asked that a copy of the petitions be made for the record.
Janice Brown, 4438 Hollingsworth Cr.: Commented on the estimated price of the skate park
by stating she called the YMCA in San Diego and they are building their 3rd park (27,000 sq.
ft.) above ground at approx. $120,000. She added the cement pad would be about $70,000.
Ms. Brown addressed the issue of graffiti by presenting a picture of a park sign in a
Healdsburg park. The sign states that the park, in case of damage or graffiti, would be closed
until damage is repaired and /or removed. She stated that the Coalition has made plans to have
extra paint available to paint over graffiti. Also a warning sign of safety equipment rules
should be provided /posted.
Ms. Brown stated that she and Ms. McGowen were co -chair and Public Relations
Coordinators of the Skate Park Coalition. She named other members of the Coalition and
their functions. Ms. Brown indicated that she had completed the State and IRS applications to
become incorporated. She reported that youth education will be conducted with the help of
Public Safety. Concerts and other fund - raisers are planned, including a pasta feed. They just
need a place for the park.
Ms. Brown stated pros and cons for each proposed location and was in support of the Snyder
Lane Community Center location.
Eric Brown, 4438 Hollingsworth Cr.: Mr. Brown explained that skateboarding to him is not
just a form of transportation, it is a sport and he would like to have a perfect place where it
would be safe to go skating. He is in favor of the Snyder Lane location because it is close to
the "Ranch" where he and his friends attend school.
Cindy Peterson, 4431 Hickory Way: Ms. Peterson introduced herself as a member of the
Skate Park Coalition - a BMX bike mom. Rohnert Park needs a skate park. The popularity of
skateboarding is increasing. They are finding out that there are a lot of people that want to
learn to skate. Sporting goods manufacturers conducted a survey in Sonoma County and
found that skateboarding has grown faster than soccer. Ms. Peterson talked about the
different locations where parks are available. The X Games have had a large influence on
skating. She stated that the sport would be good for Rohnert Park businesses, i.e. sporting
goods, clothing, food and soft drinks.
Renee Reed 8188 El Rancho Drive Cotati: Ms. Reed stated that it is important to select a
temporary location that would remain throughout the process of locating, building and
completing the permanent park. She supports the Snyder Lane location. Youth self- esteem is
built through their skating accomplishments.
Tim Danesi 6400 Meadow Pine Ave.: Consider another alternative site - Alicia Pool. He
suggested using it as a skate park instead of a pool due to the lack of use as a pool. It has a
fence, a snack bar and clubhouse. It would save the City money in construction costs and a
BMX bike track might be considered as well.
City of Rohnert Park City Council
Special Meeting: September 21, 2001
SKATE PARK LOCATION PUBLIC HEARING
Page 5 of 6
Lionell Rocha, 904 Joanne Ct.: Mr. Rocha stated he would feel more comfortable if the skate
park was at Snyder Lane since his son attends school nearby and he would know where his
son was. Skateboarding is a sport, and skating events and competitions would be held.
Art Leones 1485 Jasmine Circle: His residence faces the empty lot of the Community Center
area and he is against that location. Traffic congestion on Snyder Lane is terrible. When
school lets out at 3:00 p.m. the police are there to help with traffic. He raised the question
asking if there would be time restrictions for operating the park.
Stella Spring, 936 Civic Center Dr. #1: Ms. Spring stated that it has become very difficult to
think about a skate park with recent events. She said she is a single parent and it is becoming
very expensive to live here. Would like the Snyder Lane Park.
Council Discussion/Action:
Mayor Mackenzie thanked everyone for their thoughtful comments and courteous behavior
toward others with opposing views.
During City Council discussion, the following comments and concerns were offered:
• Rules, enforcement and operation; the noise level should be registered before building the
skate park and again after. Then decide whether or not the money should be spent to build
a sound barrier.
• Drugs and graffiti addressed in conjunction with Public Safety.
• There is a need for a skate park in the City of Rohnert Park.
• The design presented in the model is a good design. The moveable equipment inside the
park is a good idea.
• Wellness Center site is close to Snyder Lane and may be a more acceptable site than the
Performing Arts Center site. Concern was expressed regarding the impact on the
ambiance and events of the Performing Arts Center by the skate park.
• Significant time and energy had been spent on the research for a suitable site.
• Include a temporary skate park in the modification of the lease with the Wellness Center.
• Council expressed its commitment to building a skate park for the skaters in Rohnert Park.
• Donor is prepared to donate $200,000 for a skate park, using one -third of the donation for
the temporary park.
• Of parks visited, the Healdsburg park was the best park: 75% helmets and 75% pads; zero
tolerance policy on graffiti, but parking was limited. A lot of community involvement
with the park in Healdsburg.
• Concern was offered regarding the Wellness Center representatives and medical offices
not being presented the opportunity to make comments regarding the temporary skate park
being built on that site.
Questions were posed to City Manager Netter by City Council regarding the lease with the
Wellness Center. Mr. Netter responded that the window is still open and the lease would have
to be amended. He stated that he did not feel that the first phase of the project should be
jeopardized.
City of Rohnert Park City Council SKATE PARK LOCATION PUBLIC HEARING
Special Meeting: September 21, 2001 Page 6 of 6
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wluetore: <-o U1H:11111G111ber 1'lor Cis presented a motion, o�.a.o11u vy
Vidak- Martinez, to designate the area near the Wellness Center for the skate
park as recommended by Staff.
Council Discussion: A question was directed to Mr. Netter regarding the amount of land.
Mr. Netter answered that the site is 32,000 square feet. He suggested a sound
buffer of trees, etc.
Roll Call Vote: Mr. Netter called for a vote as follows: Councilmember Flores - Aye;
Councilmember Reilly - Aye; Councilmember Vidak - Martinez - Aye; Mayor
Mackenzie — Aye. Upon a vote of four (4) Ayes, and zero (0) Nays, the
Wellness Center site was approved for the temporary skate park.
Mayor Mackenzie stated his appreciation of the conduct of the participants in the process.
Mr. Netter stated that the skate park location will be on the City Council meeting agenda of
Tuesday, September 25. Therefore, calls will be placed to the representatives of the Wellness
Center to obtain an answer regarding any constraints whatsoever.
Adjournment: The City Council Special meeting was adjourned at 8:52 p.m.
A4
Marlyn K er, Recordin ecretary
e ackenzie, Mayor
City of Rohnert Park