The URL can be used to link to this page

2015/08/25 City Council Agenda Packet (Special Meeting with Parks & Rec Commission) City of Rohnert Park  130 Avram Avenue  Rohnert Park, California 94928 PHONE: (707) 588-2227 FAX: (707) 794-9248  WEB: www.rpcity.org ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION JOINT SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL MEETING Will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2015 Open Session: 7:00 p.m. or soon thereafter as City Council agenda permits MEETING LOCATION: CITY HALL - COUNCIL CHAMBER 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, California The Rohnert Park City Council welcomes your attendance, interest and participation at its regular city meetings scheduled on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. City Council/RPFA agendas and minutes may be viewed at the City’s website: www.rpcity.org. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Council/RPFA may discuss and/or take action on any or all of the items listed on this agenda. If you challenge decisions of the City Council or the Rohnert Park Financing Authority of the City of Rohnert Park in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at public hearing(s) described in this agenda, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Rohnert Park at, or prior to the public hearing(s). RIGHT TO APPEAL: Judicial review of any city administrative decision pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.5 may be had only if a petition is filed with the court no later than the deadlines specified in Section 1094.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, which generally limits the time within which the decision may be challenged to the 90th day following the date that the decision becomes final. SIMULTANEOUS MEETING COMPENSATION DISCLOSURE (Government Code § 54952.3): Members of the City Council receive no additional compensation as a result of convening this joint meeting of the City Council and the Rohnert Park Financing Authority. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Provides an opportunity for public comment on items not listed on the agenda, or on agenda items if unable to comment at the scheduled time (limited to three minutes per appearance and a 30 minute total time limit, or allocation of time determined by Presiding Officer based on number of speaker cards submitted). PLEASE FILL OUT A SPEAKER CARD PRIOR TO SPEAKING ANNOUNCEMENT: Please turn off all pagers, cellular telephones and all other communication devices upon entering the Council Chamber. Use of these devices causes electrical interference with the sound recording and TV broadcast systems. Mission Statement “We Care for Our Residents by Working Together to Build a Better Community for Today and Tomorrow.” City of Rohnert Park Joint Special Meeting Agenda August 25, 2015 for City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission Page 2 of 3 1. CITY COUNCIL/PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL (Callinan __ Mackenzie__ Stafford __ Belforte __ Ahanotu __) (Borr __ Black__ Canterbury __ Griffin __ Bird __) 2. STUDY SESSION FOR REVIEW OF PARKS AND RECREATION Study/work sessions are less formal and public comment is encouraged throughout the session as matters are discussed. Per City Council Protocols (adopted by Resolution 2015-047) section I.D, a study/work session is for the purpose of hearing reports from the staff, receiving public comment and reviewing, discussing, and debating matters of interest to the City. No official action may be taken at a study session. However, Council may refer the item to staff with specific requests for information or provide specific direction to staff. During study/work sessions, Council members may ask questions of staff. For those questions that staff cannot immediately answer, responses will be provided for the Council in writing or at a future Council meeting. A. Discuss Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan B. Discuss Approaches to Park Development C. Discuss Park Development Review Process D. Discuss Other Parks and Recreation Issues E. Review Action Items 3. PUBLIC COMMENTS Persons wishing to address the Council on City business not listed on the Agenda may do so at this time. Each speaker will be allotted three minutes. Those wishing to address the Council on any report item listed on the Agenda should submit a “Speaker Card” to the City Clerk before announcement of that agenda item. 4. ADJOURNMENT City of Rohnert Park Joint Special Meeting Agenda August 25, 2015 for City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission Page 3 of 3 NOTE: Time shown for any particular matter on the agenda is an estimate only. Matters may be considered earlier or later than the time indicated depending on the pace at which the meeting proceeds. If you wish to speak on an item under discussion by the Council which appears on this agenda, after receiving recognition from the Mayor, please walk to the rostrum and state your name and address for the record. Any item raised by a member of the public which is not on the agenda and may require Council action shall be automatically referred to staff for investigation and disposition which may include placing on a future agenda. If the item is deemed to be an emergency or the need to take action arose after posting of the agenda within the meaning of Government Code Section 54954.2(b), Council is entitled to discuss the matter to determine if it is an emergency item under said Government Code and may take action thereon. DISABLED ACCOMMODATION: If you have a disability which requires an interpreter or other person to assist you while attending this City Council meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (707) 588-2227 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting to ensure arrangements for accommodation by the City. Please notify the City Clerk’s Office as soon as possible if you have a visual impairment requiring meeting materials to be produced in another format (Braille, audio-tape, etc.) AGENDA REPORTS & DOCUMENTS: Copies of all staff reports and documents subject to disclosure that relate to each item of business referred to on the agenda are available for public inspection at City Hall located at 130 Avram Avenue, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Any writings or documents subject to disclosure that are provided to all, or a majority of all, of the members of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda after the agenda has been distributed will also be made available for inspection at City Hall during regular business hours. CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA I, JoAnne Buergler, City Clerk for the City of Rohnert Park, declare that the foregoing agenda for the August 25, 2015 Joint Regular Meeting of the Rohnert Park City Council/Parks and Recreation Commission was posted and available for review on August 20, 2015, at Rohnert Park City Hall, 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, California 94928. The agenda is also available on the City web site at www.rpcity.org, Executed this 20th day of August, 2015 at Rohnert Park, California. ___________________________________________ JoAnne M. Buergler, City Clerk Joint City Council & Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting August 25, 2015 Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan Presentation Parks Master Plan –Overview Adopted in 2008 after 3 year process Guidance for programming and designing parks and for the renovation and maintenance existing parks Suggests annual review and updating Parks Master Plan –Overview Review of Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan Recommendations: ◦Three Major Goals ◦Park Improvements and Amenities ◦Funding Sources Next Steps Discussion Parks Master Plan –Goals #1 Goal-Provide safe, clean and well maintained parks and facilities to meet the diverse needs of a changing and growing community. ◦Park Classifications ◦Maintain 5 Acres/ 1,000 Residents ◦Develop Park Maintenance Standards ◦Renovate Existing Parks System of Parks–Goals System of Parks–Goals System of Parks–Goals Parks Master Plan –Goals #2 Goal-Create and enhance and positive community image to strengthen livability and sense of place through outstanding parks, facilities and programs. ◦Provide Recreation to meet diverse and changing community ◦Opportunities for Social Gatherings ◦Health and Wellness Opportunities ◦Unified Identity for Parks Parks Master Plan –Goals CALLINAN SPORTS & FITNESS CENTER CRAFTS FAIRE PARTY-ON-THE-PLAZA Parks Master Plan –Goals #3 Goal-Ensure the financial health and sustainability of Rohnert Park’s comprehensive recreation, parks and open space system, including special purpose facilities. ◦Comprehensive Funding Approach ◦New Sources of Revenue ◦Funding for Future Development ◦Pursue Grants ◦Adopt CIP for short & long term projects Parks Master Plan –Improvements & Amenities System Wide ◦Update and construct paths of travel ◦Add amenities to current system ◦Replace and enhance park signage ◦Remove under utilized play structures ◦Combine Parks Maintenance with Recreation ◦Develop Park Asset Inventory Parks Master Plan –Improvements & Amenities System Wide Amenities ◦Add skate features, bocce courts and climbing structures to satisfy evolving interests and trends ◦Integrate play areas with picnic and family gathering areas ◦Create play areas for multi-age use ◦Add play features, water slides, & new programs for pools program Parks Master Plan –Improvements & Amenities Parks Master Plan –Improvements & Amenities Parks Master Plan –Improvements & Amenities Parks Master Plan –Improvements & Amenities Park Specific Improvements Portion of the Park Improvements by Park Parks Master Plan –Funding Strategies ◦Grants ◦General Obligation Bonds ◦Revenue Bonds ◦Impact Fees ◦Special Assessment District ◦User Fees ◦Tax Increment Financing ◦Benefit District Parks Master Plan –Funding Strategies ◦Dedication of Land (or Fees) ◦Sales Tax (sub funded) ◦Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) ◦Public-Private Partnerships ◦Outsourcing ◦Establish Non-profit ◦Painter with Local Universities Next Steps Annual Review of Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan Park Audits Continue to incorporate Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan Recommendations ◦City’s CIP ◦Development of new Parks ◦Maintenance Practices Discussion Public Comment Questions Comments Joint City Council & Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Park Development Process August 25, 2015 Overview Review Documents & Policies that Guide Park Development Explain the Parks & Recreation Commission’s role in Park Development Update on Planned Developments Discuss Proposed Changes to Process Discuss Methods of Park Development Next Steps City Authority for Park Requirements General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park General Plan Adopted in 2000 and amended several times Establishes need for parks based on anticipated population Inventory of parks within the community Identifies approximate acres of new parks expected within each new development area City Authority for Park Requirements General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park Subdivision Map Act (Quimby Act) Primary law gives cities the power to collect a park fee or get a land dedication for parks ◦Minimum = 3 acres/1,000 residents in a subdivision ◦Maximum = 5 acres/1,000 residents in a subdivision ◦City uses maximum Quimby standard Specific Plan / Planning Development Park Acres University District SPA 22 Southeast SPA 6 Northeast SPA 15 Northwest SPA 5 Sonoma Mountain Village 23 Stadium Lands PD 0 Wilfred Dowdell SPA 0 Total 48 Stadium Lands PD City Authority for Park Requirements General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park Parks Master Plan –Development Specific Recommendations Policy 1.3 Ensure new development meets the 5 acres per 1,000 residents park land dedication standards for active recreation needs 1.3.1 Encourage “turn-key” park development in lieu of accepting fees 1.3.2 Expand the development of park lands to increase the variety of park types 1.3.3 Include Parks and Recreation staff in park development and design review Park Land, Turned into a Park Land with Amenities Developed Overtime Park Land, Turned into a Park Land with Amenities Developed Overtime Key Considerations •Length of time to fund and construct amenities •Neighbor limitations/concerns about park amenities •Overall cohesiveness and planning of park •Place to do more informal kinds of recreation •Opportunity to develop community led amenities •Amenity development best practices and aesthetics may be compromised •Maintenance may be more costly and difficult Park, Built with Development Credit for Park Construction Awarded Turn -key Park Amenities Park, Built with Development Credit for Park Construction Awarded “Turn -Key” Parks Key Considerations •Length of time to construct amenities shorter •Home buyers purchase with amenities in place •Park enhances desirability of home purchase •Integrated park plan ensuring high functioning and aesthetics of park •Facilitates ease of maintenance, infrastructure completed with amenities Parks Master Plan –Development Specific Recommendations Policy 3.3 Develop funding policies for future development ◦3.3.1 Ensure implementation of park development ordinances to meet the standards for specific plans and infill development All three of documents are in agreement on addition of parks and acres to be added for new developments Opportunities exist to incorporate the suggested amenities as parks are developed General Plan, Subdivision Map Act and Parks & Facilities Master Plan Summary General Plan, Subdivision Map Act and Parks & Facilities Master Plan Public Comment Questions Comments Approaches to Park Development ◦Land Dedication Only ◦“Turn -key” Parks General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park City Authority for Park Requirements General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park Specific Plan & Planned Developments Implements the General Plan and Parks and Facilities Master Plan. Refines placement and design Specific Plan / Planning Development (Parks) Required Park Acres Delivery Philosophy Quimby Land University District –Brookfield Homes 22 13.7 Turnkey Parks + Open Space & Trails Southeast 6 5.0 Turnkey Park + Open Space University District –City Ventures -Gee 0.6 --Fees Only University District –City Ventures -CRPUSD 2 --Turnkey Park Northeast 15 --To be Determined Northwest 5 --To be Determined Sonoma Mountain Village 23 --To be Determined University District (Brookfield) - Parks Oak Grove Park Twin Creeks Park Southeast Park University District –City Ventures Parks Gee CRPUSD City Authority for Park Requirements General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park Development Plan Review Process (Zoning Ordinance) Parks and Recreation Commission Planning Commission City Council Prelim. Development Plan R D A -Credits acceptable?D A Final Development Plan R R D -Amount of credit D A R = Recommendation D = Decision A = Appeal Map Review Process (Subdivision Ordinance) Parks and Recreation Commission Planning Commission City Council Tentative Map (size & location) C R D -Park Dedication R R D -Should credits be allowed?R R D -Determination of credit D --A -Cost and Design ----D Final Map R*--D C = Comments required before application goes to PC R = Recommendation D = Decision A = Appeal * = Recommendation to City Engineer only City Authority for Park Requirements General Plan Subdivision Map Act Parks & Facilities Master Plan Specific Plan / Planned Developments Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Park Development Review Process Key Issues Process for parks is overly complex ◦Multiple hearings -multiple hearing bodies ◦Internally inconsistent between zoning and subdivision codes ◦Code allows for the City to contradict earlier decisions with later decisions Development Review Process Proposed Changes Goals and Objectives Simplify and streamline review process Make the review processes more consistent Help ensure relevancy of topics to Commission’s charge Parks go to decision making bodies once Monetary decisions made by the City Council Development Review Process Zoning Ordinance -Recommended Changes Parks and Recreation Commission Planning Commission City Council Specific Plans / Planned Developments Current Proposed Current Proposed Current Proposed Prelim. Development Plan R --D R A D -Credits acceptable?D --A D -Detailed review of parks --Comment*n/a n/a -Final Development Plan R R D -Amount of credit D Part of Final --Part of Final A D R = Recommendation D = Decision A = Appeal * Input from Parks required prior to submittal of Final Development Plan Development Review Process Subdivision Ordinance -Recommended Changes Parks and Recreation Commission Planning Commission City Council Subdivision Maps Current Proposed Current Proposed Current Proposed Tentative Map (size and location of Park and improvements)C R D -Detailed review of parks * -Park Dedication (16.14)R Part of TM R Part of TM D Part of TM -Should credits be allowed?R Part of TM R Part of TM D Part of TM -Determination of credit D Part of TM -- -- Part of TM A Part of TM -Cost and Design --Part of TM --Part of TM D Part of TM Final Map R*----D C = Comments required before application goes to Planning Commission R = Recommendation D = Decision A = Appeal * = Input from Parks required as part of review process ** = Recommendation to City Engineer Next Steps / Discussion Annual reports on Parks Master Plan Municipal Code Updates to Zoning and Subdivision ITEM NO. 2 1 Meeting Date: August 25, 2015 Department: Community Services/Development Services Submitted By: John McArthur, Director of Public Works and Community Services and Mary Grace Pawson, Acting Director of Development Services Prepared By: Mary Grace Pawson, Acting Director of Development Services Agenda Title: Joint Special Meeting of the City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission RECOMMENDED ACTION: Discussion and Direction on the City’s Park and Recreation Facilities Master Plan (Master Plan), Approaches to Park Development and the Park Development Review Process BACKGROUND: As the local economy continues to recover from the impacts of the recession, the City is actively working to implement the vision outlined in its General Plan. This implementation work includes the review and approval of new residential subdivisions. State law and the City’s Municipal Code outline requirements for dedication of new parks to serve new development. The park size and amenities included in these new parks are to be guided by the recommendations of the City’s Master Plan, the City’s Subdivision Ordinance (Rohnert Park Municipal Code Title 16) and the City’s Zoning Ordinance (Rohnert Park Municipal Code Title 17). The Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission), Planning Commission and the City Council have important review, approval and oversight roles with respect to the Master Plan and the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances. The Master Plan, which was adopted in 2008 and is included as Attachment 1, contains a recommendation that the plan be reviewed and updated on an annual basis. This has not occurred consistently and the joint special meeting provides an opportunity for the Council and Commission to review the recommendations and provide any additional direction to staff with respect to updates and implementation. In addition, as staff has worked with various project applicants to bring forward proposals for new residential development, it has become clear that the review and approval process is not straightforward, in part because the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances outline parallel complex processes that are not consistent. The joint special meeting provides an opportunity for the Council and Commission to review current and pending development proposals and the approach to park development. The joint special meeting also provides an opportunity for Council and Commission to review the current development review process and to provide input to staff on modifications to the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances that are being developed to streamline the process, reduce potential inconsistencies, and clarify the roles of the City’s Commissions and City Council. Mission Statement “We Care for Our Residents by Working Together to Build a Better Community for Today and Tomorrow.” CITY OF ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT ITEM NO. 2 2 OPTIONS CONSIDERED: NA FISCAL IMPACT/FUNDING SOURCE: NA Department Head Approval Date: NA City Manager Approval Date: 08/17/2015 City Attorney Approval Date: NA Finance Director Approval Date: NA Attachments: 1. Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Facilities Master Plan (April 2008) master plan Rohnert Park parks and recreation facilities April 2008 City of Rohnert Park 6750 Commerce Blvd. Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-588-2200 www.rpcity.org Designed by MIG, Inc. | Berkeley, California | www.migcom.com April 2008 Prepared by Parks and recreation facili- ties are the touchstone of rohnert Park’s neighborhoods, contributing to a sense of place and playing a key role in the health and wellness of all residents. as one of the region’s first planned communities, rohnert Park was designed around a vision- ary framework for parks, schools and neighborhoods. as the com- munity grew, the city made sure to integrate parks, pathways and open spaces into new development. as a result of that foresight, residents today enjoy one of the premier com- munity parks and recreation systems in the north Bay. Parks and recreation remain a central component of rohnert Park’s iden- tity. at playgrounds, in parks, and at facilities across the city, children and youth engage in healthy, active play. older residents take advantage of diverse recreation and health pro- grams. the entire community enjoys a wide range of sports programs, cultural events, and arts and educa- tional opportunities. as a result, the community retains a unique identity and stays healthy and connected. this Parks and recreation Master Plan will build upon the excellent tradition established by the city of rohnert Park. the culmination of three years of effort, the Master Plan is grounded in an extensive public involvement process guided by the citizen-led Parks, recreation and open space committee. the Plan provides updated guidelines and recommendations to further enhance the existing parks and recreational facilities within the framework pro- vided by the original community plan. it will help guide the develop- ment of new recreational programs and services for residents of all ages and abilities, and will serve as an overarching plan to reconfigure the community’s parks and facilities to support current and future commu- nity interests. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | foreword Parks are the essence of Rohnert Park neighborhoods 2 | city of rohnert p A rk acknowledgements Rohnert Park City Council Members Jake Mackenzie, Mayor Pam stafford, Vice-Mayor amie L. Breeze tim smith Vicki Vidak-Martinez Parks and Recreation Commission Gerald Griffin, chair Michael Bird, Vice-chair richard armerding nick aronis Bonnie L. Black Parks, Recreation and Open Space Committee (PROS) daniel Blanquie, chair susan adams richard armerding nick aronis Michael Bird Bonnie L. Black tim danesi Gerald Griffin tom Hansen, Former Member cindy Peterson Linda sanders, Former Member Pam stafford City Administration stephen r. donley, city Manager daniel schwarz, assistant city Manager thomas r. Bullard, director of Public safety ron Bendorff, director of community development Judy Hauff, city clerk darrin W. Jenkins, director of Public Works/city engineer Michelle Marchetta kenyon, city attorney Ben Winig, assistant city attorney James atencio, assistant city attorney sandra M. Lipitz, director of administrative services Guy Miller, recreation services Manager Consultants MiG, inc. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | executive summary Int RO du C t IO n the Park and recreation Facilities Master Plan for rohnert Park serves as a guiding document for preserving and enhanc- ing the city’s high qual- ity park and recreation system to meet current and future recreation needs. the Plan presents strategies for creating a well managed parks and recreation program, and serves as an annual work plan for the Parks and recreation commission. it also includes specific goals and policies to improve decision making, and it details the costs associated with implementing capital projects. drawing from extensive public input gathered over three years by the Parks recreation and open space committee (Pros), the Master Plan confirms the high level of satisfaction residents have for their parks and recreation facilities. rohnert Park residents place great value on their parks, and they want to improve and maintain the existing parks and facilities. Pros committed numerous hours meeting with community organizations and active sports groups to learn about participation trends, use patterns and future needs. rohnert Park is an active community with a high participation in sports, arts and culture. Popular outdoor activities such as walking and gardening will continue to be an important part of life in rohnert Park. at the same time, | city of rohnert p A rk executive summary residents are interested in new activi- ties that may require new or updated facilities, such as skate parks, lacrosse fields, all weather fields, and bocce ball courts. compared to other northern cali- fornia cities, rohnert Park has a large amount of acreage dedicated to parks, as well as many special pur- pose facilities. the city’s abundant parks and recreation facilities con- tribute to the connectivity, character, health and culture of the community. neighborhoods, parks and schools are connected through a network of pathways, and parks help to define the nature of many neighborhoods. rohnert Park is also a leader in pro- moting health and wellness. When the callinan sports center opened in rohnert Park in 1985, it was one of the first public health and fitness facilities in california. other recre- ational and cultural amenities include golf courses, a lake and the popular spreckels Performing arts center. as future development occurs, the city can enhance the existing park system by implementing a greater va- riety of park types, including green- belts and larger community parks, to serve multiple needs. G OA l S the Master Plan presents three over- arching goals to aid in the develop- ment of new parks, as well as the renovation and care of existing parks and facilities: • Provide safe, clean and well-main- tained parks and facilities to meet the diverse needs of a changing and growing community • create and enhance a positive community image to strengthen livability and sense of place through outstanding parks, facilities and programs • ensure the financial health and sustainability for rohnert Park’s comprehensive recreation, parks and open space system, including special purpose facilities C API tA l I MPRO ve M ent Pl A n (CIP) the Master Plan recommends a num- ber of capital projects, categorized as short or long term. the recommen- dations for these projects are based on extensive community feedback gathered throughout the planning process. short-term projects are on a six-year planning cycle and incorpo- rate renovation projects annually. the six-year planning timeframe means that the community’s needs can be The Plan serves as an annual work plan for the Parks and Recreation Commission p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | met swiftly, resulting in improved safety and enhanced maintenance and operations for the park system. key projects include a skate park, up- dated children’s play areas, and year- round sports turf for athletic fields. the city will establish a financing strategy to implement a capital improvement Plan (ciP). Funding alternatives, such as grant programs and redevelopment funds, can aid in upgrading current parks and facilities, while new development can contrib- ute towards the construction of new parks and amenities. C O n C lu SIO n this Parks and recreation Facilities Master Plan is a resource that can be reviewed and adjusted annually in response to changing interests and community needs. community involvement will grow and foster increased support for parks and rec- reation in rohnert Park. as the com- munity evolves, parks and recreation facilities will remain a prominent and vibrant feature of rohnert Park neigh- borhoods, just as they are today. table of contents working for pl Ay: c re Ating the m A ster pl A n 1.1 Introduction ....................................................9 1.2 Public Participation: Methods and Key Findings* ......................................................0 1.3 Community Forum .......................................2 1.4 User Group Reports ..................................... 2 h ow we pl Ay: An A lysis of existing conditions A nd trends 2.1 Existing Conditions ...................................... 2.2 Organizational Structure ............................. 2.3 Recreation Resources ..................................6 2.4 Benchmarking and Comparisons ...............8 2.5 Key Trends ....................................................20 k ey findings A nd policy recommend Ations 3.1 Benefits of Parks and Recreation ................2 3.2 Goals and Policy Framework ......................27 pA rk improvement progr A m 4.1 System-Wide Improvements ....................... 4.2 Park-Specific Improvements .......................8 4.3 Capital Improvement Plan ..........................8 4.4 Description of Parks and Project Types ...... funding opportunities 5.1 Local Funding Sources ................................6 5.2 State Funding Sources ................................8 Appendix A: benchm A rks A.1 Park Acreage and Types ..............................2 A.2 Special Purpose Facilities ............................ A.3 Park Numbers and Acreage ........................ A ppendix b : gloss A ry of terms B.1 Park Planning Glossary ................................ A ppendix c : pA rk improvement opportunities C.1 Aerial Views of Selected Parks ....................7 p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 *Supporting documents can be viewed in the Supplemental Reports. I nt RO du C t IO n rohnert Park is a friendly community known for its attractive neighborhoods, abundant outdoor parks and open spaces, and healthy lifestyle. residents of all ages enjoy neighborhood parks, pathways that promote pedestrian travel, and state- of-the-art facilities supporting arts, recreation and sports. incorporated in 1962, the city of rohnert Park covers six square miles and is home to 43,000 people. Located half- way between Petaluma and santa rosa, rohnert Park contributes greatly to the cultural and economic vitality of sonoma county with a robust business climate and the well-known sonoma state Univer- sity. Parks and recreation have been integral to rohnert Park’s identity since its inception, when neighbor- hoods were designed around parks and schools. rohnert Park’s civic leaders are committed to enhancing parks and recreational opportunities for all residents as new growth continues into the 21st century. to determine what types of enhancements the community needs, in January 2005 the city council created Pros, the Parks, recreation and open space committee, charging it to prepare a parks, recreation and open space master plan. this citizen committee worked steadily over three years working for play creating the master plan c H a P ter one p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 9 The Parks Recreation and Open Space Committee (PROS) collected public input for three years chapter one 0 | city of rohnert p A rk to assess community needs, identify trends in recreation activity, and appraise the current parks and rec- reation system. Pros is committed to strengthening the sense of place and community image that parks and recreation help shape. to take the work of the Pros com- mittee further, the city of rohnert Park hired MiG, inc. to complete a technical review of the parks and recreation program, incorporate public input and citizen comments, and create a comprehensive Parks and recreation Facilities Master Plan for the future. P u B l IC PAR t ICIPAt IO n : M et HO d S A nd K e Y FI nd I n GS the members of the Parks, recre- ation and open space committee met regularly to plan and coordinate public participation opportunities and document all feedback received from residents. Pros worked side by side with city staff to make sure all segments of the community pro- vided information about recreation activities, community needs and emerging interests. the Pros com- mittee met nearly 40 times over the last two years, with the purpose of improving parks and recreation facili- ties for current and future rohnert Park residents. this Master Plan is a record of their legacy and will serve as a guiding document for years to come. the committee engaged the public through a variety of methods, includ- ing focus groups, surveys, commu- nity forums and public reports. the findings from each of these outreach methods are described below, while the full report can be viewed in the supplemental reports. focus groups in 2006, Pros conducted 19 focus groups to learn about current trends in recreation, understand how the community uses its facilities, and gauge the public’s desire for future parks and programs. attendees at the focus groups included representa- tives from sports and fitness organi- zations serving over 4,000 children and adults annually, as well as service working for play: creating the master plan p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | groups assisting more than 1,000 resi- dents. stakeholder groups represent- ed a wide variety of interests, from members of the community band to lacrosse players to youth and commu- nity development advocates. Many of the key findings from the focus groups pertained to sports facilities. • the majority of groups interviewed expect to see moderate increases in program participation over the next several years. • Many outdoor sports organizations are interested in expanding active sports fields in rohnert Park, as they are limited by field access. • the community expressed inter- est in having all-weather turf fields added to the park system to im- prove drainage and decrease field damage to better accommodate year-round play of baseball and softball, soccer and other sports. • several sports organizations expressed interest in expanding restroom and concession facilities due to the growing popularity of tournament play. • Many sports groups also use other facilities such as schools, partner with other providers to leverage resources, and contribute volun- teers when assistance is needed for small projects. • Most groups are willing to share costs for field maintenance or con- tribute towards expanding facilities to maintain the quality park system residents have today. community wide online survey Pros members also surveyed the community online to solicit feedback on the current parks system, identify preferences for parks and facilities, and determine the level of willing- ness to pay for parks and facilities improvements and maintenance. the survey was available online for over four months in the winter and spring of 2006 and advertised through a variety of media, including a notice in the recreation department’s activ- ity Guide, direct mailers to every rohnert Park household, letters to the editor in local publications, flyers, banners and website links. More than 1,200 residents participated in the survey, representing a 3 % rate of participation for rohnert Park’s 43,000 residents. the results of this survey show that generally, rohnert Park residents are satisfied with cur- rent parks and facilities and strongly agree that parks and recreation are a valuable resource for all residents. additional key findings are highlight- ed on the following page. Rohnert Park residents are very active; visiting parks and facilities nearly three times a week chapter one 2 | city of rohnert p A rk • More than 40 percent of respon- dents visit city parks, pools or recreation facilities three times a week or more. • respondents listed walking as the most popular activity, followed by visiting playgrounds, swimming, relaxing and picnicking. • Biking, fitness classes and tennis rounded out the most popular rec- reation activities for respondents. • rohnert Park residents want to improve both the quality and safety of the city parks, pools and recreation buildings. —Nearly 70 percent of respon- dents gave the parks a ‘B’ grade or higher (rating the current overall physical condition of City parks, pools and recreation buildings) —55 percent of survey respon- dents gave the City a ‘B’ or higher when asked about the current level of security and public safety for facility or pro- gram users. • residents are willing to pay for safe, clean and green parks. —Over 70 percent of respondents would support a new tax or assessment dedicated to parks and recreation to provide funds for the operation and mainte- nance of parks and recreation facilities. —More than 69 percent would support a tax or assessment to provide funds for making capital improvements to existing City parks and recreation facilities. • the highest priorities mentioned included: trails, places for after school programs, youth sports, and adding trees to parks and streets. • respondents voiced support for: a venue for community-wide events and outdoor concerts; programs for aging adults and special populations; indoor swim- ming opportunities; and children’s playgrounds. C OMM un I t Y F OR u M Pros members hosted a commu- nity forum in the spring of 2007 that attracted 20 residents to discuss issues related to the future of parks and recreation in rohnert Park. at this forum, meeting participants cited similar interests and needs as those identified through the online survey and in the focus groups. Many people attending the forum also encouraged rohnert Park to expand partnership agreements, and several supported a skate park for youth. working for play: creating the master plan p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | uS e R G RO u P Re POR t S Parks and recreation enthusiasts answered the call from the city and Pros to provide information and ideas for improving the parks and recreation system through a series of strategic reports. Highlights from these reports are detailed below (see supplemental reports). • the skate Parks ad-Hoc commit- tee of the Parks and recreation commission outlined recommen- dations for developing a skate park, including ideal parameters for locating such a facility, pro- posed size, cost estimates, and use patterns. • the rohnert Park tennis club of- fered suggestions for enhancing current tennis facilities. • residents active in aquatics pro- vided input for a detailed aquatic report on the city’s five swimming facilities, completed in 1999. the report addressed planning for rohnert Park’s aquatic operations to optimize the water experience, use, revenue generation, facility maintenance, and overall com- munity support for the facilities. aquatic enthusiasts desire to build upon the report and add new fea- tures to swimming pools. • a Park and recreation Facility audit was completed by an ad-hoc committee established by the Parks and recreation commission. the report recommended an orga- nizational structure that maximizes communication between the rec- reation and Public Works depart- ments to help prioritize mainte- nance, repair and replacement of park amenities and infrastructure within existing budget constraints. community members also noted the potential for miscommunica- tion between the city and commu- nity. Park maintenance and facility repair services are provided by the Public Works department, while scheduling, use and community in- terface services are coordinated by the recreation staff. other findings included: —Most of Rohnert Park’s recre- ational facilities and parks are showing signs of natural aging and are in need of repair. —Children’s play structures do not have adequate access for persons with limited mobility and would benefit from a transi- tion plan to meet the require- ments of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). Ph o t o : D a v i d B o j a n o w s k i p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | c H a P ter t W o how we play analysis of existing conditions and trends tHe FoLLoWinG section describes the current state of the park system and details the physi- cal, social and organizational trends that will impact the future of parks and recreation in rohnert Park. a benchmarking section compares the parks and recreation facilities in rohnert Park with other california communities and identifies the key findings of those comparisons. e XIS t I n G CO nd I t IO n S park and recreation services rohnert Park’s recreational facili- ties, trails, and neighborhood parks provide an abundance of oppor- tunities for individual health and fitness, as well as organized sports. city programs and services are coordinated for all ages in several community buildings. in addition to neighborhood-based facilities, rohnert Park residents benefit from two golf courses, a lake with an overlook, and a state of the art performing arts center. in Fiscal Year 2006-2007 the programs and facilities operated by the recre- ation department hosted 378,000 participation visits, not including attendance at activities at parks, tennis courts and sports fields. O RGA n I z At IO n A l St R u C tu R e several departments within the city deliver parks and recreation services. the recreation depart- ment manages the recreation facili- ties, swimming pools, and callinan sports center. recreation staff The City provides an abundance of opportunities for individual health and fitness chapter two 6 | city of rohnert p A rk plans and coordinates recreation ac- tivities and programs, and schedules parks and fields. the Public Works department provides park mainten- ance, including repairs. additionally, the spreckels Performing arts center offers high quality performing arts programs with its own dedicated staff. Re CR e At IO n Re SO u RC e S park land according to the 2000 General Plan, rohnert Park currently provides its 43,000 residents with 469 acres of neighborhood and community parks, golf courses and other recreational facilities. this translates to 11.8 acres per 1,000 residents, surpassing the General Plan’s goal of 5 acres of park land per 1,000 residents. Based on this analysis, the challenge for the city is not in providing ample park land acreage, but in offering rohnert Park residents a balance of recreational facility and programming opportunities. existing Park and recreation Facili- ties acreages from the 2000 General Plan are listed in table 1. note that the neighborhood, community and Mini-Parks category includes five acres for roberts Lake. other rec- reational Facilities category includes the now demolished crushers Base- ball stadium. also, it is known that acreage owned by the school district is included in the total. the Pros committee strongly recommends that the city conduct a city-wide park acreage audit as part of the General Plan Update initiated in 2008. in addition to Park and recreation acreage, there are other significant community open space resources Parks, Recreation Facilities and Open Space Acreage total Acres Acres per 1,000 Residents neighborhood, community and Mini-Parks 116 2.9 Golf courses 310 7.8 other recreational Facilities 43 1.1 tOtAl 469 11.8 Table 1. 2000 General Plan Park Acreages Other Community Open Space Resources Acres creekside open space 96 open space along street rights of Way 26 schools 126 tOtAl 248 Table 2. Open Space Resources how we play: analysis of existing conditions and trends p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 such as creekside open space, open space along street rights of Way and school lands. these other community open space acreages are shown in table 2 at left. outdoor recreation facilities recreational facilities are plentiful in rohnert Park. residents have access to numerous indoor and outdoor recreation facilities as shown in the following tables and text. in addition, four community centers of varying sizes provide programs and services for residents of all ages. indoor recreation facilities the recreation department manages a number of indoor facilities that pro- vide residents with a variety of rental space opportunities. these facilities are a strategic asset to the depart- ment and the community. community center complexes rohnert Park facilities offer residents a variety of social and recreational opportunities. the community center has numerous recreational classes. the callinan sports and Fitness center offers a health club experience, providing residents with ample opportunities to participate in health and fitness programming. the spreckels Performing arts facility is an impressive community asset that features regular theater and musi- cal performances and hosts other community events. • 20,000 square foot community center Building • 33,000 square foot sports center • 37,000 square foot Performing arts Facility neighborhood recreation centers neighborhood recreation centers provide space for an assortment of recreational and community pro- gramming activities. these smaller scale buildings are incorporated into parks, can be reserved for community events, and provide some program- ming as well. Facility type # tennis courts 26 Ball Fields 14 dog Parks 3 soccer Fields 9 Basketball courts 10 swimming Pools 5 restrooms 10 Picnic areas 11 Playgrounds 22 Table 3. Outdoor Recreation Facilites chapter two 8 | city of rohnert p A rk • 3,024 square foot Benicia Park recreation center (currently leased to the Boys and Girls club) • 6,700 square foot Burton avenue recreation center • 1,145 square foot Ladybug Park recreation center other facilities the city’s facilities include other centers, such as scout Hut and the senior citizen center, that provide age-specific recreation programming opportunities. • 10,000 square foot senior citizen center • 1,328 square foot scout Hut B en CHMARKI n G A nd COMPARISO n S one way communities measure their level of service in parks and recre- ation is to compare the number and type of parks and facilities with those in similar cities. the Pros commit- tee and MiG project team selected the cities of campbell and Lodi for comparison. campbell was selected based on its comparable area with rohnert Park (approximately 6.4 square miles) and Lodi was selected because of its proximity to stockton, which bears a similar relationship to that between rohnert Park and santa rosa. these communities also represent sub-regions within northern california. (Please see appendix a for complete benchmark findings.) park classifications Park land classifications help the city plan for a community’s recreation needs and reflect policies that guide decision-making. a park system is composed of a hierarchy of various park types, each offering different recreation opportunities. Viewed separately, each park type may serve only one function, but collectively the system serves the entire range of community needs. By classifying park land by function, a community can evaluate its needs and plan more easily, providing a more efficient, cost-effective, and usable park sys- tem that minimizes conflicts between park users and neighbors (appendix B). Both campbell and Lodi classify parks with a greater level of detail than rohnert Park (appendix a). campbell has four park types: • Passive • neighborhood • community • special Use 8 | city of rohnert p A rk p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 9 Lodi has five park types: • Mini • neighborhood • community • regional • special Use level of service When Level of service comparisons were made among all three commu- nities, the strength of rohnert Park’s park system is evident. the compari- son exercise separates parks from special purpose facilities for a more consistent review, and it highlights the diversity in park definitions used by municipalities. the comparisons are highlighted in table 4. When the Golf course acreage is included in the same calculation, rohnert Park provides residents with a Level of service of 11.8 acres per 1,000 residents. park Acreage rohnert Park has more neighbor- hood and community park acreage than campbell and is second to Lodi. However, Lodi’s acreage includes a 100-acre regional park. similarly, while campbell demonstrates a healthy amount of park acreage, 85% of that total acreage is made up by one community park. cultural centers the three communities each have a main performing arts center. as a group, these three cities include a selection of special purpose facili- ties that are integral to community character. other findings • newer california communities such as Folsom and Brentwood in north- ern california are able to develop abundant park and recreation facilities because of updated fee ordinances, developer agreements and exactions placed on new de- velopment. • communities such as rohnert Park that developed during previous decades are faced with a reduced amount of funding from the devel- opment community to provide new amenities for changing interests and needs. • other communities employ a ciP list to guide park land and ame- nity development. Without such a document, park land development and maintenance tends to follow level of Service Acres per 1,000 Residents rohnert Park (excluding Golf course) 2.90 acres campbell 2.17 acres Lodi 4.40 acres rohnert Park (including Golf course) 11.80 acres Table 4. Level of Service p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 9 how we play: analysis of existing conditions and trends chapter two 20 | city of rohnert p A rk a reactive, instead of proactive, process. K e Y t R end S to ensure the ongoing satisfaction and support of all residents, the Parks and recreation department needs to consider trends in the parks and recreation industry. recent shifts in recreation interests and activity patterns at the local, state and national level may affect the rohnert Park community, and should be considered in future deci- sion-making. the burgeoning inter- est in youth-centered activities such as skate parks, and the desire for health and fitness programs for the older population are two examples of trends that can influence decision- making. demographic trends Like many california communities, rohnert Park experienced growth during the 1990’s and increased its overall population by nearly thirty percent. the number of children under age eighteen remained fairly steady dur- ing this time period, but the num- ber of adults over age 45 jumped significantly, including those aged 65 and older. this local trend of an “aging population” mirrors that at the state and national level. today’s active lifestyle and healthy living of older adults, combined with the premier setting of rohnert Park, may influence the types of recreational experiences residents are seeking in the future. the cotati-rohnert Park Unified school district is an important com- munity partner for rohnert Park. a recently completed enrollment analysis indicated that enrollment is in decline, with the greatest drop in enrollment at the high school age. over the next six years the district anticipates enrollment declining by another 1,000 students. the interests and recreational pur- suits of today’s youth are different from those for whom the park system was originally designed. today’s elementary-aged school children have access to more technology and seek thrilling adventures; however, an alarming number of children lead sedentary lives and follow unhealthy lifestyles. if these trends continue, such lifestyle patterns will impact the attitudes and interests of tomorrow’s School enrollment will decline significantly in the next six years 20 | city of rohnert p A rk how we play: analysis of existing conditions and trends p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 2 teens, which will significantly af- fect the quality of life and health of rohnert Park residents and neighbor- hoods. these changes will challenge the city’s ability to provide meaning- ful opportunities for children and teens during after school hours or summer breaks. Aging population as the Boomer generation pre- pares for retire- ment, they have made it clear that they are interested in different activities from those enjoyed by previous genera- tions. older adults will remain more active, and to keep them engaged in the community, plans should be made to address “aging well” in rohnert Park. development trends While rohnert Park was built as a planned community, a number of pending devel- opments will significantly increase the population of the community and the resultant demand on the parks system. specific plans for the Uni- versity district, southeast, northeast and northwest areas call for 4,105 dwelling units to be built. these new developments account for most of the 2000 General Plan projected buildout of 4,450 units. these new units are projected to have an esti- mated population of 2.62 persons per household, and therefore would require an additional 60 acres of park land to be developed to maintain the existing standard of 5 acres per 1,000 residents. funding Municipal funding levels directed to parks and recreation have decreased in rohnert Park over the past two decades, requiring programs and activities to increase their cost recovery through fees and charges. Programs for older adults and aquatic services continue to receive a high level of support, and the greatest share of the department budget is dedicated to facility opera- tions and scheduling. also, staffing levels in the recreation department have declined steadily since 2004. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 2 chapter two 22 | city of rohnert p A rk customer experience Because people have many alter- nate choices for recreation, ser- vice standards in the park system need to be elevated to maintain a high level of support in all areas of operation. the customer experience should be considered from a broad perspective, from the first point of customer interaction to the time of completion. community gathering and socializing Areas as residential lots become smaller, parks in- creasingly serve as key spaces for neighborhood and family gatherings. Pet owners also utilize parks for socialization, prompting the need for more pet ar- eas. community centers, libraries and other public facilities receive greater attendance from residents when they are designed for socialization, integrating such features as a coffee corners, lounges and fireplaces. Link- ing public facilities with green spaces is also valued. field maintenance the popular- ity of parks, the frequency of organized sports events, and the value that parks hold in the neighborhoods neces- sitates a high level of maintenance services. recognizing that municipal resources for parks and recreation have remained the same or de- creased, maintaining existing park and recreation facilities in a safe and attractive manner will be challenging. existing sports groups are willing to increase the amount they contribute towards maintenance, especially if this increased fee is attached to specific maintenance programs that ensure a high level of service. youth sports Youth are be- coming involved in more intense outdoor sports at an earlier age. activities such as skateboarding that may have been looked upon as a fad at one time are now an integral part of youth activity. to respond to this trend, communities are developing skate parks for older youth to gather as well as placing skate features in neighborhood parks for younger children. 22 | city of rohnert p A rk how we play: analysis of existing conditions and trends p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 2 year-round sports turf organized sports for youth and adults are evolving from seasonal play to year round activi- ties. tournaments take place more frequently, and teams now practice several times a week throughout the year. to meet the increasing demand for sports, many communities are installing year-round sports turf to reduce the overall cost of field main- tenance. Field sports such as lacrosse, rugby, ultimate Frisbee, and cricket are increasing in popularity and may affect the use and availability of exist- ing turf areas. golf nationally, par- ticipation in golf is still popular, but the golf- ing experience is changing. individuals are looking for a better golf experience in a shorter amount of time. tennis tennis is surg- ing in popularity again. Programs for youth focus on participation for all and em- phasize healthy play and enjoyment of the sport over intense competition. tennis leagues and teams offer social play and casual events, which has increased overall participation. Aquatics the trend of building swim- ming pools with flat surfaces and deep water is fading. today, children and families are attracted by more dynamic aquatic environ- ments, with water play structures, moving water, slides, and lounge spaces adjacent to water entry. Warm water fitness is also on the rise due to increased health needs among older adults. aquatic facilities should be designed to include the appropriate balance of traditional designs and new attractions, and should consider sources of revenue to offset costs. the city of santa rosa recently reno- vated a traditional, aging swimming pool into a water park with slides and play features and has experienced a significant increase in visitation and revenue. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 2 p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 2 tHis section BeGins with an analysis of the benefits offered by a healthy park system. it then outlines the recommended actions for improving rohnert Park’s park and recreation facilities based on needs determined by the Parks, recreation and open space com- mittee. these policies will aid in sound decision making as this plan is implemented. B ene FI t S OF PARKS A nd R e CR e At IO n Parks and open spaces, recreation- al programs and services, and com- munity facilities all provide many benefits to residents, and express the essence of a community. the mission of the recreation depart- ment is to enhance rohnert Park’s high quality of life and nurture the health and well being of people, the community and the economy. Parks and recreation fosters human development, facilitates community problem-solving, protects natural resources, and supports economic development. table 5 (next page) highlights additional benefits of parks and recreation. key findings and policy recommendations c H a P ter t H ree Parks and Recreation offers personal, social, economic and environmental benefits chapter three 26 | city of rohnert p A rk Personal recreation programs develop skills in art, crafts, sports and other positive leisure activities Parks and recreation facilities bring people together Parks provide a multitude of recreational experiences community centers offer wellness programs promoting personal health and fitness access to natural beauty reduces stress Social after-school programs provide positive social experiences for children and teens community buildings are gathering places and sources of civic information cultural programs celebrate diversity schools, businesses, community-based organizations and other public organizations become collaborative partners civic involvement possible through community meetings, volunteer opportunities, and neighborhood activities and events Volunteers, neighbors and participants provide “eyes on” to enhance safety Table 5. Benefits of a healthy park system environmental Parks and recreation services significantly contribute to the quality of life trees remove carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, filter out pollution and conserve energy interpretive information and natural and open space areas educate about environmental values and resources essential green infrastructure preserved through enhance- ment and protection of biodiversity and natural resources economic Well maintained parks, open space and recreation amenities enhance livability and increase property values Green infrastructure is marketable and attracts both businesses and residents Multitude of programs and facilities keeps people of all ages in the city People take advantage of work and volunteer opportunities People visit throughout the region and spend money here Workers use outdoor spaces and recreation facilities for self renewal and enhancing productivity employment opportunities provided for youth recreation programs provide physical activity which reduces health care costs. 26 | city of rohnert p A rk key findings and policy recommendations p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 27 GOA l S & PO l ICY FRAM e WORK Goal One: Provide safe, clean and well-maintained parks and facilities to meet the diverse needs of a changing and growing community. goal one policies Policy 1.1 Adopt the following park classification and definition system: • Mini-parks, Plazas and Greenways smaller public spaces that connect neighborhoods, parks and neighbor- hood centers • neighborhood Parks Parks integrated into neighborhoods with informal green spaces, walking paths, play areas and picnic amenities. one active recreation feature such as a hard court or splash pad may be highlighted. neighborhood parks are typically one to five acres. • Community Parks Parks designed to serve the greater community with features to accommo- date large group activities, active recreation and organized events. structures, parking areas, and lighting are included as well as many neigh- borhood park type amenities. these parks can be larger in size, as much as 25 acres, but are typically 6-15 acres. • Open Space Park lands that preserve habitats, provide buffers for development, and offer sweeping vistas of natural landscapes. • Special Purpose Parks and Facilities Parks with a single purpose that serve the community such as golf courses and sports complexes. this plan recommends reclassifying parks as described in table 6 next page. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 27 chapter three 28 | city of rohnert p A rk Policy 1.2 Maintain the park land development standard of 5 acres per 1,000 residents for active, multi-use recreation needs of the community, typi- cally found in neighborhood and community parks. Policy 1.3 ensure new development meets the 5 acres per 1,000 residents park land dedication standards for active recreation needs 1.3.1 encourage “turn-key” park development in lieu of accepting fees 1.3.2 expand the development of park lands to increase the variety of park types 1.3.3 include Parks and recreation staff in park development and design review Policy 1.4 Renovate existing parks to improve safety and security, enhance park use, and increase sense of place 1.4.1 develop criteria for renovation, such as age of facility, safety conditions, access, multi-age use, and community need 1.4.2 enhance safety and security in all parks by upgrading lighting, access, and surveillance meth- odology in partnership with enforcement 1.4.3 develop a transition plan for all parks to meet access needs and americans with disability act (ada) guidelines 1.4.4 incorporate new features and amenities into the design of parks to respond to trends and changing community preferences, and consider revising the specific plan process to support this integration Park name alicia Park Benicia Park eagle Park Golis Park Magnolia Park roberts Lake sunrise Park Park name caterpillar Park colegio Vista Park dorotea Park Honeybee Park Ladybug Park rainbow Park Park name Burton ave carlita circle cielo civic center drive country club drive Hinebaugh creek Park Jasmine circle Lacrosse Lilac Way tot Lot Lydia court Meadow Pines (san simeon) Table 6. Park classification Acreage 5 6 10 14 19 5 9 Acreage 3 5 6 5 5 2.68 Acreage 0.18 0.15 0.37 0.26 2.1 0.18 1.04 0.67 0.13 1.71 0.41 Park type community community community community community community community Park type neighborhood neighborhood neighborhood neighborhood neighborhood neighborhood Park type Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini Mini 28 | city of rohnert p A rk key findings and policy recommendations p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 29 Policy 1.5 develop park maintenance standards and resource manage- ment plans consistent with professional best practices 1.5.1 create Levels of service (Los) for park maintenance tasks that are compatible with park functions, use, and visibility in the community 1.5.2 create a dedicated funding source for park maintenance services 1.5.3 Place park maintenance and recreation services under a parks and recreation department to improve service delivery and operate efficiently Goal Two: Create and enhance a positive community image to strengthen livability and sense of place through outstanding parks, facilities and programs. goal two policies Policy 2.1 Provide recreation experiences to meet a diverse and changing community 2.1.1 support aging well in rohnert Park by recognizing interests and needs of various older adult populations 2.1.2 Maximize community connection to the outdoor environment; serve as environmental stewards of green space 2.1.3 continue serving youth and families; track regional, state and national trends related to this demographic 2.1.4 develop partnerships with other service providers to enhance community activities 2.1.5 collaborate with schools and public agencies like the open space district to create partnerships, leverage resources and link green spaces 2.1.6 collaborate with community organizations to leverage park and rec- reation resources, improve operations and enhance maintenance of parks and facilities p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 29 chapter three 0 | city of rohnert p A rk Policy 2.2 Provide health and wellness opportunities for resi- dents of all ages 2.2.1 expand the callinan sports center to provide addi- tional opportunities for health and fitness activities 2.2.2 Partner with health care organizations to develop new programs 2.2.3 connect and expand trails and pathways to promote walking, bicycling, and alterna- tive transportation Policy 2.3 Support opportunities for neighborhood-based social gathering 2.3.1 Partner with community organizations and neighborhood groups to provide programs and events in neighborhood parks 2.3.2 increase after-school activities for youth 2.3.3 increase volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups 2.3.4 develop multi-generational programs; encourage older adults to participate and volunteer in neighborhood activities and city events Policy 2.4 Create a unified identity for parks and programs 2.4.1 enhance park and facility signage to improve sense of place and visibility 2.4.2 develop a city-wide vision and mission statement for parks, recreation, arts and culture 0 | city of rohnert p A rk key findings and policy recommendations p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | Goal Three: Ensure the financial health and sustainability of Rohnert Park’s comprehensive recreation, parks, and open space system, including special purpose facilities. goal three policies Policy 3.1 develop a comprehensive funding approach 3.1.1 establish cost recovery goals for each major facility or line of business. 3.1.2 develop business plans for facilities and special purpose features 3.1.3 Prioritize revenue-generating potential when identifying renovation projects 3.1.4 review, set and adjust fees annually 3.1.5 incorporate performance based on cost recovery goals into program evaluation and future planning Policy 3.2 develop new sources of revenue for development, renovation, maintenance and operations of parks and facilities 3.2.1 consider a ballot measure to support renovations and improve park maintenance; explore alternatives such as Landscape and Lighting assess- ment districts, sales tax or parcel tax 3.2.2 create a dedicated funding source to provide for future repairs and renovations of recreation facilities, the community center and the callinan sports center 3.2.3 seek council approval to allow revenue generated through parks and recreation to be dedicated to parks and recreation operations or improvements 3.2.4 dedicate staff time to support revenue generating initiatives 3.2.5 evaluate the level of community support for revenue generation methods such as locating cell towers in parks, instituting banner programs, and selling advertisements p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | chapter three 2 | city of rohnert p A rk 3.2.6 develop a city-wide policy and planning effort to incorporate naming rights Policy 3.3 develop funding policies for future development 3.3.1 ensure implementation of park development ordinances to meet the standards for specific plans and infill development Policy 3.4 Review regional, state and national grant funding programs regularly to identify potential funding sources 3.4.1 identify guidelines for selecting grant opportunities; focus on fund- ing programs for youth facilities, integrating conservation practices into park projects, environmental stewardship and open space preservation, watersheds and greenways 3.4.2 develop partnerships to strengthen community involvement and leverage resources for grant applications Policy 3.5 Provide for the donation of land, facilities, equipment, services 2 | city of rohnert p A rk key findings and policy recommendations p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | and monies to support parks and programs 3.5.1 accept only land and facilities that meet the goals of this plan 3.5.2 dedicate staff time to seeking donations and in-kind support 3.5.3 consider establishing a foundation or partnership with other 501(c)(3) organizations to encourage donations to the park and recreation system Policy 3.6 Adopt a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to identify short and long term park development projects 3.6.1 develop guidelines for ranking and prioritizing capital projects 3.6.2 incorporate ciP planning into annual budget reviews 3.6.3 approve short term projects within a six-year timeframe; long term projects six years and longer p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | roHnert Park’s inVentorY of abundant park land enables the community to focus on adding new features to the existing parks and developing future parks. When new development occurs in the specific planning areas, the city is in a better position to ensure the balance of new park types rather than settling for “one size fits all” neighborhood parks. this development approach allows for enhanced stewardship of natural resources and will result in highly valued neighborhoods. the recommendations outlined in this chapter are a result of the public involvement led by Pros, a review of existing conditions, and trends within the industry. there are two areas of park improve- ments: specific recommendations for the existing park system and new construction summarized as a capital improvement Plan (ciP). Upgrading the park system in roh- nert Park will require a combination of annual maintenance and repairs and physical implementation of the ciP. SYS te M-WI de IMPRO ve M ent S these are wide-ranging improve- ments to enhance the appeal, safety and use of parks, as well as improve organizational efficiency. several system-wide improve- ments are shown below with notes regarding the rationale for implementation. c H a P ter F o U r park improvement program Improving existing parks will enhance the appeal, safety and use of parks chapter four 6 | city of rohnert p A rk • develop the community center complex and sunrise Park into a central park to complement the civic center and other gathering areas. (Meets the need for a signa- ture city-wide park facility.) • combine park maintenance and recreation services into a parks and recreation department to help meet the growing demand for existing parks and adapt to chang- ing interests and trends. (cities in california typically organize parks and recreational services into one department.) • remove tree stumps from plant- ers scattered throughout the park system. (Meets safety standards.) • develop an inventory of park as- sets throughout the system to aid in strategic maintenance. (Meets safety standards and enhances stewardship.) • add new amenities such as skate features, bocce courts and climbing structures to satisfy evolving inter- ests and trends. (current features represent previous generations and outdated interests.) • Budget annually for fitness equip- ment replacement at the callinan sports and Fitness center. (Meets safety guidelines.) • invest in park signage and wayfind- ing to promote greater awareness and support for the park system as a whole. (strengthens community image and sense of place.) • repair and maintain children’s play structures to prevent unsafe conditions and injury. (Meets safety guidelines and ada requirements.) • replace or remove under-used and isolated play structures. (addresses park user safety and eliminates under-used structures subject to vandalism.) • Make sure all play structures meet ada access requirements. (start with an ada transition Plan.) • integrate play areas with picnic and family gathering areas. (increases park use.) 6 | city of rohnert p A rk park improvement program p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 • create play areas for multi- age use. (Parks are currently deficient providing for multi- generational uses.) • add play features, water slides, and new programs into the aquatics program; consider establishing a water play feature at Ladybug Park. (increases park use.) • adopt a strategic planning effort specific to aquatics to aid the department in decision making through the next decade. (incorporating new features will increase use and community sup- port.) these recommendations are intended to strengthen the delivery of parks and recreation services in rohnert Park. For example, combining parks and recreation into one department, as is typically organized in other cit- ies, increases efficiency in budgeting, supervision, scheduling and commu- nication, and planning. examining trends in aquatics, and studying successful neighborhood aquatic programs, will serve as a road map for increasing facility use and overall community support for these valuable assets. the swimming pools in rohnert Park support the character of the neighborhoods and should be the primary tool for keeping children safe and residents healthy, as well as offer opportunities for family rec- reation. a strategic planning effort could begin by selecting one pool to renovate with updated water features such as fountains, slides and splash elements. criteria for facility selection would include location, age of facility, and impact on the neighborhood. residents have access to a full array of fields and courts, and believe these amenities should be well maintained and preserved. the system wide improvements support the comments heard from the community, and will enable the city to focus on its core ser- vices and improve existing programs. adding new fields and/or a sports complex would be an additional strain on the city due to the increased staff and resources required to maintain p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 chapter four 8 | city of rohnert p A rk these types of facilities. the limited organizational capacity that currently exists, along with the new park land re- quired, make this type of improvement unfeasible. renovating existing fields with all weather fields for year round use and improved safety better serves the community. integrating play areas with spaces for small gatherings will improve the use of neighborhood parks and enhance safety and stewardship of the commu- nity. Meeting safety and ada stan- dards is a high priority and should be recognized annually through planning efforts and budgeting. a systematic plan will include criteria for prioritizing play structures and park features in- cluding but not limited to amount and type of use, city-wide needs in commu- nity parks, age of the structure, surface material, and pathway access. community interests such as dog parks and skate parks can also be met through system wide improve- ments within existing parks. these amenities have broad appeal to fami- lies and a wide range of youth. Given the limited capacity of parks and recreation, other organizations may be better suited to coordinate other interests such as community gardens PARK-SP e CIFIC IMPRO ve M ent S observations from the extensive park tour completed by MiG staff suggest the following specific improvements, which can be incorporated into an- nual maintenance plans and long term capital improvement plans. (see table 7 for a summary and appendix c for more detail.) CAPI tA l IMPRO ve M ent P l A n rohnert Park’s abundant inventory of park land enables the community to focus its capital improvement plan on adding new features to existing parks and providing for cutting-edge future parks. tables 8 and 9 provide cost estimates for the proposed projects, followed by a more thorough de- scription of the facilities and projects. Pros recommends the Parks and recreation commission review tables 7, 8 and 9, and recommend priorities to the city council to be included in the city’s capital improvement Plan. the six year project list identifies projects that can be completed in the reasonable time period for planning park improvements. the long-term list of projects signifies more substan- tial improvements or a continuation of needed renovations. each indi- vidual project cost estimate includes a 20% markup for the administrative and engineering costs associated with the project. 8 | city of rohnert p A rk park improvement program p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 9 Park name alicia Benicia caterpillar colegio Vista dorotea eagle Golis Honeybee Ladybug Magnolia rainbow sunrise Table 7. Suggested park improvements Opportunities and Recommended Actions • improve pool facility entrance to be more inviting. • improve signage on southern end of park. • consider moving picnic area closer to parking lot, to discourage loitering. if picnic area is moved, swimming pool area could be expanded and complemented with swim park features such as splash pads or slides. • convert tennis court to other uses. • increase family gathering areas at the park. • increase connectivity with Burton recreation center to emphasize the connection between the facilities. • replace older playground equipment with picnicking/socialization area and plantings for shade. • expand northern picnic area, improve access. • evaluate play equipment on north end of park and consolidate if possible. • consider renovation of restroom that is currently in poor condition and inaccessible to wheelchairs. • determine if there is sufficient interest to maintain the hard court or reuse/ renovate. • court has the potential to serve as a unique gathering space and already appears to function like that to an extent. • replace child play equipment areas. • Plantings obscuring tennis courts should be renovated to improve visibility into park. • consider the development of multi-generational activity and socializing area in sW corner meadow such as bocce, or a group picnic facility. • evaluate potential for bocce ball court next to tennis court. • develop age appropriate play areas and family gathering place at southern playground. • develop recreational asset in southern meadow. • increase trail and park signage. • develop an off leash dog area. • remove child playground in east end of park and consolidate with playground near pool or decommission both and build a new playground. consider a skate area in this location. • improve picnic area by softball field. • Work with existing features to develop a coordinated pool, tennis court, playground, picnic area complex or splash pad play area. • improve park signage. • develop social gathering and tennis viewing area. • expand tennis courts. • improve tennis court gateway; add wind screens and landscaping. • renovate gathering area between softball fields. • inspect and renovate play equipment. • resurface tennis and basketball courts. • develop integrated child play and picnic area. • explore park renovation to compliment sports complex and center; consider a skate area. chapter four 0 | city of rohnert p A rk Short term Project list (6 Year) Year round sports turf annual playground replacement program ($168,000 annually) city-wide skate Park informal passive turf area dog Park equipment replace- ment Fund ($60,000 annually) ada implementation ($50,000 annually) Group Picnic areas Bocce court skate Features ada transition Plan annual Park and Wayfinding signage ($1,000 annually) Table 8. Six Year Capital Improvement Plan projects Project description the 2.5-acre facility will support one championship soccer field and one combination baseball/softball field. annual maintenance for Year-round sports turf costs approximately $2,500. the Playground replacement Program funds should also be directed towards completing the existing playground sand replacement program. 15,000 square foot facility including periphery improvements such as lighting, fencing and irrigation. a 250’ by 500’ field provides ample space for city wide special events, festivals, multiple sports and adjacent areas for passive recreation, pic- nicking and socializing. depending on amenities and scale, the price of a field renovation ranges from $500,000 to $840,000. the cost estimate provided in the ciP list would support the develop- ment of up to a 2-acre dog park with the following features: turf dog run (separate areas for small and large dogs); agility course for dogs; drink- ing fountains; bench seating. a one-third acre dog park (14,500 square feet) including landscaping, a bench, a drinking fountain, and a trash can, would cost approximately $80,000. replace and restore equipment in the callinan sports center and various parks. Larger areas would feature benches, a grill, sink and serving table and would seat 60. the smaller areas would include components of the larger area. two 90-foot, side-by-side courts with a 6-foot wide path in between them, 6 benches and a 6-foot perimeter walk around path. the perimeter path cost is $25,000. While not required, it is highly recommended. skate features begin at approximately $15,000 and can run up to $120,000 depending on the size, amount and variety of features such as grind rails, benches and ramps. Plan to identify physical changes required to make programs and facilities accessible. Grand total Cost estimates $1,728,000 $1,080,000 $600,000 range $500,000 to $840,000 range $80,000 to $600,000 $360,000 $360,000 Large: $168,000 small: $84,000 range $96,000 to $121,000 range $15,000 to $120,000 $75,000 $7,200 range $4,634,200 to $5,791,200 0 | city of rohnert p A rk park improvement program p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | d e SCRIP t IO n OF PARKS A nd P RO je C t tYP e S these descriptions are intended to assist in shaping system-wide and specific improvements each year. For example, the playground replace- ment program would be allocated to the priority needs outlined in the following description. the Parks and recreation commission can also use these guidelines for developing projects each year. bocce court residents are interested in new passive recreation features in the park system. Bocce ball is a popular social activity and there are numerous areas within the exist- ing rohnert Park system that can accommodate the development of a bocce ball court. sites at Golis and Magnolia parks were identified during a park system tour as having potential to support the addition of a side by side bocce ball court. city-wide skate park or skate features a city-wide skate park can serve as the center for skateboarding activity in rohnert Park and serve the entire community. skate features offer a skate experi- ence for younger children and are appropriate in neighborhood parks where feasible. skate features, such as grind rails, benches or modular ramps can be specifically designed for a client. Prefabricated models can also be purchased. sites at Honeybee and sunrise were identified as having potential to support skate parks and or skate features. long term Project list (10 years) sports center renovation: indoor swimming Facility additional turf field Year round sports turf 10 year maintenance and renovation equipment replacement fund ($60,000 annually) Table 9. Long Term Capital Improvement Plan projects Project description the ciP identifies a sports center renovation that includes an indoor swimming facility. the facility concept is for a 75’ x 30’ recreational lap pool with four shallow lanes. replace and restore equipment in the callinan sports center, various parks and restrooms, where appropriate. Grand total Cost estimates $6,000,000 $1,728,000 $1,080,000 $600,000 $9,558,000 p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | chapter four 2 | city of rohnert p A rk dog parks the rohnert Park system currently sup- ports a basic network of dog parks that make good use of underutilized park areas. current dog park developments are being built to provide play experiences for dogs of all size and age, and future dog parks may be separate facilities or integrated into overall park design. Accessibility/AdA planning report Park tours and evaluation revealed significant accessibil- ity barriers and ada violations through- out the park system. a self-evaluation and transition plan will address barrier removal and provide a strategy for system-wide ada compliance. comple- tion of a self-evaluation and transition plan costs $75,000. Annual Accessibility/ AdA implementation the self-evaluation and transition plan described in the short term project list will identify specific projects that should be budgeted for on an ongoing basis. Potential recom- mended improvements will include park access and point of travel. Potential child play areas improvements include access ramps and wood fiber surfacing. approximately $50,000 should be bud- geted for annual implementation costs. year-round sports turf field installation Year-round sports turf fields are quickly becoming a standard park feature that provide increased opportunities for active recreation while requiring less ongoing maintenance. year-round sports turf ten year main- tenance and renovation industry trends indicate that year- round sports turf fields require a major renovation every 10 years. Financial planning to support the renovation is required. informal passive turf Area Upgrading the existing park system requires the renova- tion of existing turf that can support both active and passive recreational activities these multi-use spaces support spon- taneous, informal play, special events and festivals, as well as more organized activities such as team sports. several fields require upgrading. 2 | city of rohnert p A rk park improvement program p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | sports center renovation: indoor swimming facility the callinan sports center is surrounded by available land. a renovation and/or expansion to the center has long been discussed as a potential project. the renovation would increase fitness and recreational swim- ming opportunities and will be geared specifically for water exercise class and family activities. equipment replacement fund an equipment re- placement fund will provide a dedicated funding stream to replace and restore equipment in the callinan sports cen- ter and various parks. identified equip- ment needs in parks include BBQ and picnic bench replacement, and tennis court and basketball court resurfacing, while the sports center will need to replace gym equipment. group picnic Area the rohnert Park system includes numerous small picnic areas that can support a family-scale event, but not any areas that can sup- port larger groups. the development of group picnic areas will afford residents and visitors the opportunity to gather and utilize the rohnert Park system. Annual playground replacement program the children’s play- ground equipment in the rohnert Park sys- tem is in need of new, state-of-the-art play equipment such as climbing rocks and walls. Playground equipment replace- ment should be prioritized annually by the Parks and recreation commission. Honeybee, eagle, colegio Vista and Benicia Parks are recommended for priority replacement. spray parks and splash pads separate water fea- tures such as misters, fountains and splash pads are individual elements that can add value to parks and existing aquatic/ pool centers. these new amenities are popular among families; providing a quality experience for older adults and young children. rohnert Park has sev- eral parks and pools ideally suited for spray features or splash areas. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | c H a P ter F i V e funding opportunities FULL serVice Parks and recre- ation departments in california typically receive between 9%–12% of General Fund expenditures. this allocation provides for resources such as park maintenance, rec- reational programs and services, arts and culture programs, facility operations and city-wide events. in addition, alternative funding sourc- es support parks and recreation op- erations in many ways. according to the 2006 – 2007 Budget, roh- nert Park allocates 12% of General Fund expenditures to support all park and facility maintenance and operations, as well as recreation. recreation programs generate revenue to recover costs; grants and donations support projects and programs; dedicated funding sources provide funding for specific items; and capital projects receive funding from new development. other public service entities such as redevelopment agencies and special districts also support park land development projects. in rohnert Park, General Fund municipal support for parks and recreation operations has steadily declined in recent years. also, a slow down in development has resulted in a decrease of funds for park and facility development. the challenge facing the community today is how best to provide for the preservation of existing parks and facilities. Residents have a strong interest in maintaining a high quality parks and recreation system chapter five 6 | city of rohnert p A rk rohnert Park residents have indi- cated they are willing to provide ad- ditional support to maintain the high quality of the park and recreation sys- tem. to be successful, the city should team with community leaders and individual residents to develop a plan for funding over the long term. in northern california, many cities have been successful in creating city-wide Lighting and Landscaping assess- ment districts or approving ballot measures to fund improvements and renovations. When new development takes off, adding new parks and facilities will be supported by the development project itself. However, there may be a gap between what the develop- ment provides and what is needed by the community. alternative funding sources are available to close the gap. l OCA l F und I n G SO u RC e S grants Grants are provided to tax-exempt nonprofit organizations or local gov- ernment agencies by foundations, corporations, governments, small business and individuals. Most grants are made to fund a specific project and require some level of reporting. the process involves an applicant submitting a proposal to a potential funder, either on the applicant’s own initiative or in response to a request for Proposals from the funder. general obligation bonds these municipal bonds are secured by a state or local government’s pledge to use legally available resources, including tax revenues, to repay bond holders. Most gen- eral obligation pledges at the local government level include a pledge to levy a property tax to meet debt service requirements. revenue bonds revenue bonds are a special type of municipal bond distinguished by its guarantee of repayment solely from revenues generated by a specified revenue-generating entity associated with the purpose of the bonds. 6 | city of rohnert p A rk funding opportunities p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 impact fees an impact fee is a one-time charge that private entrepreneurs, often developers, must pay to the local government in order to undertake their projects. in turn, the revenue from the impact fee finances public goods and services associated with the project. special Assessment district these are separate units of govern- ment that manage specific resources within defined boundaries. districts vary in size, encompassing single cit- ies or several counties. they can be established by local governments or by voter initiative. in california, two- thirds of voter approval is required. as self-financing legal entities they have the ability to raise a predict- able stream of money, such as taxes, user fees or bonds, directly from the people who benefit from the ser- vices— often parks and recreation. Landscape and Lighting assessment districts (LLad) are most often used by cities to dedicate funds towards parks and recreation. rohnert Park is well positioned to study the forma- tion of a LLad. benefit Assessment a benefit assessment district assesses a defined constituency and provides benefits to those residents. Benefits include roads, water, parks and recre- ational facilities. user fees these individual fees are paid by people for the voluntary use of public services and facilities. Local govern- ments collect the bulk of user fees. anyone who has visited a state or na- tional park is familiar with park-based user fees. california allows local gov- ernments to establish separate park and recreation “accounts” with user fee revenues. these funds are then used to pay for park maintenance and operations. tax increment financing (tif) tiF is a tool to use future gains in p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 chapter five 8 | city of rohnert p A rk taxes to finance the current improve- ments that will create those gains. When a public project such as a road, school, or hazardous waste cleanup is carried out, there is an increase in the value of surrounding real estate and often new investment (new or rehabilitated buildings, for example). Parks and recreation departments regularly partner with redevelop- ment agencies to renovate and re- pair parks, recreation and community facilities. dedication of land for recreation rohnert Park requires developers to dedicate a portion of their new development to open space or park/recreation space. the city may accept the payment of fees in lieu of dedicating their land. A sub-fund under the sales tax fund Funds earmarked specifically for parks and recreation use. public-private partnerships a local park and recreation agency can gain access to new fiscal re- sources to serve the community by collaborating with like-minded orga- nizations. cooperative opportunities may exist with other public agencies, non-profit community-based organi- zations, and for-profit firms. outsourcing Private service providers may have the opportunity to carry out services more efficiently and could be consid- ered as an alternative service pro- vider at the appropriate time. establishment of a non-profit organization community foundations and non profits may raise additional funds and apply for more grant opportuni- ties, and may have more appeal for individual donors. Parks and recre- ation departments are often involved in creating a nonprofit to support youth programs, older adult services, adopt-a-park programs and other community improvements. communi- ty foundations may also establish and support endowment funds created by individuals to support parks and recreation. partner with local universities Parks and recreation departments are able to accomplish special projects or programs with students and/or classes. S tAte F und I n G SO u RC e S the state of california administers numerous grant programs. the most notable are managed through the california department of Parks and 8 | city of rohnert p A rk funding opportunities p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 9 recreation. cities such as rohnert Park are well positioned for grant programs specific to watersheds, rivers and greenways, youth educa- tion and health. Voter-approved bond measures are sporadic but today are increasing in frequency. Five bond measures passed in the 1970s and 1980s. no bond measures passed in the 1990s. Proposition 12 passed in 2000, followed by Proposition 40 in 2002. in addition to the funds provid- ed based on population (per capita), these bond programs had more than ten different grant programs for projects related to trails, youth, and soccer and baseball to name a few. other bond programs such as Proposition 84 – safe drinking Water Bond act include grant opportunities for parks and recreation. rohnert Park received one hundred percent of its designated per capita funds from Propositions 12 and 40 and used the funds to replace the roof of the callinan sports and Fitness center. competitive grant programs vary in specific purposes and should be monitored annually. these funding sources are ideally suited for development of new parks and facilities and adding updated features to existing parks. When new grant funds become available the Parks and recreation commission p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 9 Ph o t o : C h r i s A s c h e n b r e n e r should recommend that they be al- located towards upgrading existing parks. other possible state funding resources • Historic Preservation/restoration Funds • Parks/recreation/trails/open space/Greenspace Funds • site remediation Funds • revitalization Funds • site assessment Funds • Library Funds • revolving Loan Funds additional funding sources appropri- ate for parks and recreation include federal grant programs and private foundation grants. Federal grants are available from agencies such as the national Park service, Health and Human services and the department of Housing and Urban development. Private foundations support park development as well as recreational programs, and are prominent in northern california. rohnert Park should research funding opportuni- ties for parks and programs that support environmental stewardship, health, youth engagement and older adult services. chapter five 0 | city of rohnert p A rk tHe data in tHe FoLLoWinG benchmarking tables was collected during the fall of 2007 through research of existing park land documentation and through conversations with park and recreation department staff in compa- rable cities. appendix a benchmarks p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | appendix A 2 | city of rohnert p A rk Mini Park Passive Park neighborhood Park community Park regional Park open space Linear Park special Use area total Park Acreage Mini Parks Passive Park neighborhood Park community Park regional Park open space Linear Park special Use area Rohnert Park 116* 116 rohnert Park X X Campbell 1.3 4.5 69.7 6.1 81.6 campbell X X X X lodi 3.45 83.89 58 101 29 275.34 Lodi X X X X X PARK A CR e AG e e XIS t I n G PARK t YP e de FI n I t IO n OR PO l ICY 2 | city of rohnert p A rk *note that the neighborhood, community and mini-parks category includes five acres for roberts Lake. revised park acreage totals will be available upon completion of the General Plan Update initiated in 2008. appendix A p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | single-Use sports complex (Up to 4 baseball diamonds) Multi-Use sports complex (Mix of sports fields such as baseball and soccer) aquatics center neighborhood Pools Water Feature Play community center Fitness center Performing arts center senior center teen center skate Park Golf courses Rohnert Park X X X X X X Campbell X X X X X lodi X X X X SP e CIA l P u RPOS e FACI l I t I e S City rohnert Park campbell Lodi land area (sq mi) 6.4 6.4 12.3 2006 Population 41,083 37,520 62,451 2000 Population 42,236 38,138 56,999 1990 Population 36,236 36,048 51,874 Median Income (2005) $57,100 $69,500 $47,300 City rohnert Park campbell Lodi Park Maintenance $1,484,183 $2,058,485 (Public Works, approx $1 million recovered by Lighting and Land- scaping Fees) $2,371,414 Recreational Services $2,071,100 $1,420,284 2007-2008 Proposed Parks department Budget $3,555,283 $5,960,547 (Parks and community services) $3,791,698 p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | OtHeR COMMunItIeS Mini Park neighborhood Park community Park total # of Parks Folsom 29 12 8 49 Manteca 33 7 40 lathrop 7 4 3 14 Woodland 18* Rohnert Park 21 21 PARK n u MB e RS OtHeR COMMunItIeS Mini Park neighborhood Park community Park total Park Acreage Folsom 38.33 154.91 269.96 463.21 Manteca 150.84 84.29 235.13 (excluding golf course) lathrop 7.17 26.3 32 65.47 Woodland 160* Rohnert Park 116 116 PARK ACR e AG e *Woodland does not utilize park definitions. City Folsom Manteca Lathrop Woodland rohnert Park 2006 Population 66,123 63,709 14,924 51,144 41,083 2000 Population 51,884 49,258 10,445 49,151 42,236 1990 Population 29,802 40,773 6,841 39,802 36,236 Other notes operations include overseeing 275 acres of neighborhood and community Parks, tidewater Bike Way, skate Park the senior center and op- erations of the 18 Hole Municipal Golf course. Facilities include community center, senior center and skate Park operations include overseeing 160 acres of parks and recreation areas and two swimming pools. special facilities include a 22-acre full service historical cemetery (Woodland cemetery). appendix A | city of rohnert p A rk appendix b glossary of terms Active Recreation a structured individual or team activity that requires the use of special facilities, courses, fields, or equipment. examples of active recreational activities include organized sports such as baseball, football, and soccer; golf, tennis, and skateboarding (in skate parks). AdA transition Plan the americans with disabilities act (ada) dictates that a public entity must evaluate its services, programs, policies, and accommo- dations to determine if they are in compliance with the non-discrimination regulations of the ada. Problems or physical barriers that limit accessibility by the disabled must be identified and potential compliance solutions described. the public entity must prepare a transition plan to identify any structural or physical changes required to make programs and facilities accessible. Community Parks community parks serve the greater community and provide visitors with access to a wider range of recreation opportunities to ac- commodate large group activities, organized events, recreation programs, and major recreation facilities, such as sport facilities. community parks should be designed to enhance neighborhood and community identity, preserve open space and enhance the quality of life of community residents. community parks are larger parks, typically 6-15 acres, but can be as large as 25 acres, and include parking areas to service the multiple amenities. Golf Course two publicly-owned, 18 hole courses account for a significant portion of rohnert Park’s park land acreage. these courses are managed through a separate concession management contract. neighborhood Parks neighborhood parks provide nearby residents with access to basic recreation opportunities. Generally 1-5 acres in size, neighbor- hood parks are a combination of playground and park designed primarily for spontaneous, non-organized recreation activities or small family gatherings. neighborhood parks should be designed to enhance neighborhood identity, preserve neighborhood open space, and improve the quality of life of nearby residents. Parks are integrated into neighborhoods with informal green spaces and walking paths. p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | Passive Recreation recreational activities that do not require dedicated specialized facilities such as sports fields or courts. examples of passive recre- ational activities include small group visits, reading, wildlife viewing, picnick- ing, bird-watching, fishing, and trail-related activities such as walking, hiking, bicycling, running, Special use Areas special use areas are single purpose sites or areas oc- cupied by specialized facilities, such as stand-alone recreation centers, skate parks, swimming pools, or community gardens. School Parks an innovative approach to involving the joint design and development of parks at new school sites to accommodate the community’s growing recreational and educational needs. these parks have their own design characters based on the different opportunities for joint use offered at the school sites. level of Service Level of service (Los) describes the type, amount and loca- tion of parks, facilities and services that rohnert Park offers to the community. Los guidelines help the city determine whether current facilities and services (such as maintenance) are adequate in meeting community needs. Spray Park/Sprayground these facilities are safe and unique play areas where water is sprayed from structures or ground sprays and then drained away before it can accumulate. these playgrounds with water features are sometimes referred to as aquatic playgrounds, splash pads, water play- grounds, or water play areas, and can be placed in parks or aquatic centers. Plaza/ Civic Square Local gathering areas centrally located within neighbor- hoods and communities. Plazas host city-wide functions such as concerts, farmer’s markets, or fairs and festivals, and are usually located in downtown districts. turn-Key Park a park built by development and/or home builders prior to dedicating it to a municipality. the local parks and recreation department receives a fully completed park ready to be used by the public. Skate Park a minimum 12,000 square foot area dedicated to skateboarding usually featuring a bowl and other skate elements. skate parks can feature dedicated lighting and fencing. Skate Feature Fixed skate features added to neighborhood or community parks like grind rails and benches. skate features are included in parks in-lieu of play structures for older elementary ages. appendix b 6 | city of rohnert p A rk these aerial views identify potential improvements suggested by MiG based upon MiG’s observations from a tour of all parks. the improvements are specific to some parks and represent alternatives for park renovations. not all suggestions are included in the Pros recommendations. appendix c park improvement opportunities aerial views of selected parks p A rks & recre A tion f A cilities m A ster pl A n | 7 Co l e g i o V i s t a N o t e s 1: D e v e l o p W a t e r / S k a t e f e a t u r e a r e a 2 : I m p r o v e / e x p a n d p i c n i c a r e a 3: E v a l u a t e u s a g e a n d c o n s o l i d a t e w i t h o t h e r c h i l d s p l a y a r e a i f p o s s i b l e 4 : R e p l a c e / R e n o v a t e n o n - a c c e s s i b l e b a t h r o o m 1 2 4 3 P r e p a r e d b y Ci t y o f R o h n e r t P a r k Pa r k s a n d F a c i l i t i e s M a s t e r P l a n 20 0 7 Golis Park Notes 1. Bocce ball court 2. Evaluate usage and consider removal 3. Integrate separated, age-appropriate play areas and family gathering place 4. Increase trail and park signage 5. Potential Skate/Water feature area 1 2 3 4 Prepared by City of Rohnert Park Parks and Facilities Master Plan 2007 5 Ma g n o l i a P a r k N o te s 1: I m p r o v e s i g n a g e t o p r o m o t e i d e n t i t y 2 : D e v e l o p s o c i a l g a t h e r i n g a n d t en n i s v i e w i n g a r e a 3 : E x p a n d t e n n i s c o u r t s 4: I m p r o v e t e n n i s c o u r t e n t r a n c e v e g e t a t i o n a n d s e a t i n g 5 : R e d e s i g n g a t h e r i n g a r e a 1 3 5 2 4 P r e p a r e d b y Ci t y o f R o h n e r t P a r k Pa r k s a n d F a c i l i t i e s M a s t e r P l a n 20 0 7 Su n r i s e P a r k N o t e s 1: L o w b r a n c h e s a t s i d e w a l k 2 : I m p r o v e w h e e l c h a i r a c c e s s f r o m p a r k i n g l o t 3 : I n t e g r a t e s e a t i n g , p i c n i c a n d p l a y a r e a 4: i m p r o v e d r a i n a g e / s a f e t y 5 : R e c o n f i g u r a t i o n o p p o r t u n i t y a r e a 1 4 3 2 P r e p a r e d b y Ci t y o f R o h n e r t P a r k Pa r k s a n d F a c i l i t i e s M a s t e r P l a n 20 0 7 5