2006/09/18 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Packet Roti NE FT PARA"j!t
19
PIParNE
�`<<F°Aa`' ROHNERT PARK PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
AGENDA
Monday September 18, 2006
7:30 p.m.
6750 Commerce Blvd., Rohnert Park
To any member of the audience desiring to address the Parks and Recreation Commission:
If you wish to speak on an item under discussion by the Parks and Recreation Commission, you may do so upon recognition
from the Chairperson.
After receiving recognition from the Chairperson, please walk to the rostrum located in the front and center of the room and
state your name and address for the record before making your presentation.
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CALL MEETING TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
• Roll Call:
A Chairperson Hansen A Bird I/- Black /r Butler Coleman ZGriffin ❑ Stevens
• Approval of Minutes—August 21, 2006
• Acknowledgment of Recreation Department staff's report on the posting of the
meeting's agenda.
Agenda has been posted in three public places: Community Center, Public Safety
Building and City Hall, and on the City's Website.
• Unscheduled Public Appearances for public comments on items not listed on the
agenda, or on agenda items if unable to speak at the scheduled time.
Item Topic
Item#1 Proposed Revisions to Municipal Code Regarding Park Dedications and Reservations
Commission to review proposed amendments to the Municipal Code and provide comments for the
Planning Commission and City Council.
Item#2 Review of the City's Land Appraisal Process
Staff will make a brief oral presentation on the process by which the city uses to appraise the value of
land.
Item#3 Update and review of use of Golis Park by Best Friends Canine Club
Commission to review current status of use of Golis Park by Best Friends Canine Club. Commission
may make recommendations to City Council about modifications to the authorizations granted Best
Friends Canine Club.
Item#4 Review of Proposed Civic Center Plaza Design
Commission to review and provide comments to the City Council on the preliminary design concept
for the Civic Center Plaza.
Item#5 AB 1234 Ethics Training
Per Assembly Bill 1234 the Commission is required to attend a class in ethics training. The class will
-- be offered 9/26 from 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Item#6 Review of Park Incident Report
Commission to make comments on the Park Incident Report that was presented at the last meeting.
Comments will be forwarded to the appropriate city staff.
Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission
September 18,2006
Item —
Matters from Commissioners
Committee Reports
Matters from Recreation Staff
Update on Callinan Sports & Fitness Center Exercise Equipment
Update on the Community Garden
Update on the Playground Renovations
Adjournment
Disabled Accommodation:
If you have a disability which requires an interpreter or other person to assist you while attending this Planning Commission Meeting,please contact the
City Offices at (707) 588-2236 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting to insure arrangements for accommodation by the City. Please make sure the
Planning Department is notified as soon as possible if you have a visual impairment that requires the meeting materials be produced in another format
(Braille,audio-tape,etc.).
Page 2
INTEROFFICE MEMO
DATE: 9/18/06
TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
FROM: RON BENDORFF,DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
RE: PROPOSED REVISIONS TO MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING PARK
DEDICATIONS AND RESERVATIONS
Currently, parkland dedications and reservations are only referred to the Parks and
Recreation Commission ("Commission") if there is a subdivision map associated with the •
project. Staff notes that this does not always fit well into the review process for a project
which is within a Specific Plan or Planned Development area. The present Municipal Code
provisions allow a Specific Plan or Planned Development to be approved without any review
of proposed park sites by the Commission. Furthermore, a subdivision map application for
a project may follow the associated Specific Plan or Planned Development approval, so the
locations and sizes of park'sites within these project areas may conceivably be approved
prior to the Commission ever seeing them at the subdivision review stage. To address this
inconsistency, Staff is proposing to amend the sections of the Municipal Code which govern
the review of park dedications and reservations so that they coincide with any applicable
Specific Plan or Planned Development reviews and approvals. The role of the Commission
in reviewing park plans also needs to be clarified, and amendments are proposed to
emphasize that the Commission's charge is to make recommendations to the Planning
Commission and City Council regarding park sites.
A draft of the proposed amendments is attached and the following is a summary of the
effects of these changes by subsection:
16.14.020.J: Clarifies that credits for park and recreation improvements must first be
reviewed by the Commission,which then makes a recommendation to the City Council.
16.14.020.K This subsection currently applies only to tentative subdivision maps. The
proposed amendment would expand this subsection to add a requirement that Preliminary
and Final Specific Plan applications that include park sites first be reviewed by the
Commission,which will make the required recommendation to the Planning Commission or
City Council. The proposed amendments would also clarify that at the tentative map stage,
the Commission's recommendation would pertain to the size, layout, and configuration of
the proposed park site,the desirability of giving credits for park improvements,the preferred
improvements to be considered, and conformance with any applicable Commission
standards,with the specific improvements to be considered at the final map stage.
17.06.250.k This amendment adds a requirement that a Preliminary Development Plan for
a Planned Development District that includes parkland dedication be brought before the
Commission for a recommendation to the Planning Commission.
MEMO TO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
REVISIONS TO MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING PARK DEDICATIONS AND RESERVATIONS
17.06.250.B: This amendment adds a requirement that a Final Development Plan for a
Planned Development District that proposes any changes to the parkland dedication
approved at the Preliminary Development Plan stage be brought back before the
Commission for supplemental review and, if necessary, a supplemental recommendation to
the Planning Commission.
17.06.350.k This amendment adds a requirement that a Preliminary Specific Plan
application be brought before the Commission for the review of any proposed parkland
dedication,with the Commission's recommendation forwarded to the Planning Commission
and City Council.
17.06.370.B(1)(m): Clarifies the information that would be useful to the Commission in a
Specific Plan application that includes any parkland dedication.
17.06.380: Adds a requirement that the Commission report on the proposed parkland
dedication to the Planning Commission so that this information factors into the approval of
the Specific Plan.
Staff would appreciate any Commission comments on the proposed amendments for
transmittal to the Planning Commission and City Council. If you should have any questions
on the proposed amendments,please feel free to contact me by telephone at 588-2231 or by
e-mail at rbendorff@rpcityorg.
/RB
Attachment
Page 2
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROIINERT PARK AMENDING SECTION
16.14.020, "PARK DEDICATION," OF CHAPTER 16.14,"DEDICATION AND
RESERVATIONS," OF TITLE 16, "SUBDIVISIONS," SUBSECTIONS A AND B OF
SECTION 17.06.250 "PROCEDURE," SECTION 17.06.350, "PRELIMINARY
APPLICATION--PURPOSE AND SUBMITTAL," SECTION 17.06.370,
"APPLICATION--SUBMITTAL," AND SECTION 17.06.380,"APPROVAL
PROCEDURE," OF ARTICLE VII,"PLANNED DEVELOPMENT ZONING
DISTRICT," OF CHAPTER 17.06 "LAND USE REGULATIONS," OF TITLE 17,
"ZONING," OF THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS,the City requires subdividers to dedicate parkland;and
WHEREAS,the City's park dedication requirements are contained in Section 16.14.020,
"Park dedication," of Chapter 16.14, "Dedication and reservations," of Title 16, "Subdivisions,"
of the Rohnert Park Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, Section 16.14.020 permits a subdivider in certain circumstances to obtain a
credit against parkland dedication requirements for park improvements;and
WHEREAS, Section 17.06.250 sets forth the procedure for obtaining a "Planned
Development Zoning District" designation,including parkland dedication; and
WHEREAS, Section 17.06.350 sets forth the procedure for preliminary applications for
specific plans;and
WHEREAS, Section 17.06.370 sets forth the procedure for specific plan applications;
and
WHEREAS, Section 17.06.380 sets forth the approval procedure for specific plan
applications;and
WHEREAS,the City Council wishes to clarify the parkland dedication procedure and set
forth the procedure for Parks and Recreation Commission review of proposed parkland -
dedication in connection with applications for preliminary and final development plan review,
specific plan review,and tentative and final map review;
NOW, THEREFORE,the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park doeshereby ordain
as follows:
Page 1 of 9
SECTION 1. Subsection(J), "Credit for Park and Recreation Improvements," of
Section 16.14.020, "Park dedication," of Chapter 16.14, "Dedication and
reservations," is amended to read as follows:
"If the subdivider provides park and recreation
"1
improvements to the dedicated land (other than
improvements required by subsection(e)(3) of this section)
the value of improvements shall be credited against the
required payments of fees or dedication of land required by
this section. To qualify for credit under this subsection,the
subdivider must first obtain a recommendation from the
parks and recreation commission and approval from the city
council."
SECTION 2. Subsection (K), "Procedure," of Section 16.14.020, "Park dedication," of
Chapter 16.14, "Dedication and reservations," is amended to read as follows:
"K. Procedure.
1. Preliminary and final specific plan.
a. Parks and recreation commission
recommendation. At the time of application for a
preliminary or final specific plan, the parks and recreation
commission shall review and make a recommendation to
the planning commission regarding the size, layout, and
configuration of any proposed park dedication. The parks
and recreation commission's recommendation shall be
based upon the following:
(i) conformance of the size, layout and
configuration of any proposed parkland with the city's
general plan and the city's zoning ordinance;and
(ii) conformance with any applicable
parks and recreation commission standards.
b. Planning commission and city council
review. The planning commission and city council shall
review the proposed size, layout, and configuration of any
proposed park dedication and accept, reject, or modify the
recommendation of the parks and recreation commission.
2. Tentative map.
a. Parks. and recreation commission
• recommendation. The parks and recreation commission
shall review each application for a tentative map and make
a recommendation to the planning commission,which shall
include,but not be limited to,the following:
Page2of9
(i) conformance of the size, layout, and
configuration of any proposed parkland with the city's
general plan, any applicable specific plans, and the city's
zoning ordinance;
(ii) the desirability of giving credits for
park improvements;
(iii) its preferred improvements for the
proposed park; and
(iv) conformance of the proposed
dedication with any applicable parks and recreation
commission standards.
b. Planning commission review. The planning
commission shall forward the recommendation of the parks
and recreation commission to the city council for review.
c. City council review. The city council shall
review proposed parkland dedications in conjunction with
tentative map review in accordance with Chapter 16.10 of
this Code for major subdivisions and Chapter 16.12 of this
Code for minor subdivisions. At the time of approval of a
tentative map, the city council shall determine whether to
require a dedication of land, payment of an in lieu fee, or a
combination of both and condition the tentative map
accordingly. The city council shall consider the
recommendation of the parks and recreation commission,
which shall include those items listed in (2)(a) above as
well as the following:
(i) The amount of land or fee or both to
be required;and
(ii) the location and configuration of the
dedicated land or proposed use of in-lieu fees.
d. Time for dedication or payment.
(i) The subdivider shall dedicate the
land required for dedication upon approval of the final map.
(ii) The subdivider shall pay the required
in-lieu fees after approval of the fmal map and upon
issuance of building permits.
3. Final Map.
a. Parks and recreation commission review.
The parks and recreation commission shall review and
make a recommendation to the city engineer regarding the
Page3of9
specific improvements proposed to satisfy a tentative map
condition related to parkland dedication. The parks and
recreation commission's recommendation shall be based
upon the following:
(i) the city's need for the specific
improvements proposed;
(ii) the compatibility of the specific
improvements proposed with existing city improvements;
and
(iii) conformance with any applicable
parks and recreation commission standards."
SECTION 3. Subsections A and B of Section 17.06.250, "Procedure," of
Article VII, "Planned Development Zoning District," of Chapter 17.06,
"Land Use Regulations," of Title 17, "Zoning," is amended to read as
follows:
"A. Preliminary development plan. In establishing a P-
D district, a preliminary development plan shall be
prepared for the proposed P-D zoning district.
1. Parks and recreation commission
recommendation. The preliminary development plan shall
be submitted to the parks and recreation commission for a
recommendation with regards to any proposed parkland
dedication. The recommendation of the parks and
recreation commission to the planning commission shall be
based upon the criteria listed in section 16.14.020(K)(1)(a)
of this code.
2. Planning commission approval. The
planning commission will hold a public hearing to consider
the preliminary development plan, the recommendation of
the parks and recreation commission with regard to any
dedicated parkland, and whether the land uses proposed and
their interrelationships are generally acceptable and
consistent with the general plan and any applicable specific
plan. The commission shall indicate conceptual approval
or disapproval of the preliminary development plan. Such
conceptual approval shall not bind the planning
commission to approval of the final development plan,
which shall be subject to environmental analysis and public
hearings.
Page 4 of 9
r-� B. Final development plan. Once a preliminary
development plan has been approved by the planning
commission, a final development plan to rezone the
property to P-D district may be submitted to the city. If
subdivision within the district is necessary, then a tentative
map may also be applied for at this time.
1. Parks and recreation commission review. If
any changes to dedicated parkland have been proposed
since preliminary development plan approval, staff will
schedule a public hearing before the parks and recreation
commission after receipt of a complete application. The
recommendation of the parks and recreation commission to
the planning commission shall be based upon the criteria
listed in section 16.14.020(K)(1)(a)of this Code.
2. Planning commission approval. Following
appropriate environmental review of the plan, the planning
commission shall consider the application for a final
development plan at a public hearing. After the hearing,
the planning commission shall forward any new
recommendation of the parks and recreation commission
with regard to any dedicated parkland. The planning
commission will also make a recommendation to the city
council based on a review of the environmental impacts of
the plan, the appropriateness and interrelationships of the
proposed uses, any effects on traffic circulation due to
development of the plan, the quality of the suggested site
plan design, consistency with the general plan and any
applicable specific plan, and other details of the proposed
district. A favorable recommendation must include the
findings listed in this title for a final development plan(see
Section 17.06.260).
3. City council approval. At the city council's
public hearing, it may approve or deny the final
development plan or return the matter to the planning
commission for further evaluation. If the application for a
final development plan is approved, the property shall be
rezoned as a P-D zoning district and so indicated on the
zoning map for the city."
SECTION 4. Section 17.06.350, "Preliminary application -- purpose and submittal," of
Chapter 17.06, "Land Use Regulations," of Chapter 17, "Zoning," is amended to read as
follows:
Page 5 of 9
"A. Within thirty days of submittal, the community -�
development director shall respond in writing to the
applicant regarding the completeness of the preliminary
application. Following initial application review, the
community development director may require other
documentation and information he or she deems necessary
for the parks and recreation commission and planning
commission to make a recommendation to the city council
regarding conformance with the general plan.
B. Parks and recreation commission report. The
application shall be submitted to the parks and recreation
commission for a report with regards to any proposed
parkland dedication. The report of the parks and recreation
commission to the planning commission shall include the
criteria listed in section 16.14.020(K)(1)(a)of this Code.
C. Planning commission and city council public
hearings. The planning commission and city council will
each hold a public hearing to receive public input on the
preliminary plan. Additional public meetings and
workshops may be required if necessary to determine
general plan conformance as determined by the community
development director.
D. Following completion of the public meetings, but
not more than ninety days following the determination that
the preliminary application is complete, the community
development director will provide the applicant(s) and all
property owners within the SP district with a copy of the
staff report and any adopted resolutions.
E. Preliminary application review shall not constitute
any representation on the part of the city that a specific plan
will be prepared or approved for the property or that any
other application pending or otherwise will be approved.
F. Final Development Plan. Once a preliminary
development plan has been approved by the planning
commission, a final development plan to rezone the
property to P-D district may be submitted to the city. If
subdivision within the district is necessary, then a tentative
map may also be applied for at this time. Once the
application has been deemed complete by staff, a public
hearing before the planning commission shall be scheduled
following appropriate environmental review of the plan.
The planning commission shall make any new
recommendations to the city council based on a review of
Page 6 of 9
the environmental impacts of the plan, the appropriateness
and interrelationship of the proposed uses, any effects on
traffic circulation due to development of the plan, the
quality of the suggested site plan design, consistency with
the general plan and any applicable specific plan, and other
details of the proposed district. A favorable
recommendation must include the fmdings listed in this
title for a final development plan (see Section 17.06.260).
At its public hearing, the city council may approve or deny
the fmal development plan or return the matter to the
planning commission for further evaluation. If approved,
the property shall be rezoned as a P-D zoning district and
so indicated on the zoning map for the city."
SECTION 5. Subsection B(1)(m) of section 17.06.370, "Application-- submittal," of Chapter
17.06, "Land Use Regulations," of Title 17, "Zoning," is amended to read as follows:
"m. Other plans and programs, as may be necessary, to
address general plan and city requirements regarding traffic,
natural resource conservation and management, parks and
open space (including a description of the acreage, layout,
and configuration of proposed parkland dedication),
hydrology,drainage and storm water runoff."
SECTION 6. Section 17.06.380, "Approval procedure," of Chapter 17.06, "Land Use
Regulations," of Title 17, "Zoning," is amended to read as follows:
"17.06.380 Specific Plan Approval Procedure.
A. Parks and recreation commission report. Upon
receipt of a complete application, the parks and recreation
commission shall consider the application at a public
hearing and report on the proposed acreage, layout, and
configuration of parkland dedication and report to the
planning commission on the project's compliance with the
city's general plan requirements and any other city policies
for parkland dedication.
B. Planning commission review. Following
completion of environmental documentation as required by
• the California Environmental Quality Act, a public hearing
shall be scheduled before the planning commission.
1. Notice. At least ten days prior to the
planning commission hearing,the community development
director shall cause to be mailed a notice to the applicant
and to all owners within the existing or proposed SP district
Page 7 of 9
and within three hundred feet of the boundaries of the
district as shown on the latest equalized property tax
assessment roll, publish a notice in a newspaper of general
circulation, and post a notice in at least three public places
in the city.
2. Recommendation. The planning
commission shall forward the report of the parks and
recreation commission to the city council and indicate by
resolution, with recommended findings (see Section
17.06.390), whether the specific plan or specific plan
amendment is recommended to the city council for
approval, approval in modified form, or disapproval.
Following the planning commission's recommendation, the
community development director shall forward said
recommendation to the city clerk for scheduling before the
city council.
C. City council review. The city council shall conduct
a public hearing on the specific plan or the specific plan
amendment.
1. Notice. At least ten days prior to the city
council hearing,the community development director
shall cause to be mailed a notice to the applicant and all
owners of property within three hundred feet of the
boundaries of the proposed district as shown on the
latest equalized assessment roll, publish a notice in a
newspaper of general circulation, and post a notice in at
least three public places in the city.
2. Approval. Approval of the specific plan or
specific plan amendment shall be by resolution. The city
council may approve, approve with modifications, or
disapprove any proposed specific plan or specific plan
amendment. If the city council approves the specific plan
with modifications, the applicant shall be responsible for
the reprinting of the approved specific plan with all city
council approved changes and amendments. A master
copy, both in print and electronic form, and a certain
number of copies,as determined by the community
development director, shall be provided to the city within
thirty days of the city council's approval of the specific
plan."
SECTION 7. This Ordinance is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality
Act.
Page 8 of 9
"-- SECTION 8. If any section of this Ordinance is later deemed to be void or unconstitutional,
the remaining sections of the Ordinance shall remain in effect.
SECTION 9. This Ordinance shall take effect 30 days after its second reading.
SECTION 10. The City Clerk is directed to publish a summary of this Ordinance.
This ordinance was introduced on the day of ,2006 and DULY AND
REGULARLY ADOPTED this day of ,2006 by the following
roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
Mayor Tim Smith
ATTEST:
City Clerk Judy Hauff
Approved as to form:
Assistant City Attorney Gabrielle P.Whelan
Page 9 of 9
ROBNERT P /R
i CITY ADMINISTRATION
19 sz MEMORANDUM
CALIF0Rt •
September 13, 2006
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Dan Schwarz, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT: Update and review of use of Golis Park by Best Friends Canine
Club
At the Commission's August 21, 2006 meeting, staff provided an update about
off-leash dog activities at Golis Park. The Commission provided feedback on the
issues outlined in staffs report and requested the opportunity to consider various
issues at its September meeting. Subsequently, the City Council received written
correspondence (attached), as well as oral presentations, from Mr. John O'Neill,
whose residence abuts Golis Park. Mr. O'Neill has asked the Council to review
staffs recent administrative decisions and consider an alternative course of
action. The Council is referring this matter to the Commission for comment and
possible recommendation. The Council anticipates that staff will present the
comments and any recommendation(s) of the Parks and Recreation Commission
at a future Council meeting.
Background
In 2002, the City Council made necessary changes to the Rohner( Park
Municipal Code to allow, under certain conditions, off-leash dog activity in the
City's parks. In 2003, the Council authorized the Recreation Department to issue
a use permit to the Best Friends Canine Club (BFCC) for the baseball field at
Golis Park. BFCC was given permission to use the field for off-leash activity in
the early morning hours. At the recommendation of then Recreation Director Tim
Barry, the permit included the use of a nearby, paved court during inclement
weather and when the field was being used for organized baseball. Use of the
court as an alternative was intended to ensure the safety of the dogs and limit
damage to the field that might occur when it is wet. BFCC has renewed this use
permit each year since it was issued. By all accounts, BFCC has been a model
organization with respect to the use of the City's facilities.
Update and review of use of Golis Park by Best Friends Canine Club
September 13, 2006
Page 2
Earlier this year, the City Manager's Office reviewed various issues at Golis Park
with the City's senior staff. Among these issues were reports of off-leash dog
activity throughout the day on the paved court used by BFCC. Given this court is
popular with soccer players and other park patrons, staff expressed concern
about possible health issues from excrement and residue left by dogs. In May,
the City Manager's Office ordered the posting of a "No Dogs Allowed" sign on the
courts pursuant to the City's Municipal Code. Staff spent the subsequent months
evaluating BFCC's activities and needs, as well as City documents approving
BFCC's use of Golis Park. As was reported to the Commission in August, the
City Manager's Office determined that the approvals originally granted by the City
Council should be in force. From the City's perspective, using the court during
inclement weather allows BFCC to avoid damaging the baseball field, and the
weather should assist BFCC in keeping the court clean. Signs are being posted
at the court that state:
REGISTERED MEMBERS OF THE BEST FRIENDS CANINE CLUB
MAY USE THIS COURT FOR OFF-LEASH DOG EXERCISE
8:30AM-9:30AM DAILY IN THE EVENT OF INCLEMENT WEATHER
OR SCHEDULED BASEBALL ACTIVITY.
ALL OTHER USE OF THIS COURT FOR OFF-LEASH
ACTIVITY IS UNAUTHORIZED AND IN VIOLATION OF THE
ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE 6.14.010
Staff has received conflicting responses to this administrative decision. BFCC
members would like to see the court made available year-round. BFCC has
been using the court as an area for dogs that are new to the group, including
puppies, to acclimate to the group dynamic. BFCC has also allowed non-social
dogs to run off-leash in the courts. In addition, at least one member of BFCC is
not able to participate in the group's daily activities on the baseball field and uses
the court for off-leash activity. BFCC members contend that there is no
substantial health risk posed by the use of the court by dogs and people. At its
August meeting, the Commission expressed interest in considering whether
BFCC should have year-round access to the court.
Mr. O'Neill has informed the Council and staff that use of the court is a
community issue that requires outreach to neighbors of the park. In past
conversations with staff, he has stated that while BFCC has proven to be a
responsible group, its authorized use of Golis Park facilities creates the
perception that off-leash dog activity is acceptable at all hours of the day. He has
stated that the administrative action to restrict access to the court greatly
curtailed its use by dogs and dog owners outside of the 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
period. He has also asked for a more substantial analysis of the health risk
'"� question.
Update and review of use of Golis Park by Best Friends Canine Club
September 13, 2006
Page 3
Another issue discussed at the Commission's August meeting concerned
whether BFCC's assigned times to use Golis Park could be changed and/or
expanded. Scheduling is an administrative matter under the purview of
Recreation Services Manager Guy Miller. Mr. Miller will provide the Commission
with a review of the scheduling situation at Golis Park as part of a separate
report.
Issues/Actions for Consideration
The Commission is asked to make a recommendation with respect to designation
of one court at Golis Park as an off-leash dog area. Currently, the court is an off-
leash dog area for BFCC from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. each day in the event of
inclement weather or scheduled baseball activity. The Commission may wish to
recommend that the City Council:
1. Maintain the status quo;
2. Designate the court as a year-round, off-leash dog area for BFCC; or
3. Prohibit off-leash dog activity on the court.
Staff recommends maintaining the status quo.
INERT P4
INTEROFFICE MEMO
From: Guy Miller, Recreation Services Manager timemiOH
To: Parks and Recreation Commission DEPARTMENT
Cc: Dan Schwarz, Assistant City Manager CAG,FORso
Date: 9/13/06'
Subject: Schedule of Golis Park Off-leash Area
At the August 21 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the Commission requested
staff to research the possibility of extending the hours of the Best Friends Canine Club's
use of Golis Park baseball field and adjacent tennis court. The current approved schedule
of the baseball field is from 8:30-9:30 a.m. daily. The BFCC has made schedule
adjustments on weekends to allow for scheduled baseball games. Typically, when there
are weekend games scheduled they meet from 7:30-8:30 a.m. They are notified in
advance by the Recreation Department if this is necessary.
The current approved schedule for the use of the tennis courts is for the same time period
as the field. The tennis court use is approved during periods of inclement weather and
when the field is not available due to scheduled baseball games.
Since the tennis court is not typically used for any scheduled activities, there are no
scheduling limitations on the use of the court.
The baseball field is not used from the months of October through March so any change
in the BFCC schedule would not affect the baseball use. In the past the baseball field was
used exclusively by the Rohnert Park Babe Ruth Baseball League and the Redwood
Empire Baseball League (an adult league). This past season the Babe Ruth League did
not use the field due to declining registrations. The field at Mountain Shadows Middle
School satisfies their current needs. It is not known whether this will be the situation in
the future. The Redwood Empire Baseball League schedules games from late April
through early October. Their program is growing and they anticipate continuing their
current schedule. They play on Sundays only with two games scheduled per day; 10:00
a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Baseball games require substantial field prep and player warm-up
before games. Realistically, they need access to the field between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Sundays. REBL is a county-wide league with a team located in Rohnert Park. They pay
field rental fees of approximately$2500 per year. Also,much of the seasonal field
maintenance is performed by this league.
In summary, the tennis court schedule is not an issue although its continued year-round
use is currently being evaluated. The scheduled BFCC use of the baseball field could be
expanded during the off-season(baseball)but careful consideration needs to be given to
the impact this might have on the field by non-members who wish to run their dogs
during non-BFCC hours. During the baseball season the weekdays would also be
available for an expanded schedule. Saturdays would also be available as long as there is
no increased use by local baseball teams. Sunday's use by REBL would preclude any
rti expansion in the BFCC schedule and the schedule modifications currently made would
need to be continued. Staff feels that great care needs to be used in expanding the use of
this baseball field as an off-leash dog area. There have been ongoing complaints from the
baseball league as well as a considerable amount of unauthorized off-leash activity on the
field during non-BFCC hours. Expanding the BFCC's use of the field may exacerbate
these problems. Staffs recommendation is to keep the field schedule as it currently is and
evaluate the ongoing use of the tennis court as a separate matter.
Page 1 of 3
Miller, Guy
From: Schwarz, Dan
Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 3:52 PM
To: Miller, Guy
Subject: FW: Best Friends Canine Club
From: John O'Neill
Sent:Thursday, September 07, 2006 1:05 PM
To: Schwarz, Dan
Cc: Smith,Tim; Mackenzie,Jake-AOL; Donley, Steve; Miller, Guy
Subject: Re: Best Friends Canine Club
My concerns have been voiced in previous letters and phone calls.I feel this is an improper use of this
court and an unfair intrusion into the lives of those of us in very close proximity to this court.
If I were to have a neighbor living behind me with a barking dog I would be encouraged to reason with
them and if that didn't work, call public safety. I am trying to reason with my neighbor right now(the
city)but it doesn't seem to be working. Who do I call public safety on?Unlike a single neighbor,I am
dealing with numerous people who come and go. If I call on one person and they leave but another
shows up,how will that be enforced?What if I call at 8:15 am but they don't arrive till 8:30 am does it
then become legal?Are the members going to carry id's. If I call on only those with barking dogs then
does everyone else think it's okay to be in there?Is public safety going to get sick of me calling
numerous times of the day?I think these questions need to be answered prior to the city giving this
permission.
If the city is still determined to go ahead with this then other questions need to be addressed. How many
dogs will be allowed in that area at any one time?
It is a small court and according to BFCC they have over 200 members. Will they be asked to not allow
there dogs to bark excessively?What is excessive. Last year there was a member with that group whose
dog would bring the ball back and bark for him to throw it again. Try listening to that for 45 minutes
every day.
At the time this use was approved that area was referred to as an"abandoned" tennis court. I think it has
been established that this court is not abandoned. Soccer players use it year around and believe me they
are noisy too,but I don't complain. Just as you would not complain about your neighbor having a good
time but would if his dog was barking. That is not fun but a nuisance. Some of these players bring their
little kids with them who sit and roll balls in there. They are unaware that dogs do their business in there
and the thought is disgusting.
When the action was taken to prohibit dogs in that area City Manager Donley said that this was not an
appropriate use of that court and acknowledged the effect on neighbors. I don't know what has changed.
Why is the use of the Animal Shelter Dog Park not a more appropriate venue for this activity?This did
not exist when original approval was given.
It is for the above reasons that I feel this issue should again come before the City Council for their
review prior to any new sign being posted.
9/14/2006
Page 2 of 3
On Sep 1,2006, at 12:42 PM, Schwarz,Dan wrote:
Mr. O'Neill:
I understand that you have inquired of Mayor Smith as to when the issue of the use
of Golis Park facilities by Best Friends Canine Club (BFCC) might come before the
City Council. At this time, staff has no specific recommendations from the Parks
and Recreation Commission to take to the City Council. It is possible that at its
September 18, 2006 meeting, the Commission might send certain matters to the
Council. You may wish to attend the September 18 Commission meeting, which
begins at 7:30pm. I will make certain you receive any staff reports.
As you are aware, earlier this year, administrative staff restricted access by BFCC
to a multi-purpose court in Golis Park. Since taking that action, staff has been
studying the original approvals by the City Council for BFCC to use G-Park
facilities. We have met with BFCC representatives to learn more about the Club's
operations. Staff has concluded that the limited circumstances under which BFCC
was approved by the City Council to use the court are appropriate. We are posting
signs to clarify that BFCC may use the court during periods of inclement weather or
use of the baseball field for organized baseball:
REGISTERED MEMBERS OF THE BEST FRIENDS CANINE CLUB
MAY USE THIS COURT FOR OFF-LEASH DOG EXERCISE
8:30AM - 9:30AM DAILY IN THE EVENT OF INCLEMENT WEATHER
OR SCHEDULED BASEBALL ACTIVITY.
ALL OTHER USE OF THIS COURT FOR OFF-LEASH
ACTIVITY IS UNAUTHORIZED AND IN VIOLATION OF THE
ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE 6.14.010
At the August 21, 2006 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, of which you
attended a portion, staff advised the Commission of its administrative decision and
requested feedback concerning this matter and several other G-Park, off-leash dog
activity questions. In part in response to certain public comments, the Commission
expressed an interest in possibly modifying the City's arrangements with BFCC. I
recognize that the statements of some members of the public, and perhaps of one
or two Commissioners, may have suggested to the audience that decisions were
being made that night about these modifications. In staffs view, given the scope of
the staff report and the statements I entered into the record at the meeting, the
Commission's votes on August 21 were advisory in nature and offered direction to
staff. Consequently, staff will return to the Commission on September 18 for further
discussion and direction as to whether there are issues to refer to the City Council.
9/14/2006
Sep 18 06 12:12p Mary Neal 707-584-2358 p.2
,-� MARY J. NEAL
Rohnert Park,CA 94928 Telephone: (707)585-2324
September 18, 2006
James Stevens, Commissioner
Parks&Recreation Commission
Rohnert Park, CA
Dear Commissioner:
I am a resident of the City of Rohnert Park, a dog owner and member of the Best Friends
Canine Club. At least three early mornings a week I exercise my dog in the fenced
baseball diamond of Golis Park. On a few occasions I have exercised my dog in the
evening at Golis Park.
On.each of my visits I have noted the peace and quiet of the beautiful surroundings,the
feeling of safety and I have enjoyed watching the families and groups of friends utilize the
facility that the city has created for all of us. In addition to baseball games I have witnessed
children on the soccer field,arena soccer played in the evenings on the open court,
basketball games many evenings a week,runners, dog walkers, skateboarders and bicyclists
utilizing the pathways in the park and so much more.
In recent days I have been informed that Mr.John O'Neil is complaining about dogs
barking and soiling the surrounding. I am confused by his allegation of the continual
barking of dogs and over-use of the court near his home by dogs.
Please consider the following:
1. Best Friends Canine Club does not utilize the court at any time except in
inclement weather and then during restricted morning hours.
2. In the past eighteen months each of my visits to the park have been one hour in
duration and I have NEVER heard incessant barking.
3. Our club is made up of conscientious pet owners and we are vigilant in our
efforts to pick up after our dogs whether on the court or the field.
4. We set high health, safety and behavior standards for pets participating in our
morning exercise program.
I am a senior citizen and a responsible member of this community. Due to physical
limitations I do not utilize the park in any manner except to exercise my dog. Please do
not exclude me from use of the park.
Respectfully subrniu.ed,
Mary Neal
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. ROJECT UPDATE .
, SEPTEMBER 2006 ='
LGATES Center Pl4zg x
--ASSOCIATES �/
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H N E R T PR K
CITY CENTER PLAZA
Rohnert Park City Center Plaza is envisioned as the City's civic focal point,a central destination for
the entire community that expresses its special history and character. The function of the plaza
will be reminiscent of the traditional'Town Square',a place for flea markets,farmers markets and
community celebrations. As an extension of the library,it will also accommodate learning events
such as book and poetry readings,concerts and information seminars.
The plaza is arranged around a walkway and historic timeline in sanblasted,colored concrete that
runs diagonally across the space. The timeline will span geologic to prehistoric time through to
modern culture and beyond. These themes of nature and timelessness will extend throughout
the plaza with organic,natural forms that are neither antique nor ultra-modern in character.
The preferred plan realigns Lynne Conde Way to enlarge the plaza area and create a strong entry
from Rohnert Park Expressway with drop-off. A wall element with sign and three flags highlights
this entry. An archway with clock creates an entry portal at the corner of City Center Drive and
Lynee Conde Way.
Three water features of cut and sculpted granite elements enhance the natural character and
provide interactive,hands-on activity for all ages. Seat rocks and flagstone pavers evoke geologic
events throughout the site.
For topographic interest,the site projects level from the library then slopes gently into a recessed
bowl with'meadow'before transitioning back to the curb. Seatwalls are stepped up along the
outer edges creating a natural amphitheater.
Focal points with shade structures and seating create activity nodes throughout the space. An
oak tree was selected by the community to be highlighted as a holiday tree.
Future City
Center Plaza
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FURNITURE&FIXTURES
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