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2006/11/13 Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Packet .e; i9 sl .00001 rut ROHNERT PARK PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA Monday November 13, 2006 6:30 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. CALL MEETING TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE • Roll Call: 21 Chairperson Hansen El Bird ❑ Black []'Butler ❑ Griffin❑ Stevens • Approval of Minutes—October 16,2006 • 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#1 Proposed Amendment to the Municipal Code: Action Item Proposal to amend Municipal Code Section 2.32.060 requiring the-Parks&Recreation Commission to have bylaws. Brings this requirement in-line with requirements of other city commissions. Item#2 Commission Goals and Accomplishments for 2006: Discussion Chair Hansen has requested to update the City Council on the goals and accomplishments of the Parks&Recreation Commission in 2006.The Commission is asked to discuss and make suggestions for Chair Hansen's presentation. Item#3 Dog Park Monitor Program: Discussion&action if needed The Dog Park Committee has completed a draft of the proposed Dog Park Monitor Program. Commission is asked to input and recommendations on the draft program. Matters from Committee Reports Commissioners • Park Development G sidelines-- • Park Audit • Park Sponsorships Matters from Update on Callinan Sports&Fitness Center Roof&Equipment Dedication Recreation Staff Update on the Playground Renovations Qdjoumment. Next meeting: December 11, 2006, 6:30 p.m. Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission November 13,2006 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 Agenda Packet Preparation TIMELINES for Regular City Council Meetings {This section for City Clerk Use Only} held on the 2°d&4th Tuesdays of each month: • Resolutions(other than standard formats for authorizations and approvals),Ordinances &Agreements to Assistant City Attorney and Assistant City Manager via email to view for"approvals as to form"and agenda planning DUE no later than NOON ree(3)Mondays prior to Council meeting dates • Agenda Items with related attachments via email to City Clerk DUE no later than NOON Two(2)Fridays prior to Council meeting dates • Agenda Draft review by Mayor,City Manager,Assistant City Attorney,City Clerk no later than Tuesday mornings One(1)week prior to Council meeting dates • Agenda Packets distributed to City Council and Agendas posted/distributed/mailed on Wednesday afternoons One(1)week prior to Council meeting dates for compliance with Rohnert Park Municipal Code Section 2.08.050 CITY OF ROLINERT PARK COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM TRANSMITTAL REPORT Meeting Date: November 14,2006 Department: Administration Submitted By: Dan Schwarz,Assistant City Manager (Name&Title) Submittal Date: November 6,2006 Agenda(Subject Only)Title: Resignation of Parks and Recreation Commissioner and Review of Commission Configuration Requested Council Action: Accept resignation of Fred Coleman,Parks and Recreation Commissioner, and direct staff to prepare an ordinance to amend the Municipal Code to reduce the Parks and Recreation Commission from seven to five members. Summary: Attached is a letter from Fred Coleman submitting his resignation from the Parks and Recreation Commission effective October 16, 2006. Mr. Coleman was appointed to the Commission in January 2006 by Vice-Mayor Vidak-Martinez. Municipal Code Section 2.32.020 stipulates that there shall be seven members of the Parks and Recreation Commission. Five members are appointed by specific councilmembers and two are appointed"at-large"by the entire Council. (A March 2006 roster of the Parks and Recreation Commission is attached.) The Council may wish to ask the Vice-Mayor to seek candidates to replace Mr. Coleman. However, the terms of all members of the Parks and Recreation Commission expire in December 2006. With these terms ending, the Council may wish to discuss the current configuration of the Parks and Recreation Commission and determine if a change is appropriate. Of the City's five commissions (Planning, Parks and Recreation, Cultural Arts, and Senior Citizen's Advisory) and one board (Mobile Home Parks Rent Appeals), all but the Parks and Recreation Commission consist of five members. At the Council's January 28, 2003 meeting, the Council restructured the City's commission system. The Citizens' Advisory Commission, Model City Commission, and Families and Children Commission were dissolved. At the same time, the Parks and Recreation Commission was expanded from five to seven members,with the provision that two members of the Commission would be at-large appointments for persons who have indicated a deep interest in programs for youth and families. Staff believes that it would be advantageous to align the membership of the Parks and Recreation Commission with that of the other Commissions and Boards. Past solicitations for members of City Commissions and Boards have sometimes failed to generate interest, making it difficult to fill vacancies. Often, recruiting applicants to fill vacancies has required considerable time and resources of Councilmembers and staff. To accomplish this realignment, the Council would need to amend the Municipal Code to stipulate that the Commission shall consist of five members—one appointed by each councilmember. Such a change would eliminate the need for the Council to establish that its at-large Resignation of Parks and Recreation Commissioner and Review of Commission Configuration November 6, 2006 Page 2 appointments "have indicated a deep interest in programs for youth and families." Staff recognizes that the six current members cannot be reappointed if this change is made. If all members desire to be reappointed, then an ordinance amendment could be made after future resignations. However, staff would not recommend filling the vacant seat at this time. Enclosures:Letter of Resignation,Commission roster CITY ATTORNEY'S REVIEW: Relevant documents for this agenda item have been reviewed and approved as to form by the City Attorney. CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION: ()Consent Item ()Regular Time ( )Approval ()Public Hearing Required ()Not Recommended ( )Submitted with Comment ( )Policy Determination by Council ()City Comments: City Manager's Signature: Date: (Revised 062806)JH-S:05-b MEMO To: Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission From: Bonnie Black Date: January 23, 2006 Re: Development of Park Sponsorship Program Thanks for taking the time to review this draft. Please record any and all suggestions and cor- rections for our further discussion and review. Questions? Call me at 584-5452. I. OVERVIEW The quality of life in a community is often judged by its natural beauty and by the positive leisure time opportunities and facilities offered by the area. Rohnert Park,CA has earned the nickname,"The Recreation Destination"because of the exceptional parks and recreation facilities and programs available to its citizens and the region.These facilities and programs are extremely popular and used by a variety of sports teams of all ages,fitness buffs,craft classes,individuals taking walks,senior citizens,as well as dogs and their guardians on a daily basis. Increased financial support through sponsorship dollars would provide the Park and Recreation Department of Rohnert Park the ability to acquire property,develop,expand,and renovate new and existing public recrea- tional and open space facilities,and maintain existing programs in exchange for marketing opportunities for businesses and sincere grati- tude from the community. I. CONCEPTS AND METHODOLOGY Create an attractive sponsorship program as a"win-win"proposition for Park and Recreation and investors of the commu- nity(business and/or individuals) • Identify and define forms of community recognition that P&R can offer potential donors(incl.but not limited to:Advertising in the Rec.Guides,"permanent signs"at appropriate parks,Spreckel's 101 sign?,City Voice Page,Channel 26 recogni- tion,and possibly naming rights. • Draft formal proposal including"Sponsorship Packages"for various levels of commitment. • Identify method of accounting and acknowledgement follow-through for program with council and staff. • Obtain necessary approvals from Planning Commission and The City Council before implementation • Revisions as necessary • Implementation I. ROUGH DRAFT A very rough draft of the proposed program is attached. Please note the following: • "Permanent Signs"refers to ones similar to the Rotary sign currently posted at the library and corner of RPX and Commerce. (See attached picture)These signs are made so that the frame and stand can be permanently installed but the actual sign panels are changeable. Original sign(complete)costs about$1500 but new pan- els can be purchased for approx.$150-180. Some of these costs could be reduced if we bought multiples and had Public Works install them. • Bronze plaques and ZBronze plaques about 12x18"are available for about$400-550. These can be mounted on stones etc.and may be a good option for memorial gifts. • Spreckels' 101 sign is complicated since it is controlled by a separate endowment foundation. "The City"(us) would only get about a 10%discount of advertisements using this. It still may be worth doing an occasional Acknowledgement of a list of sponsors. CITY OF ROHNERT PARK _ PARK PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM 3 ALili ,..... oil , „ OF i 44. Alii"- '1 ; . ''- 7 i hi AL 1. ' --: -- * 1 1121, i WORKING TOGETHER TO ACHIEVE MUTUAL GOALS Rohnert Park, CA has earned the nickname, "The Recreation Destination" because of the exceptional parks and recreation facilities and programs available to it's citizens and the region. These facilities and programs are extremely popular and used by a variety of sports teams of all ages, fitness buffs, craft classes, individuals taking walks, senior citizens, as well as dogs and their guardians on a daily basis. Increased financial support through sponsorship dollars would provide the Park and Recreation Department of Rohnert Park the ability to acquire property, develop, expand, and renovate new and existing public recreational and open space facilities in exchange for marketing opportunities for businesses and sincere gratitude from the community. The Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission has identified several areas for partnerships. * Spray Park and Indoor Pool * All weather track or field * Gazebo for outdoor events * Possible naming rights for development * Community Picnic Grove * Score boards * Sports Center upgrades, Agility Equipment for dog park, & Playground equipment * Arboretum, garden walks * ADA retrofitting * Senior Center amenities * Community Event sponsorships 100% of Park and Recreation Sponsorship Donations are used for the acquisition and maintenance of park and recreational programs and facilities. NAMING RIGHTS Significant donations for the acquisition equipment or facilities may be negotiated between the donor and the Park and Recreation Commission for specific park and recreational facilities or portions of them. Final approval for the agreement will be reviewed by the City Council. A list of future and current projects offered for "Naming Rights" can be obtained through the City Manager's office. ADVERTISING & SIGNAGE OPPORTUNITIES Deliver your message to thousands of prospective customers while they're enjoying Rohnert Park's Park and Recreational facilities and a myriad of special events and activities Temporary and continuing signage and community advertising opportunities are available through integrated sponsorship marketing packages. Hwy 101 Sign Channel 26 Sponsorship Acknowledgements posted on Channel 26 Recreation Department Activity Guide Advertising (Direct mailing circulation to 19,000 household and an additional 2000 copies distributed throughout RP three times a year. Signage Displayed at Park Location Signage must meet approved standards and be supplied to the City by the donor for hanging by our Public Works Dept.. Signs will be displayed for one year at one of the approved locations. Permanent Displays Bronze plaques honoring donors of specific permanent equipment and facilities will be posted as appropriate and approved by the Park and Recreation Dept. Misc. Other Signage and Advertising Opportunities Doggy bag dispensers, Dog Park Handout fliers, Flier Boxes, etc. PLATINUM LEVEL ("Top Dog") $10,000 per year • Recognition posted on the 101 Sign (Hwy exposure). • Full page advertisement (Camera Ready Art required) in the Park & Recreation Dept. Activity Guide (published 3 times per year) • "Semi-Permanent" recognition sign posted at 2 parks (min. 3 year commitment). • Sponsorship listing on the Community Page in The Voice and RP City Website. • Flier Box available for product brochures etc. posted at approved recreational site(s) Sponsorship Acknowledgements posted on Channel 26 • 5 Sport's Center annual memberships for employees of sponsoring donors. GOLD LEVEL (St. Bernard) $5000 per year • Full page advertisement (Camera Ready Art required) in the Park & Recreation Dept. - Activity Guide (published 3 times per year) • "Semi-Permanent" recognition sign posted at park of choice (Min. 3 year commitment) • Sponsorship listing on the Community Page in The Voice and RP City Website. • Flier Box available for product brochures etc. posted at approved site(s) • Sponsorship Acknowledgements posted on Channel 26 • 2 Sport's Center memberships for employees of sponsoring donors. SILVER LEVEL (Retriever) $2500 per year • Half page advertisement (Camera Ready Art required) in the Park & Recreation Dept. Activity Guide (published 3 times per year) • Signage space at 1 park locations for a year. (Minimum 3 year commitment) • Sponsorship listing on the Community Page in The Voice and RP City Website. • Flier Box available for product brochures etc. posted at approved recreational site(s) BRONZE LEVEL (Pound Puppy) $1000 per year • Quarter page advertisement (Camera Ready Art required) in the Park & Recreation Dept. Activity Guide (published 3 times per year) • Signage space at 1 park locations for a year. (Minimum 3 year commitment) • Sponsorship listing on the Community Page in The Voice and RP City Website. • Flier Box available for product brochures etc. posted at approved site (s) at recreational facilities (note: these are like the real estate lidded plastic boxes which are currently being used at Rohnert BARK) COMMUNITY PARTNER (Throw Us a Bone) "In Kind Donations", Donations of Specific pieces of equipment, and financial donations of less than $1000 are always welcome and encouraged. Sponsorship benefits will be negotiated with the Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission individually. MEMORIAL GIFTS FOR OUR PARKS The Park and Recreation Department maintains a list of unique and traditional park Enhancements such as landscape needs, playground equipment , benches with appropriate bronze plaque memorials etc. are available as memorial gifts remembering a special coach, community volunteer, loved one. A special Memorial Brick area beside Robert's Lake is also maintained by Rohnert Park's Park and Recreation Department. This may be a perfect way to honor that person's life and connection to the community. Details are available through the Park and Recreation Department. Donations to the City of Rohnert Park's Recreational and Parks Facilities are tax deductible. CITY OF ROHNERT PARK PARK SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM Attn: Guy Miller, Recreation Services Director Park and Recreation Dept. 5401 Snyder Lane Rohnert Park, CA 94928 (707)588-3488 NAME OF SPONSOR: (As it is to appear on acknowledgements) CONTACT NAME: CONTACT TITLE: ADDRESS: PHONE NUMBER: FAX NUMBER: EMAIL ADRESS: EFFECTIVE DATE: ANNIVERSARY DATE: SPONSORSHIP LEVEL: "Platinum" (aka Top Dog) -- $10,000/year "Gold Level" (aka St. Bernard) --$5,000/year "Silver Level" (aka Retriever) -- $2500/year "Bronze Level" (aka Lovable Mutt) --$1000/year "Community Partner" (aka"Throw Us a Bone) -- In-kind donations and cash donations under $1000 PAYMENT SCHEDULE: (Monthly, Quarterly, Annual) SIGNATURE OF SPONSOR : PARK SPONSORSHIP BENEFITS During the term of this Agreement, the Sponsor will be entitled to the benefits applicable to the class of sponsorship selected as indicated on the cover page. Please refer to sponsorship packet for details of benefits. SPONSORSHIP LIMITS Normal developer fees and park and open-space land donations required by Rohnert Park's Planning Department do not constitute Park Partnership Program Sponsorships. All sponsorship gifts will be gratefully received unencumbered with the mutual understanding that no special rights, privileges, permits etc. are expected by donor other than those indicated in this document. SPONSORSHIP DONATION The Sponsor will pay the City of Rohnert Park's Park and Recreation Department a sponsorship fee applicable to the level of sponsorship selected by the donor. The current fee is indicated on the cover page and the amount shall be due on the payment schedule described on the cover page. TERM AND TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT This Sponsorship Agreement shall be effective as of the Effective Date indicated on the cover page and terminate on the first anniversary thereof. The Sponsorship Agree- ment shall renew automatically for successive one-year terms unless either party indi- cates the desire allow the agreement to expire at least thirty (30) days prior to the end of the then-current term. The Sponsor may terminate this Agreement upon thirty (30) days written notice for any reason with written notice of termination. Within one week after termination of this Agreement, the Sponsor must remove any Park Sponsorship claims from all advertising, websites, and other marketing materials. The Sponsor does not have the authority to act as a representative of the Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission and does not have the authority to make rep- - resentations on behalf of the Commission or the City of Rohnert Park. DOG PARK MONITOR PROGRAM PROPOSAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Rohnert Park's first dog park, Rohnert BARK, opened in the summer of 2005. The park quickly proved to be the most used park in town - arguably "over-used" for its size. Although rules of the park are clearly posted and brochures are offered explaining the expectations of the guests, most are so eager to get into the park to play that they don't pause to educate themselves about safe dog park use. Public Works is also challenged to keep up with keeping the bags stocked to encourage keeping the park clean. The Park and Recreation Department is committed to maintaining a high quality of service and safe operation of all parks and recreational facilities. To keep Rohnert Park's dog parks as safe and fun for its guests, volunteers are needed to help monitor them. This primarily involves helping humans understand how the rules and regulations make the area safe and pleasant for people and dogs. MISSION STATEMENT The volunteer BARK Monitor team will take lead role in educating guests of Rohnert Park's dog parks about the expectations and responsibilities of users of the park to keep the parks safe and pleasant for human and canine guests while working constructively with Public Safety, City staff and the Park and Recreation Commission. 'ROGRAM GOAL: Develop team of trained volunteers to help City staff monitor RP's dog parks Rohnert Park's dog parks by encouraging rule compliance and respect of the facility. PROGRAM OVERVIEW: BARK Monitors will... • Receive training to ensure that monitors are familiar with the "Park Rules and Regulations" as well as the specific rules that apply to their position. Rohnert Park's Parks and Recreation Commission and staff will provide the training and information for each Park Monitor. One aspect of the training will involve demonstrating how the Park Monitor will tactfully and diplomatically carry out these functions while interacting with citizens. • Monitors will be present during peak times of park use. • Wear identification badges provided by the City while officially acting as a monitor. • BARK Monitors are not law enforcement agents. DOG PARK MONITOR PROGRAM PROPOSAL EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Rohnert Park's first dog park, Rohnert BARK, opened in the summer of 2005. The park quickly proved to be the most used park in town - arguably "over-used" for its size. Although rules of the park are clearly posted and brochures are offered explaining the expectations of the guests, most are so eager to get into the park to play that they don't pause to educate themselves about safe dog park use. Public Works is also challenged to keep up with keeping the bags stocked to encourage keeping the park clean. The Park and Recreation Department is committed to maintaining a high quality of service and safe operation of all parks and recreational facilities. To keep Rohnert Park's dog parks as safe and fun for its guests, volunteers are needed to help monitor them. This primarily involves helping humans understand how the rules and regulations make the area safe and pleasant for people and dogs. MISSION STATEMENT The volunteer BARK Monitor team will take lead role in educating guests of Rohnert Park's dog parks about the expectations and responsibilities of users of the park to keep the parks safe and pleasant for human and canine guests while working constructively with Public Safety, City staff and the Park and Recreation Commission. )ROGRAM GOAL: Develop team of trained volunteers to help City staff monitor RP's dog parks Rohnert Park's dog parks by encouraging rule compliance and respect of the facility. PROGRAM OVERVIEW: BARK Monitors will... • Receive training to ensure that monitors are familiar with the "Park Rules and Regulations" as well as the specific rules that apply to their position. Rohnert Park's Parks and Recreation Commission and staff will provide the training and information for each Park Monitor. One aspect of the training will involve demonstrating how the Park Monitor will tactfully and diplomatically carry out these functions while interacting with citizens. • Monitors will be present during peak times of park use. • Wear identification badges provided by the City while officially acting as a monitor. • BARK Monitors are not law enforcement agents. • Monitors will provide education and facilitate understanding of rules and regulations and encourage compliance to keep off-leash areas safe. • Offer assistance when needed to encourage compliance of these rules. (Extreme cases of noncompliance will require Public Safety assistance for enforcement). • Encourage users to pick up after dogs and to treat the facilities with respect. • Commit to a minimum of"5 " volunteer hours per month plus attendance at periodic BARK Monitor meetings. • Keep doggy bags and literature receptacles filled as needed. • Maintain the message boards. • Report any unsafe conditions or maintenance needs (broken equipment) to appropriate City Dept. for repair. • Participate in fundraising activities as appropriate. METHODOLOGY Volunteers will be recruited from active park participants and others who have developed a sense of pride and value in our dog parks. They will be screened through an application, interview, and training process. Volunteers will go through a training program presented by a the Park and Recreation Commission's dog park committee and program coordinator as well as appropriate city staff from the Park and Recreation Department and Public Safety. Supplemental training classes and meetings will be scheduled as needed. Upon completion of the training program, volunteers will be assigned hours and be given BARK Monitor photo ID's to wear when working as a BARK Monitor. The BARK Monitor team will meet regularly to address issues that may arise that require a team effort to resolve. MISC. • The City of Rohnert Park is encouraged to amend the Municipal code to make it a law that unaltered dogs are not permitted in city dog parks for safety reasons and to issue different colored dog license tags for dogs that are not spayed or neutered for clear identification and enforcement of laws. • Periodic visits from Public Safety to check for valid licenses, altered pitbulls, and general BARK Monitor support is encouraged. FF •vim Rohnert Park BARK Monitor Training Manual (DRAFT) • WELCOME! Welcome and thank you for your interest in becoming a part of the Rohnert Park BARK Monitor program. The City of Rohnert Park's Parks and Recreation Department is committed to maintaining a high quality of service and safe operation of all parks and recreational facilities. To keep these parks as safe and fun for its guests, volunteers are needed to help monitor them. This involves helping humans understand how the rules and regulations make the area • safe and pleasant for people and dogs. BASIC BARK MONITOR REQUIREMENTS • BARK Monitors must be at least 18 years old, but there are opportunities for Jr. Monitors (15-18) to work with adults. • Must know, understand, and obey all park rules. (Lead by example) • Must attend and successfully complete BARK Monitor training program. • Must commit to a minimum of 5 hours per month. • Must wear photo ID when officially monitoring the parks. • Volunteers must surrender their photo ID when leaving the program or at request of the Park and Recreation Commission. IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ! Rohnert Park Dog Park Monitors (aka BARK Monitors) must have the temperament necessary to deal with a wide variety of individuals, some of whom with test your patience and resolve. This training is intended to give you the confidence to encourage compliance with park rules and the knowledge of the procedures to handle situations tactfully and professionally. BARK Monitors should know and understand all park rules and be able to "educate" park guests about the need for compliance and to deal calmly with rule violations in a way that will avoid confrontation. If you do not believe your personality is suited for dealing with the public in this way, please ask us about other park volunteer opportunities. WHAT ARE "BARK MONITORS?" The BARK Monitors are a team of trained volunteers recognized by the City of Rohnert Park and expected to take a lead role in educating human users of the park about the expectations and responsibility of users of the park and to keep the parks safe and pleasant for all. BARK monitors are ambassadors at Rohnert Park dog parks (Rohnert BARK, Field of Friends, Shelter Park, etc.). Monitors will serve in an educational capacity while interacting with park-goers. BARK monitors will be monitoring to see that park rules are being followed, and will also try to interact with park-goers in a positive way. BARK monitors help guests understand the expectations and responsibilities of using an off-leash area. We want to foster a safe, yet sociable environment for both humans and dogs. BARK Monitors also are responsible for keeping the message boards neat and current, doggy bag dispensers filled, fliers and pamphlet boxes filled. Monitors are to remove all unauthorized fliers and promotional material that may appear within the park. BARK Monitors will notify the program coordinator of any facility issues that may require the attention of the Public Works Department such as broken sprinklers and water-fountains, compromised fencing, or any park elements that may cause injury to park users. Monitors will also alert the coordinator when a new supply of bags and fliers are needed. The BARK Monitor Program is under the supervision of the Parks and Recreation Commission's Dog Park Committee. Volunteers report their hour regularly to the BARK Monitor Coordinator. BARK MONITOR RESPONSIBILIES AND BEHAVIOR • Must know and obey all park rules. (Lead by example!) • Be diplomatic and tactful when handling situations. • The best way to deal with problems in the park is to stop them before they happen. Try to greet people as they come into the park. If they are new, welcome them and give them a pamphlet about the park rules but don't miss the opportunity to highlight some of the most serious ones such as all dogs over 6 months must be altered, no aggressive behavior will be tolerated, etc. This is a good time to show new guests where the doggy bag dispensers are etc. • Greeting guests also gives you an opportunity to find out their names. Take note in case their dogs become a problem later. Knowing names of humans and their dogs and descriptions can be essential for enforcement later. • BARK Monitors should remain calm and professional at all times. Many guests will thank you for helping keep the park safes while some guests will call you nasty names. Take it all in stride and know that you are contributing to the safety of the park users. • Avoid confrontation. Call Public Safety's non-emergency (584-2611) when enforcement is necessary but this should only be as a last resort. In most cases it is best to write an incident report to share with other Park Monitors so repeat violators can be identified and appropriate action determined. • BARK Monitors shall not use any physical contact or weapons of any kinds when dealing with guests. TERMINATION Although BARK Monitors are volunteers for the City, they are accountable for their own behavior and the responsibilities that they accept. Volunteers will be dismissed if their behavior is detrimental to the park, visitors, other volunteers, or if the volunteer does not meet the requirements of the program. BARK monitors may be terminated for any of the following reasons: o Failing to show up for times committed to. o Failing to observe the park rules. o Deliberately failing to observe volunteer program regulations and guidelines. Volunteers are free to resign at any time. REPORTING RESPONSIBILITIES • The BARK Monitor Program is run by the Rohnert Parks and Recreation Commission and Staff. • The Park and Recreation Commission has final authority on all Park Monitor Programs decisions. • Volunteers may be required to file incident reports with the City of Rohnert Park. • Volunteers need to report their volunteer hours monthly with the Program Coordinator • Attend BARK Monitor meetings as necessary. • Help with future fundraising events • BARK Monitors are the "first responders" to park problems. If a monitor can not resolve the situation by him/herself, Monitors will be responsible for soliciting appropriate support through other monitors, program coordinator, and in some cases Public Safety. ENCOURAGING RULE COMPLIANCE (Rules listed at the back of handbook) • Dogs must be under the control of their handler at all times and must exhibit safe, normal play behavior. Monitors should ask handlers to remove dogs that do not meet this requirement. • Safety is the top priority. The rules of the dog park are in place to minimize conflicts and maximize safety. Rule violations that threaten the safety of other guests (canine and human) should take precedence in terms of your attention and action. • All park rules are important. BARK Monitors may not grant exceptions to a rule. Granting exceptions will cause confusion too other park guest and makes enforcement more difficult for other Monitors. • If there is a question about a rule's interpretation, the Monitor is the final authority. Guests can contact the Park and Recreation Dept. to discuss the rule's interpretation or request that the Department intervene, but guests should comply with the BARK Monitor's request at the park. • Always emphasis education. (Ex. "I'm sorry, but since your puppy is under 4 months of age, it hasn't had all of it's vaccines to protect him from parvo, kennel cough, and distemper. Dog parks are like classrooms where lots of germs can spread. We want your puppy to be able to stay healthy and come back and play next month after his vaccines are completed.") DEALING WITH INCIDENTS Whether an incident involves a small fight between dogs or an irate Park guest, knowing how to deal with the situation is key to a calm resolution. • If the incident involves dogs, ask that everyone pull their dog to safety and separate any packs immediately. Should any dog (or person) appear injured, offer first aid supplies to injured party first if needed (don't personally treat the wound), but ask all guests to stay nearby to fill out incident reports. If emergency medical treatment is necessary do not hesitate to call 911 in the case of a human medical emergency. • Immediately ask for detailed information from any participants or witnesses and document it in an incident report. This is vital in resolving most situations. • Determine if any rule was violated or a dog acted aggressively. Handle as needed. • If the incident involves an irate guest, ask that they and their dog step away from any crowds to discuss the situation. If you consider this a major incident or receive a formal complaint from a guest, file a written incident report with detailed information about the guests, dogs, and situation. Ultimately, the handlers at the dog parks use the facility at their own risk and may not have a claim against the owner of the other party, but we encourage handlers to"do the right thing" if their dog injures another. RP-MC XXXX requires that both parties exchange information including contact information, vet records for vaccines etc. IMPORTANT! YOU MUST REPORT ANY DOG BITES TO HUMANS TO PUBLIC SAFETY IMMEDIATELY. IT'S THE LAW. DEALIING WITH VIOLATIONS Failure to enforce posted rules will result in unacceptable conditions and/or potential closing of Rohnert Park's Dog Parks. We want BARK Monitors' emphasis to be on education and assistance but ultimately compliance to the rules is important. • Approach the guest, identify yourself as a BARK Monitor, and determine if they are a first time guest or regular park user. Ask if they have read the rules, assuming they simply are unaware of the violation. • Provide a copy of the Park rules with you to offer for them to read and keep. Answer any questions. '1 • Help the guest resolve any issues if possible. If this is not possible, ask that they resolve the issue before returning to the Park. • If the guest refuses to comply with the rule, explain that the rules are not voluntary and are in place to help maintain everyone's safety. This is a public facility and compliance with the rules is necessary to continue its safe operation for all. • Guests who continue to refuse compliance with the rules should be asked to leave. Identify yourself(again) as a BARK Monitor and inform the guest that if they continue to refuse to comply with the rule or fail to leave, an incident report will be filed with Public Safety(or called immediately if warranted). • If you are unable to obtain cooperation, write an incident report and/or contact Public Safety's non-emergency number (585-2611) if the rule violation may cause immediate harm to other guests (Ex. An aggressive dog will not leave). If a serious safety issue is not involved file report with Parks and Recreation Department BARK Monitor Coordinator REPEAT VIOLATIONS Some guest simply refuse to follow the rules or common sense. Dealing with these guests requires a group effort and often requires detailed documentation over the several visits. • If a guest violates rules in a manner that seriously endangers other guests or dogs, call Public Safety for enforcement. It is important for your personal safety that you get assistance if a threatening situation arises. • Obtain as much documentation of violations as possible, sharing these details with fellow BARK Monitors. Documentation is also our best "weapon" especially if Public Safety must eventually be involved. • When a guest has repeatedly violated the rules and refuses to follow your requests for compliance, you can discuss the situation with the BARK Monitor Coordinator and possibly work with Public Safety to resolve the situation. RECOGNIZING AND PREVENTING CANINE AGGRESSION Perhaps the most difficult part of the BARK Monitor's job is identifying aggression. Is a dog simply playing rough or crossing the line? Is the growling dog just sending a warning to defend himself? Observe dog behavior closely. Learn the tell-tale signs of potentially aggressive dogs (Great classes are available through the Marin Humane Society). Ultimately you many be asked to make a decision. "They are only playing" is often heard at dog parks. This is usually true HOWEVER ... that rough play can quickly escalate into a fight or accidental injury. Rough play should be redirected just like you would with 2 ten year old boys throwing rocks. This is especially important when mismatched physical sizes are involved (Ex. Adolescent Lab is "just playing"with Little Yorkie). "It's their instinct" &"It's natural" is also heard a lot in defense of rude canine behavior at dog parks (aka—lack of training). Some dogs need to be taught and reminded that some instinctive behaviors are not acceptable in dog parks and when they share their lives with humans. Most aggressive dogs have "learned" the behavior but it is also a natural behavior, necessary to keep social order in a pack. Proper socialization will teach a dog when not to act aggressively. Often owners will inadvertently teach dogs to be aggressive, by stopping "proper aggressive behavior" (aka reprimands and discipline) in which the dog learns to inhibit its aggression by being disciplined by another dog. Unfortunately, many dogs will come into the park without having learned proper dog behaviors. Who are the most likely dogs to show serious aggressive behavior? Eight out of '1 ten will be males dogs. Of that 8, 6 will not be neutered (That's why we have the rule that all dogs must be altered to be welcome.). According to the Marin Humane society, the most common breeds that are likely to show extreme aggressive behaviors will be Pits, Rottweillers, Akitas, German Shepherds, Chows, Ridgebacks, and Husky's and their mixes, but ALL breeds may show aggressive behaviors. Keep an eye on those little ankle biters! Most aggression seen at a dog park will start in one of two ways. The most common is when an adolescent will race towards other dogs straight on with the intention of playing. When they reach the other dog, they will often body slam them or run beside them. This is rude canine behavior but the teenager is just being a teenager. He doesn't mean anything other than "let's play". The older dog may defend itself by snapping or biting. This is not really an aggressive act, but defensive. If this happens, then the adolescent learns a powerful and important lesson... that other dogs can be dangerous and may modify his future behavior by approaching strange dogs appropriately. Sometimes this can escalate into a nasty fight if the youngster doesn't back down. The second most common scenario for canine aggression at a dog park is when a new dog who is either too confident or too scared and it is swarmed by several overly excited dogs who have been there for awhile. This is especially likely to be a flash point if the "greeters" are a loose pack of friends or family members. -1 Everyone is overly excited and anxious and in some cases the "has teens" are feeling a little territorial. This is often called "threshold aggression". To avoid this scenario, BARK monitors should encourage handlers to keep their dogs away from the gates. If possible, also try to educate guests about not opening the gates until dogs on both sides have calmed down. (Tails should be horizontal to the ground, no jumping and barking etc.). The other common scenario seen at dog parks involves a very shy and fearful dog that is overwhelmed by the experience. This dog may try to scare others away by barking. If that doesn't work the shy dog may feel it needs to chase, lunge and probably bite. Also be aware of is when two dogs want the same toy. When this really becomes a problem is when one dog tries to literally take the toy out of the other's mouth. If you observe this starting to happen, try to encourage the owners to remove the toy before it escalates. MORE TIPS FOR REDUCING INCIDENTS • Absolutely no non-altered (spay/neutered) dogs are allowed in Rohnert Park dog Parks after the age of 6 months. This is the most powerful defense against dog aggression. 70% of dogs involved with attacks are not altered. Even when a intact dog is perfectly docile, it can easily become the target. • Any dog that bears its teeth, bites another dog with the intent to injure, or otherwise attempts to cause pain during play is considered aggressive. • Carefully monitor dogs that take on a stalking position with ears back glaring at other dogs. These dogs have a high prey drive instinct which often turns into aggression to others. • Pay attention to dogs that come into the park with their tails held straight up. They think they are "all that" and very confident. These often are the ones that tend to challenge each other for dominance leading to fights. • Watch for dogs that have their tails tucked under them and don't want to make eye contact. These dogs are nervous about being in the park and appear"unstable" to other dogs. They tend to be victims of bullies and will often bite out of fear. Encourage their handlers to keep them on the outer edges of the park until they are more comfortable (tail will be held horizontal to the ground or just relaxed). Don't ever let them be chased by playful packs! • Discourage pack chase behaviors especially if a small dog is being chased. This little bit of"fun" can quickly morph into an instinctive prey drive to kill. • Some dogs will show their teeth and nip in defense. This is not the same as aggression, but needs to be monitored carefully. Remove the threat if possible. • Mounting (humping) is NOT a sign of aggression and not specifically a reason to oust a dog from the park. However, constant mounting in unacceptable because it can cause injury or instigate a defensive response from the dog being mounted which can lead to a fight. • Dogs must be removed from the park at the first sign of unprovoked aggression. If the problem repeats, the dog should not return. • Get to know the "regulars" at the park and greet the new guests as they come "N in. During the greeting time, learn the name of the handler and dog. Offer a copy of the park rules and highlight the key ones. Offer to answer any questions. • The quickest way to sort out problem dogs and guests is via dog license enforcement. All dogs must display a current dog license from the city(or county) where they reside. Many major problems dissipate when licensing is required. • • Current licenses are accepted from any jurisdiction, but every dog must display a dog license. This is not the same as a rabies tags or ID tag, neither of which is an acceptable substitute for a license. • Ask guests to keep "play packs" to less than five. When a pack reaches five dogs or more, the dynamics often change for the worse. You can separate many dogs by simply walking through the pack a few times. • Stop problems before they start. Redirect rough play, mounting, pack chasing. If a dog gets too excited, ask the handler to take the dog out for a "time out". FACILITY ISSUES Maintenance of the dog parks in Rohnert Park is a team effort between park users, the Recreation Department, BARK Monitors, and the Public Works Department. • Insist that all park users to pickup after their dogs. • Report any facility issues (broken fences, sprinklers, fountains etc.) to PARK STORAGE: BARK Monitors will be given a key or combination to the storage locker. Extra doggy bags &fliers will be available for restocking as needed. Basic first aid supplies will also be stored in this location. Please report the need for additional supplies to IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION NOTE: Cell phone 911 calls are routed through the Benicia Highway Patrol Station. Recommend calling 584-2611 for faster response. Public Safety (Non-Emergency#) 584-2611 Guy Miller (Recreation Services Manager) 588-3488 Bonnie Black (BARK Monitor Coordinator) 584-5452 Rohnert Park Animal Shelter 564-1582 Animal Licenses 6800 Hunter Dr 585-6725 (Also available at 49er Pet on Southwest Blvd. & the Animal Shelter) Animal Care Center of Sonoma County (24 Hr. Emergency care) 6470 Redwood Dr., RP ... ... ... ... ... ... ...... 584-4343 Directions from Rohnert BARK: South on Roberts Lake Road. Right onto Golf Course. Left onto Commerce. Right onto Rohnert Park Expressway over 101. Left onto Redwood Hwy. Hospital is on the left near Sizzler. ROHNERT PARK DOG PARKS Rohnert BARK: North of Robert's Lake on 1010 Roberts Lake Rd. • Field of Friends: Located behind the baseball field at Benecia Park @ 7469 Bernice (off of Burton Ave.). Shelter Park: Located at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter , 301 Rogers Ln. Best Friends: Club members (only) meet at Golis Park at 8:30am DOG PARK REGULATIONS • All dogs 6 months and older must be spayed or neutered. (Ord. # ) • Dogs with a known history of dangerous or aggressive behavior are prohibited. • Leash dog(s) prior to entering and leaving the park. Unleash immediately upon entering. • Dogs must be immediately removed from area at the first sign of aggression toward people or other dogs. • Dogs must be under voice control at all times. • Owners must clean up after their pets immediately. • Dogs must be licensed, current on vaccinations and wearing ID at all times. • Puppies under 4 months of age and sick dogs are prohibited. • A responsible person must remain with your dog at all times-you may not "drop-off" a dog to play. • Children must be closely supervised. This means within grabbing distance if needed. • Limit of 2 dogs per person. • No food (dog or human) inside of park. This includes chew type toys, rawhide etc • Choke, pinch, shock and pronged collars must be removed. • No animals other than dogs permitted in this area. • Smoking is prohibited. • Handlers must share contact information and vaccination records their dogs injures another dog or person. Ord. # Rohnert Park Tennis Club P.O. Box 1121 Rohnert Park,Ca 94927 707-584-0426 10/17/06 Mr. Guy Miller Parks and Recreation Director Rohnert Park Recreation Department 5401 Snyder Lane Rohnert Park, Ca 94928 Guy; As another year of Rohnert Park Team Tennis is about to end,the RPTC would like to express our gratitude to the City of Rohnert Park and the Recreation Department for their continued support of community tennis and the RPTC. Without your help and guidance the success of the club would be limited. We are thrilled with the M-Park court-resurfacing project just completed. The courts are the talk of the county! Bar none these are the finest public courts in the North Bay. We all are very proud of them and will work hard towards maintaining the courts and surrounding areas. We look forward to participating in the study being conducted by The Parks,Recreation and Open Space Committee. We will conduct a survey of our membership and supply you with court usage pattern shortly. This year the RPTC coordinated Spring, Summer,and Fall Adult Tennis Leagues. Plus we sponsored several USTA League Teams who competed with local clubs throughout Sonoma County. I'm proud to say the RPTC has won several of the Local Leagues and represented Rohnert Park in Regional Tournaments in Alameda and Stanford University. Our most important accomplishment of 2006 is the start of our Youth Tennis Program,for the kids of Rohnert Park, under the direction of Harvey Bell,a member of RPTC,with the guidance of Loretta Conway and Rachel Blum from the United States Tennis Association.In this regard we would like to Thank Wendy Audiss for her help in getting the Youth Program off to a great start. In keeping with our tradition of giving back to the community,The RPTC is proud to have participated in the M-Park resurfacing project and we continue to help maintain the tennis courts throughout Rohnert Park. Attached is a history of the donations the Rohnert Park Tennis Club has made since our inception. Guy,we Thank You and The City of Rohnert Park for your continued support of the Rohnert Park Tennis Club Sincerely yours, (2:ci Rich Hutchison President,Rohnert Park Tennis Club Rohnert Park Tennis Club P.O. Box 1121 Rohnert Park,Ca 94927 707-584-0426 Donations to The City of Rohnert Park Tennis Programs By The Rohnert Park Tennis Club Year Amount Description 1973 Rohnert Park Tennis Club was founded by Jim Pekkain 1978 $200.00 2 nets for D-Park 1979 $400.00 2 Benches for D-Park 1981 $350.00 Donation towards bleachers for S-Park 1982 $250.00 Windscreens for S-Park 1983 $600.00 Donation to the Rancho Cotati High School Tennis Program 1984 $1100.00 • Windscreens for S-Park New center straps for all city courts(12) 1992 $318.00 Windscreens for G-Park(2) 1993 $318.00 Windscreens for M-Park(2) 1995 $2160.00 Windscreens for M-Park(4) Benches for M-Park(4) Nets for M-Park(4) 1997 $2894.00 Display Cases for S-Park and M-Park(2) Benches for S-Park (3) Windscreens for S and M-Parks Nets(2) Benches for M-Park(4) 1999 $1774.00 Windscreens for M-Park Bench Repairs at M-Park Rohnert Park Tennis Club P.O. Box 1121 Rohnert Park, Ca 94927 707-584-0426 Year Amount Description 2000 $1420.00 Donation towards upgrading the lighting at M-Park Replacement bench for M-Park(1) 2001 $1568.00 Benches for M-Park(4) Replacement bench for S-Park(1) • 2002 $1621.00 Benches for M-Park(4) Bench for S-Park(1) 2003 $700.00 Replaced 6 nets at M-Park 2004 $275.00 Benches for H-Park 2005 $686.00 Replaced 3 nets and 8 cables due to damage caused by vandals Storage Shed court 8 at M-Park 2006 $3800.00 Storage Shed court 4 M-Park Net and center straps at M-Park Donation to city for Court Resurfacing Project October 30, 2006 Mr. Guy Miller Parks and Recreation Manager Guy, I am writing you to announce my resignation from the Rohnert Park Parks and Recreation Commission effective October 16, 2006. I have had a pleasure serving on the board during my short tenure. I would also like to thank the Vice-Mayor, Vicki Vidak-Martinez , for her nomination to the board. I would also like to thank my fellow commissioner's for their support and partnership. I would also like to thank you Guy for your leadership and instruction during my time with the Parks and Recreation board. I will continue to be a source support for the ideas and vision you have for the citizens of Rohnert Park. In closing, I wish you and the board a very successful year and many years to come. Regards, Frederick M. Coleman, MA gaF►NEer PAgk INTEROFFICE MEMO " sZ From: Guy Miller, Recreation Services Manager REDREATION To: Parks &Recreation Commission DEPARTMENT Cc: Dan Schwarz, Assistant City Manager CALlFOR$0 Date: 11/8/06 Subject: Amendment to Municipal Code concerning approval of bylaws. On September 26, 1983 Ordinance 423 authorized and directed the Parks &Recreation Commission to create a set of operational bylaws. This ordinance was adopted as Municipal Code 2.32.060. Unfortunately, as of this writing, the City Clerks office has been unable to locate any bylaws and we believe this task may have never been accomplished. Upon further research, it has also come to our attention that the other commissions do not have the bylaw requirement in their code. With this consideration, staff is recommending that Municipal Code 2.32.060 be amended to fall in-line with Municipal Code 17.25.094, which was adopted for the Planning Commission. The recommended change is as follows: The parks and recreation commission shall, subject to approval by the city council,adept ' • .. • ., . . . •- ., - - . - . - : : -. adopt rules for the transactions of business and shall keep a public record of its resolutions, transactions,findings, and determinations. This language above is identical to the language used for the Planning Commission.