HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 3751
City of Palo Alto (ID # 3751)
City Council Staff Report
Report Type: Consent Calendar Meeting Date: 5/20/2013
City of Palo Alto Page 1
Summary Title: Community Gardens
Title: Parks and Recreation Commission and Staff Recommend That Council
Approve an Amendment to the Park and Open Space Rules and Regulations
R1-39 (Attachment A) in Order to Help Reduce the Waiting List for Persons
Wishing to Obtain a Plot at one of the Three City Gardens
From: City Manager
Lead Department: Community Services
Recommendation
The Parks and Recreation Commission and staff recommend that Council approve an
amendment to the Park and Open Space Rules and Regulations R1-39 (Attachment A)
in order to help reduce the waiting list for persons wishing to obtain a plot at one of the
three City community gardens.
Background
In August of 1997, the City Manager formed a Building Regulations Committee made up
of representatives from the former Parks and Golf Division and the Open Space and
Sciences Division of the Community Services Department. This Committee developed
regulations for the public’s use of City facilities and parks. Regulations were deemed
necessary as facilities were at times being used by some members of the public in ways
that interfered with the mission and function of City programs and services. These
regulations have helped City staff respond to complaints and work with facility visitors
to encourage appropriate conduct at City facilities. The rules and regulations have
since been revised on June 28, 2004, January 24, 2005, February 3, 2006 and April 14,
2008, March 14, 2011 and November 19, 2012.
On February 22, 2011, the Parks and Recreation Commission approved revisions to a
number of sections of the City’s Park Rules and Regulations and recommended to
Council their adoption. A Commission-appointed subcommittee (Commissioners
City of Palo Alto Page 2
Hetterly, Dykwel and Markevitch) met with staff at three separate meetings between
October and January to formulate the revised park and garden rules.
As part of their comprehensive review of the Park Rules and Regulations, the sub-
committee recognized that there were a number of changes needed in the Community
Garden section of the rules (Section R1-39). The sub-committee agreed that before
substantive changes could be made to the garden rules there would need to be special
outreach to the gardeners, the volunteer garden liaisons, and to people who are on the
garden waiting list to seek their input before changes could be developed.
At the January 25, 2011, regular Commission meeting, Commissioners Hetterly, Dykwel
and Markevitch were appointed by the Commission to serve as a special sub-committee
to continue their study of the garden rules and possible corrections.
The garden rules sub-committee met on April 7, April 11, and provided the Commission
with an update of its activities at the April 26, 2011 regular meeting of the Parks and
Recreation Commission. The sub-committee announced that it would facilitate a public
meeting on June 7, 2011, at the Lucie Stern Community Center to gather information
from the gardeners and waitlist applicants. Twenty-eight gardeners and one person on
the waiting list attended and participated. Subsequent to the creation of the proposed
garden rules in 2011, staff and garden liaisons has tested and evaluated the concepts
of the proposed rules and have found that they are workable and potentially effective in
addressing problems of untended gardens so that the gardens can be made available to
persons on the garden waiting lists.
Discussion
Based on the recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Commission, staff has
proposed the following changes to the Park and Open Space Rules and Regulations
(R1-39 Community Garden) that would:
Better describe the standards for care of garden plots to ensure that plots are
properly maintained by gardeners (by pictures and text standards)
Provide a structured notice system to persons who are not maintaining their plots
Provide for a 30-day period in which any deficiencies in plot maintenance must be
remedied
Provide more authority to the community garden liaison (volunteer position) to
take action to get gardeners to comply with the maintenance standards and
garden rules
City of Palo Alto Page 3
Provide a systematic approach to managing the waitlist so that an applicant either
accepts an available plot when notified by staff or the liaison, or the person goes
back to the end of the waitlist if they decide not to take the offered plot
Create a new waitlist structure for current gardeners who wish to “upgrade” to a
larger, sunnier or different plot. Again, if the applicant opted to reject the plot that
was offered when their name came to the head of the waitlist, they would then go
to the bottom of the waitlist and the better plot would be offered to the second
person on the waitlist
Provide for defined period of time in which applicants must accept the offered
garden plot and pay all required deposits and fees
Stipulate that documented participation in two out of four annual community
garden work days (or make-up work days at other gardens) is mandatory for all
gardens
Stipulate that gardeners cannot pay in-lieu of active physical participation in the 2-
hour garden work days
Based on the garden rules subcommittee, the Parks and Recreation Commission
recommends that these revisions to the garden rules be implemented now and then
continue to be monitored by staff and the liaisons to determine how these changes help
to improve the maintenance of garden plots and to reduce the amount of time on the
two separate waitlists. It is the Commission’s recommendation that if persons are not
tending their plots in earnest, they can (through a systematic and fair process of three
warning notices) be removed from the program so that other people can enjoy a
garden plot.
Resource Impact
There is no resource impact associated with the adoption of the revised Park and Open
Space Rules and Regulations.
Policy Implications
These revisions to the Park and Open Space Regulations are consistent with City policy,
including Policy C-12 of the Community Services element of the Comprehensive Plan:
encourage City work groups to examine and improve operating procedures.
Attachments:
Attachment A - Park and Open Space Regulations-2013 (DOCX)
Attachment B - Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of July 26, 2011 (DOC)
Attachment A
PARK AND OPEN SPACE REGULATIONS
R1-1. DEFINITIONS The following words and phrases, whenever used in these regulations, shall be
construed as defined in these regulations.
A. "city" means the City of Palo Alto.
B. "department" means the Department of Community Services of the City.
C. "facility" or "park facility" means any body of water, land, campsite, garden, trail, levee, recreation
area, building, structure, system, equipment, machinery or other appurtenance owned, managed,
controlled or operated by the Community Services Department.
D. “director” means the Director of Community Services of the City.
R1-2. APPLICABILITY The provisions of these regulations apply to all facilities under the jurisdiction of
the Community Services Department.
R1-3. CLOSURE OF FACILITIES-AUTHORITY The director shall have the authority to close any park
facility or portion thereof and require the exit of all persons therein when he or she determines that
conditions exist in said facility or portion thereof which presents a hazard to the facility or to public safety.
No person shall use, enter or remain in any facility, park or open space which has been posted as being
closed under this authority.
A. The Open Space, Parks and Golf Division Manager shall have the authority to close open space
trails which have been designated as “seasonal trails” when weather conditions predispose the
trail or surrounding habitat to damage or erosion. Such trail closures will be posted on park
bulletin boards and at the affected trail junction.
B. The Open Space, Parks and Golf Division Manager shall have the authority to temporarily close
open space trails or facilities when the damage of flora or fauna are threatened by humans or
their pets. Such facility closures will be posted on park bulletin boards and at affected trail
junctions or facilities.
R1-4. CONTENTS OF PERMIT APPLICATION; SUBMISSION Whenever a permit is required by
provision in this chapter, an application shall be filed with the director stating:
A. The name of each applicant, sponsoring organization and the person(s) who is in charge of or
responsible for the proposed activity;
B. The address and telephone numbers of each person and/or entity named in subsection (A);
C. The name of the park, open space land, building, field or tennis courts requested for the activity,
specifically identifying the location of the activity within the park or room within the building;
D. The date and starting time of the proposed activity, together with the anticipated arrival time of
guests;
E. The finish time of the proposed activity, including cleanup;
F. The number of persons expected to attend the activity;
G. Additional City facilities requested, such as personnel, tables, chairs, etc;
H. The nature of the proposed activity or activities, including equipment and vehicles to be brought
into the park or open space lands; nature and duration of the use of such equipment; nature and
duration of the use of any amplified sound; whether fees or donations for service will be solicited
or collected; and whether alcohol will be served.
I. Proof of Palo Alto residency may be required for the permit application.
J. The necessity for street closure in order to hold an event.
The permit application shall be filed with the director by no later than seven (7) days prior to the date of
the special event.
R1-5. ACTION ON PERMIT APPLICATION The director shall issue a permit within five (5) business days
after submission of a completed application if:
A. The proposed activity or use of the facility will not unreasonably interfere with or detract from the
general public enjoyment of the facility;
B. A facility with the required occupancy load capacity is available;
C. All conditions, including, where applicable, the payment of fees, approval of the Director of
Community Services and insurance coverage, security deposits and/or requirements are met;
D. The proposed activity or use will not entail unusual, extraordinary or burdensome expense or
security operation by the department;
E. If the proposed special event will have more than twenty-five (25) individuals in attendance,
involve road closures, traffic control, or the need for inter-departmental review (for example, for a
“fun run” or a “live music” event), an additional City-wide special event application from the Police
Department may be required for the event. City-wide special event permit applications are not
generally required for standard picnic reservations. Completed City-wide special event permit
applications may be filed as early as one year before the event, but must be received no later
than 30 days before the actual event date, and no later than 90 days before the actual date of the
event if the event requires a street closure.
F. The facilities desired have not been reserved for other use;
G. Special conditions requested in applications are reasonable and feasible.
H. The proposed activity will not negatively impact habitat, wildlife, or vegetation in the park or open
space area.
I. Residency requirements, if any, have been satisfied.
R1-6. FOOTHILLS PARK RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS Admittance and use of park facilities within
Foothills Park have additional residency requirements. Only residents of the city and regular or part-time
City employees, members of their households related by blood, marriage, domestic partnership, or
adoption, and their accompanied guests are entitled to enter and remain in Foothills Park. An
"accompanied guest" is one who enters Foothills Park in the presence of a resident of the city or a regular
or part-time City employee or members of their household as described above. A special use permit will
not be granted until these special requirements have been satisfied:
A. In the case of Foothills Park Wedding Use Permits, one member of fifteen guests of the guest
list must be Palo Alto residents.
B. In the case of Foothills Park Day Use Reservations for the Oak Grove Group Area or the
Interpretive Center, or Foothills Park Towle Camp Reservations, one member of fifteen guests of
the guest list must be a Palo Alto resident. A guest list which includes the home address of the
guests must be received one week prior to the proposed activity or activities.
C. In the case of Foothills Park Special Use/Group Permits or for groups of more than 24 persons,
one member of fifteen guests seeking admittance to the park accompanied by the permit
applicant must be a Palo Alto resident. (A guest list is not required for this type of permit.)
R1-7. PERMIT--EXHIBITION No person shall fail to produce and exhibit a permit he or she claims to have
upon request of any department employee, contracted park ranger or any public or peace officer who
desires to inspect the permit for the purpose of enforcing compliance with any regulations of this chapter.
R1-8. HOURS OF PARK CLOSURE For purposes of enforcement of the park and open space closure
restrictions promulgated in Title 22 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, the terms “sunset” and “sunrise” are
defined with reference to a table of times that is determined annually and posted at open space facilities.
Closure times specified in Title 22 as implemented by this regulation shall be posted prominently at each
park or open space facility and shall be posted on the City’s web site.
R1-9. HAZARDOUS GAMES OR ACTIVITIES The playing of games and/or activities involving propelled
or thrown objects which are sharp or heavy (such as stones, shot puts, arrows or javelins) are prohibited
except when a permit is issued by the director in areas compatible for such use. Except in designated
areas of Mitchell Park where inflatable structures can be used by City staff or designated contractors as
part of a City-sponsored program, inflatable structures, miniature trains designed or used for passengers,
pony rides, and dunking tank attractions are prohibited in parks or open space areas. (Revised 6/28/04)
R1-9A. USE OF METAL DETECTORS IN PARKS Metal detectors for the purpose of scavenging can only
be used within park facilities in such a fashion where turf or landscaped areas are not disturbed, cut or
dug into.
R1-10. PICNIC SITE USAGE Group picnic site reservations at Foothills Park Oak Grove; Mitchell Park
Arbor, East Meadow, Pine Grove and Redwood areas; and Rinconada Park Sequoia area are available to
Palo Alto residents only. No more than 60 individuals shall occupy a group picnic site at Mitchell Park
Arbor, East Meadow and Redwood areas; 100 individuals at the Pine Grove picnic area; 75 individuals at
Rinconada Park Sequoia picnic area; or 150 individuals at Foothills Park Oak Grove. No more than 15
individuals shall occupy any table in an individual picnic site at Mitchell Park and Rinconada Park. With
the exception of the two table/one barbecue at individual picnic sites of Mitchell Park, each group of
participants shall not occupy more than one individual site. (Revised 6/28/04)
R1-10A LYTTON, COGSWELL AND KING PLAZA
A. Use of tables: For permitted events and activities, no more than four six-foot tables are permitted
at one time at Cogswell Plaza; no more than ten six-foot tables are permitted at Lytton Plaza; and
no more than twenty six-foot tables are permitted at King Plaza. Tables shall not be arranged in a
configuration longer than twelve-foot wide span and there must be a minimum of three-feet
between sets.
B. The City shall be compensated the full cost of replacement of any chair, tables or other
furnishings damaged by the event or special use.
C. Special event organizers must cover existing trash receptacles and provide their own waste
stations (compost/recycle/trash) that they will then be responsible for removing after the
event.
D. Damage deposits may be required for any special event or use at the discretion of City staff.
E. No tables, tents or other structures shall be set up closer than ten-feet from the nearest structure.
F. Shade canopies may be authorized in a permit so long as the shade structure measures ten-foot
by ten-foot, or less.
G. Stage platforms shall be no higher than twenty-four inches tall and ten-feet by twelve-feet in
maximum area.
H. As per the Palo Alto Municipal Code, no alcoholic beverages may be served or consumed at
these plaza parks.
I. No barricades or cordoning off areas of the plaza.
J. No jump/bounce houses are permitted on plaza.
K. Special event organizers must supply a layout of all items to be placed within plaza and be
approved by City staff before the event.
L. As per Palo Alto Municipal Code 22.04.160, no commercial solicitation or business transactions
other than those associated with and supportive of city programs or city-sponsored activities for
which a permit has been issued by the director is permitted in parks or plazas.
R1-10B LYTTON PLAZA NOISE REGULATION
A. No permit application is required of any person in accordance with Palo Alto Municipal Code
sections 22.04.040 and 22.04.050 in order to engage in the playing of an amplified musical
instrument at Lytton Plaza, which meets the requirements of sections 9.10.050 and 22.04.180,
subject to the following: (1) the playing of an amplified musical instrument occurs on a first-come,
first-served basis during the following days and times of day: (a) Monday through Thursday, 5:00
PM to 10:00 PM; (b) Friday, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM; (c) Saturday, noon to 11:00 PM; and Sunday,
noon to 10:00 PM. The term “first-come, first-served” means the first person or group of persons
to commence playing an amplified musical instrument at Lytton Plaza shall be entitled to play to
the exclusion of all others for a period not exceeding three (3) consecutive hours.
B. A City-wide special event permit application is required of any person seeking to engage in the
playing of an amplified musical instrument at Lytton Plaza outside of the days and times of day
specified in paragraph A above. No unpermitted amplified musical instrument may be played
during the period of time for which a person holds a permit to play an amplified musical
instrument.
C. Paragraph A notwithstanding, a person may file a City-wide special event permit application to
play an amplified musical instrument within the time period specified in R1-4. If a City-wide
special event permit is issued, the permit holder’s right to play any musical instrument at Lytton
Plaza will take precedence over any person claiming the right to play under the first-come, first-
served basis condition set forth in paragraph A of this Rule.
D. The director will post or caused to be posted to the department’s web site the days and times of
days for which reservations to play musical instruments have been secured.
E. The preceding paragraphs notwithstanding, the playing of any acoustic musical instrument at
Lytton Plaza is permitted during posted park use hour or, if no hours are posted, during the
regular park use hours.
F. A City-wide special event permit application shall be filed whenever a group of more than twenty-
five (25) persons attends the playing of any musical instrument or musical instruments regardless
of whether any instrument is amplified or acoustic.
G. The noise ordinances set forth in Palo Alto Municipal Code chapters 9.10 and 22.04 shall apply to
all persons playing amplified and acoustic musical instruments at Lytton Plaza.
R1-11. TENNIS COURT USAGE Any person or group using a City tennis court shall do so according to
the following rules:
A. No person shall operate, drive or ride a bicycle, unicycle, roller skates, roller blades, skateboard
or other coasting device on City owned tennis courts.
B. No person shall provide or offer tennis lessons for compensation on City owned tennis courts
except as part of a City-sponsored program, class or camps.
C. City owned tennis courts may be reserved for City programs and tournament play only.
D. All players must use the court control board to determine which court they shall play on and their
playing position.
E. No individual person can occupy a court by him or herself if other persons are waiting to play.
F. Unleashed dogs are not permitted within tennis courts.
G. No person shall play a sport other than tennis on City-owned tennis courts unless expressly
allowed via permit issued by the City’s Recreation Division. (Revised 6/28/04)
R1-12. ATHLETIC FIELD USE Any person or group using a City athletic field shall do so according to the
following rules:
A. No activity other than softball (or Little League baseball) is permitted at El Camino Park softball
field unless expressly allowed by permit.
B. No activity other than baseball is permitted at Baylands Athletic Center Baseball Field unless
expressly allowed by permit.
C. No activity other than softball is permitted at Baylands Athletic Center Softball Field unless
expressly allowed by permit.
D. No person shall use an athletic field which is posted (on-site, on-line, or by voice message) as
being closed, whether the closure is for excess rainfall or for field maintenance or other reason.
E. Field markings applied to athletic fields shall be allowed by permit only and must follow City of
Palo Alto Open Space, Parks and Golf Division guidelines.
F. Soccer goals must be anchored at all times when located on the playing fields. When goals are
not being utilized for play, they must be secured off the playing fields in a manner which will not
permit tipping or any hazardous condition that might cause injury to any person. When a field is
being utilized for multiple purposes, goals that interfere with the intended use of the field shall be
provided by the user groups that require the use of a soccer goal. These goals must be
assembled and disassembled before and after each event. The storage of these goals can be
coordinated with the Recreation Division. Any goal left on site will be removed and stored until a
removal/storage fee of $75.00 is paid.
R1-13. PEERS PARK AND JOHNSON PARK VOLLEYBALL USE Any person or group playing volleyball
or related game at Peers or Johnson Parks shall do so according to the following rules:
A. Drop-in volleyball or related game play is permitted only in the posted area at Johnson Park or on
the north end of Peers Park.
B. The volleyball area may be reserved for volleyball play, by permit, only on the first Saturday and
first Thursday of each month. The director may make additional weekend days available for
reservation during the months of June, July and August.
R1-14. SKATEBOARD FACILITY The Skateboard Facility, located in John Lucas Greer Park, is for
skateboard use only. Use of roller blades, scooters, bicycles, or any other equipment, other than
skateboards is prohibited. Any person using or playing upon the skateboard facility shall do so according
to the following rules:
A. Each person skateboarding in the Skateboard Facility must wear a helmet, elbow pads and knee
pads.
B. Use of roller blades, scooters, bicycles, or any other equipment, other than skateboards is
prohibited.
C. No more than seven persons shall skate in the bowl at any given time.
D. No person shall do a body flip while riding a skateboard.
E. No person shall ride a skateboard facing entirely backwards.
F. Two or more persons may not ride on the same skateboard.
G. No person shall ride a skateboard on their knees.
H. No person shall cause a skateboard to shoot out away from their feet or body.
I. No persons shall skateboard in tandem within three feet in front or behind another rider.
J. No glass containers are allowed in the facility.
K. No skateboarding is allowed when the facility is wet or while it is raining.
L. Trash receptacles are to be used to dispose of waste or any other unwanted items.
No person shall use, remain in or enter the Skateboard Facility outside of regular park hours between
10:30 PM and sunrise (PAMC 22.04.320) No person shall enter or remain in the Skateboard Facility
when that facility is posted as being closed, whether such closure is because of excess moisture or
hazard or for any other reason.
R1-15. GOLF COURSE Any person or group using or playing upon the golf course shall do so according
to the following rules:
A. No person shall use the golf course, or any portion thereof, without first having obtained a receipt
or other written authorization in due form so to do.
B. No golf player shall cut in on, or double back over, any portion of the course, or to play upon the
course without a receipt duly issued for the round being played.
C. No golf player shall refuse to or fail to show such golf receipt or other written authorization to any
employee connected with the municipal golf course, when requested to do so.
D. No person shall willfully or maliciously injure any turf on the golf course or in any way destroy or
injure property thereon, or remove property or equipment from the golf course.
E. Privately owned power golf carts are not allowed to be used on the municipal golf course.
R1-16. SWIMMING No person shall swim, bathe or wade in any water or waterways within any park
facility when such activity is prohibited and so posted by the director. No person shall use, remain in or
enter the Rinconada Pool facility between the hours listed as follows: January 1 through June 15 9 p.m –
6 a.m. June 16 through December 31 10 p.m. – 6 a.m.
Rules for the safe use of the Rinconada Swimming complex:
1. Children 7 years of age and younger must be directly supervised by a chaperone 16 years of age and
older. Chaperones must wear a swimsuit, accompany the child in the water and be within arm’s length at
all times. Children may not be left unattended in the facility at any time.
2. All swimmers must wear swimsuits. Clothing including undergarments is not permitted. Clean over
shirts are permitted for modesty or sun protection as long as they are worn over swimsuits. Infants and
toddlers who are not yet toilet trained must wear swim diapers.
3. Flotation devices including water wings, padded swimsuits and inner-tubes are not permitted except
US Coast Guard approved lifejackets.
4. Flippers, snorkel masks, and hard balls are not permitted.
5. All persons entering the facility must pay, including those not intending to swim, except children 2 years
of age and younger.
6. Patrons must pay again to reenter the facility after leaving.
7. Walk at all times on the pool deck.
8. Bicycles, rollerblades, scooters, and skateboards are not permitted on the pool deck.
9. Dogs, cats and other animals are not permitted on the pool deck.
10. Fighting, roughhousing, chicken fighting, screaming, profane language, and pretending to drown is
not permitted in the facility.
11. Patrons are not permitted to sit on guard chairs, lane lines, starting blocks or railings.
12. Barbecues, alcohol and glass/breakable containers are not permitted in the facility.
13. Food and drinks must be consumed at picnic tables, on grass or farther than 10 feet from poolside.
14. Heed instructions from Lifeguards and overhead announcements at all times.
15. Aquatics staff reserves the right to ask anyone who violates these rules to leave the facility.
16. To maintain a safe environment, pool rules are subject to change at any time. Lap Pool:
17. Swimmers must be able to swim competently for at least one lap to enter the deep end and/or use the
diving boards. Lifeguards have sole discretion. Please ask for a swim test.
18. Lap swimmers using lap lanes during recreation swim may use flippers, kickboards and snorkels as
needed. Flippers, kickboards and snorkels are not permitted outside of the lap swim lanes. Non-lap
swimmers are not permitted to swim across lap lanes.
19. Diving boards:
• One person on the board and ladder at a time.
• Wait to dive until area is clear.
• Walk or perform a proper diving approach. Do not run on the diving board.
• Bounce only once and jump/dive off the end of the board facing forward.
• Divers may not jump to anyone in the pool and must swim to the wall unassisted.
After diving, swim out toward the closest ladder. Do not swim under, between or in front of the
diving boards.
Wading Pool:
20. Swimmers must be able to reach the foot pedals to use the “Aquaducks.” Pedaling with hands is not
permitted.
21. Swimmers may not sit on or otherwise block the water pressure of the fountains.
22. Slide: Swimmers must be no taller than the slide to use it. One person is permitted on the slide
and ladder at a time. Form line on the ground. Do not stand, jump or push other swimmers off the top
of the slide. Swimmers must go down slide sitting, feet first.
R1-17. BOAT USE
A. The dock at Foothills Park and the sailing platform at the Baylands Nature Preserve is intended
for the hand launching of canoes, kayaks, small inflatable boats and boats less than sixteen feet
in length. The launching of any larger vessel is prohibited. While hand carts may be used to carry
boats from the parking lot to the dock or sailing platform, hand carts or other personal equipment
may not be used on the docks or left unattended in the immediate vicinity of the dock or sailing
platform. Items left unattended will be impounded by a park ranger or police officer.
B. Sail boards, sail craft and motorized boats are prohibited on Boronda Lake in Foothills Park.
R1-18. BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS AND ROLLER SKATES
A. Bicycles are prohibited on unpaved trails of Foothills Park. Skateboards, roller skates or blades,
or other coasting devices are prohibited in Foothills Park.
B. Bicycles are prohibited on unpaved trails of open space parks and preserves, unless designated
for bike access within the Pearson-Arastradero and Baylands Preserves. Skateboards, roller
skates or blades, or other coasting devices are prohibited in open space parks and preserves,
except on paved, multi-use bike paths.
C. Helmets: No person shall operate a bicycle or similar device on parks or open space preserves
without wearing an A.N.S.I. or Snell-approved bicycle helmet for head protection. No parent or
guardian shall allow any child under the age of 18 to ride a bicycle without a helmet.
D. Unsafe operation: No person shall operate a bicycle in a reckless or negligent manner so as to
endanger public property, or the life, limb, or property of any person or animal. No person shall
ride in or upon a portion of a bicycle not intended for passengers. No person shall operate a
bicycle while wearing earphones that interfere with hearing ambient noise.
E. No person shall leave a bicycle, scooter or skateboard in any place or position where other
persons may trip over or be injured by it.
R1-19. HUMAN FLIGHT No person shall hang-glide, parachute, parasail or engage in any human flight
on, over, or into park or open space, except by written permit in designated areas.
R1-20. TRAIL USE SPEED LIMIT The maximum speed for all trail uses is 15 miles per hour, unless a
lesser maximum speed is posted, and no person shall exceed the maximum speed on any trail; however,
no person shall operate a bicycle, or ride a horse or other such animal at a speed greater than is
reasonable, prudent, or safe. Bicyclists and equestrians are required to slow to 5 miles per hour when
passing others or approaching blind turns.
R1-20A. USE OF DESIGNATED TRAILS, PATHS AND RECREATIONAL LAWN AREAS IN OPEN
SPACE LANDS No person other than authorized City staff or other persons specifically authorized by City
staff shall walk, run or tread in any open space lands except on designated trails, paths, recreational lawn
areas or roads, unless expressly permitted to do so pursuant to park regulations or a special use permit.
“Designated trails” is defined as those trails which appear on current City of Palo Alto park maps,
planning documents, trail guides and/or those trails marked with City directional signs. (Adopted 6/28/04)
R1-21. COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES AND SOLICITATION Commercial activities, commercial solicitation,
and solicitation for donations (including banners and signage), not associated with and supportive of City
programs or City-sponsored activities for which a permit has been issued by the director, are prohibited.
R1-21A. COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMING No person shall operate a still, motion picture,
video, or other camera for commercial purposes on City lands except pursuant to a permit authorizing
such activity or except for those activities associated with and supportive of City programs or City-
sponsored events. This section shall not apply to the commercial operation of cameras as part of the
bona fide reporting of news. (Adopted 6/28/04)
A. Applications shall be submitted not less than ten (10) working days before the proposed use.
B. No sound amplification equipment, which will disturb the peace, may be used in connection with
any photo shoot, except when used by City employees or safety officers for purposes of crowd
control.
C. No permit shall be granted for any event between the hours of 8:00 pm and 9:00 am without the
prior approval of the Director.
D. No permit shall be granted when the closure would result in hampering prompt access to an area
or location by emergency vehicles.
E. Wherever appropriate, the City will require the applicant to provide and erect barricades
according to City specifications for public safety. The person or persons making the application
shall be responsible for placing and dismantling all barricades. All barricades shall be removed
within one-half (1/2) hour of the ending time of the event. Barricades shall also be immediately
removed upon request of any authorized officer or employee of the City. In some situations, the
Permittee may be required by the City to provide traffic control and a qualified flag person if City
streets or parking lots are involved.
R1-22. RESTROOMS Male persons shall not enter any restroom or washroom set apart for females, and
female persons shall not enter any restroom or washroom set apart for males; except, this shall not apply
to persons with special needs or their accompanying attendants or children under the age of six years old
who are accompanied by a person who is of the sex designated for that facility and who has reason to be
responsible for such person.
R1-23. UNAUTHORIZED USE OF KEYS OR LOCKS No person other than one acting under the direction
of the director shall duplicate or cause to be duplicated a key used by the department for a padlock or
door lock of any type or description, nor shall any person divulge the combination of any lock so equipped
to any unauthorized person. No person, other than the one acting under the direction of the director, shall
use a key to access any park and/or open space facilities. The director may issue keys to user groups.
Said user groups must use the keys for permitted activity only and return issued keys to the City upon
completion of the activity. No person shall place a lock upon any gate or fence in any park or open space
area without prior permission from the Director.
R1-24. WATER POLLUTION While within the boundaries of any park facility, no person shall throw,
discharge or otherwise place or cause to be placed in the waters of any fountain, pond, lake, stream, bay
or other body of water or in any tributary, stream or drain flowing into such waters any substance, matter
or thing, liquid or solid, including but without limitation to, particles or objects made of paper, metal, glass,
garbage, rubbish, rubber, fuel, plant material, food matter, fiber and plastics.
R1-25. HARMFUL SUBSTANCES No person shall possess, place, or apply any substance harmful to any
person, property, wildlife, or vegetation on park or open space lands.
R1-26. LITTERING Depositing refuse or other waste on or into fire rings, barbecues or other devices
used to contain fires or for cooking is prohibited.
R1-27. DISPOSAL OF EFFLUENT No person shall deposit waste water, sewage or effluent from sinks,
portable toilets, or other fixtures upon or into the ground or water.
R1-28. SMOKING No person shall smoke any substance in any public places or any area that is within
twenty feet of bleachers, backstops, or play structures or any area designated as a playground, nature
trail or nature area or in or on any park facility where smoking is posted as being prohibited. Pursuant to
Palo Alto Municipal Ordinance 9.14.010 (i), public places are defined as: "Public places" means enclosed
areas within publicly and privately owned buildings, structures, facilities, or complexes that are open to,
used by, or accessible to the general public. Public places include, but are not limited to, stores, banks,
eating establishments, bars, hotels, motels, depots and transit terminals, theaters and auditoriums,
enclosed sports arenas, convention centers, museums, galleries, polling places, hospitals and other
health care facilities of any kind (including clinics, dental, chiropractic, or physical therapy facilities),
automotive service centers, general business offices, nonprofit entity offices and libraries. Public places
further include, but are not limited to, hallways, restrooms, stairways, escalators, elevators, lobbies,
reception areas, waiting rooms, indoor service lines, checkout stations, counters and other pay stations,
classrooms, meeting or conference rooms, lecture rooms, buses, or other enclosed places that are open
to, used by, or accessible to the general public.
R1-29. FIREWORKS No person shall possess, give, sell, discharge, set off, or cause to be discharged,
on or into any portion of park or open space lands any firecrackers, missiles, rockets, fireworks, or
explosives.
R1-30. ANIMALS No person other than public or peace officers, rangers, city naturalists, animal control
officers in the discharge of their duties shall:
A. Hunt, molest, harm, provide a noxious substance to, frighten, kill, trap, chase, tease, shoot or
throw missiles at any animal within the boundaries of any park facility, nor remove nor have in his
possession the young, eggs or nest of any such creature;
B. Abandon any animal, dead or alive, within any park facility;
C. Remove any animal not his own from within any park facility; exception is made to the foregoing
in that proper season, fish may by fished and removed from areas designated for fishing by
licensed persons, in accordance with the California Fish and Game Code and other related laws,
and boarded horses may be removed from a park facility, upon proper notification to the
department;
D. Bring into or maintain in or upon any park facility any dog, cat or other animal unless such
animal at all times is kept on a leash and under full control of its owner or custodian; provided,
however, the director may designate areas and times within which persons may exercise, show,
demonstrate or train unleashed animals under full control or their owners or custodians. No
person shall allow a dog, cat, or domesticated animal, even if leashed, to disturb, chase, molest,
injure, or take any kind of native wildlife, whether living or dead, or remove, destroy, or in any
manner disturb the natural habitat of any animal on parks or open space land.
E. Permit cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, or other animals owned by him/her or in his/her possession to
graze within the boundaries of any park facility without express approval of the director;
F. No person shall keep or raise cattle, horses, sheep, or other livestock on park or open space
land, unless pursuant to a lease, license, or other entitlement of use granted by the City of Palo
Alto.
G. Ride or lead a horse, pony, mule, burro or other animal onto or over any park facility, other than
at times and upon roads or trails designated for riding of animals; except with approval of the
director.
H. No person owning or having custody or control of any dog shall permit such dog to defecate on
any public street, sidewalk, park or parkway without immediately removing the resulting
excrement at the time of occurrence. The excrement so removed shall not be disposed of on
any property listed in this chapter except in public refuse receptacles. Persons using Seeing-Eye
dogs are exempt from this section.
I. No person owning or harboring any dog or other animal shall allow or permit such dog or animal
to swim, bathe or wade in any water or waterways within any park facility when such activity is
prohibited and so posted by the director.
R1-31. NUISANCE DOGS No person shall allow or have on park or open space land a dog that is
threatening or a nuisance to people, other animals, or property. This includes, but is not limited to
growling, barking, bearing of teeth, or challenging in any manner, people, animals, or property.
R1-32. DOG EXERCISE AREA Dogs may be allowed off leash in the dog exercise areas, designated as
such, in Herbert Hoover Park, John Lucas Greer Park and Mitchell Park. No person, with or without a
dog, shall be in a dog exercise area before sunrise or after 10:30 PM, consistent with normal park hours.
City employees performing their assigned duties are exempt from this restriction. No dog is to be left
unattended in any dog exercise area. A muzzle shall be securely attached over the mouth of all
aggressive dogs. Any person with a dog in the dog exercise area shall properly dispose of any dog fecal
matter by placing it in the provided receptacles. All dogs shall be placed on a leash upon leaving any dog
exercise area. Violations of these regulations may result in a citation and /or limiting the use of the dog
exercise area.
R1-33. UNAUTHORIZED CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES No person shall deposit any earth, sand, rock,
stone or other substance within any park facility, nor shall he/she dig or remove any such material from
within any park facility, nor shall he/she erect or attempt to erect any building, wharf or structure of any
kind by driving or setting up posts or piles, nor in any manner appropriate or encumber any portion of the
real property owned by, operated, controlled or managed by the department without a permit from the
director.
R1-34. USE OF UTILITIES
A. Electrical, phone, data communication, and cable receptacles in parks and open space spaces
may only be used or accessed for private use within the terms of a special use permit granted by
the Community Services Department.
B. Gas fixtures, water faucet spigots and irrigation water outlets that require a key or opening device
in parks and open space spaces may only be used or accessed for private use within the terms of
a special use permit granted by the Community Services Department.
C. Sanitary sewers or storm drains in parks or open space areas may not be used for the clean-
out of personal septic systems under any circumstances.
R1-35. GATHERING WOOD IN OPEN SPACE AREAS Gathering wood from or possessing wood that
has been gathered from Open Space areas is not permitted.
R1-36. PARKING RESTRICTIONS No person shall park a motor vehicle, except an authorized
emergency vehicle, or when in compliance with the directions of a peace officer, ranger, or City
employee, in any of the following places:
A. In areas where prohibited by "NO PARKING" or “FIRE LANE - DO NOT BLOCK” signs.
B. On any fire trail.
C. On any equestrian or hiking trail.
D. In such a place or manner as would block or obstruct any gate, entrance, or exit.
E. In such a place or manner as to take up more than one marked parking space in any
authorized parking area.
F. In such a place or manner as to block or obstruct the free flow of traffic.
G. Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
H. Adjacent to any curb painted red.
I. In any park or open space land after sunset except pursuant to a written permit.
J. In areas signed for permit parking on park or open space land without a written permit.
K. In any other place on park or open space land not designated by the City as an authorized area.
L. The gravel parking lot at the Towle Campground at Foothills Park may only be used for parking
by persons with camping reservations. There is a limit of 2 vehicles for the eight person
campsites and 4 vehicles for sixteen person campsites. The parking area is restricted to
passenger vehicles and small trucks. Recreational vehicles, trailers or other self-contained
vehicles (regardless of size, weight or number of axles) are not allowed in the Towle Campground
parking lot or beyond the gate at the edge of Orchard Glen Picnic Area. Recreation vehicles or
other self-contained vehicles may not be parked in Foothills Park over-night. Non-camping guests
should park in the available day-use parking lots.
R1-37. OPERATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES No person shall operate, propel, or leave standing any
motor vehicle on park or open space land, except:
A. Emergency vehicles operated within the scope of official use.
B. Upon roads, trails, or paths, which may from time to time be set aside and posted by the City
for the use of specifically designated vehicles.
C. Upon roads and parking areas open to the public during regular open hours.
D. Motor vehicle includes, but is not limited to, any vehicle as defined by section 415 and/or 670 of
the California Vehicle Code, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, "dirt bikes", and similar vehicles.
E. This section shall apply to all motorized bicycles, carts, scooters and electric personal assistive
mobility devices (Segway or similar device) except those devices used by handicapped persons.
R1-37A. VEHICLE WEIGHT LIMIT ON BAYLANDS ROADS AND PARKING LOTS No person shall
operate or park any vehicle in excess of 6,000 pounds weight on Harbor Road or within any parking lot of
the City-owned Baylands or John Fletcher Byxbee Recreational Areas. (Adopted 6/28/04)
R1-38. VIOLATION - PENALTY
A. The director shall have authority to revoke a permit upon a finding of violation by the permittee
or persons acting under the permit of any regulation contained in this chapter or upon a finding
of violation of other City ordinance or law of this state in the exercise of the permit.
B. The director or designee shall have the authority to eject from any park facility any person acting
in violation of regulations contained in this chapter.
R1–39. COMMUNITY GARDEN
The City of Palo Alto provides, subject to a license agreement, space for Palo Alto residents to enjoy
organic gardening on a first-come, first serve basis as space allows. The Palo Alto Community Gardens
are designated for the use of Palo Alto residents only. Gardeners and prospective gardeners must
provide sufficient proof of residency (i.e., utility bill in the name of the gardener, driver’s license, etc.)
and sign a license agreement with the City. A post office box will not be accepted as a resident
address.
A. The Palo Alto Community Garden Program constitutes a completely organic gardening project.
OnlyNo non-organic pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, or chemically treated wood
products are to be used in any garden site. Any gardener installing wood borders or planters may
be required to show proof that the wood has not been chemically treated. Violation of this rule
will be cause for termination of the Community Garden License Agreement and participation in
the garden program.
B. The City of Palo Alto Open Space, Parks and Golf Division is responsible for all irrigation sytems,
weed and/or pest control, and maintenance of the perimeter on all garden sites. Gardeners shall
are not allowed to contract for, or perform, any type of electrical or irrigation work without the
written permission of the City Community Garden Coordinator.
C. The garden plot and its maintenance is the responsibility of the Gardener. Plots and walkways
shall be kept free of weeds, debris and trash year-round. Any gardener composting is restricted to
the confines of his/hertheir assigned plot. The entire garden plot must be cultivated and contain
an average planting density when it is not being mulched. A chair or small bench is acceptable for
use as a resting place, but no patio sets, furniture, tables, bar-b-ques, sheds, or other structures
or furnishings are allowed.
D. Gardeners are to keep one-half of the width of all the walkways around their garden plot free of
weeds and vegetation. Plants that overgrow and block the walkway are to be trimmed back.
Wood chips are located at each garden site to help maintain the integrity of the walkways. All plot
walkways are to be mulched using wood chips, seed hulls, or dried leaves for garden resident
safety and to help vegetation growth.. E. Each garden site is maintained by the resident Gardener. All gardeners are expected required to
help on at least 2 of the 4 scheduled annual workdays. Each gardener is required to personally
contribute a minimum of 2 hours of confirmed communal garden work per work day (i.e fence
repair, exterior pathways, etc.) Persons who are not able to participate in work days at their own
garden may make arrangements with the City Community Garden Coordinator or Community
Garden Volunteer Liaison to participate in work days at other gardens or to perform a minimum of
two hours service by special arrangement with the Community Garden Volunteer Liaison. The
Community Garden Volunteer Liaison is responsible for scheduling garden workdays. The
number of workdays per year will vary according to size of the garden and the amount of
maintenance required to keep the garden site well groomed. Gardeners are required to attend at
least two workdays per year. Those gardeners who consistently avoid doing their share of
community garden work are subject to verbal or written warning, and possible loss of the garden
plot.
F. The Community Garden Volunteer Liaison is responsible for scheduling garden work days and for
confirming gardener participation. If a gardener cannot attend the scheduled workdays, then that
gardener must coordinate with the Community Garden Volunteer Liaison to schedule alternate workdays
at their community garden or another Palo Alto community garden.
G. Gardeners who avoid doing their share of community garden work are subject to a written warning,
and possible loss of the garden plot. It is not permissable to pay in-leiu of participation in communal work
days.
H. Persons on the waitlist will be invited to participate in communal garden work days by the City
Community Garden Coodinator for the sake of gaining gardening experience.
IF. Garden plots are confined to the assigned locations and a gGardener may occupy only one
garden plot per his/her household (verified by Utility bill). No person Gardener may use a vacant
plot or other area in the gardens without the prior written approval from the City Community
Garden Coordinator. The City Community Garden Coordinator may make exceptions in unusual
circumstances (i.e., extremely small plot or sunlight has deteriorated due to shade trees). No
garden plot shall be transferred, traded, divided, shared, sub-leased, or otherwise changed from
the original plot assigned and licensed to the signatory Ggardener/Licensee. If any change is
desired, contact the City Community Garden Coordinator who maintains a waiting list for plot
Formatted: Default, Indent: Left: 0", Firstline: 0"
Formatted: Default, Indent: Left: 0", Firstline: 0"
assignments. All requests will be reviewed and decided on an individual basis. An exchange of
plots is an option, but must be approved by the City Community Garden Coordinator before any
exchange occurs.
JG. Only vegetables, flowers, berries and herbs may be grown in the plots. Produce from the plot
shall not be used for commercial profit. Tall plants, such as corn, berries and tall vines should be
located so that they do not produce shade on adjacent plots, and do not extend into pathways.
Permanent plants (i.e., rose bushes) are not to be over 5’ in height. Berries are to be trimmed
and maintained. Fruit trees and bushes are not permitted because of their invasive roots and
shading potential.
K.H. In the interest of water conservation, Ggardeners are required to remain in the vicinity of their
plots while watering and are requested to turn off faucets at unattended plots.
IL. Automatic watering systems prevent other gardeners from accessing the community water supply
and contribute to low water pressure problems at some sites. Therefore, aAutomatic watering
systems are not permitted unlessexcept upon request in unusual circumstances and by specific
permission of the City Community Garden Coordinator. each plot in the garden has a
designated water faucet. Automatic watering systems (drip systems preferred) will be allowed in
some instances upon request and only by the written permission of the Community Garden
Coordinator. The approved systems must be checked on a weekly basis. and aAny system found
leaking will be removed. Please contact the City Community Garden Coordinator for written
approval before installing any type of watering system.
MJ. Plot holders are expected to conduct themselves in a safe, respectful and courteous manner
toward other garden residents and the public. Any Gardener taking produce from a plot other
than his/her own will be terminated from the garden program and their License Agreement
revoked immediately. Garden conflicts should be taken to the Community Garden Volunteer
Liaison for resolution. In the event that the Garden Volunteer Liaison cannot resolve the issue,
the problem is to be taken to the City’s Community Garden Coordinator for resolution. Non-
compliance with this rule may can subject the offending gGardener to immediate
expulsiondismissal from the garden program and terminationrevocation of the lLicense
aAgreement.
NK. Due to health and safety concerns, Ddogs are not allowed inside any Community Garden site,
either on or off a leash. Dispensation will be granted in special cases (i.e., handicapped, blind,
etc.). Please contact the City Community Garden Coordinator forto request dispensation
consideration.
.L. O. The amount of the fee associated with the right to cultivate any plot will be calculated by quarter on a
calendar year basis. If a garden plot is assigned during the year, payment will be made for the remaining quarters
and the remaining initial quarter, if the plot is assigned during the first 44 days of the quarter. If the plot is
assigned after the first 44 days of the quarter, only the remaining quarters in the calendar year will be charged. A
$100 refundable cleaning deposit (based on published municipal fee schedule) is required at the time of
the signing of the License Agreement. Upon termination, if the City Community Garden Coordinator
determines that the garden plot is in an acceptable condition for a new tenant (refer to pictures of garden
standards), the deposit will be returned 4-6 weeks after the termination of the License Agreement. In the
event the plot is abandoned or neglected, the deposit fee will be used to cover costs incurred for having
the plot cleared, mulched or tarped with black plastic to retard weeds for benefit of the next tenant.
M. Any gardener who is 60 years of age or older, is eligible to receive a 25% discount. The gardener
is responsible for informing the Community Garden Coordinator that he or she is eligible to
receive the discount. The gardener must provide proof of age.
N. Invoices for the current year’s fees will be mailed in January. Fees are due within 30 days of
receiving the invoice. Bills will be considered past due 60 days after the invoice date and a late
fee of $10.00 (ten dollars) will be charged. Gardeners who fail to pay are subject to revocation of
their license to garden.
O.P The yearly garden fee is based on the published municipal fee schedule at the time of signing.
Invoices for the current year's fees will be mailed in January. The amount of the fee associated
with the right to cultivate any plot will be calculated by quarter on a calendar year basis. First year
fees will be based on when the garden plot was assigned. Annual plot fees are due within 30
days of invoice date, and a late fee of $10.00 (ten dollars) will be charged if payment is not
received on due date. Gardeners who fail to pay 60 days after the invoice date are subject to
revocation of their License Agreement.
Q. Any gardener who is 60 years of age or older is eligible to receive a 25% discount. The gardener
is responsible for informing the City Community Garden Coordinator that he or she is eligible to receive
the discount and must provide proof of age.
R. Low income youth, senior and/or disabled residents may apply for a fee reduction through the
City’s Fee Reduction Program. Applications are available at Lucie Stern Community Center or in
the Enjoy! catalog
S. Invoices may be paid in person at the Lucie Stern Community Center, 1305 Middlefield Road or
by mail to: City of Palo Alto, Community Garden Program, Attention City Community Garden
Coordinator, 3201 East Bayshore Road Palo Alto, CA 94303. If on a fee reduction plan,
payment must be made in person through Lucie Stern Community Center, 1305 Middlefield
Road.
T. In the event the Licensee decides toof early terminatione of the License Agreement to cultivate a
plot, the City Community Garden Coordinator is to be contactednotified in writing (email will be
accepted) by the gardenerLicensee and a refund will be issued for the remaining quarter(s) of the
calendar year. No refunds will be given for a part of a quarter (3 months) and no refunds of less
than $10.00 (ten dollars) will be issued. Upon In the event of early termination of the lLicense
aAgreement (even if no refund is made) the garden plot will be available for
reassignmentassigned to the next applicant on either the Johnson Garden, or Eleanor/Main
waiting list.
UP. Pursuant to Palo Alto Municipal Code 22.04.320, no person shall use, remain in or enter any
Community Garden (Main Garden; Eleanor Pardee Garden, Johnson Park Garden or Timothy
Hopkins Creekside Garden) between 10:30 p.m. and sunrise. Closure times specified in Title 22
as implemented by this regulation shall be posted prominently at each garden.
Violation of any Community Garden Rule may willsubject the gardener to a verbal or written warning If a
gardener receives a written notice of non-compliance, he/she will have thirty (30) days to correct the
situation. Failure to remedy the situation within thirty (30 days will be cause for cancellation of the
License Agreement. If the gardener receives a second written notice of non-compliance within the same
calendar year, the gardener will have thirty (30) days to correct the situation. Again, failure to remedy the
situation within thirty (30) days will be cause to terminate the License Agreement. If a gardener fails to
maintain their garden according to established garden maintenance standards and receives a third notice
within the same calendar year, the License Agreement will be revoked and the plot will be assigned to the
next applicant on the waiting list. Any items remaining in the plot will be given to the person taking the
plot. The good faith judgment of the City Community Garden Coordinator will be sufficient cause for
enforcement of the Community Garden Rules, including revocation of the license to garden and/or
possible revocation of his/her license to use a garden plot. If sufficient improvement is not demonstrated
on an on-going basis, the plot will be posted as abandoned, and the license to garden the plot will be
revoked. The plot will be issued to the next person on the waiting list. Any items remaining in the plot will
be given to the person taking the plot.
The good faith judgment of the Community Garden Coordinator will be sufficient cause for enforcement of
the Community Garden Rules, including revocation of the license to garden.
Adopted by City Council June 24, 2002; Revised June 28, 2004; Revised January 24, 2005. Revised
February 3, 2006. Revised April 14, 2008. Revised March 14, 2011. Revised November 19, 2012.
Formatted: Default, Indent: Left: 0", Firstline: 0"
Formatted: Font: 12 pt
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 1
MINUTES
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
July 26, 2011
City Hall
250 Hamilton Ave
Commissioners Present: Deidre Crommie, Sunny Dykwel, Jennifer Hetterly, Ed Lauing, Paul
Losch, Pat Markevitch, Daria Walsh
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present: Council Karen Holman
Staff Present: Daren Anderson, Catherine Bourquin, Rob de Geus,
I. ROLL CALL CONDUCTED BY: Catherine Bourquin
II. AGENDA CHANGES, REQUESTS, and DELETIONS: Staff de Geus explained that the
nearby Planning and Transportation meeting would end around 8:30 and that moving item
10 to item 5a would allow Planning and Transportation staff to easily attend our discussion
on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan. The Commission agreed to this agenda change.
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: None
IV. BUSINESS:
1. Approval of Draft Minutes from the May 24, 2011 regular meeting - The May 24th,
2011 draft minutes were approved as amended. Approved 5:2 abstention (Losch)
(Crommie absent)
2. Approval of Draft Minutes from the June 21, 2011 regular meeting - The June 21st,
2011 draft minutes were approved as amended. Approved 4:3 abstention (Losch,
Markevitch) (Crommie absent)
3. Recommendation to update the rules and regulations that govern the Community
Garden Program – Chair Walsh introduced the item and staff Bourquin, Community
Garden Coordinator, spoke on the item highlighting the changes that were incorporated
from the Parks and Recreation Commission’s June meeting. The primary changes
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 2
that were discussed at length at the June meeting with the public input included the
following:
Only two waiting lists, one for Johnson Garden and one for Main and Eleanor
Gardens.
Having a list for those wanting to upgrade to a more desirable plot
Adding the allowance of a garden plot to one per household
Removing the option to buy-out a workday
Compliance notices, after receiving three non-compliance notices within a year
licenses will be terminated.
Volunteer garden liaisons will have their garden fee waived for their service.
Oral Communications
Rita Morgin – Spoke as the Volunteer Garden Liaison for the Main Garden, she was
concerned that something should be included in the rules and regulations on constructing
fences in the individual plots. She felt that they should not be allowed because of safety
issues resulting from pathway intrusion.
The Commission was given time to comment and ask questions. After a brief discussion,
the Commission entertained a motion to approve the garden rules and regulations as
revised.
Motion: The Parks and Recreation Commission move to have the Community Garden
Rules and Regulations approved as revised. Passed 6:1 (Crommie not part of
discussion)
4. Study Session of Regional Water Quality Control Plan (RWQCP) Landscaping
Project - Staff de Geus introduced the item and Phil Bobel; Interim Assistant Director
Public Works spoke on behalf of items 4 and 5 on tonight’s agenda. He provided some
pertinent information that he felt that the Commission should know relevant to the two
items. He reiterated that there were still some uncertainties that Public Works was
working through on these two projects, but welcomed any comments the Commission
had on these related items. Council Liaison Holman wanted to ensure that the Parks and
Recreation Commission stays included in any discussion on this item. Assistant Director
Bobel assured the Commission if that’s what they wanted, then he would make sure they
were included.
Julie Weiss, Environmental Specialist for Public Works presented the Commission with
an overview of the current landscaping conceptual designs for the Regional Water
Quality Control Plant. She provided the Commission with her presentation and pointed
out that item number 4 on the agenda and item 5 are closely related because they are
located right next to each other. Her item related to the landscaping of the Quality
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 3
Control Plant. The goal is to make the area safe and aesthetically appealing. The target
date for construction to begin is fall of 2012 and completion would be in 2013, possibly
even 2014.
Oral Communications
Herb Borack – Mr. Borack spoke on reminding staff and the Commission that they
follow the correct process such as going through the environmental review board, and
public noticing of projects such as this.
Emily Renzel – Ms. Renzel as a member of the Citizen’s Advisory Board voiced her
concern over the retention of the vegetation, and wanted to ensure that other options
would be considered before removing it and starting over. She also wanted to ensure
that the pedestrian access off of Embarcadero would be preserved assuming that the
Park stays intact.
Discussion
Q: What is the cost of the project?
A: With everything included, the cost is approximately $900,000
Q: Does the project include Art?
A: They have had discussions with the Art Commission on the use of the 1% Art
contingency for projects of this size.
Q: Is the funding coming from the City?
A: Funding sources are approximately 35% City and 65% from partners, excluding the
1% for art.
Q: How many personnel are at the plant?
A: 70 – the plant operates 24/7 so staffing isn’t at 70 at one time.
Q: How many tours?
A: Tours are happening every month.
Q: Commissioner Walsh commented on the chain link fence seen from the street and
how it disrupts the feeling someone gets entering the Park.
A: Staff Anderson spoke to this item and made some suggestions such as possibly
adding vegetation to camouflage the fence being careful not to plant an evasive
vine, or when the eucalyptus trees grow this would hide eventually cover them.
Q: Will the plans be specific to habitat in the Bay?
A: Staff Anderson replied that the plan being considered would accommodate a
wide range of wild habitat.
Q: Commissioner Hetterly inquired on the process for the tours at the Water Quality
Plant.
A. Assistant Director Bobel responded and said they could schedule the Commission to
take a tour. Ms. Weiss would work with staff to set one up.
Q. Council Holman inquired on the trails that were discussed earlier.
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 4
A. Senior Engineer Matt Raschke responded and informed the Commission that the
trail in reference is a pedestrian/bike path and it is part of the Pedestrian Bike Path
Master Plan that will be discussed tonight.
Ms. Weiss thanked the Commission and advised them if they had any questions or
comments to let her know.
5. Recommendation to consider the Construction of a New Palo Alto Recycling Center
and Improvements to the existing Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Facility -
The item was introduced by Chair Walsh and Assistant Direct Bobel made a few remarks
introducing Senior Engineer Matt Raschke who spoke on the item. He went through
Phase I and Phase II components of the project, which included the improvements to the
New Recycling Center and Improvements to the Existing Household Hazardous Waste
Drop-Off Center. He added that the project was being integrated into the
Water Quality Control Plant landscaping project. The cost estimate for the project is
$525,000 which includes the small recycling center that is still uncertain may be
eliminated. He also spoke on the HHW segment of the project saying it was the most
expensive part to operate. The next step in this process is to have a study session with
City Council on September 19th sharing the conceptual plans to date and all the feedback
from the various commissions and boards.
Timeline
The tentative project timeline, subject to change, is as follows:
Activity Estimated Completion Date
Arts Commission presentation Thursday, June 23, 2011
Submit Major Review Application to Planning Tuesday, July 19, 2011
CEQA Initial Study – 20 Day Public Review - Begin Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Parks and Recreation Review Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Planning finalizes Major Review Application Sunday, August 07, 2011
CEQA Initial Study – 20 Day Public Review - End Tuesday, August 16, 2011
PTC Site and Design Review Wednesday, September 14, 2011
ARB Site and Design Review Thursday, October 06, 2011
City Council Site and Design Review Monday, November 07, 2011
Go out for Construction IFB Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Begin Construction Monday, February 20, 2012
End Construction Sunday, May 20, 2012
Oral Communications
Herb Borock – Mr. Borock spoke on his concern related to the recycling center and that
the Finance Committee voted unanimously to eliminate that from the City. The second
concern he had was that the timeline provided shows the CEQA initial study starting
today without having the environmental review done yet.
Discussion
Q: What are the reasons for the cost of having the hazard waste collection?
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 5
A: The cost is for the storage capacity for the hazardous waste and to collect more
frequently versus the current process where it is collected every Saturday and shipped
off the same day.
Q: Why is the city collecting hazardous waste so close to the Bay? Are there other
possible sites to do this?
A: Other sites have been considered; such as the former Los Altos treatment site however
having it at this location ties into the water treatment plant which already stores a
significant amount of hazardous waste.
Q: What is the size of the area for this project?
A: Approximately a quarter acre as presented in the modified version without the
recycling center. Without the recycling center there are still items that residents need
to dispose of that won’t be picked up through the curbside process, items that are
hazardous such as old medicine. These discussions and ideas still need to be thought
through in the next couple of months.
Q: What is the current program for recycling medicine?
A: Medicine is accepted 5 days a week. We don’t want people flushing their medicines
down the toilet, so the more convenient we make it, is what we will be striving for.
The cost involved for controlling the problem is much more cost affective then what
it would cost to clean up after the fact.
Council Member Holman suggested having as much visual material as possible when
presenting this project to Council. Also to make sure if relevant information comes up to
include Parks and Recreation Commission in the dialogue. Commissioner Crommie would
like to see some kind of table that lists what we have and what is needed with cost.
Director Bobel replied and said they do have it and would provide it to the Commission.
The plant list was also requested. No action was required at this time.
5a. Recommendation for priorities for the implementation of the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Master Plan – Chair Walsh provided an introduction to the item and staff de Geus
introduced, Chief Transportation officer Jamie Rodriguez who was present to answer any
questions that arose on the subject matter. Commissioner Hetterly, member of the Urban
and Trails ad hoc committee began the topic by explaining the information that was
provided in the Commissioners packet. She explained that the purpose was to take what
the Commission felt was of high value and prioritize them to assist the Council when they
were reviewing the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Commissioner Crommie added
some information she learned from the consultant from Alta and design related to the
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The consultant said the 2011 version of the plan is to
encourage interested but concerned bicyclists to utilize the city’s bicycle resources as well
as pedestrians using the city’s trails. The Commission discussed the differences between
the tiers as defined in their packets.
Oral Communications
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 6
Kerry Kenny – Ms. Kenny expressed her support for the Ross Road bike boulevard in the
prioritization of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Mike Aberg – Mr. Aberg spoke on being an advent bicyclist and having Ross Road as a
priority for a bike boulevard being the safest route for bicycling with his children.
Pam Radin – Ms. Radin spoke on encouraging the Commission to support the Ross Road
bike boulevard priority. Commented on all the community support that has been following
this priority for over 3 years.
John Abraham – Mr. Abraham spoke on supporting the Adobe Creek underpass versus
the 101 overpass proposal. He felt with some changes the Adobe Creek underpass could
be utilized more efficiently and cost effectively.
Jeff Saunders – Mr. Saunders spoke in support of the Adobe Creek overpass proposal
and would like to see the plan tie into the Sterling Canal which would make a safer route
to Matadero Creek taking bicyclists and pedestrians off of West Bayshore and straight
down Sterling Canal.
Steve Sabbag – Mr. Sabbag spoke in support of the 101 Adobe bike overpass proposal.
Discussion
The Commission discussed the recommendation proposal from the ad hoc committee,
some of the questions and concerns consisted of having a better understanding of the Ross
Road bicycle blvd. Chief Officer, Jaime Rodriguez responded to these concerns. He also
added that the Commission and public could access the current plan on line at
www.cityofpaloalto.org/bike and submit any questions or comments related to the plan.
Commissioner Crommie walked through the tiers in the ad hoc committee report and
requested from the Commissioners their acceptance of how it was written. The
Commission spent some time discussing the Lefkowitz Tunnel. Elizabeth Ames, Senior
Engineer of Public Works responded to questions related to the opening and closing of the
Lefkowitz Tunnel. The Commission provided some edits that included changing the
wording on page 3; section Open Space Preserves under Tier II Priorities:
Continue to explore options for safe and direct bicycle and pedestrian travel
from Core Palo Alto to the Arastradero Open Space Preserve and Foothill
Park, including the Bay to Ridge Trail.
Also on page 4; section Creek trails, Tier II the word Charleston Road was removed after a
comment from Chief Officer, Jaime Rodriquez said that it was not going to be feasible per
the Santa Clara Water District.
Motion: The Parks and Recreation Commission move to approve the recommendation
made by the Creeks and Urban Trails Subcommittee as edited.
Approved 6:1 (Markevitch)
6. Discussion on the need for additional parking for the El Camino Park Project – Staff
de Geus introduced staff Anderson, Division Manager for Open Space, Parks and Golf
Division. Staff Anderson discussed the options that the consultant Siegfried designed for
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 7
the El Camino Park fields to add additional parking to the project. He briefly went over
the five scenarios that Siegfried designed using the existing 42 spaces:
A - This would require a removal of a tree, gain 26 additional spaces, parking could
be utilized by commuters, Red Cross users, McArthur park customers
B - No loss of trees, difficulty in turning around, parking could be utilized by
commuters, Red Cross users, McArthur park customers
C – This would require a removal of tree, gain 22 spaces, the turn around is
sufficient, parking could be utilized by commuters, Red Cross users, McArthur
park customers
D - By shifting the field further north, this concept would provide the most parking
spaces with an additional 38 spaces; the obstacles would be a 40” diameter
tulip popalar tree too close to the field, and the potential loss of two coast live
oak trees.
Staff Anderson said after reviewing these options with Siegfried, they were able to come
up with another option E.
E - This option shifts the field a few feet towards El Camino but avoids any
potential problems with the trees. Twenty-nine additional parking spaces will
be gained with this option. Access to the parking lot is ideal with this option.
The cost is also minimal in compared to option D, more parking spaces adds
to the cost.
Staff feels that option E would be the best choice. Commissioner Walsh wanted it
noted that some attention to an area for dropping and picking up should be
considered when designing the parking lot, even if additional parking space had to be
eliminated. After a brief discussion, the Commission concurred with staff and felt
option E would be the most acceptable of the concepts. Commissioner Hetterly added
as a back up to an alternate concept using the South side of the field, option C would be
acceptable. Commissioner Crommie felt because of the cost involved, she did not agree
with any of the options.
. 7. Debrief joint study session with the Planning and Transportation Commission –
Commissioner Chair recommended, due to the lateness of the meeting that
Commissioners review the insert in their packets which references what was discussed in
their joint study session with the Planning and Transportation Commission.
Commissioner Crommie wanted to add an item related to Byxbee Park. Commissioner
Walsh commented that as we move forward we can add to the list. She also added that
discussion could continue at the September meeting.
8. Update on Project Safety Net Community Coalition and plans for 2011-12 – Staff de
Geus provided a presentation on how Project Safety Net Community Coalition who
worked on teen suicide prevention and youth well being has evolved, where they are going
Approved
July 26, 2011 Draft Minutes 8
from here. In September the Commission will discuss further what the Commissions role
can be in supporting the Project Safety Net effort.
9. Update on the Comprehensive Plan – Community Services Element - Chair
Walsh commented that the sub committee met a few times and further meetings are
scheduled. More on the Comprehensive plan will be forth coming at the Commissions
September meeting.
V. COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Commissioner Crommie brought up the scheduling of an additional meeting related to
the Bicycle Pedestrian 101 over pass meeting. Staff de Geus added that Public Works
offered to have a special stakeholders meeting because of the oversight with the
scheduling of the meeting tonight. Staff would arrange this meeting.
2. Staff de Geus commented that the Summer Aquatics program was going very well.
VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER 27, 2011 MEETING
1. Comprehensive Plan
2. Sub-committee updates
3. Trail development for Byxbee Park
VII. ADJOURNMENT
Adjourned at 11:10pm