Session 06-11, a Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission was called to order on September 21, 2006 at 6:27 pm by Acting Chair Stewart at the City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska.

 

There was a joint worksession at 5:30 pm with the Economic Development Commission to discuss developing a working relationship between Parks and Recreation Commission and the Economic Development Commission and Economic Development for City of Homer Parks and Recreation.

 

PRESENT:       COMMISSIONER BREMICKER, TOLVA, HOWARD, STEWART

 

ABSENT:        COMMISSIONER POORE (Excused), HAMIK, GANN

 

STAFF:            PLANNING TECHNICIAN ENGEBRETSEN

                        DEPUTY CITY CLERK JACOBSEN

 

AGENDA APPROVAL

 

HOWARD/TOLVA I MOVE APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES                                          

 

            A.        Minutes of June 15, 2006 Regular Meeting

 

TOLVA/HOWARD I MOVE TO APPROVE.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

                                     

            B.         Minutes of August 17, 2006 Regular Meeting

 

HOWARD/TOLVA MOVE APPROVAL.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA

 

There were no public comments.

 

STAFF REPORT                                                                                            

 

A.        Memorandum dated September 12, 2006 from Planning Technician Engebretsen

                                                                                                                       

Planning Technician Engebretsen requested the Commission discuss the Poopdeck Trail Signs in October and Town Center Trail in November.

 

HOWARD/TOLVA MOVED TO ACCEPT STAFF RECOMMENDATION FOR THE TWO AGENDA ITEMS FOR OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER.

 

There was discussion regarding scheduling. 

 

BREMICKER/HOWARD MOVED TO AMEND TO ADD TOWN CENTER TRAIL TO THE OCTOBER AGENDA.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE (Amendment):  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was no further discussion on the main motion as amended.

 

VOTE (Main motion as amended):  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Commissioner Howard commented that the WFKL Park looks very inviting.  Her summer visitors commented about the flowers and general maintenance.  She noted she was happy to see the bike racks, benches and flowers at ramps one and two.  Mrs. Howard thanked Special Projects Coordinator Holen for her work on the grant money for the spit pathway.

 

Planning Technician Engebretsen noted that the work at ramps one and two was done by Port and Harbor as part of their paving project.

                                                                                   

VISITORS

           

A.     Bill Smith, Beach Policy and Current Conditions of Signage & Barriers (10 minutes maximum)        

 

There was discussion with Mr. Smith and the Commission.   Points noted were:

·        Signage does not seem to be complete, especially around Mariner Park.

·        There need to be more boulders around Marnier Park.

·        Bishops Beach signage is inadequate.  It was supposed to be an attractive, informative entrance.

·        The sign on the left is not what was recommended by the committee.  It does not inform people that there is a pedestrian priority area to the east of the entrance of the beach. 

·        The committee did not want put the pedestrian priority area off limits to vehicles because there may be some who need assistance to the beach area for a picnic or collecting coal. 

·        Public Works had funding to deal with signs but didn’t.

·        The Center for Alaska Coastal Studies (CACS) had agreed to monitor signs, if they could get the money, but no action was taken to make that happen. 

 

Acting Chair Stewart commented that after the Commissions beach walk thru in August, they reiterated much of what was noted the year before.  He suggested the Commission look into whether Parks Maintenance is going to deal with the signage.  Mr. Stewart also commented looking into having CACS monitor the signs. 

 

Mr. Smith noted that there is a sign missing at the airport access road and there could be more rocks there to direct traffic.

 

B.         Kenton Bloom and John Fowler, Homer Greenways Project. (10 minutes maximum)

 

John Fowler commented that he and Mr. Bloom have been working together for the last ten years trying to come up with some larger vision of connectivity of trails in the Homer.  He noted a drawing of a conceptual idea of what they were working towards which encompasses the Baycrest Ski area, the area around Crossman Reservoir and Bear Canyon.  Within the last year they have acquired the property needed to have a functional connectivity where they can build trail.

 

In working toward opening connectivity in trails and some of this through development projects it brings value back to communities when people can go into their back yard and go onto trails that lead to larger parks and into a greenway that wraps around town and out into wilderness.  It brings a lot of value to land owners, community and in the long term will raise the value of Homer.

 

Mr. Fowler and Mr. Bloom showed the Commission a power point presentation that included maps and details of their project.

 

Mr. Fowler noted that there is a trail for people to hike up the rim of Bear Canyon and he foresees a nice trail along the creek.  He noted the areas on a map that they own and areas that are state land where the City is working on getting it designated so they can connect into the state land across skyline and tie into the Wynn Nature Center trail system.  Mr. Fowler noted an area that would be used for development of houses. 

 

Regarding development, they have been working on site based development which entails a survey at each site that identifies all the major features of plants, trees, topography and riparian features.   Based on the information the site is landscaped first and the home goes into a specific spot in the landscaping.  The home site will have a very small footprint.   Trails will be developed through the neighborhoods and will be kept sensitive with landscaped growth screening them from the homes. 

 

Mr. Fowler said hopefully in the future they will be working with the City to accept and do maintenance on the trails.  He invited everyone to attend the Planning Commission meeting on October 4 when they will bring their proposal to the City.

 

Mr. Bloom said as they are trying to make trail connections there are a lot of natural aspects in the community that will facilitate this, but there is the need to get it all together.  He noted in the big picture a lot of the area is outside the City but it is exciting and important to notice that on the east and west side of town they are looking at trail accessible corridors going up the bluff and connecting with the greenway.   He reviewed the trails, noting areas that are dedicated trail easements, proposed trail corridors that haven’t received blessings from groups involved and the existing trails.  Currently they are doing construction at the middle school putting in culverts and putting in trail tread areas.  The Museum has been flagged and brushed.  It is approved by the board and ready for construction. 

 

Mr. Bloom suggested the Parks and Recreation Commission look at how to implement a trail system in Homer.  He noted the ballot measure to include trails as part of the HARP funding. The HARP funding, in conjunction with matching grants is a way for the City to create a lively trail development. 

 

Mr. Bloom reviewed the concepts of site based development and showed aerial photos of how it could look.  He said their message on the greenway is that it creates values that support the community, values that support the landowners and values that support the habitat, environment and riparian aspects. 

 

Acting Chair Stewart noted the Commission has been encouraging the City to develop the Alpine Way connection, which would connect Fairview Avenue to Alpine Way.

 

Discussion ensued regarding what the City support.

·        Because of the history and geographic uniqueness of Bear Canyon, it is an opportunity for the City is to have a wilderness park as there is a lot of wildlife and birdlife in the canyon.

·        The landowner of the 40 acre parcel at the top wants to see park there and it would be a strong move on the City’s part to get a functional park that the City can maintain for the long term benefit and use of the area.

·        Birch Lane would be a connection that would allow Kachemak City and the City of Homer to work together in a positive way to benefit both communities.

·        In looking at Bear Canyon the City should recognize that the developer is holding up something major and take a look at how to work with the developer.  This is potentially a big nice addition to the future recreational amenities in Homer.

·        The buy in of the City is what is going to make the park happen.

·        The need right now is for the City to work closely with the necessary people regarding the trail easements.

 

TOLVA/BREMICKER MOVED THAT WE AS A COMMISSION RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY WORK WITH THE DEVELOPERS ON THE BEAR CANYON PARK AND TRAIL PROJECT.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

PENDING BUSINESS

 

A.                 Emerald Park Update  

 

TOLVA/HOWARD MOVED TO DISCUSS.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was discussion regarding the status of Emerald Park.  It was suggested that a letter be sent to property owners in the area as a reminder and invite them back to meet with the Commission in November. 

 

Planning Technician Engebretsen commented that Emerald Park is a park by a deed restriction and it does not have a master plan.  In the Commission’s long term vision it is appropriate to move forward and make use of the work that has been done so far.  If the land owners don’t want to participate right now, they did give some strong feedback at the last meeting and it would be appropriate to use that guidance to move forward.  She suggested developing and adopting a park plan to show the property owner’s what the City’s intent is. 

 

The Commission agreed by consensus to have this on the November agenda for further discussion.

                                                           

B.                 WKFL Park

 

TOLVA/HOWARD MOVED TO DISCUSS ITEM B.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was discussion that WKFL Park does not have a master plan and it would be wise to direct staff to prepare one for the Commission to review.  It was noted that the plan needs to take Brother Isaiah Bates wishes for the park into consideration.

 

HOWARD/TOLVA MOVED TO TAKE STAFFS RECOMMENDATION AND HAVE STAFF DEVELOP A MASTER PLAN BY JANUARY.

 

TOLVA/BREMICKER MOVED A FRIENDLY AMENDMENT TO ADD “TAKING INTO ACCOUNT BROTHER ISAIAH’S WISHES”.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE (amendment):  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was no further discussion on the main motion as amended.

 

VOTE (Main motion as Amended):  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

                                                           

C.        Memorandum from Deputy City Clerk Jacobsen Re: Letter EDC by Special Projects Coordinator Holen Re: Mariner Park Recommendations to the Economic Development Commission                                                                       

TOLVA/HOWARD MOVED TO DISCUSS ITEM C MEMORANDUM FROM DEPUTY CLERK JACOBSEN.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was discussion regarding use at Mariner Park.

·        The shorebird habitat there is very important.

·        No development should be done that could be detrimental to the area and building a fishing lagoon would be detrimental.

·        There may be other uses that could be acceptable.

·        Less development in the area would be better because of the shorebirds and close proximity of the airport.

·        A fishing lagoon is not a sound idea.

·        Keep the concept of a fishing lagoon as a back up plan in case of some future need arise, expanded harbor use for example, that would require the current lagoon be removed.

 

HOWARD/TOLVA MOVED THAT STAFF prepare a letter to the EDC and bring it to the October meeting for review.

 

There was brief discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

COMMISSION BUSINESS

 

A.     Bylaw amendment to comply with Resolution 06-115(A) Re: Public Comment/Testimony and Audience Comment time limits

 

TOLVA/HOWARD MOVED TO DISCUSS ITEM A.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was discussion regarding implementing a three minute time limit. 

·        Having an open dialogue works well with this Commission.

·        There has not been a problem with public coming and talking too long.

·        Can adopt the amendment to conform and suspend the rules if needed to allow more time.

·        If there is a presentation, the topic can be on the agenda as an action item to allow more discussion.

·        Three minutes is not enough time.

 

HOWARD/STEWART MOVED TO AMEND THE BYLAWS FOR THE THREE MINUTE LIMIT.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES:  STEWART, HOWARD

            NO: TOLVA, BREMICKER

 

Motion failed for lack of majority.

 

Commissioner Tolva suggested making a motion to have a five minute time limit.  Deputy City Clerk Jacobsen suggested that since Council made a direction for a three minute time limit, they should move on to the next item and let the Bylaw committee look at dealing with it.

                       

B.     Memorandum from Planning Technician Engebretsen dated September 13, 2006 Re: Committee to review bylaws

 

TOLVA/HOWARD SO MOVED TO DISCUSS ITEM B.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

There was discussion that a committee be developed to review and recommend revisions to the Parks and Recreation Bylaws. 

 

TOLVA/BREMICKER MOVED TO ESTABLISH A COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE BYLAWS WITH BARBARA HOWARD AND DEBBIE POORE ON THE COMMITTEE.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

                                                           

C.        Bathrooms for Pioneer Avenue                                                

 

TOLVA/HOWARD MOVED TO DISCUSS BATHROOMS ON PIONEER AVENUE.

 

Commissioner Tolva commented that she had talked with Parks Maintenance Coordinator Hagerty.  Ms. Hagerty said WKFL Park would not be a good place for public restrooms as there is not enough room.  Ms. Tolva reviewed the information in the packet for bathroom designs and discussed potential locations.  

 

A member of the audience, Will Files, suggested tying into the end of the fire hall as it is an existing City building.  Councilmember Heimbuch commented the idea had merit and the Commission further discussed the location. 

 

The Commission questioned what the next step would be.  Councilmember Heimbuch suggested a memorandum to the City Manager asking him to discuss with the Fire Chief the possibilities of putting something there and if in house construction is possible.  A stand alone restroom on a property that has to be purchased isn’t feasible at this time.

 

HOWARD/TOLVA MOVED FOR STAFF TO PREPARE A LETTER OF INQUIRY AND CONSIDERATION WITH A CONCEPT THAT WE APPROVE IN OCTOBER.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE:  NON OBJECTION:  UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

           

A.                 Resolution 06-118 Re: Naming Ball Field in Memory of Sherry Hagen  

B.         Letter from Paula Dickey, et al Re: Beach Traffic                                              

C.        Article from Homer News dated June 29, 2006 Re: ATV’s on Beach   

D.        Certificate of Appointment for Richard “Bumppo” Bremicker               

E.         Memorandum 06-145 Re: Labor Day Public Service Announcement Regarding Rules and Common Courtesy on the Beach                           

F.         Memorandum 06-146 from Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Re: Motorized Beach Use                                                                                    

G.        Parks & Rec Resolution 06-03 Re: 2007 Budget                                             

H.        Resolution 06-89 Re: Adding T-Ball Field to Hornaday Park Plan        

I.          2007 Proposed Budget Schedule                                             

J.          Poopdeck Trailhead Signs                                                                               

K.        Commission Worklist                                                                           

L.         Parks & Rec Annual Calendar                                                             

M.        City Council Meeting Attendance Schedule Revised 9/06                                 

N.        Fred Meyer Sub. & Site Plan Maps                                                     

O.        9/12/06 Park Walk Through Notes                                                      

P.         City Council Minutes from August 28 and September 11, 2006            

 

COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE

 

Will Files, Kachemak City resident, commented that he appreciates the City’s work in making the City beautiful for the summer.  He said there have been a number of things happen at WKFL Park and he would like to see a sub committee of the Parks and Rec to handle issues that come up at WKFL Park.  He noted there are Christmas tree lights on the big tree and Brother Isaiah had specifically requested there not be, he also noted the hospice plaques in the back.  He feels a sub committee would be appropriate to look at those things before they happen and look at what he wanted.  He said he would be happy to help with that in any way.  Mr. Files said there have been a number of near controversies that Brother Isaiah would have wished could be avoided at all costs.

 

COMMENTS OF THE COMMISSION

 

Commissioner Howard commented that this was a good meeting and appreciated the joint worksession with the EDC and hopes for more in the future and with other Commissions.  She suggested an annual schedule.  She noted her concern with things that come before the Commission, like the bathrooms.  She said they are charged to make recommendations, but there is no funding.  She finds it frustrating that after taking the time to do research and review items it is like they are at the bus stop waiting for the train.  She feels they should clarify the agenda items more specifically to things they can act on.  She thanked Acting Chair Stewart for his work tonight.

 

Commissioner Bremicker thanked Mr. Bloom and Mr. Fowler for their presentation.  He said he would like more information regarding budgeting, what their responsibility is and have a better handle on it.

 

Planning Technician Engebretsen said she would bring information for the next meeting.

 

Commissioner Tolva commented that she was glad for the joint worksession and was blown away by the trails presentation.  She noted that Commissioner Hamik won’t be back and asked about having a letter of thanks sent out to Mrs. Hamik and also to Parks Maintenance Coordinator Hagerty

 

Student Representative Baechler apologized for not being involved with the park walk throughs.  She has a busy school and sports schedule.  She commented that she is a senior now and recommends that the Commission take on another high school student because it is a great opportunity.

 

Acting Chair Stewart commented that it is a humbling experience chairing a meeting.  He thanked the Commission for their patience.  The meeting tonight with the EDC was an eye opener and feels it was a good start.  He agreed with Commissioner Tolva that a letter should be sent out to Commissioner Hamik for her service.

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting adjourned at 8:38 pm.  The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 19, 2006 at 6:30 pm in the City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska.

 

 

                                                                                   

MELISSA JACOBSEN, DEPUTY CITY CLERK

 

Approved: