1505 Tiburon Boulevard, Tiburon, California

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Burgin called the regular meeting of the Parks & Open Space Commission to order at 7:34 P.M., Tuesday, November 13, 2001, in the Town Council Chambers, 1505 Tiburon Boulevard, Tiburon, California.

A. ROLL CALL

PRESENT: COMMISSIONERS: Burgin, Canter (7:40 p.m.), Fraser, Lindqvist and Zender

ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None

EX-OFFICIO: Planning Director Anderson, Town Engineer Echols

B. PUBLIC QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS

There were none.

C. STAFF AND COMMISSION BRIEFING

Planning Director Anderson distributed copies of the Town Budget to the Commission. He noted that the Commission would not meet in December, and that the next regular meting would be on January 8, 2002.

Chair Burgin opened the floor to nominations. Commissioner Zender nominated Commissioner Lindqvist for Chair. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Fraser and approved 4-0. Commissioner Burgin nominated Commissioner Fraser for Vice-Chair. The nomination was seconded by Commissioner Zender and approved 4-0.

E. CONSENT CALENDAR

Minutes of September 11, 2001 (No. 188). M/S Fraser/Zender (5-0) to approve as submitted.

Minutes of October 29, 2001 (field trip) (No. 189). M/S Fraser/Zender (5-0) to approve as submitted.

F. BUSINESS ITEMS

1.    Blackie’s Grove: Proposal by Tiburon Peninsula Foundation (TPF) to plant trees and install benches, walkways, and other public improvements in Blackie’s Pasture Park

Anderson presented the staff report, noting that this project had been in the works for years and that it had been presented to the POSC on at least three occasions, the latest being a field trip on October 29^th. He noted that the TPF’ proposal remained essentially unchanged from the prior submittal that was discussed during the field trip. The TPF had provided an expanded tree palette and had clarified that no new trees would be planted bayward of the line of high tide. Anderson indicated that the proposed $750 maintenance fund proposed by the TPF was too small and suggested an annual endowment for trimming and maintenance purposes.

Larry Smith, representing the Tiburon Peninsula Foundation, stated that the purpose of the project was to enhance the Park and Pasture. The revised project has removed the fear of view blockage by careful location and selection of tree species. He noted that if the cottonwood tree is removed, views would be improved and a shady grove of trees would still be possible. He said that the project, if approved, would proceed even if the cottonwood tree were not removed. He mentioned $20,000 in Blackie’s Beautification Fund that would be available for ongoing maintenance, and indicated that the TPF would be around for many years to come. He believed that money for trimming and maintenance would always be available when needed.

Ralph Alexander, landscape architect for the TPF, indicated that careful placement of all new trees would prevent any new view blockage.

Commissioner Burgin asked why the projected height of the trees was less than stated in the Sunset Western Garden Book. Mr. Alexander responded that the Sunset book assumes ideal growing conditions and uses the maximum height possible. The proposed trees will not grow as high due to poor soil conditions.

The item was opened to the public for comment.

Mike Hancock, East Terrace, said that the existing trees in the proposed grove area are less than 20 years old, based on photos that he has seen. He opposes the plantings because he was not sure they would be kept trimmed and out of views. The existing trees already block views. He questioned the Town’s heritage tree regulation that would protect a tree such as the cottonwood.

Commissioner Burgin asked if he would feel differently if it could be guaranteed that the trees were kept trimmed. Mr. Hancock replied that he would if the trimming could be assured.

Wayne Snow, 100 Jefferson Drive, said that this was the same request as last time. Coral eucalyptus are inappropriate trees and could grow to 40 feet tall. He suggested keeping the lower parts trimmed on the existing trees to preserve views from his neighborhood. He asked why more trees were needed in the Park, even if they are kept trimmed. Aren’t the current trees adequate? New trees would just add to the maintenance demands. He added that the landscaped berms in the Park should have the tall vegetation removed in any event. The cottonwood tree should be considered for removal, and he questioned the health of that tree. He asked whether the Town would approve the planting of a cottonwood tree in that location today. He added that the Tiburon Peninsula Foundation is a great organization, but that lifetime guarantees of maintenance funding are pie-in-the-sky. Mr. Snow concluded by asking whether this project would be an enhancement or not. It might just bring in more people from outside of Marin County and lead to other problems, such as parking congestion.

Chair Lindqvist said that residents enjoy the view of the Bay and marsh. She didn’t see the planting of new trees as appropriate in the proposed bayside grove location. Snow agreed, stating that effects on bird life and possible obstruction of the view to Sausalito were concerns for him with respect to the bayside grove.

Chair Lindqvist added that this was a case of losing views to create a shady place.

Mr. Snow questioned how much of a tree canopy was needed to supply some shade. He had no strong feelings about the proposed grove nearest the paved parking lot.

Joyce Tayer, 10 E. Terrace Court, said that the Commission already had her letter. The Park was a hayfield with the real Blackie standing in it when she moved to her home. There were no trees then and the view has greatly diminished. She also noted that nearby Caltrans trees have grown that further block her views. She requested that the Town help with the Caltrans trees as views are being encroached upon terribly.

Chair Lindqvist asked Staff to determine the ownership of the offending trees.

Mrs. Tayer supported an annuity for trimming and maintenance. She was concerned and suspicious about more new trees being planted.

Bert Rutkin, 9 East Terrace, said that the view impact of the cottonwood tree is profound. Having lived there almost 40 years, he had no recollection of trees in that area when he moved in. If the coral eucalyptus trees have grown that tall over that period of time, then new trees would also grow that tall. Concerning the cottonwood, he asked what the Town’s policy is regarding large public trees. He was opposed to adding new trees in the bayside grove until there is positive assurance that the new trees will not become a view blocking nuisance.

There being no further public testimony, the item was returned to the Commission.

Commissioner Zender appreciated the public input. Regarding the cottonwood, she wondered if it should be removed if it cannot be maintained. She supported the grove nearest the paved parking lot, as it would have just a few new trees.

Commissioner Fraser thanked the TPF and the public. He said that the field trip was very helpful. He felt that a point of compromise has been reached with respect to ongoing maintenance of trees. A fund must be required to maintain tree heights no higher than the coral eucalyptus trees that are there now. Shady respite areas are a good idea and they enhance the community and the entrance to the Town of Tiburon. He saw the main issue as "How do we ensure ongoing maintenance?". He supports the proposal as presented, and has changed his mind regarding the cottonwood tree. It should be removed as it is out of place and does not enhance the environment of that area.

Commissioner Canter was disappointed that the proposal had not changed except for the proposed removal of the cottonwood tree. Preserving view corridors is important, but so is preserving non-manicured portions of parks along the shore. The Town does not need more trees in this bayside location; keep it in its current state. The cottonwood tree is there and should remain. It helps create a charming natural grove. She prefers the installation of a few more benches in this bayside location and no other changes. She does not oppose the grove near the paved parking lot, but doesn’t support the coral eucalyptus trees. She thought that the berm alongside Brunini Way looked poorly maintained and suggested that funds could be spent improving that berm rather than planting new trees.

Commissioner Burgin agreed with Mr. Hancock that the Town’s heritage tree regulation should not be overzealously applied to the cottonwood tree. It just sprung up one day as a volunteer, doesn’t look healthy, and blocks views. The view blockage outweighs the benefits of the tree. She favors its removal. Enhancing the Park is a good thing. Lower plantings and careful attention to design would help. She supports the grove nearest the paved parking lot, the bayside grove is more complicated. She favored enhancement of the spectacular view that is provided from that location, but was not certain about planting new trees there. A maximum 25 foot height limit and guaranteed funding for trimming and maintenance are essential. Any benches should not be too close to the high tide line. The groves would be nice additions to the community if well planned and maintained. She suggested that the Commission look into revising the "ground rules" for trees on park property. Views should be paramount over volunteer trees.

Commissioner Canter asked Staff to describe recent requests for tree trimming or removal on park property. Mr. Anderson stated that he recalled two recent instances, one concerning the Knoll and one concerning trees in Cypress Hollow Park. The Town took no action in Cypress Hollow Park, but did perform some trimming on smaller eucalyptus trees on the Knoll. No trees were removed.

Chair Lindqvist was impressed by the public sentiment against planting new trees. She strongly believed that the POSC should not force additional view blockage on neighbors. She noted that most people were not opposed to the grove nearest the paved parking lot if it does not increase view blockage either vertically or horizontally. Concerning the bayside grove, she was not certain that this was the way to go. Trees other than the cottonwood already block limited views from neighborhoods. Why make it worse? She referred to the Town’s prior plans to turn this area into a salt marsh, and that lack of funding kept this from happening. The existing salt marsh area near the Shapero Bridge is growing and is a site for migratory sea birds. She believed that adding trees to this area made no sense as it was too close to the high tide line and the growing salt marsh. She had spoken to Barbara Saltzman of the Marin Audubon Society, who favored less impingement on salt marsh habitat.

Chair Lindqvist stated that the cottonwood tree should be addressed separately. She suggested a possible alternative location for the proposed bayside grove trees near the base of the Knoll where view blockage would not result. She favored approval of the proposed grove nearest the paved parking lot only.

Commissioner Burgin questioned what size of trees the TPF is proposing in terms of height. Ralph Alexander responded that 15 gallon trees would probably be selected. These smaller trees catch up and surpass larger trees in a few years. Older trees get set in their ways and do not adapt as well once planted in the ground, and do not adjust to adverse conditions as well as smaller trees. Commissioner Burgin clarified that her point was that larger trees were more expensive, so if one of the TPF’s goals was to spend the money that would otherwise need to be returned to the State of California, then larger trees that grow more slowly might make more sense. Mr. Alexander responded that if the cottonwood tree is removed, there would be a large gap created that would require more new trees to fill. Commissioner Burgin asked which tree species Mr. Alexander would recommend. Mr. Alexander (referring to the expanded tree palette) stated that the mayten trees would be a good choice, as would any of the cherry trees on the list, because they are hardy.

Commissioner Canter asked about the suitability of birch trees. Mr. Alexander stated that birch trees grow too tall and don’t like salt water. Also, he prefers evergreen trees for their shade-producing purposes. Myoperum is susceptible to freezing and dies back extensively. Myoperum can be purchased as a tree, approximately 10-15 feet tall, as well as in shrub form. The Commission engaged Mr. Alexander in a discussion regarding trees versus shrubs.

Commissioner Canter moved that the bayside grove area be left in its current natural condition except for the placement of a few benches under the cottonwood tree. The motion died for lack of a second.

M/S Burgin/Zender to recommend to the Town Council that the cottonwood tree be removed. Under discussion, Chair Lindqvist asked for confirmation that the TPF would pay for the removal of the cottonwood tree. Larry Smith responded that he was not certain that the TPF would pay to remove the cottonwood tree if no other trees were allowed to be planted in the proposed bayside grove area. Commissioner Burgin withdrew her motion and revised it to recommend to the Town Council removal of the cottonwood tree and the placement of a few benches in the bayside area. There was no second for the motion.

Larry Smith suggested that the number of new trees planted in the bayside area could be reduced to a few from the several originally shown. As another alternative, he suggested that the Town could wait until the cottonwood tree was removed, the area graded and the benches in place, before deciding what number of new trees would be appropriate. The TPF could come back later after this initial work had been completed, and ask the Town to reconsider the planting plan.

Commissioner Zender suggested that the cottonwood tree be dealt with as a separate issue and not included in the motion. Removal of the cottonwood should not necessarily be contingent on the TPF project moving forward. Commissioner Canter agreed.

M/S Burgin/Zender (4-1, Canter opposed) to recommend to the Town Council that the cottonwood tree be removed.

M/S Burgin/Zender (4-1, Canter opposed) to recommend to the Town Council partial approval of the TPF plan for the bayside grove area, with only the path, benches, and grading to be installed at this time. No planting of any new trees should be allowed until such time as the cottonwood tree is removed and the other improvements installed. Then the Town can reassess the appropriateness of allowing mayten trees or other improvements to be installed in the bayside area.

Commissioner Zender left the meeting. 

2.    Height of Plants on Landscaped Berms between Tiburon Boulevard and the entrance to Blackie’s Pasture

Anderson presented the staff report, indicating that the Commission had received a letter from Belveron West resident Wayne Snow concerning the view blockage that was resulting from the growth of landscaping on the berms installed in Blackie’s Pasture Park. Anderson provided a history of the installation of the berms as part of the Blackie’s Brigade volunteer effort. Anderson set forth several options available to the Commission, including trimming and thinning; removal and replacement; and taking no action. He added that the Tiburon Peninsula Foundation had indicated that it might assist with plant replacement on the berms.

Wayne Snow, 100 Jefferson Drive, stated that he did not have much to add to the staff report. He favored Option #2, removal of the offending landscaping and replacement with more appropriate plantings.

Chair Lindqvist asked what the maximum height of landscaping should be in order to prevent view blockage. r. Snow responded that three feet would be appropriate, and that plantings should be low maintenance and drought tolerant.

Commissioner Canter asked if some of the larger plants could be relocated to another part of the Park. Ralph Alexander, Tiburon Peninsula Foundation, indicated that it was probably too late to relocate most of these trees and shrubs, as they were planted several years ago. He said the costs would be about the same to replace them as to relocate them, and many would not survive transplantation.

Larry Smith, representing the Tiburon Peninsula Foundation, recalled that the purpose of the landscaped berms was to screen the view of cars in the Park’s parking lots from passers-by. He suggested replacing all offending trees and shrubs and starting over with more suitable plants. He said that he was prepared to return to the Tiburon Peninsula Foundation Board to get the replacement project started.

There being no further public comment, the item was returned to the Commission.

M/S Fraser/Burgin (4-0) to recommend to the Town Council Option #2 calling for the replacement of the view-blocking plants in favor of lower species.

Commissioner Canter clarified that the recommendation was to replace only the offending plants and not to remove the healthy low-growing plants that were already established. The Commission agreed.

3.    Consider Concept of Creating a Public Restroom facility near Shoreline Park

Anderson presented the staff report, noting that Commissioner Lindqvist had requested that the item be placed on an agenda for discussion following the receipt of a letter from the Belvedere-Tiburon Landmarks Society.

Karl Peschlow, 1731 Centro West and proprietor of the Caprice Restaurant adjacent to Shoreline Park, urged the POSC to move ahead with installation of a public restroom facility. He said that there is heavy and increasing use of the area and therefore increased demands for a public restroom.

Chair Burgin asked how many people come to the Caprice Restaurant only for the purpose of using the restroom.

Mr. Peschlow responded that during a worst case weekend, a few dozen people come for that purpose. This causes problems for his paying customers, who are inconvenienced when the restrooms are in use by non-customers. He noted that the adjacent Sanitary District No. 5 building has restrooms that they make available to the public, but that the facility is closed on weekends when demand is highest.

Chair Burgin asked if there are public restrooms in the Point Tiburon Plaza commercial area. Mr. Peschlow responded that the restrooms at Point Tiburon are for the tenants only, not open to the public. He further stated that the Downtown is under-represented with respect to public restrooms.

Commission Lindqvist added that the Sanitary District No. 5 restrooms are inside the building, behind work areas, and are not easily accessible to the public, even when the facility is open.

There was discussion regarding existing facilities, the possibility of a portable restroom (as opposed to a permanent restroom), the adequacy of signs guiding people to the existing restrooms, the limited locations for a new restroom and possible opposition from Point Tiburon homeowners over any proposal to install such a facility in or near Shoreline Park, and the general availability of restrooms to the public at Guaymas and other restaurants.

Commissioner Burgin stated that she was not in favor of pursuing a new public restroom at this time. She preferred to focus on better signage for the existing facilities and not on a new restroom facility.

Town Engineer Echols indicated that improved signage would be installed as part of the Ferry Access project that would be completed in Summer 2002.

It was moved by Commissioner Lindqvist to agendize and publicly notice and advertise the new restroom concept for the Commission’s January 2002 meeting. The motion died for lack of a second.

M/S Fraser/Burgin (3-0) to recommend to the Town Council that better signage to the existing public restrooms be installed until such time as the Ferry Access project signs are installed.

G. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

4.    Belveron Mini-Park

Commissioner Canter indicated that there was nothing of substance to report from this subcommittee. Wayne Snow, 100 Jefferson Drive, shared photos of the Mini-Park from several years ago when the sewage pump station was being installed. It was generally agreed that the Park’s appearance was greatly improved from that time. There was a brief discussion regarding the new homeowners association in Belveron and the changing needs of the neighborhood with respect to recreational opportunities for small children.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 PM.

________________________________________

HELEN LINDQVIST, CHAIR

Parks & Open Space Commission

ATTEST:

___________________________________

SCOTT ANDERSON, SECRETARY 111301min.doc