RECREATION AND PARK COMMISSION
M I N U T E S
Thursday, August 15, 2002 - 2:00 p.m.
The Regular Meeting of the Recreation and Park Commission was called to order on Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 2:15 p.m. by President John Murray.
ROLL CALL
Present:
John Murray, President
Gloria Bonilla
Gordon Chin
Jim Lazarus
Larry Martin
Rebecca Prozan
Absent:
Bill Getty
Commissioner Murray announced that item 9 was removed from the general calendar.
GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT
CAPITAL PLAN UPDATE
About 200 community members attended four Capital Plan Update Community Workshops this late July. The Workshops were held in four quadrants of the city - at Sunset, Hamilton, and SoMa recreation centers and at the Southeast Community Facility. The Recreation and Park Department, in close cooperation with the District Park Planning Program of the Neighborhood Parks Council, has done a tremendous job reaching out to the public. More than 4,000 notices were mailed out to city residents, community activists, supervisorial aids, and public libraries. The notices were posted at the recreation and park facilities, in neighborhood newsletters, local newspapers, and on the RPD Web site. The Neighborhood Park Council made more than 800 calls.
Park, Recreation and Open Space Advisory Committee set four objectives for the Capital Plan Update Community Workshops, which were to:
1. Make the public familiar with the recreation and park capital improvement projects in each supevisorial district.
2. Make the public aware of core issues and values surrounding capital improvement projects.
3. Hear from the public about specific land and facility needs in each district.
4. Hear from the public about their priorities for capital improvement projects.
Participants were encouraged to provide individual written comments on community issues, values, needs, and priorities surrounding capital improvement projects in their communities. Participants also took part in group discussions and presentations.
The Recreation and Park Department staff, in cooperation with the Neighborhood Park Council, have summarized the individual public comment and transcribed the group presentations from each Workshop. These materials are (or will be available shortly) on the RPD web site. This fall, all issues, values, needs, and priorities will be reviewed by PROSAC and presented before the Park Recreation Commission for voting on the final Revised Capital Plan.
Thank you to the Park, Recreation and Open Space Advisory Committee, the District Park Planning Program of the Neighborhood Parks Council, and the Capital Improvement Division of the Recreation and Park Department for sponsoring and facilitating this significant public input into the Department's Capital Program.
The Stadium at Candlestick Point
The National Football League through the San Francisco 49ers has conducted a security evaluation of the Stadium at Candlestick Park. They have requested several improvements to the infrastructure as well as modifications to the policies currently in place. The majority of the security issues have been or are being addressed by our staff. However, they have requested that two road closures occur during the entire football season.
The first closure, Giants Drive at Ingerson will be closed during the season to prohibit unauthorized vehicles coming into close proximity of the stadium. Giants Drive is on the Department's property and a combination of swing gates and barricades will be installed in the very near future. The second closure, Jamestown Avenue adjacent to Gate B has also been identified to be closed, however this is a public right-of-way and will require the issuance of a major encroachment permit by the Department of Public Works with a subsequent review by the Board of Supervisors. At the September full Commission meeting, staff will present a comprehensive review of the security measures currently in place and the proposed road closures.
During the first two months of the Department's pilot Recycling Program (active at five neighborhood parks), recycling has gone from less than 1% to over 14%. Public and staff participation is increasing weekly with the goal of reaching 50% recycling by the end of the fiscal year. The program has two distinct goals, reducing park waste entering landfills and reducing the annual $1.2 million annual waste fees.
The General Manager accepted the following gifts on behalf of the Department in accordance with the gift policy:
Receipt of a $1,320 donation for the benefit of the Visitacion Valley Greenway Project from Mercy Housing California. This donation is made specifically for the Greenway Project as an approved mitigation to the filling of isolated wetlands at a site that is being developed into affordable housing.
The General Manager approved the following trips:
Project Insight will conduct an overnight camping trip to Napa for thirteen teenagers who are blind or otherwise visually impaired, August 13 - 16, 2002.
Awards and Honors:
Deedee Workman called to tell us that the Pioneer Park Project has been selected for one of SFBeautiful's Beautification awards to be given at their annual dinner October 30 at the Mark Hopkins! Nice to be noticed so well!
General Manager Goldstein gave the Legislative Update:
· The 49ers Naming Agreement. The Department would like to go back to the Board of Supervisors with more detail to the naming agreement so they understand other parameters of the deal.
· Supervisor Yee introduced two resolutions on the Natural Areas Program. They were heard at the Rules Committee and Board of Supervisors on Monday.
· The Glen Park Grant from the California Coastal Conservancy was passed out of Neighborhood Services and Parks.
· Supervisor Yee introduced the Commission's adopted Citywide Dog Policy in ordinance form. There was a hearing last week Thursday. He introduced at the hearing substantial amendments to this policy. It will need to go back to the Neighborhood Services and Parks Committee for another hearing because of the substantial changes between the original ordinance and the substitute ordinance.
Marybeth Wallace, Vice Chair, PROSAC, gave a report to the Commission regarding the Draft Capital Plan. During the months of July and August PROSAC worked with staff and the Neighborhood Parks Council to convene four community meetings throughout San Francisco. The purpose of the meetings was to solicit public input into Recreation and Park's Draft Capital Plan as mandated. Neighborhood Parks Council opened each meeting, followed by a presentation on the Draft Capital Plan by Gary Hoy and his staff. Over 200 members of the community participated in the meetings (excluding staff).
Participants were then grouped by district and PROSAC members facilitated interactive workshops. Staff was available to answer questions when necessary. Many of the concerns expressed by the public during the workshops related to park operations or maintenance. These comments have been communicated to staff for follow-up.
In the workshops, there was discussion about district core values regarding land use, facilities and citywide concerns. Each group then reviewed and prioritized their district's draft capital projects. All comments were recorded for district group presentations at the end of the meeting.
The workshops resulted in 48 pages of public comment that will be used for a final summary to be distributed to the Commission as soon as it is available. PROSAC will discuss the summary at its September meeting and make recommendations at the next Commission meeting.
Commissioner Murray requested that the Commission receive PROSAC's report seven days prior to the meeting for review.
General Manger Goldstein spoke to the Commission about the Julius Kahn M.O.U. that will be heard at the Recreation and Park Commission meeting in September.
Dan McKenna spoke on Harding Park Golf Course and stated that the work was going well and on schedule.
CONSENT CALENDAR
On motion made by Commissioner Martin and seconded by Commissioner Chin the following resolutions were adopted: RES. NO. 0208-001
RESOLVED, That this Commission does approve the minutes of the July 18, 2002 meeting.
RESOLVED, That this Commission does recommend that the Board of Supervisors accept and expend
a grant from the National Park Foundation of 15 Th!nk vehicles valued at approximately $105,000.
GENERAL CALENDAR
SAN FRANCISCO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
Kathy How presented this item to the Commission. It was a recommendation by staff to reject all bids and approve the re-advertisement for construction documents for the Africa! Savanna project at the San Francisco Zoo. As part of the San Francisco Zoo Master Plan, Phase II the design for the Africa Savanna project as recently completed. This project provides for new animal habitats for giraffe, zebra, eland nyala, and other African mammals and birds. Site improvements include extensive landscaping, guest pathways and observation shelters. New animal management facilities include a hoofed animal barn and giraffe barn. The project was advertised on May 15, 2002 and construction bids were received and opened on July 3, 2002.
In an effort to pre-qualify contractors to bid on the construction contract, Department of Public Works (DPW) staff issued a "Request for Qualifications". Six qualification packages were submitted. A panel consisting of one DPW staff and one Zoological Society staff determined that four of the six contractors, three submitted construction bids for Africa! Savanna. There have been two bond sales to date. A third bond sale originally scheduled for spring this year has been postponed to mid-September, with close of sale approximately October 1, 2002. Award of construction contract for Africa! Savanna requires interest from bond funds ($2.2 million), as well as funds from the third bond sales ($5.4 million).
Three bids were received for the project. HRS reviewed the proposals and found the two lowest bidders failed to meet the HRC 12% MBE/WBE sub-contract goals (combined goal). The third bid appears to meet the sub-contract goal but substantially exceeded the project budget by over a $1million dollars. Their proposal was not reviewed by HRC.
Because the two lowest bidders were found non-responsive, and the third bidder exceeded the project budget, staff recommended that all bids be rejected and the project be re-bid. It is apparent that the HRC goals can be met as evidenced by the third bid. HRC will work with the other pre-qualified bidders to help them achieve those goals during the re-bid. The project will be slightly delayed as a result, but the Controller cannot certify the Contract until the third bond sale has closed in October 2002.
Commissioner Chin asked staff if the re-bid would effect the schedule of the Savanna project. Kathy How explained that the schedule would not be effected since the Controller cannot certify the Contract until the third bond sale has closed in October.
On motion made by Commissioner Chin and seconded by Commissioner Martin the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-003
RESOLVED, That this Commission does reject all bids and approve re-advertise of the construction documents for the Africa! Savanna project at the San Francisco Zoo.
EUREKA VALLEY RECREATION CENTER'S GYMNASIUM
Dan McKenna presented this item to the Commission to rename the Eureka Valley Recreation Center's Gymnasium the Mark Bingham Gymnasium.
Pursuant to the Recreation and Park Commission policy (Sections 1 & 2a) on naming and or changing the designation of facilities (amended January 17, 1991 by Resolution No. 15904, and last amended January 20, 1994 by Resolution No. 16822), states:
· It shall be the policy of the Commission not to change the name of any existing recreation and park facility, particularly one whose name has City or National significance, unless there are the most extraordinary circumstances of the City or National interest and no other new facility can so be designated. and
· A deceased person who has made significant contributions to the City and/or the Recreation and Park Department and has not been previously honored in a meaningful way by the City.
This proposal addresses the Commission policy in the following manner:
The gymnasium at Eureka Valley Recreation Center currently has not been distinguished by a particular name. Mr. Mark Bingham, a resident of San Francisco and frequent visitor at the Eureka Valley Recreation Center spent many hours playing in the Center's gymnasium and participated in many of the recreation center's basketball leagues. During the tragedy of September 11, 2001, it is believed that Mr. Mark Bingham demonstrated the highest level of valor and heroism by sacrificing his life during a struggle with terrorists for control of a plane that was targeting citizens in Washington D.C. Mr. Bingham's as well as his fellow passenger's actions during the ill-fated United Airlines Flight 93 galvanized the nation in a patriotic movement again terrorism and therefore is consistent with the Commission's Policy.
In response to Mr. Bingham's actions, the Department received several requests to name a park facility in his honor. The Department conducted a survey to gauge the community's sentiments related to a proposed naming. Over 500 surveys were distributed to the immediate community. The survey asked if the entire Recreation Center should be renamed or if the gymnasium alone should be named after Mark Bingham. One hundred and sixty-two responses were received, with one hundred and five respondents favoring the naming of the gymnasium after Mark Bingham.
Chuck Ayala spoke in support of naming the gymnasium after Mark Bingham.
On motion made by Commissioner Prozan and seconded by Commissioner Chin the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-004
RESOLVED, That this Commission does approve the naming of Eureka Valley Recreation Center's Gymnasium the Mark Bingham Gymnasium.
UNION SQUARE PROJECT
Mike Morlin presented this item to the Commission requesting approval of a Supplemental Maintenance Agreement for Union Square with Uptown Parking Corporation.
Union Square officially reopened to the public on July 25, 2002. Funding for the renovation was provided by bonds issued by the Uptown Parking Corporation. The Department is budgeted to provide the same level of service as before the renovation; one gardener and one custodian. It is the City's goal to maintain the new Square in the best possible condition. Under the terms of an MOU between the City and Uptown Parking, Uptown will supplement the Department's maintenance efforts to assure that the Square is kept up to a high standard.
Uptown is proposing to hire KTB Management Group, the operators of Yerba Buena Gardens, to provide supplemental maintenance. Their general duties would be additional cleaning, security, inspecting and communicating any problems to RPD, and facilitating special events.
The estimated costs of supplemental maintenance, event oversight and security would be $183,000, to be funded by the Uptown Parking Corporation.
Commissioner Murray asked staff if the insurance limit of $1,000,000 was accurate. Mike Morlin explained that the $1,000,000 insurance limit is standard for a group with a permit. Mary McCue representing KTB Management Group explained to the Commission that KTB would be bringing into Union Square Park a $20,000,000 general liability policy and the Department would be named insured.
Ernestine Weiss asked staff if: 1) KTB Management Group would take over the entire management of Union Square Park and 2) the details of KTB's responsibilities. General Manager Goldstein explained the Department would have ongoing maintenance responsibilities in the park with two staff members, a gardener and custodian dedicated full time to Union Square Park. The Department would continue to supply support in terms of ongoing structural maintenance work, plumbing, electricity etc. as well as permits and reservations. She further explained that KTB's work is a supplement to the Department and they will go beyond what the Department can provide, for instance security.
Commissioner Murray stated that this item would be approved with two amendments: 1) the Department is the named insured in the $20,000,000 general liability policy and 2) subject to the General Manager's review of KTB's procedures.
On motion made by Commissioner Chin and seconded by Commissioner Bonilla the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-005
RESOLVED, That this Commission does approve the proposed Annual Supplemental Park Work Plan and select KTB Management Group to provide services.
LINCOLN AND SHARP PARK GOLF COURSE
Gary Hoy presented this item to the Commission requesting it reject all construction bids for irrigation improvements at the Lincoln and Sharp Park Golf Course.
The Department with the assistance of the Department of Public Works solicited construction bids for the Lincoln & Sharp Park Golf Course Irrigation Improvements and received two competitive respondents both of which submitted bids under the engineer's construction estimate. Unfortunately, both contractors failed to meet the required Human Rights Commission (HRC) subcontracting goals, which were set at 3% of the project's construction cost.
On the advice of the City Attorney's office, staff recommends that the Commission reject all bids so that the City can immediately re-advertise the project. If the Commission agrees to reject the bids and re-advertise the project, HRC has agreed to waive all subcontracting goals for the re-bidding process.
Commissioner Murray asked staff to characterize in detail the type of landscaping the Department would be doing at the Lincoln & Sharp Park Golf Course. Gary Hoy explained that irrigation work would be done by the Department at the Lincoln & Sharp Park Golf Course, which involves installation of branch lines, sprinklers and water controls.
On motion made by Commissioner Lazarus and seconded by Commissioner Prozan the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-006
RESOLVED, That this Commission does reject all construction bids for the Lincoln & Sharp Park Golf Course Irrigation Improvements: Phase II project.
LAKE MERCED
Marvin Yee presented this item to the Commission to award a contract to Ghilotti Bros./Pan-Marine Joint Venture in the amount of $862,523 to replace a fishing pier and to improve parking and trails along John Muir Way at Lake Merced.
Lake Merced is located in the southwest quadrant of San Francisco in District 7. In September 2001 the Recreation and Park Commission approved a conceptual improvement plan for the Impound Lake Triangle Project, which contains five distinct project areas. The two highest priority project areas may be implemented with available funds. The three remaining project areas are awaiting funds.
The scope of work for the two highest priority project areas includes:
a. John Muir Way fishing pier - Replace fishing pier that was damaged in past winter storms with a pier that would fluctuate in elevation with the water level, and improve wheelchair access.
b. Parking area on the west side of the Impound Bridge at John Muir Way - Improve vehicular parking design, provide utilities for future inclusion of a restroom structure, install picnic tables and trash receptacles, realign multi-use pathway, and improve landscape.
Six competitive bids were received through the Department of Public Works. Base bid plus an alternate ranged from $862,523 to $1,392,550, with an average bid of $1,077,619. The DPW engineer's estimate was $1,034,360. Ghilotti Bros./Pan-Marine Joint Venture submitted the apparent low bid of $862,523.
Ghilotti Bros./Pan-Marine Joint Venture, a general contracting firm located in San Rafael, California, has performed on various City projects, including Phase 2 of India Basin Shoreline Park for the Recreation and Park Department to its satisfaction.
This contract is subject to Human Rights Commission determination as a compliant contractor.
The sources of funds for this project are from the 1987 Park Bond and the California Coastal Conservancy Grant through the Friends of Recreation and Parks.
Howard Strassner, a member of the Lake Merced Task Force, stated that it is nice the Department is fixing up areas around Lake Merced but hopes this project will not be under water when the lake level is back up. Marvin Yee explained that the Department would be replacing the fishing pier with a pier that would fluctuate in elevation with the water levels.
Commission Lazarus asked staff how this project got prioritized with all the issues and problems at Lake Merced. General Manager Goldstein explained that the division of labor at Lake Merced is complex, the PUC has jurisdiction over the water and lands, and the balance of the site is under the Department's jurisdiction. The Department went through exercises with the community to establish priorities for projects they wanted the Department to pursue. The Department received a substantial commitment from California Coastal Conservancy, which included project to replace the fishing pier and to improve parking and trails along John Muir Way.
On motion made by Commissioner Martin and seconded by Commissioner Bonilla the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-007
RESOLVED, That this Commission does award a contract to Ghilotti Bros./Pan-Marine Joint Venture in the amount of $862,523 to replace a fishing pier and to improve parking and trails along John Muir Way.
UNION SQUARE
Sandy Lee presented this item to the Commission requesting approval to the show the exhibits of Bruce Chaban, a local artist at Union Square. Red Umbrella would like to do a series of performing arts called Slow Art every Saturday in September where they will be showcasing their art along with a series of performances from the San Francisco Jazz, San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus, and San Francisco Opera. The two art pieces that Red Umbrella would like to showcase are the "Link" and "Three Wishes" both weighing over 1,000 pounds.
Staff recommends approval for this project with the following conditions:
1. The San Francisco Art Commission must approve the display of "Link" and "Three Wishes" steel sculptures at Union Square.
2. The structural engineers (Uptown Parking), the Art Commission and Recreation and Park Superintendent will determine the placement of the sculptures.
3. Final approval of written, detailed information pertaining to the installation and anchoring of all structures must be approved by the park Division, Bob Nastor, Area Supervisor, (415) 554-9520, with the following requirements:
a. All structures are to be free standing.
b. No anchor bolts are to be drilled into the concrete.
c. Tent anchors are to be marked as to be highly visible to the public.
d. No structures will be attached to Recreation and Park Property, (i.e. garbage cans, benches, or others.
e. Approved protective pads will be placed between the granite floor and the sculptures.
4. "Red Umbrella" must make arrangements to provide for security for the sculpture from September 6, to September 30, 2002.
5. A $1 million certificate of insurance naming as additionally issued, the City and County of San Francisco and the Recreation and Park Department and its agents, employees and Commissioners, in single limits applying to physical injury, property damage, personal injury. Certificate of insurance must state that the City and County of San Francisco is additionally insured at Union Square from September 6 to September 30, 2002.
Jerry Fresia, representing Red Umbrella, described to the Commission the quality of the art exhibits and advertising that Red Umbrella will be producing. Bruce Chaban presented to the Commission a video demonstration of how the art structure would be moved.
Commissioner Chin asked the organizers if the placement of the art pieces had been determined. Mr. Chaban explained that the art pieces would be placed at the center entrance on either side of the columns.
Commissioner Murray asked Sandy Lee to explain why this item was brought to the Commission. Sandy Lee explained that there were two reasons this item came to the Commission was 1) the size of the art pieces and 2) the art pieces would remain in Union Square overnight from September 5th to the end of the concert.
Commissioner Larazus asked staff if Linda Magellum from the Union Square Association and those who have invested in the rebuilt of Union Square had a chance to review this matter. Linda Magellum representating the Union Square Association spoke to the Commission about how close her organization has been working with the Department for the protection of Union Square. She also spoke about construction meeting and their discussion of the load bearing capacity of the entire plaza. The west side is totally reinforced for bringing in cranes and the east side less so, but it will definitely accommodate the weight of the art pieces and the Union Square Square Association will work with Uptown onsite events management to make sure that the plaza is protected. She stated that the Union Square Association supports Red Umbrella's art exhibits.
On motion made by Commissioner Bonilla and seconded by Commissioner Lazarus the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-008
RESOLVED, That this Commission does approve the exhibit of Bruce Chaban's two large sculptures at Union Square for the Red Umbrella's Slow (art exhibitions and concerts) Saturday shows during the month of September 2002.
SAN FRANCISCO MARINA SMALL CRAFT YACHT HARBOR
Items 12 and 13 were heard together.
Commissioner Murray introduced this item as it had been before the Commission for the third time and he wanted to brief the new Commissioners on this project. Staff was requested at the July Finance and Administration Committee meeting to provide the Commission with additional details with regard to: 1) the last three years actuals - revenue and expenses, 2) financial plan projections, 3) the transition plan, 4) boat count and corresponding lengths and 5) next steps including milestones. Commissioner Murray complimented staff particularly Brad Gross, Michael Frank and Kathy How for having work on this over the last month to help give the Commission a full picture of this project. He also stated that this project needed to be done and many people were aware of the poor conditions of the Marina and were looking forward to the improvements.
Kathy How explained to the Commission that if this item was approved to move forward, the Department would complete an engineering feasibility study, and review the scope of work to make reductions if necessary to stay within the project costs.
Brad Gross gave a brief presentation on the renovation for the San Francisco Marina Yacht Harbor. He spoke about the project needs, the Conceptual Program Components, and the project goals. He explained that after approval of the conceptual renovation program, the next steps of the Department would be to complete an engineering feasibility study, begin an environmental review and apply for state loans.
Commissioner Murray asked Brad Gross to explain why engineering services was listed in his presentation before the preferred alternative. Brad Gross explained the engineering services is listed first to provide more detail on the concept for approval from the Commission today.
Howard Strassner spoke about the needed space for small boats in the Marina. He recommended that the Commission not approved this item unless the proposal included spaces for small boats.
Ron Mulcare a resident of the Marina stated it was premature for the Commission to take action as suggested in item 13 and opposed the Commission's recommendation to the Board of Supervisors to support the Department's application for funding. Mr. Mulcare spoke about the required documentation to submit an application to the State of California of Boating and Waterways. He also spoke about the inadequacies of the Marina seawalls.
Pinky Kushner stated the Sierra Club opposed the Small Craft Harbor Renovation as proposed for the following reasons: 1) breakwaters versus the bay water movement, 2) against more buildings on open space and 3) lack of social equity.
Robert Levine complimented the harbormaster and he supported the plan.
Ernestine Weiss stated that she supported this project because the harbor is sinking into the bay and is the most horrible part of the Parks Department.
Les Goldner, President of the Marina Harbor Tenants Association stated that the organization he represented supported this plan. He spoke about two caveats to their approval: 1) the need for breakwaters and 2) mitigation of the east harbor toxic effects. He also stated his concern that boaters feel that they are being asked to pay for the improvements.
Thomas Hammond stated that he owns a small boat and suggested the Commission approve the direction of the Department to look into the feasibility and environment impact report as two separate items.
Joan Girardot, representing the Marina Civic Improvement Association and a member of the Harbor Advisory Committee stated that she agreed with Mr. Mulcare in that it is premature to discuss item 13 when the Department does not have the required documentation to submit an application. Ms. Girardot spoke on item 12, stating that staff has dismissed all their concerns so for the record the two organizations she represented opposes the proposed plan because of environmental concerns to building any breakwaters in the harbor. They would like the Commission to: 1) require a full EIR, 2) ask that an alternative plan be evaluated without breakwaters and removal of the degaussing station, and 3) to support boaters with their request for the least expensive alternative plan to be identified and evaluated.
Ariel Poler resident of San Francisco stated his support of this plan and Brad Gross. He spoke about the importance of moving forward with this plan for safety given that the harbor is falling apart. He stated that he did not agree that not all-larger boats are owned by the rich, that San Francisco has one of the most active sailing fleets in the world and should have a Marina that is consistent with that.
Courtney Clarkson, Chair of the Recreation and Park Harbor Advisory Committee, stated that the advisory committee has been meeting for over four years and at that time the estimated cost to renovate the Marina was $15 million. Now the Department is looking at $35 million. The advisory committee supports this plan, because without an approval of the conception plan you can not move on to the next step and if approved all environmental concerns will be studied and answered. Ms. Clarkson also stated the harbor is seriously deteriorated and something has to be done now.
Norman Pearce a San Francisco resident and boat owner stated that he supports the renovation of the deteriorating waterfront especially since more people from the general public are choosing to own boats.
Irwin White, representing small boat sailors stated that he supports staff on this project. He spoke about sailing on the San Francisco Bay in a small boat and recommended keeping as many small berths as possible.
Gloria Fontanello, member of the Advisory Board, active in Marina, founder of the Marina Neighborhood Association and sits on the Board of Civic Improvement and Property Owners, stated the organizations she represents were in support of getting the harbor repaired and being enjoyed by everyone. She spoke about their concerns regarding the breakwater issues, the degaussing station and an added concern, ADA accessibility for the restrooms.
Emeric Kalman, spoke about the meetings he attended and the technical and administrative documentation he reviewed on file and available to the public. He felt the public was not notified about: 1) the elimination of the small berths, 2) the increase of berth fees and 3) the new construction facility allowing motorized vessels access to the harbor. He recommended that the Commission reject this plan so the public can be involved in the planning and design of this project. He also spoke about the need to maintain the harbor but felt spending $35 million was an exaggeration.
Commissioner Murray stated that public comment was closed and asked staff to answer the public's concerns on new and old issues. He asked staff to summarize the change and configuration of small boats versus large boats. Brad Gross explained that the Department would not be eliminating small boats, but would change the configuration and sizes of the berths. He furthered explained the trends in the industry were moving towards larger berths and the smaller boats will be moving to dry storage. Commissioner Chin asked Brad Gross to clarify that the dry storage space conceived in the plan is sufficient to accommodate smaller boats currently and in the future. Brad Gross explained that the plan would accommodate the current smaller boats using the 20-foot berths and in the future he would like to explore areas for additional dry storage space. Commissioner Murray asked about the hoist that can move boats in and out of the water. Brad Gross explained that the hoist is inoperative and is included in the plan to be repaired.
Commissioner Murray asked Brad Gross to speak about dry storage issues: 1) how will the boats be moved to dry storage area, specifically how will the boats be taken out of the water and 2) how much space is available in dry storage. Brad Gross explained that by comparing each boat in the Marina now to the number of boats in the future it was determined that there was not enough space to accommodate 20-foot and 35-foot berths. Currently, in the plan there are two dozen spaces outlined at the hoist area and a dozen outlined at St. Francis Yacht Club area. He further explained that issues regarding dry boat storage will be answered in the formal engineering report. Brad Gross stated that if the proposal was approved today the Department should have a new and improved modern facility in February 2009.
Commissioner Lazarus asked Brad Gross to discuss a waitlist and if it listed the requested berth length. Brad Gross explained that there are 500 people on the waiting list, it is divided by size and 85 percent of the requests are for berths 30-feet and over.
Commissioner Murray asked staff to explain the timing of the application in relationship to the application to the State for financing. Brad Gross explained the material needed in advance to submit an application to the State of California, Department of Boating and Waterways were: 1) a formal engineering study, 2) a feasibility financial study and 3) a draft environmental study. He also explained that an approval is needed from the Board of Supervisors before the Department can submit an application for financing.
Commissioner Murray asked staff to explain the phasing of the project and when environmental review will take place. Kathy How explained a concept plan is needed in order for the environmental review to occur and an approval from the Board of Supervisors to apply for the loan. Commissioner Chin asked staff to explain 1) when the EIR work would start, 2) if the Planning Department was ultimately responsible for the EIR and 3) if the Department would have input into how the Planning Department defines project alternatives. Kathy How explained the EIR process would start next month and the Planning Department is responsible for the EIR. Gary How explained the Department will be putting together a proposed project and in that application there will be alternatives that will be addressed which will include a Marina without breakwaters and a no project project. Commissioner Lazarus stated that this process is a major issue and the Commission should be involved in reviewing the Planning Department's project alternatives. Commissioner Murray stated that the Department has detailed financial information with a ten or twenty year projection available for the public.
Commissioner Murray stated that he had four old issues that he asked staff to address: 1) the degaussing station, 2) the breakwaters, 3) the sand mining /surge and 4) the square footage of the development that is under the preferred alternative proposal in terms of buildings. Brad Gross explained to the Commission that there have been different alternatives, which have been presented to the public and advisory committees, the Department has been concentrating on these issues and answers to these specific questions would be addressed in the formal engineering study that is being done. Commissioner Murray asked if staff could address the square footage in the proposal versus the square footage that exist today for buildings. Brad Gross explained that if the Department was not able to use the PUC building, the proposed maintenance facility, and four additional bathrooms the net additional square footage is 1,600 square feet.
General Manager Goldstein spoke about the history of the degaussing station. She stated when the Navy turn over degaussing station to the Department there was a specific amount of time that the Navy obligated themselves to remove it, the Commission deliberated and voted against the removal. She explained that the degaussing station could be removed, but at the expense of the Department.
Commissioner Murray reconfirmed that the breakwaters, sand mining and surge issues would be addressed in the formal engineering study.
Commissioner Bonilla questioned if there would be an opportunity to look at the issue of removing the degaussing station if this concept was approved. Commissioner Murray explained that the preferred alternative will be subject to further review and there will an opportunity to voice concerns on specific issues. Commission Bonilla spoke about the letter submitted by the GGNRA indicating that they want to partner in this process regarding impact issues and asked staff to explained how the Department intends to partner with the GGNRA with respect to the impact issues. Kathy How explained the GGNRA looks to the Army Corp as their engineering consultant. The Department will need to get permits from the Army Corp so they would have to approve the final alternative.
Commissioner Lazarus spoke about his concerns regarding the environmental issues and the Marina seawalls. Kathy How spoke about the history of the seawalls. She stated that five years ago the Public Works Department estimated the cost to repair the seawall was $2 million and the PUC stated even if the seawall was repaired it was not going to protect everything on the other side of it and in the event of a major earthquake the seawall would move as a unit out toward the water. General Manager Goldstein stated that the Department would initiate a conversation with other City departments to investigate whether they have any interested in making additional improvements beyond what the Department would do and give the Commission feedback on reaction of the other City departments.
On motion made by Commissioner Martin and seconded by Commissioner Lazarus the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-009
RESOLVED, That this Commission does approve conceptual Renovation Program for the San Francisco Marina Small Craft Yacht Harbor and direct the Recreation and Park Department staff to initiate the environmental review process for the proposed program.
SAN FRANCISCO MARINA SMALL CRAFT YACHT HARBOR
On motion made by Commissioner Chin and seconded by Commissioner Bonilla the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0208-010
RESOLVED, That this Commission does recommend that the Board of Supervisors take appropriate action to support the Recreation and Park Department's application for funding from the State of California, Department of Boating and Waterways.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Ernestine Weiss voiced her irritation with the fields being ruined at Block 201.
Thomas Hammond stated that the Commission just raised the rents for tenants at the harbor by approving the last item and recommended the Commission revisit the concept that rent should not be raised until there is a new harbor.
Paul Nathan, Professional Entertainer, Street Performer in San Francisco, stated while performing recently at Union Square he was informed by the San Francisco Police that it was a requirement to have a permit to perform and permits are provided by the Recreation and Park Department. He spoke to Sandy Lee and she gave him a list of all the different permits and none were appropriate for a street-performer. He stated that street performing was a tradition in San Francisco and asked the Commission if a permit could be created specifically for street-performers. He had two suggestions for the permit: 1) reasonable fees for a serious artist and 2) require insurance using Pier 39 as a guide.
Commissioner Murray asked the General Manager to include Mr. Nathan's concern for a street-performing permit in the next General Manager's report. General Manager Goldstein stated that this issue has been talked about internally and will sort it out and come back to the Commission with a policy, but the major problem with this issue is solicitation, which is illegal in parks.
Emeric Kalman apologized to Commissioner Murray and asked the Commission to designate a City Attorney to investigate and look to into the Marina project process that was just approved because according to charter codes the process was broken.
Commissioner Murray stated that the Commission would not direct the City Attorney to take any action and if Mr. Kalman had any questions regarding the process he encouraged him to put them in writing to General Manager Goldstein.
Reola Freeman stated that she wanted to thank Dan McKenna for nominating her in 2000 to work with the City Juniors. She spoke about the City Juniors she trained with Dan McKenna at Harding Park to compete in Newark, New Jersey and won. She also spoke about the privilege of being selected by Leon Gilmore from the First Tee.
General Manager Goldstein explained to the new Commissioners that the Department sent 105 athletes to the US Youth Games in Newark, New Jersey this year including a full team for golf. She stated that the athletes were fabulous and brought home gold, silver and bronze medals.
Joan Girardot spoke about public uses for the public shoreline in the Marina. She stated that when the State deeded it to the City they listed five purposes: 1) aquatic, 2) recreational, 3) boulevard, 4) park and 5) playground. She spoke about uses of the park and the enjoyment of the park and open space quality and asked the Commission to reconsider reconstituting the Small Craft Yacht Harbor Advisory Committee. She stated that she has been on this committee of 13 members, 11 that are berth holders. The votes are always 11 to 2 and since the rest of City has an interest in that shoreline she would like to recommend the Commission have an equal number of berth holders and an equal number who express community interest and other recreational interests.
General Manager Goldstein stated that this was before her time but the understanding is the committee was put in place to deal with issues around the harbor redevelopment. Commissioner Murray stated that a written charter for the advisory committee would be helpful. General Manager Goldstein stated that that the Department could provide the Commission motions used to set-up the advisory committee.
Tim Kelly, Street Performer stated that he wanted to reiterate what Paul Nathan said and was at this meeting as a plea for San Francisco street-performers to use Union Square. He spoke about cosmopolitan cities of the world having street-performers and over the last four years in San Francisco street-performers have lost two of best street-performing pitches and it would be excellent to have another pitch such as Union Square.
On motion by Commissioner Prozan and duly seconded the Commission adjourned into closed session at 4:55 p.m.
On motion by Commissioner Martin and duly seconded the Commission opened session at 5:28 p.m.
OPEN SESSION
On motion duly made by Commissioner Prozan, seconded and unanimously carried, the following resolution was adopted: RES. NO. 0205-018
RESOLVED, That this Commission finds it in the best interest of the public not to disclose its closed session deliberations.
COMMISSIONER'S MATTERS
Commissioner Bonilla ask that the Commission consider out of recognition for Vincent Callan's life and his commitment to Eureka Valley Park to look at a way to pay tribute to his life. General Manager Goldstein stated that a proposal had come to the Department from the family to name the field in Eureka Valley Park after him and it was discovered that the field was already named after someone else. Dan McKenna was working with the Callan family to determine some alternatives for naming in Eureka Valley Park itself or in the area to acknowledge a memorial for Vince Callan.
ADJOURNMENT
