HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-12-1999 Parks and Recreation CommissionSaratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting
City Hall Administrative Offices
13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga
Monday, April 12, 1999
7:30pm
AGENDA
Organization
A) Roll Call: Alberts, Clabeaux, Friedrich, Ioannou, Olsen, Swan, Whitney
B) Report on Posting of the Agenda:
Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the agenda was properly posted on
April 9, 1999
C) Approval of March 1, 1999 Minutes
II. Administration
A) Peter Gonda's Departure
B) Commission Chairs meeting with City Council - April 27, 1999
C) Revised City Council Calendar
D) Public Participation Sheets
III. Oral & Written Communication
This section is for the public to speak on any item not on the agenda
IV. Old Business
A) Joint Meeting with Council (March 9th) - Debriefing
B) Community Center Improvements - Phase II Assessment Update
C) Playfield Project - Update
V. New Business
A) Cricket League Proposal for Quito Park
VI. Commissioner & Staff Reports
A) Commissioner Reports
B) Trails Subcommittee - Update
C) Play Equipment & Restrooms - Update
D) City Hall Update - Irene Jacobs
E) Recreation Department Status Report - Joan Pisani
VII. Adjournment
Playfields not
wanted at school
I am a resident neighbor of Marshall.
Lane School and, together with my neigh-
bors, I have been working hard to prevent
the installation of permanent sport fields
for the. Quito Little League and soccer
leagues at Marshall Lane School. Marshall
Lane School is located in the middle of sin-
gle family homes. The only access is to
travel to Ravenwood Drive, Marilyn Lane,
Marshall Lane or Sobey Road. There is no
parking space to accommodate the cars
that will obviously need to park. These cars
will be parking along our streets; even on
our property, since the streets are very nar-
row two lane roads: Marilyn Lane is bare-
ly wide enough for two cars to pass. Yes,
our children enjoy skating, bike riding and
even play ball in our streets. There are chil-
dren walking to and from school We are
very concerned for child safety. We are
very concerned that our property will
become less desirable as a result of these
installations. Those homes on Marshall
Lane that back up to the school property
will surely know more drop in property
value, since the planned installation will
be close to the property line.
The letter by Mr. Pierce in the March 24
issue of the SARATOGA NEWS states one of
the top priorities of the Planning Commis-
sion is "toprotect that which makes Sarato-
ga special and of the residents' quality of
life." I worked very hard to achieve incor-
poration and am proud to be a resident of
Saratoga. I do feel very strongly that
Saratoga funds should be used for Sarato-
ga. Marshall Lane School is not a Saratoga
school. The largest number of participants
in the Quito Little League are not residents
of Saratoga. We have been told there are
over 200 players and only about 40 are
Saratoga residents. Of those, only about 18
attend Marshall Lane school.
I think it behooves our elected officials
and appointed city employees to honor
their commitments to Saratoga residents.
ROSEMARY WOODWARD
Ravenwood Drive
J
Park threatens the
sense of community
Nice quiet residential neighborhoods.
Knowing all the families on your street.
Kids riding bikes. Walkers and joggers out
for their morning run. No noisy big busi-
ness here. Just a beautiful suburban/rural
atmosphere. That's what attracted us all
to Saratoga. It's why we pay premium
prices for homes here. We each enjoy our
own neighborhoods.
But unfortunately, mine is threatened
by a park. Three different athletic groups
plan to use the park proposed for the Blue
Hills —Azule site. Well, the city calls it a
park. It's really as many soccer fields as
they could jam onto the land, then they
added a few extras. It's more of an athlet-
ic field than a real.park. With three region-
al soccer groups, Saratoga AYSO, Cuper-
.. Please turn to page 15
14 �AR'ATOGA A 9*§ APRIL 7, •1999
Lti-C�� �l ! �1�,
spe(al
.LETTERS.
Continued from page 14
_ tino AYSO and CYSA as users of this pro-
posed site, hundreds of strangers will be
coming and going all the time nearly every
day. Kids and pedestrians won't be able to
safely travel the streets. The Blue Hills
schoolyard will become a muddy mess for
those kids. Crime will certainly rise. The
quiet residential neighborhood will be
gone forever. This is too great a burden to
place on my neighborhood or any other.
— I don't know that our city really needs
more soccer fields. If groups outside the city
are using our fields, then at the very least a
regional plan must be developed. I person-
ally believe there are more beneficial ways
to use our precious land and limited funds.
But I am absolutely certain that multiple
high -use soccer fields do not belong in any
residential neighborhood. Such fields
belong in a central location, such as the high
school or Central Park, or perhaps even in
another city as a regional facility.
The city should open its eyes to other pos-
sibilities. Our resources should be used to
enhance the quality of life for everyone, not
destroy our neighborhood communities.
KATIE ALEXANDER
Goleta Avenue
APPROVED: December 8, 1998
REVISED: December 16, 1998
REVISED: March 9, 1999
CITY COUNCIL MEETING CALENDAR FOR 1999
1/6 Regular Meeting
1/12 Adjourned Meeting - Cancel
1/20 Regular Meeting
1/26 Adjourned Meeting - Quarterly Program Review, Finance Comm.,
Playfield Study Session
2/3 Regular Meeting
2/9 Adjourned Meeting- Sheriff, Public Safety Comm., Los Gatos -
Saratoga UHSD
2/17 Regular Meeting
2/23 Adjourned Meeting - Cancel
3/3 Regular Meeting
3/9 Adjourned Meeting -Parks and Rec. Comm
3/17 Regular Meeting
3/23 Adjourned Meeting- Saratoga Union School Dist. ? /Planning
Comm. /Heritage Comm. /City Mgr. Evaluation
4/7 Regular Meeting
4/13 Adjourned Meeting- Cancel
4/21 Regular Meeting
4/27 Adjourned Meeting - Quarterly Budget, Program and Project
Review (All Commission Chair meeting)
5/1 Council Retreat
5/5 Regular Meeting
5/11 Adjourned - Meeting -Youth Comm. /Friends of WHH, Hakone,
Chamber, SBDC
5/19 Regular Meeting
5/25 Adjourned Meeting - Cancel
6/2 Regular Meeting
6/8 Adjourned Meeting - Youth Comm. Interviews /Library
Commission /SASCC
6/16 Regular Meeting
6/22 Adjourned Meeting - Cancel
7/7 Regular Meeting
7/13 Adjourned Meeting - Cancel
7/21 Regular Meeting
7/27 Adjourned Meeting - Quarterly Budget, Program and Project
Review /City Attorney Evalution, Finance Comm.
Memo
To: All Commission Liaison /Staff Support
From: Susan A. Ramos, City Clerk�,d�-~
k
CC: Lary Perlin, City Manager
Date: April 1, 1999
Re: ADJOURNED COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 27, 1999
For your information, the all- Commission Chair meeting with Council is scheduled on
April 27, 1999. It may be appropriate to announce this at your next Commission
meeting in order to confirm your Chairperson's attendance or, in the event of his or
her anticipated absence, select a designee. Also, at this meeting the draft FY 99 -00
and 00 -01 budget will be presented to Council for review and your Chairperson or
designee may find this information useful to disseminate to the Commission at a
subsequent meeting.
• Page 1
Al:
(q� 13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE • SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA 95070 • (408) 868 -1200
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Incorporated October 22, 1956
FAX TRANSMITTAL
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
Phone (408) 868 -1200 Fax (408) 868 -1280
Date: f Al— Time.
To: r
Fax No.:
Company:
From:
Department.
Phone No.: (408) 868- 1 ;_6
Total number of page including this cover:
Comments:
COUNCIL MEMBERS,
Evan Baker
Stan Sogoslan
John Mehalley
Jim Shaw
Nick Streit
to d on recycled paper.
Mar 18 16:0.4:19 1999
Date: Wed., 17 Mar 1999 15:26:42 EST
From: JConrdY461@aol.com
To: Saratoga @statenet.com
Subject: Hockey Tournament
Dear Mr.. Wolfe,
My 6 year old son is playing in a hockey tournament in Saratoga
this weekend
on Weibel Ave. Our team paid $500 to enter this tournament. The
children are
6,7& 8 years old'. I just received a letter stating that the city
requires us
to pay a gate fee.
We will be attending games Friday, Saturday and Sunday and we are
expected to
pay $2 /per day $5 for the weekend
Children (over 6) $1 per day,, $2 for the weekend or
Family Pass $10
The letter states this is required by the city. Is this a standard
procedure
you have? This is our 4th tournament in the area and we have NEVER
been
charged to watch our children play. We have many Aunts, Uncles and
Grandparents that attend the games and I'm embarrassed by this
"minimal gate
fee".. If this is true, I think it needs to be noted on the
application so
people know up front. Now that we paid our $500 it is upsetting to,,;
us to find
out about these fees. I am from Clifton Park and we just held our
tournament
in the beginning of May and did not find it necessary to charge
admission. We
had many fundraisers and people were generously participating in
those. I
personally will not participate in fundraising for this tournament
if I have
to pay a gate fee. Please help me to better understand this
Procedure.
Sincerely,
Terry . 11(p-- P
QY
S
l
4PY �1_'e' G�
,P i.
s
Mar 18 16:05:26 1999
Date: Wed, 17 Mar 1999 20:53:58 EST
From: JConroy407 @aol.com
To: saratoga @statenet.com
Subject: hockey tournament
Mayor Wolfe,
I had second thoughts about sending the mail that I sent. I don't
want to stir
up any trouble for the hockey tournament. I will just suggest that
from now on
the "gate fee" is announced at time of application. Thank you for
your time!
Sincerely,
Terry
17 1� f
a ` N ediata tMiU. iR
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meetings��r
between thecit s��k t.> t
t meeting
ACV. on md
the City Council `parks com
` "` mssione� -said they will lore a, a
' mechator to lead small n�gh��` �
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agreements on haw playfi'eld
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" :In the meehn ;set,to
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sione'rs and representatives
4 from the user'groups K Q -into `
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` 3 L u"�r 19 ax1Y'4�
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renovate sport playing fieldst _
onfou� 'rsitesthiou�toiittli'e"city -'
at Marshall Lane Elemeniary�
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- Foothill_Elementary�School '�; .. --
-. and Congress Sprugs Park °� 4t
:" While tl`e Congress Springs,,
and Foothill neigh l5o'rheiods `
�''; have been relaUv ly silent inT71
- the, debate Marshall `Lane
and Blue Hills neighbors hav�
=� z beeriweryoutsp'ked They?ret
most upse t at the potenxial
of increased traffic, parking:'.,;
anc� n 3assles
Apri12, 1999
Dear Resident:
At their February Meetings, the Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the proposal
recommended by the Playfield Task Force to develop and improve playfields at existing school
sites of Marshall Lane School, Blue Hills School /Azule Park, Foothill School and Congress
Springs Park. As a result of these discussions, the Parks and Recreation Commission decided to
convene a "site meeting" for each of the proposed sites in order to discuss the project proposal
in detail with the appropriate parties in addition to addressing other possible alternatives to the
original proposal.
In order to move forward with these discussions in a productive manner, the Commission
would like to center these future discussions around smaller groups of individuals representing
the various neighborhoods, appropriate school districts, appropriate sports user groups, Parks
and Recreation Commission representatives, city staff and a third -party facilitator. These
smaller groups of individuals could then hold discussions that would enable this project to
move forward or if the group finds that it is unable to move forward on one specific proposal,
to then consider other feasible alternatives to increase the number of playfields within the
restrictions of the Park Development Fund.
As a resident of one of these proposed sites, you are being asked to work with your neighbors
and homeowners associations, when appropriate, to select individuals to represent your
neighborhood in these discussions. Various groups and homeowners associations have already
been organized to discuss this issue and you may have been contacted by them already.
At their Joint Meeting with the Parks and Recreation Commission in early March, the City
Council expressed their concern that all residents regardless of their feelings on the issue, have
the opportunity to have their opinions represented at these meetings. Therefore, if you are not
contacted by a neighborhood group in your area or if you do not agree with your
neighborhood group's perspective on this issue, we encourage you to contact City Hall so that
you can either be referred to a representative in your neighborhood that shares your point of
view or, when appropriate, make arrangements for you to attend these meetings.
Once staff has been informed as to who has been selected for the discussions for the various
meetings, dates and times will be agreed upon. We would appreciate hearing from you or your
designated representative as soon as possible. You are encouraged to participate in this process
and to contact City staff if you have any questions related to these proposed meetings. Written
contact would be appreciated but, you are also welcome to call City Hall at (408) 868 -1220;
13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070.
Sincerely,
\ Yobs
I ene M.J
Staff Liaison to the rks and Recreation Commission
*Please disregard this letter if you have already received a copy. There were several residents
who were on our distribution list that did not receive our initial letter. This second letter was
mailed to assure that interested residents were informed.
30 March, 1999
12340 Goleta Ave.
Saratoga, Ca 95070
Katie Alexander
Saratoga Park and Recreation Commission
Ms. Irene Jacobs
13777 Fruitvale Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
Regarding: Speakers for Azule -Blue Hills "Site Meeting" per March 12 Notification Letter
Dear Parks and Recreation Commissioners and Ms. Jacobs:
The Azule Park Neighborhood Association, APNA, conducted a neighborhood meeting on Sunday March
28, 1999. The purpose of our meeting was to identify speakers for the negotiation or debate to be scheduled
by the city regarding the Azule -Blue Hills playfield proposal. I have kept a list of attendees and the meeting
agenda, should you have any questions.
Despite several efforts to understand the guidelines for this debate or negotiation, I was unable to obtain a
clear answer as to the number of speakers we should identify. At the meeting we elected the following
seven speakers:
Jim Schindler, 12302 Goleta Ct.
Eddie Sweeney, 20018 Knollwood Dr.
Bill Estes, 12301 De Sanka Ave
Katie Alexander, 12340 Goleta Ave, 408 - 257 -6692
Hugh Wright, 12243 Goleta Ave
Norbert Fronczak, 12255 Goleta Ave
Tom Soukup, 12340 Goleta Ave
Nick Seroff, 20040 Seagull Way
I would be happy to act as contact person for the APNA speakers for the convenience of the city and have
provided my phone number above.
The format of the negotiation or debate proposed by the city is completely unknown to us. As chairperson
of APNA, I require that the city send to me in writing a description of the format of the debate, and the
names and titles of all other participants. This should be received at least 3 weeks prior to the debate.
In order to have a fair and meaningful debate, we have a few simple requirements. We require that the
facilitator be truly impartial and have no interest in the outcome. Also since the athletic groups have been
intimately involved in the planning details for quite some time, our speakers will require additional
information from the city to ensure there are no surprises. We are preparing a separate list, but it will
include such items as documentation on site selection, as well as a meeting between our speakers and Irene
Jacobs.
Sine
Katie Alexander
Chairperson/Coordinator of APNA
257 -6692
27 March 1999
To: Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Sports Fields PropasAL
Marshall Lane School neighborhood discussion meetings
We, the undersigned, agree with having the following individuals represent our
neighborhood views.
NEIGHBORHOOD REPRESENTATIVES:
Frank Ammiro
18519 Ravenwood Drive
374 -0361
Darwin Barrett
14050 Marilyn Lane
378 -3899
John Bellicitti
18500 Marshall Lane
374 -1742
Lisa Kurasch
18665 Ravenwood Drive
374 -9472
Joanna Sloan
14041 Marilyn Lane
378 -4069
Rosemary Woodward
18620 Ravenwood Drive
379 -4836
Lrandum
To: Heather Bradley
cc: Irene Jacobs
Ed Comell
Teni Barm
James WalgrM
From: Sheila Ioannou & Marianne Swan ✓/� -
Date: March 22, 1999
Re: Cornell Property, Lot 23 Deer Trail Court
This will confirm that the Cornell property trail improvements were inspected by
Sheila Ioannou on March 12, 1999, and Marianne Swan on March 15, and that we
have given our approval for occupancy permits to be issued.
We understand that a bond has been issued to ensure the improvements on the -far
side of the bridge that have not been completed. This portion of the trail needs
additional chips that need to be pressed into place. We request that Mr. Cornell
finish that portion of the work by May 1, 1999.
Memo
To: James Walgren, Director Community Development j�
From: Marianne Swan, Chair of Parks & Recreation Trail Subcommittee �j,�ii,/J
CC: Irene Jacobs
Terri Barron
Barbara Olsen
Date: 04/06/99
Re: Payne Property, Lot 18 Mount Eden Estates
I am writing to you to relate the history on Lot 18 at Mount Eden Estates. I assume that
correspondence before February 1999 you have on file. .Ifnot, I can provide you with copies.- Early
February Mrs. Payne contacted, you about changing the pedestrian and equestrian easement on Lot
18. Reluctantly, we approved the requested changes and understanding that it would take some time
to go through the approval process. On February 22, 1999, the Parks and Recreation Commission
approved a bond, with a stipulation that the trail easement would be implemented within a month of
Council's approval.
When Parks and Rec. had their joint meeting with Council on March 9 this item, in such a hurry again,
had not been before them. On March 19, 1 received a message on my answering machine from you
requesting that I call you regarding the Paynes.
We talked briefly on March 22, and discussed the rumor that the property might be in escrow. We
discussed no bonding around, as, with a new owner situation, we would forfeit almost a year's work of
getting this trail in. The Paynes, as well as the builder had been contacted by you as well as Ms.
Baron, a trail user, in June 1998, regarding the trail obligations.
On March 22, 1 called Mrs. Payne, who was somewhat in denial that this property was in escrow, or for
sale, but then admitted it had had a buyer of f and on since January 1999. 1 told her that with a new
buyer situation, we could not consider a bonding around the oca, ._��r;y permit.
a r. -a ge .1
On March 26, 1999, a Friday night, a Mr. Safai called me as the new owner expecting to move in on
April 7. He tried very hard to persuade me to allow for the bonding around the occupancy permit. I told
him repeatedly that that was not my job and that you would show him the fastest process to get this
through Council. By the way, the drawings and staking had already been done by Westfall
Engineering, in February, and were paid for out of the escrow account.
On March 29, 1999, Mrs. Safai called me but I was running off to a meeting. On March 31, Mr. Safai
met with you regarding his new proposal having a new trail section come along the west side of the
driveway and then following the newly revised Payne's one. I met with Ms. Baron and the Safais on
Thursday, April 1, 1999 and again felt forced to agree to a bonding around. I told them that I was just a
member of an advisory board and that they had to deal with you.
Ms. Baron and I had no problem with the new trail easement proposal, if the excavated soil next to the
driveway was compacted prior to the Geo- technic cloth being laid down and the header boards put in
place and filled with the asphaltic chips. A smooth ramplike connection must be installed between the
trail along side the driveway and the Paynes' last proposed easement
I have some questions though. Why is the utility box (PG &E, telephone, cable) in the City's easement
a s well as irrigation systems?
How come all Westfall's stakes for Plan 1 and proposed Plan 2: were removed :before.my visit on April
1? How is the city going to deal with liability when we do not have an account of where the easement
really lies?
As Mrs. Baron and I were leaving on April 4"', we got snide comments from Mr. Safai stating that if I did
not see to it that he got his bond permission, he would have to go to Plan 1, and build the trail over the
utility box and smack into a tree. Note that the easement is a 15 -foot wide trail. What is the problem?
I drove by Friday, April 2"d, and hiked it the following weekend. There is an obvious an attempt to make
a trail on whatever easement convenient I tried to reach you on Friday and heard you were off then as
well as today.
As it stands, I do not have a problem moving the trail, but it has to be done with the proper approvals
(Parks & Recreation, Planning, and City Council).
• Page 2
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tie '
U'- March 1, 1999
Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070 `
Dear City Council Members and Park and Recreation Commissioners,
I am writing regarding the proposed development of the Blue Hills Elementary School field
and the adjacent Azule Park. My oldest daughter attends Blue Hills and plays AYSO soccer.
Our home is located on Goleta Ave, which runs adjacent to the proposed development site. I
am also a member of the ` Azule Park Neighbor's Association'. I have been doing quite some
research about the proposal and I have information that you should find enlightening to your
decision making process. I realize this is a lengthy letter but this is the first time I've been
heard in this process for the overall project. And it is unclear to me if and how a meaningful
`give and take' discussion will occur with the athletic groups over this matter.
In this letter I have outlined good reasons that the proposed special use park should not go
into a neighborhood such as the Blue Hills - Azule site. There are clear advantages to selecting
Central Park/Heritage Orchard over nearly any other site in the city for such a park. But I
believe that we do not need expensive brand new fields in the first place. I honestly feel the
wisest course of action is to reconsider the priorities for spending the Park and Recreation
money in view of the changes in city finances since 1996.
Financial Cost of Maintenance
I think we can all agree that whatever is built at this site should nicely maintained over the
long term of 15 -25 years. Certainly, there is no point for the City to spend over a million
dollars on this development if it will go to seed a few years after completion. I understand
that the City of Saratoga has funds for building parks but not maintaining them. So I spoke to
Chuck Corr, Director of Facility Modernization at CUSD, on February 9. During that phone
conversation, Mr. Corr stated that there is no plan currently for maintenance of the proposed
school -park development. He also told me that there is no negotiation in progress. He would
very much like to have this discussed. He said that CUSD would do it for a fee and it makes
sense to have one crew do the entire site rather than two separate crews. Chuck Corr also
explained to me that in other cities where CUSD has done co- development, the cities usually
pick up the cost of maintenance of the school -park development in return for the after hours
use. Mr. Corr also assured me that CUSD does not intend to divert additional money from
education towards field maintenance. Based on this conversation, I would have to say that
there is no current agreement –or even an agreement in principle — regarding the increased
cost of maintenance.
How much will the increase in cost be? No one has conducted a cost estimate for this. I spoke
to Dave Mooney, lead worker of the Saratoga Department of Public Works, regarding the
cost of various types of parks in Saratoga. He explained to me that Park Consultant Jay
Beals' estimate of $5,500 /acre -year for a soccer field only included the basic turf
maintenance. The actual average cost of a park maintenance runs $11,000 /acre -year. This
higher value includes other costs, such as maintenance of bathrooms, fences, equipment
repair and so forth. He also estimated that the cost of maintaining Azule in it's current 'dead,
orchard' state cost roughly $3,000 to $4,000 /acre -year under the same comparison. Please
understand that these are quick rough estimates by city staff for comparison purposes, not
exact calculations. CUSD did not have any rough figures that they could provide, but it
certainly could not be as much as a competitive soccer field. I would also remind you that in
Jay Beals' presentation to City Council, he stated that due to the high use and active teen
soccer players who would be using this site, the maintenance costs would be higher that the
$5,500 /acre -year basic estimate. No matter how you calculate it the actual cost of
maintenance will rise considerably. With roughly 8 acres at the school -park site, I would .
estimate that the total increase would run between $40,000 460,000 annually.
There has been mention of AYSO paying this cost increase. But they are not realistically
capable of paying this increase. First, AYSO has already disputed paying the 1998 increase in
fees for their fair share of Congress Springs Park. In their October newsletter "The Kicker"
(attached from saratoga - ayso.org website) they say that they are willing to pay only "a
reasonable increase ", but not the true total cost for Congress Springs. The increase in cost for
the proposed new development will be much more than that. Even at my low estimate of
$40,000 annually, the fee increase would be excessive for the 1,100 AYSO participants. And
I can find no written documentation that AYSO will pay this increase. The bottom line is that
AYSO doesn't have this kind of money to support maintenance. And even if they could raise
it for a year or two, it is doubtful that they could raise it consistently for the long term.
Certainly the school -park site will be in the neighborhood for years to come and as a
neighbor I have a reasonable expectation that it be well kept. I am doubtful that any private
group could assure maintenance financing over the long term.
Based on this information alone, I can not understand why the city is pursuing this further.
Without a practical maintenance plan this proposal is useless. I see no way to cover the
increase in maintenance costs from current sources. A long term written cost sharing
agreement for maintenance must be a requirement for any development at this site.
Therefore, I request that the current proposal for Blue Hills -Azule development be dropped
for this problem alone.
Traffic Math
I realize that an official traffic study will not be conducted until a plan is approved. I'd like to
point out the basic flaw of this proposal. Soccer teams have 14 players, plus coaches, plus
team representatives. A game requires 2 teams plus referees. In addition a concession stand
would need to be staffed by volunteers. Let's assume the best case, that older players will
have some carpooling and no drop off /pick up type of traffic. This would be on the order of
30 cars per game per field. Games last about an hour, so we are talking about 60 trips to or
from this site per hour per field. This site is proposed to have 3 fields, so now we are up to
180 trips per hour above our regular traffic. The site is accessible from main roads in 3
primary locations: Seagull Way and Cox Ave., Seagull Way and Sunnyvale - Saratoga Road,
and Prospect Road and Covina Ct. via Kirkbrook Ave. All three routes are on narrower curvy
residential streets which were not build for such dense traffic. In addition, nearly all traffic
would pass through the intersection of Seagull Way and De Sanka Ave. It is not possible to
`pump' so many cars through these streets, clearly creating a gridlock situation for the area.
Accessibility by residents and safety vehicles would be severely restricted, creating an unsafe
situation. Remember this is the best case scenario with carpooling. Often times, parents will
drop off and pick up the older soccer players, thereby doubling the number vehicles from my
estimate.
1
Z
M
In Fall soccer, with which I am most familiar, games are played every Saturday from 8 am to
5pm. Fall soccer goes from Labor Day to just before Thanksgiving. In addition Tournaments
are played twice during the Fall soccer season with shorter game times so that all teams can
play, and thus increasing the traffic density. Tournament Weekends are from 8 am to 5pm on
Saturday and Sunday. Clearly the traffic would be unmanageable for Saturdays and those
Tournament weekends. The residents require reasonable accessibility to our homes. There
would be many days that our homes would be difficult if not impossible to reach. This is not
just a once -a -year type of problem. Since soccer is a 12 month a year sport in California,
traffic will be elevated all year round. I would have to say that this site it is just not suitable
for 3 high use competitive soccer fields due to the limited accessibility. Continuing to work
on this proposal is a waste, since it will likely fail a traffic study.
I also have a particular concern with pedestrian safety in this situation. Many elementary
school children use the Blue Hills field after hours and on weekends. Now we'll have a high
level of traffic on neighborhood streets. My street, Goleta Ave, will be a primary direct
access street to the fields. It has blind curves at both ends of the street and no sidewalks at
either of those curved ends. Now we add teen drivers that will be excited about the game.
This is a recipe for disaster! My children will not be able to cross the street or bike in our
neighborhood safely. This school -park development proposal presents a real safety problem
for all the children at Blue Hills school.
Central Park/Heritage Orchard - A Realistic Alternative
I would very much like to have Azule park developed as a park, but high use athletic park is
just not suitable for this location. If the city wishes to spend this Park and Recreation money
on a special purpose park for high -use competitive athletic fields, then such a park should not
go into a neighborhood location. Traffic accessibility and cost containment are key
considerations, as well as enhancing the surrounding community.
For this purpose I would suggest that a small part of Heritage Orchard/Central Park be used.
Heritage Orchard/Central Park has excellent accessibility from nearby Cox and Fruitvale. It
is located near 3 schools and the teen center, so an athletic park development there could be
well utilized by the children. It would provide an opportunity for a garden or walking path for
the Senior Center and others visiting the city center. This is logistically a good choice.
Cost for this site could be reduced in several ways. By using existing restrooms at the Park
and Recreation Center for the athletes, and the existing parking lots for City Administration
building initial construction costs could be reduced. Also during my conversation with Dave
Mooney regarding maintenance costs of various city parks, he explained to me that Heritage
Orchard was the most expensive park for the city to maintain on a per acre basis because it is
an active orchard, requiring watering, pruning, disease control, tree replacement, etc. The
total maintenance costs to the city would actually drop by replacing a small amount of high
maintenance orchard with lower maintenance athletic fields. There would be no need to form
2 or 3 party maintenance agreements, that might be difficult to enforce over the long run.
Also Heritage Orchard is the largest park in the city, so using a small amount of it would not
be a hardship This seems like the smart financially responsible choice.
But what about Heritage Orchard? I feel that Heritage Orchard could actually be improved by
this plan. Heritage Orchard is pretty to look at from the street, but it is not used much even
though it is our largest park. The term heritage implies not only some respect for our past, but
passing it on to future citizens. This would be an ideal opportunity to make this park more
meaningful for everyone. The youth of Saratoga could learn of our historic past with perhaps
3
bp
a footpath through the orchard with historic placards or a docent program to make the
orchards' past come to life. If the backers of Heritage Orchard are sincere in preserving it for
the future, they need to encourage some active use of it. Ideas such as these could make
Heritage Orchard useful and meaningful to everyone --so it would be more than just some
pretty trees.
Using a small part of Heritage Orchard/Central Park for athletic fields makes sense
logistically and financially. It would increase the usage of our largest park. It could make the
Heritage Orchard more meaningful to all citizens. Since it is at the city center, there would be
little added impact to neighbors. Any zoning limitation that may exist could be changed. This
is without doubt the best location in the city for a high use athletic field.
How did we get here?
The current Blue Hills -Azule proposal is unworkable due to lack of maintenance funds and
the gridlock/traffic safety situation. I have tried to take a step back to find better solutions for
all involved. But let's understand how we arrived here in the first place. My understanding is
that there was a public meeting or all day workshop was held in 1995 to decide how to spend
the Park and Recreation funds. I have not been able to find any written record of minutes of
this meetings only verbal accounts and summaries. I understand that athletic groups were
specifically notified of this meeting, but the public only received notice from the newspaper.
I have been told by two attendees that AYSO members dominated the attendance. My
understanding is that several ideas were suggested at these meetings. After much discussion,
the attendees agreed that new playfields were important. But there was still much
disagreement, even at that early stage of discussion, as to where new athletic playfields could
be built within the city. They were asked to suspend that practical and realistic question and
to focus only what could be done in an ideal situation. Since this meeting was dominated by
AYSO attendance it is no surprise that playfields became the top priority. However, this
conclusion expressed the DESIRE by attendees for additional playfields, but not a clearly
analyzed NEED for playfields for all citizens.
In this method, there was no dose of reality added to the goal setting. The real problem of
locating these playfields in the city was ignored. The real possibility of improving and then
better utilizing the 24 public and private current playfields was ignored. Since only 15% of
Saratoga children participate in AYSO soccer, the fact this benefited only the minority of
children and no adults was ignored. Also remember this was conducted before the Utility Tax
cut, so there was no discussion of the current financial limitation on the city, which severely
limit the maintenance funds. Additionally, even though the AYSO region exceeds the bounds
of Saratoga city limits, there was no investigation of using soccer fields from the nearby
participating cities of Los Gatos, Campbell or Cupertino.
Apparently back in 1996 the decision was "we have the money let's spend it" for expensive
brand new fields without considering any other cost effective alternatives. After the Utility
tax cut, the city's financial picture changed. But I understand that the Park Development Task
Force proceeded to plan for the maximum number of new fields and to then explore shared
costs with school districts and athletic groups. I might add that the Park Development Task
Force included 3 persons from local AYSO leadership. Moreover, neighbors to the proposed
development sites, who volunteered to participate in the task force, were purposely rejected
from consideration. This was certainly not a fair and reasonable representation of the
community. It is no wonder that such controversy has erupted over these proposals. This lead
us to this point, where areas that are clearly unsuitable for high volume athletic fields are
q
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being considered even without proper financial backing, and the resulting neighborhood
opposition is incredibly high.
I am convinced that the city does not need new soccer fields. 24 soccer fields is a lot for one
city. With field renovation and shared use agreements, these current fields could be better
utilized satisfying the children's needs. AYSO has stated that they tum children away
because they do not have enough fields. This is not true. Two AYSO coaches have told me
they are limited by lack of coaching staff. If AYSO leadership feels that they need more
fields, they could arrange for use of private fields at West Valley College, or local private
schools. No true requirement for new soccer playfields has been established.
Saratoga's financial situation has changed dramatically since the original 1996 list of
priorities was approved by City Council. The method the city had of arriving at playfields as
a top priority has significant faults. There was never a fair and reasonable representation of
the citizens in general, when one group dominates and another is excluded. There has not
been an established need for new playfields, just a desire that it would be good. Reasonable,
cost effective alternatives for increasing current playfields availability were not pursued.
And what about the 80 -85% of kids and 100% of adults, that are not in AYSO soccer? Under
this priority for playfields they receive no benefit at all for their tax money. Times have
changed since 1996, and a well intentioned process to set priorities went awry. Therefore, I
request that the City Council review and reset the priorities for this money. Clearly what has
occurred up to this point does not represent the wise use of limited city money and land to
benefit the majority of citizens. Let's put some sense back into the process.
Sincerely,
ea,-� M44�c��
Katie Alexander
12340 Goleta Ave
Saratoga, CA
9-
Page I of 5
The Kicker
October 1998
soccer season starts with a bang!
Notes From the Commissioner
FIELDS Mark Linsky and I are members of the City of Saratoga Development Task Force. The purpose of the Task
Force is to decide and submit to the City Council a recommendation on Saratoga park improvements.
The current recommendation, priority one, would involve building a new soccer field at Blue Hills School and Azule
Park. This would include parking, snack shack, rest rooms and storage facilities. Stay tuned for more information...
We still have the task of negotiating AYSO's new fees for the fields. Based on comments made, I expect we will again
have to go before the City Council to reach a fair and reasonable fee to use the fields for AYSO soccer. Please let me
know if you are willing to come and show your support when we go to the council meetings.
AYSO'S COST AYSO is not opposed to assisting in the cost of maintaining the fields and we are even looking into
taking over this responsibility. We are opposed to the very large increase that the City previously proposed, a per player
fee and the City including a percentage of the City's indirect cost.
Saratoga AYSO wants, and our children deserve, good, safe fields to play on. This is our goal and we are willing to pay
a reasonable fee in order to achieve it.
CONGRESS SPRINGS PARK I am pleased to report that the City has been working on CSP. Many of the sprinklers
have been replaced with a new and better type. This should help to dry up the wet spots and put green back in the dry
spots. CSP will be a safer and more pleasant field to play soccer on.
It is all of our responsibility to help. PLEASE, PLEASE, keep our soccer park clean! 1. Put all trash in the cans
provided. 2. Keep your pet on a leash and clean up after it. 3. If the trash can is full, go to the next one. 4. Turn all lost
articles in at the Snack Shack.
PLEASE REMEMBER THERE IS NO SMOKING OR DRINKING OF ALCOHOL ALLOWED AT CONGRESS
SPRINGS PARK AND THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS. YOU WILL BE ASKED TO STOP OR LEAVE THE
FIELD!
OPENING WEEKEND TOURNAMENT
Thanks to all the dedicated volunteers, our tournament was a great success. Players and their families had a great time.
Saratoga AYSO's soccer seasons are successful because of all the volunteers who donate their time and energy to the
program. It is unfortunate that there are a few who fail to perform their promised obligations. Others have had to step in
and fulfill the responsibilities of those who are negligent in addition to their own volunteer obligations. This is very
unfair to all those hard workers who pick up the slack. I am requesting that all managers notify me if they have a
volunteer who does not perform their promised obligations. These people will have their job classification changed to
"sponsor" and they will be asked to fulfill the sponsor obligations.
REFEREE CENTRAL You may have noticed a new feature at CSP during the opening tournament. We have provided
Page 2 of 5
a place for the referees to gather and discuss the rules or a particular call they made, store items, have water, rest and
cool off. This is Referee Central and it is reserved for the referees. It is located next to the infield of the diamond next to
the Snack Shack. Please do not use
this dugout to go on or off the field.
Should you have a question regarding the Hiles, please feel free to stop by and ask. Also, take the opportunity to thank
them for donating their time to the referee program.
DRAWING On behalf of the AYSO family, I wish to thank Mary Gardner, Superintendent of Saratoga Schools for
coming to Congress Springs on Sunday and drawing the winning tickets, The winners are:
1. Idres Kothari Soccer Ball signed by the 1997 Clash Team 2. Tom Copenhagen Soccer Ball signed by the 1997 Clash
Team 3. Steve Newberry Signed 1998 Clash Poster 4. Kathleen Pollard Clash Tickets 5. Richard Palmer Clash Tickets
6. Randall Seago Signed Clash shirt 7. Rob Selvi $20.00 Togo's gift certificate 8. Frank Nadcizod $20.00 Togo's gift
certificate
I look forward to a wonderful 1998 season. Thank you for all your support of AYSO soccer.
Sincerely,
Lam Fine Commissioner Saratoga AYSO
SNACK SHACK SCENE
Come and get your fresh, hot coffee from the AYSO Snack Shack as early as 7:30 a.m. It's tasty, hot and eye- opening. Only $.50 per
cup! We also have fresh donuts from Maple Leaf donuts on Saratoga Avenue. Sweet, soft and wonderful! Go ahead ... take a break
from the morning bagel and splurge on a donut!
New to the Snack Shack this year is ALL SPORT, the body quencher, caffeine free sports drink from Pepsi -Cola. We sell it by the cup—only
$.25. We still have Country Time Lemonade, too, at a bargain price of $.25 per 8 oz. cup. Both All Sport and Country Time have donated
these beverages to your Snack Shack. Please purchase their products from the Snack Shack as well as from the grocery store. Let's
show them how much we appreciate their donations!
Also NEW, to save you time during your busy week ... The Snack Shack is now selling oranges every week ... $.25 per orange. We'll even
cut them up for you! Thanks to Royal Produce Company of San Jose hand a parent who owns it) for help in setting up this service.
The Snack Shack is a place to get refreshments AND also a major source of funds that go straight back into the AYSO local league.
These funds help AYSO keep your registration fees down, put on clinics,. pay for league purchases, etc. Support your Snack Shack
please!. And say a kind word to all the parents who help our kids decide which flavor Skittles or otter pops they really want. We do our
best to provide your children with special treats, an early breakfast, a lunchtime offering or a late afternoon pick- me -up. Snack Shack
hours: Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
MLS SOCCER CAMP
MLS Soccer Camp was very popular with Saratoga AYSO players once again this summer. Fifty five players attended
the first session and seventy three attended the second session. We had players from age S to 13 coached by
professional players from England. Coaches are invited to spend the weekdays with an AYSO family. This can be a
wonderful inter- cultural exchange forAYSO players, their family, and the coach. Ifyou are interested in hosting a
coach next year, please be sure to let us know, when you register next year.
Page 3 of 5 ' '
SARATOGA AYSO WEBS1TE
What's new on the Saratoga AYSO Website? (bttp: / /www.saratoga- ayso.Org)
1) Have you moved recently? Fill out a change of address form on -line to make sure that AYSO mailings are getting
mailed to your correct address.
2) Lost your schedule? Lookup the game schedule of all games Cas well as maps of playing fields). The following
week, check out the game results also posted on the Web.
5) Questions about AYSO? Read the policy handbook on -line to have your questions answered. Also included are a
list of key contacts' names and phone numbers.
4) What else is new? Read the latest Kicker on -line and special soccer promotions for AYSO kids and families on the
Website.
Attention Division 7 coaches:
There are absolutely no practices allowed formally or informally, ( i.e. come on over to my house and we
will play some soccer games) except 1/2 hour before game time. This is a Saratoga AYSO policy and will
be strictly enforced. Any violations of this policy will result in possible suspension of all coaching privileges
and also spousal coaching privileges. Division 7 is a true introduction to soccer for the younger kids and
will remain that way. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Larry Fine or Mark Chapman,
Regional Coach Administrator
PRE - SEASON TOURNAMENT STANDINGS
The pre - season tournament ran very smoothly, with coaches and teams ready to play on a
very tight schedule. Teams in all divisions look very well- balanced. The referees especially
must be commended for stamina in the heat
Congratulations to the following teams as top finishers of the pre - season tournament-
Division 4 boys: First -- Blazers
Second -- Strikers
Division 4 girls: First - -Tidal Waves
Second -- Sharks
Division 5 boys: First -- Screaming Eagles
Second -- Rockets
Third - -Flash
Division 5 girls: First -- Sharks
Date: Tue, 2 Mar 99 18:38:42 -0800
From: rokes <sprokes @earthlink.net>
To: Mayor Shaw & City Council <Saratoga @statenet.com>
Subject: Azule Park Development
[The following text is in the "iso- 8859 -1" character set]
[Your display is set for the "US- ASCII" character set]
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Dear Mayor Shaw,
We are residents of the Greenbrier Development which is in
the neighorhood of Blue Hills School. We are very concerned about
the development of the Azule Park. Our feelings are that it
should not be used for a soccer field because of the disruption
that would bring to our neighborhood. The traffic along Sea Gull
Way is already too heavy and dangerous; this development would
naturally make it even more so.
It had always been our understanding that the Azule Park
was to be a community park for everyone, not for just one segment
of the population.
The highway 85 has been a great deturrent to our area,
please dont.allow another disaster by supporting the soccer field
plan.
Sincerely,
Stanley and Phyllis Rokes
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MAR -09 -1999 18:27 ZILOG HOME ENTRTMNT & I.S
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Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Saratoga City Council members,
408 558 8510 P.01
March 7, 1999 -
I just to like to express my strong opposition to the plan to put in three full -size soccer fields in
the Blue Hills Elementary School.
I am outraged at the fact that the Park and Recreation Commission has totally ignored the
neighbors' concerns and objections and is moving ahead with their recommendation.
I personally don't see the need of more soccer fields. When I drive by the schools (Miller,
Kennedy, Prospect High, just to name a few) in the area on weekends, the grass fields are hardly
ever used. Why can't the soccer folks try to make arrangements to use those fields?
In previous public hearings, I have heard a lot of talk about how soccer will keep the children out
of trouble, off the street and off the drugs, etc. I think that's ludicrous. I have two teenage
children at home who are not involved with soccer but they are perfectly fine, well- behaved and
excellent students in school. Soccer is not the only answer in keeping children out of trouble.
What the neighborhood needs is a neighborhood park, not big soccer fields that would inevitably
attract so much traffic on weekends that would totally destroy the tranquility that attract me to the
Greenbrier tract, not to mention the negative impact it will undoubtedly have on the property
value in the surrounding area.
I urge you not approve the current plan because it is simply not good for the neighborhood.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely yours,
��Z?v Y4_r_��
Ken Chan
12286 Goleta Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
408 - 257 -3186 (I)
408 - 558 -8345 (W)
TOTAL P.01
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3 -9 -99
1,
Saratoga City Council
Saratoga Parks and Recreation
FROM: Ellen Marshall P.O. Box 3191, Saratoga, CA 95070
RE: Playground
I attended Marshall Lane Elementary School. The playgrounds there consist of a lower
playground which is usually soggy and muddy and an upper playground which is where
the users want to place the proposed sportsfields. By doing this users would be depriving
the student body as well as the general public of a dry playground.
Surely our first duty is to the students and not to a special interest group.
This, in addition to the existing traffic problems from an increasing number of students,
shows that Marshall Lane School-should be removed from the list of locations for
sportsfields.
GHTA
Pn25icJent Sally Johnson
18 March, 1999
C. _ c�
Saratoga City Council
Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission
13777 Fruitvale Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Saratoga City Council Members and Parks and Recreation Commissioners:
It has come to our attention that a great deal of confusion exists regarding the
representation of our neighborhood over the Azule -Blue Hills development for soccer
fields. We'd like to clarify that the Greenbriar Homeowners and Taxpayers Association
(GHTA) and the Azule Park Neighborhood Association (APNA) each represent the
neighborhood and are in agreement in our adamant objection to this project. Basically,
our organizations want the Blue Hills field usage maintained at the current level of
weekday practices. We do not want to further impact the traffic in the area by having
organized sports, which would jeopardize the safety of the children we wish to protect.
Both GHTA and APNA are in 100% agreement on these issues.
Sincerely,
Sally Johnson,
President, Greenbriar Homeowners and Taxpayers Association
Z
Katie Alexander,
Coordinator, Azule Park Neighborhood Association
GRIE NBRI R
GREENBRIER HOMEOWNERS AND TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
PRESIDENT. Sally Johnson Established 1973 - Saratoga, California
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NCH NEWSLETTER 1999
APRIL TRASH BINS AZULE PARK SOCCER UPDATE
GHTA will be providing Trash Bins for the members
only, on APRIL 16TH, 17TH and 18TH. The bins
will be located on ORELLA COURT in front of the
Dohner residence and on YUBA COURT in front of
the Hendrik residence. This is a chance to clean out
the garage or the utility yard of all the things that have
accumulated during the winter. The Trash Bins are
part of what your yearly dues provide for all members.
Please see the last page of this newsletter for rules
governing the use of the trash bins.
Remember ............ APRIL 16th, 17th and 18th.
YUBA COURT . .........................ORELLA COURT
SPRING SOCIAL TIME
APRIL 11th is the date chosen to have the annual
Spring Social for GHTA members. Margie and Dan
Sisley, 19836 Veronica Drive, have graciously
offered their home for the occasion. This is a
wonderful opportunity to get together with neighbors
to renew acquaintances and to welcome newcomers to
our neighborhood. Our GHTA Executive Board
members make delicious hors d' oeuvres to enjoy with
a variety of wine and soft drinks. The social is $5.00
per person and will be from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. on
Sunday, April 11, 1999. We urge all members to join
the fun, it's a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon
in Spring. Just fill out the reservation slip at the end of
the newsletter and send your check to Phyllis Rokes,
20024 Puente Court, Saratoga, CA 95070. Of course,
Of course, you may pay at the door also.
By now you have probably heard about the plans to
have a soccer playing field at Azule Park. Last week-
end the Azule Park Neighbor's Association left a
newsletter at everyone's residence. GHTA supports
this group of homeowners concerned about the
proposed development, of Azule park and Blue Hills
School yard into three high use soccer fields. This
raises many issues, centering on traffic gridlock
problems, children's pedestrian safety issues and
ensuring any development is nicely maintained over a
long period of time. They would like to have Azule
park developed in a way that fits our neighborhood's
needs as well as the city's needs. So far with a some
work, they have gotten the attention of city
government to get things changed. The Park and
Recreation Commission will be meeting with APNA's
homeowners and the Athletic groups in April to try to
resolve their differences and arrive at an even better
plan. They are sending their newsletters to
communicate basic information to our neighbors and
meeting regularly in homes to share information and
strategies. If you're interested in joining them, want
their newsletter, or just want more information, please
call someone from their contact list. This is something
that will affect our neighborhood quite a lot, whether
it be the traffic, the noise or the welfare of the rest of
the children in this area.
(continued on neat page)
Call or e-mail the following contact people.:
Jim Kastleman ..... 725 - 0798..... djkastleman@webtv.net
Nick Scroll.. 252- 9747..... nick.scroff@worldnet.att.net
Eddie Sweeney ... 253 - 4373... workaholic@hotmail.com
Jacqueline Wescoat ..... 257-4023
Hugh Wright..... 343- 1365....hugh.wright @prodigy.net
STOP SIGN SAGA
(submitted by Al Roten)
There have been several traffic accidents on Sea Gull
Way at Veronica Drive and Yuba Court. Last June,
GHTA wrote to the City of Saratoga requesting Stop
Signs on Veronica Drive and Yuba Court as they
intersect Sea Gull Way. Due to change of staff in the
City Manager's office and some bureaucratic
bumbling, this has taken much longer than expected.
Latest report is that a Traffic Analyst Consultant hired
by the City has surveyed the situation and has
recommended "YIELD" signs for this intersection. It
is now up to the Public Works Department to get the
signs installed. We hope that drivers will take heed of
these signs and make this a more safe intersection The
Franklins, who live at the corner of Sea Gull Way and
Yuba Court have been most cooperative with, pruning
cLt k��
SPRING SOCIAL RESERVATIONS
of plantings to open the view for drivers. Even with
Yield signs and free visual access, we must exercise
caution upon entering Sea Gull Way from intersecting
streets. The best policy is to come to a complete stop,
look both ways and proceed with caution. Drive
Defensively and Safely!
COX AVENUE FACELIFT
The Cox Avenue entrance could use a little sprucing
up. Although executive board members keep flowers
planted every season, the rest of the entrance looks
a bit dated. Phyllis Rokes and Carol Luetz have
volunteered to take on the task of finding a landscape
architect to design an appealing vista for the
Greenbrier entrance. The neighborhood is over 25
years old and so is the landscaping, many areas need
to be updated. Let's all do our share to keep our
yards and homes looking their best. Thanks to'all of
you who are painting, planting and pruning and
making our area a more beautiful place to live. When
the neighborhood looks good it helps to maintain all of
our property values.
HAVE A HAPPY SPRING!
Please send your reservation for the Social to Phyllis Rokes, 20024 Puente Court, Saratoga, CA.
95070. If you have not paid your 1999 membership dues, please send them also.
Social .... $5.00 per person
Membership ....... $20.00 per household
persons are coming to the Social on April 11th, at Margie and Dan Sisley's home from 2:00
to 5 :00 P.M.
NAME
ADDRESS
GREEN VALLEY GARBAGE BIN INSTRUCTIONS
For the most efficient utilization of our bin space, PLEASE follow these -
guidelines;
1. Always check first to see if the bin door can be opened.
2. Load items as far back as possible.
3. Load bigger items efficiently to conserve space.
4. Recycle/Flatten/Trim every thing you can, cut large branches into small
lengths. Flatten boxes.
5. Be respectful of the area around the bins by cleaning up anything that you
have dropped.
6. No rocks, dirt, concrete, tires, refrigerators, freezers or air conditioners are
allowed in this type of bin.
FALL CLEANUP - Additional sources for getting rid of unwanted, usable items:
HOME PICK -UP USABLE DONATIONS:
Cancer Federation- 287 -3088
Hope Rehabilitation- 748 -2850
United Cerebral Palsy- 279 -3013
St. Vincent de Paul- 993 -9500
Salvation Army Truck- 298 -7600
DROP OFF LOCATIONS FOR USABLE DONATIONS
Goodwill Truck - Argonaut Shopping Center
Salvation Army Thrift Store - San Tomas Aquino Rd. at Campbell Ave.
Sacred Heart Church 13724 Saratoga Ave.
St. Andrew's Church - 13601 Saratoga Ave.
20154 Knollwood Dr.
Saratoga, CA 95070
March 22, 1999
Jim Shaw
Mayor
Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Mr. Shaw:
As a long- time resident in the Blue Hills neighborhood, I want to say that I am
strongly opposed to developing the AzuleBlue Hills parks into a multi -field soccer
complex.
I am glad that we residents, who will be the most impacted by any development
of these fields, can finally voice our opinions. I have been to one meeting in the past
3 years with neighbors discussing this topic with one City representative present.
My clear impression was that while most of the residents were opposed to having a
multi -field soccer complex, we were not allowed other choices. Is it fair, to say the
least, that people who don't live in the neighborhood, including the Cupertino School
District, should decide the future of these neighborhood fields?
We all know what Freeway 85 and other recent commercial developments have done
to damage the quality of life of Saratoga. We don't need more of the same.
I respectfully urge the City Council to consider developing these fields into a
community park instead of a sports complex, to minimize traffic and noise.
Sincerely
W. P Chao and Family
Date: Mon, 22 Mar 1999 15:58:50 -0800
From: "Hughes, Leila" <leila.hughes @compaq.com>
To: "'saratoga @statenet.com", <saratoga @statenet.com>
Cc: "'fielden2 @aol.com "' <fielden2 @aol.com>
Subject: Blue Hills neighborhood/ Azule Park and a soccer /athletic
park ex pansion - NO WAY
The traffic in the Blue Hills neighborhood has been getting
increasingly
worse...... this deteriorates the quality of life and increases the
liklihood of traffic accidents.
This is especially so at school drop off and pick up time. There
are far
too many children brought individually by car INTO the neighborhood
to go to
Blue Hills Elementary. A good many of these drivers do not drive
with the
awareness that there is anyone else on the road, nor practice road
courtesy,
nor in some cases demonstrate they know the rules of the road.
Also you have placed a new crosswalk on one of the roads between
Prospect
and Blue Hills, which may only provide a false sense of security
for those
who use it.
Rather you should have police at and near the school to improve the
traffic
flow, and adherence to the rules of the road, and TICKET those
immediately
who park illegally (and double park), etc., so no one else can
drive by the
school.
Now we are hearing that allegedly due in part to the Utility Tax
being voted
out..... duh, and a need to minimize costs..... there is a plan to
exploit
Azule Park and Blue Hills' fields for athletic, soccer and sports
activities ...... THIS MEANS MORE TRAFFIC.
WE DO NOT NEED THESE AREAS TO BE FURTHER EXPANDED. KEEP THEM AND
MAINTAIN
THEM AS THEY ARE , TODAY - PLAYING FIELD AND COMMUNITY
PARK..... enhance them
in this context only. THE NEIGHBORHOOD IS BUSY ENOUGH AND ANY
CHANGES
SHOULD BENEFIT ALL NOT SELECT ATHLETIC GROUPS.
Leila Hughes
Saratoga Blue Hills area resident
20693 Trinity Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
March 23, 1999
Irene M. Jacobs
Staff Liaison to the Parks and Recreation Commission
City of Saratoga
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
Re: Your letter, dated March 12, 1999
Dear Ms. Jacobs,
The Playfield Task Force of the Parks and Recreation Commission has gotten the proverbial
'cart before the horse' with its recommendation to renovate the playfields at Foothill School.
I and all of the undersigned are residents of the south side of Foothill School, living on Trinity
and Lacey Avenues. The traffic and parking nightmare that has been escalating on our
streets over the last few years must be addressed and mitigated before any consideration of
improving the fields can be supported.
As everyone is aware, there are no sidewalks in this area. The children must use the street or
must trespass on our properties, leaving trash behind, when their parents bring them to and
pick them up from school. This, of course, is not safe nor considerate. The parking at these
times is short lived, but the use of the fields by Parks and Rec presents an even greater
problem for residents.
Now that the spring has arrived the use of the fields has significantly increased. On Saturday,
the traditional day for yard work, cars are parked all along both streets from 7:45 a.m. to
dark. The cars come and go although some are parked all day and they even park in front
of our mailboxes! Monday through Friday the parking nightmare begins at 4:00 p.m. until
dark. Foothill School has a parking lot on the north side of the school which would
accommodate about 18 cars, but remains empty. Parking along the north side of Foothill
Park is also underutilized.
Besides the parking issue, the improvement plan for the field proposes restroom and snack
facilities. Restrooms should not be needed; the school has those. The games that are played
there only last a short while anyhow. Increased snack bar fare would produce additional
trash to be deposited on our properties.
Kindly pass a copy of this letter to each member of the Saratoga City Council and to the
members of the Recreation Commission. We will be happy to attend a meeting at Foothill
School regarding these issues.
2Q�y9
Very truly yours,
jd
Ellen S. Dwyer
3
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Date: Tue, 23 Mar 1999 18:45:53 EST
From: Tvanslow @aol.com
To: Saratoga @statenet.com
Subject: Blue Hills School and Azule Park
In shorthand: Resident at Seagull Court. Blankety blank freeway
behind.
Enough noise and air polution in neighborhood. ENOUGH!!! !!!
Neighborhood park for people who live here. DO NOT NEED MORE
TRAFFIC AND
POLLUTION in this area. Take it to your street. We have enough.
Would rather have dirt field than more cars and noise to deal with.
Christina Vanslow and family
1 Lido Way
25 March 1999
Park and Recreation Department
City of Saratoga
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
To whom it may concern;
I live in the Greenbriar subdivision off Seagull Way in Saratoga. I was given a copy of the
current city plan for Azule Park.. I have a strong objection to the current plan because, (1)
it ignores multiple uses for the adjacent city residents, (2) the current plan will inundate the
local streets with more traffic than they can safely handle, and (3) the noise level created by
the Soccer fields will carry over to the nearby residential area.
I am writing this letter separately from the Greenbriar Homeowners Asscociation because I
have a separate "axe to grind ", i. e., the play area as currently designed is too small, and no
provision was made for Tennis Courts.
I have enclosed a copy of a modified drawing for the site. As you can see I have allowed
for two soccer fields and added two lighted tennis courts. The tennis courts can be lit on a
on an as needed basis similar.to Murdoch park in San Jose off Johnson Avenue.
The special interest group vying for three soccer fields has only one objective in mind -
Soccer. How about the rest of the residents in Saratoga - not all have kids involved in
Soccer. Some have interests only in basebll, some in tennis, and new mothers could use a
large play area for growing children, including picnic tables, swings, slides, sand bax, etc.
So how about it? Don't only cater to soccer, leave some room for others to use the park.
After waiting almost 19 years for a park for walking, jogging, tennis, etc. we are faced
with an overwhelming push for soccer fields. Doesn't make sense to me.
Sincerely
e
i�obert A. Battaglia
cc Sally Johnson, President
Greenbriar Homeowners and Taxpayers Association
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Saratoga, CA 85070
Re: Develonment of Azule Pari'l-
I will not be title to attend the ?ark and 'Recreation
,om,nission mee+ing on Aoril 5, loo
We are vehe-mpn-111-l-,r onnosed to levelo-in� t�--is park
to igh-u.-,e competitive soccer fieIr'_ This iar-�,
S-:0uld he a community nark available to neooie of
all ages and interests.
It's had enough that we have to listen to the roar
of the 1H!iThvta,r 85 1 reevia.Nr. 'Ole don't need the
:additional noise on weekends f'ro-n competitive soorts,
and all the extra vehicles cominc- to these -amen.
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TO: Saratoga Parks & Recreation Commission
RE: Proposed Sportsfields at Marshall Lane School
FROM; Neighbors, Residents immddiately surrounding
the Marshall Lane School
14 SARA'I'OCA NEWS MARCH24, 1999
Speak OuO
Planning Commission
insulted by letter
I was disappointed and concerned by the
publication of Mr. Bob Schwenke's letter in
the March 3 edition of the SARATOGA NEWS.
His letter was insulting and discourteous
and distorted the facts of his recent experi-
ence in front of the Planning Commission.
Mr. Schwenke, the home designer
responsible for the unauthorized demoli-
tion of a historic home on Saratoga
Avenue, came before the Planning Com-
mission after the fact to request variances
to Saratoga Zoning Ordinance require-
ments. Mr. Schwenke was sarcastic and
rude to the Planning Commission and dis-
respectful to the community of Saratoga
at a time when he should be apologetic for,
disregarding the city's land use and her-
itage preservation regulations.
As a resident of Saratoga for more than
40 years and a member of the Planning
Commission, I know that development
proposals in Saratoga are carefully
reviewed for consistency with Saratoga's
general plan and zoning requirements by
the city staff, Planning Commission and an
ctively engagedpubfic.
Our top priorities include protection of
that which makes Saratoga special and o
the residents' quality of life.
Mr. Schwenke wrote in his letter that he
was too embarrassed to tell.people he lives
in Saratoga. In fact, as a resident of Sarato-
ga, l am embarrassed by Mr. Schwenke's
conduct at the meeting and his totally inap-
propriate letter published by the SA RATO-
cA NEWS. I sincerely hope now the record
is complete in this shameful matter and
none of us will be further embarrassed by
Mr. Schwenke.
MARK H. PIERCE
Saratoga.Planning Commission
March 26, 1999
We expect that our Saratoga City Council
will have the same top priorities as stated in
+� - - -- this column written by Mark H. Pierce,
Planning Commission.
Again;
1) We have 3 of the oldest farmhouses in
Saratoga.
2) We have a vineyard between Marshall Lane
and Sobey Rd. now under the Williamson
Act.
3) We have an old School house across
from us on Quito Rd.
4) We have the protected Oak at Ravenwood
Drive and Quito Road, (West Side)
5) We already have our share of traffic and
related problems from the influx of
more students and day care children
increasing over the years.
Take Marshall Lane School off the fields sites
29 March, 1999
12340 Goleta Ave.
Saratoga, Ca 95070
Katie Alexander
Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Saratoga City Councilmen and Parks and Recreation Commissioners:
I would like to take this opportunity to describe the Azule Park Neighborhood Association and
clearly state our position regarding the Blue Hills - Azule development proposal.
The Azule Park Neighborhood Association, APNA, represents families, homeowners and
taxpayers from every walk of life living in the neighborhood of Azule Park. We include
newcomers to our neighborhood as well as those who have lived here well over 30 years. We
include many young families with children as well as older 'empty-nest' families. We even
include grandparents raising young children. We have several families directly involved in
athletic organizations, or who have been in the past. We, of course, include several families
involved in Blue Hills Elementary school.
APNA truly represents the residents directly affected by the Blue Hills - Azule Park development
proposal, as seen on the enclosed maps. The first map indicates households that signed our
January 31, 1999 petition opposing the development of Azule. The second shows households of
residents who regularly attend our meetings.
APNA members are united in our adamant opposition to the proposed development of playfields
at Blue Hills - Azule. APNA has agreed to the following position.
1. We want to restrict organized sport usage of Blue Hills' fields and Azule Park to the
current level of after school practices. No weekend competitions or practices.
2. We want to help the city find a better location than a quiet residential neighborhood
for competitive high -use playfields.
3. We want the city to develop Azule Park as a community park for people of all ages
and interests to enjoy -- not a special use soccer park.
This is in line with the 1996 Neighborhood survey, which has been previously submitted to the
city.
We believe that, since we are directly affected by the development of Azule Park, the City
Council and the Parks Commission should seriously consider our position.
,Sincerely,
Katie Alexander
Chairperson/Coordinator of APNA
Signed Petition Against Proposal 2A
Jan 31, 1999
By APNA
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Vibha Goel
Anurag Goel
12262 Goleta Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
April 5, 1999
Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070
Cc: Park and Recreation committee
Dear Council- members:
This letter is to express our concerns about current plans for Azule park . We also have some suggestions,
which may lead to a win -win situation for city and neighborhood needs.
We just moved into 12262 Goleta Ave, Saratoga. This makes Azule park development project important to
us. We bought the property with an understanding that Azule Park was designed to be a neighborhood
park. So the current plans to make it a high usage sports complex, came as a shock to us.
At the time of purchase, the buying and selling agents told us that Azule Park is being developed into a
neighborhood park. The park would have a play- stucture, some benches and trees to hide the freeway wall
We lived in New Jersey before moving to the bay area a few months ago. In New Jersey, it is quite
common for the city to ask developers of sub - divisions to leave undeveloped parcels of land. These
open lands are then converted into neighborhood parks or left as is. So we did not question any further.
Later on the selling agent showed us a plan which had 3 soccer fields. She was quick to add that the
additional soccer fields were not expected to be built as so many fields were not needed for neighborhood
use. So it came to us as a shock when our neighborhood association told us that the 3 fields were part of a
sport complex plan.
The shock stems primarily from the knowledge that Goleta Ave. has been designed as a low usage
neighborhood street. It curves rather steeply at its ends where it meets SeaGull Way. It is very narrow and
even with the current load of day -care , school and soccer/T -ball traffic it fills up with parked cars that
makes driving risky.
The traffic estimated from 2 -3 soccer fields in use runs into hundreds of cars which is could lead to a
parking nightmare on the neighborhood streets. Even with the proposed parking lot, overflows are
imminent. Freeway 85 noise and pollution adversely affect the neighborhood at this time, additional
adversities from traffic and noise for up to 3 soccer games proceeding at the same time would be
unbearable.
Saratoga and most of the bay area does have very few remaining open land parcels. There is also a need to
support play fields for youth of all ages. Instead of developing new fields, we propose use of existing
fields in all schools for youth sport needs during non - school hours. This would spread the pressure across
city neighborhoods more evenly. The use of existing fields is also in line with city park recommendation of
1996.
If the city helps us develop Azule park -site into a low maintenance neighborhood park, the neighborhood
could take the responsibility of maintaining the park. The park may have additional trees /shrubs planted to
hide the freeway wall and cut freeway noise, a play structure and a par course. This kind of park could
support a broad base of family needs in the community with minimal costs. Since the neighborhood is
directly affected by the quality of the park, the incentive to keep it looking nice is high.
On the other hand, AYSO proposal to maintain Azule park is risky. AYSO does not maintain existing
soccer fields ( in Congress Springs Park or others). Its sources for funds required to support all or even
some soccer fields in Saratoga are not well established. It would be beneficial to the city and community to
see AYSO's performance at maintaining existing parks before relying on them to maintain new parks.
City of Saratoga is known for its appreciation of quiet life. So much so that we understand there are
insufficient funds as the number of businesses in Saratoga are limited for the above reason. This has led to
the belief that Saratoga is a quiet haven in the hectic bay area.
Greenbriar neighborhood of Saratoga already supports the elementary school and use of existing school
baseball fields and soccer fields for games. Any more pressure will lead to deterioration to neighborhood
safety and quality of life. This would not justify the premium a newcomer paid to call the city of Saratoga
their home.
Rceg dsl ' r.
Vibha and Anurag Goel
12262 Goleta Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070
04/05/1999 09:53 4082536005
i
Apra 5, 1999 j
Mr. Jim Shaw, May(
13777 Fruitvale Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Mayor Shaw,
We have been resides
neighbors for 25 year
which are subject to c
designed to accomm i
Saratoga Park and Ri
the Blue Hills' School
competitive soccer feel
congestion to the area
the location or the ne€
people of this area?
We ask that the City
develop Azule Park i
Greenbriar are alre9
Highway 85. The poi
appropriateness, to 5
Sincerely,
CASENTINI
PAGE 02
of the Greenbriar subdivision in Saratoga and Blue Hills
This area is a labyrinth of small blocks and narrow streets
under normal circumstances. Greenbriar was not
ate any more traffic or people than it already has. Now the
,reation Commission is seriously considering co- developing
)laying field and the adjoining Azule Park into 3 high -use
is and other facilities which are sure to bring added
Has the commission any concern for the inappropriateness of
itive impact the proposed development will have on the
uncll consider more appropriate areas for playing fields and
a community park as originally planned. The residents of
suffering from the noise and dust pollution caused by
Lee and Linda Casen
12648 Indio Court
Saratoga, CA 95070
of using our area as a solution, despite it's
k's playing field needs adds insult to injury.
:1
April 6, 1999
Jim Shaw, Mayor
Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Mr. Shaw,
After hearing of the proposed plans for the Azule Park /Blue Hills playing
field we felt the need to let you know that we do not agree with the proposed
plans. We do not want a single use park developed that will add congestion
to our neighborhood streets.
Having been involved with AYSO Soccer for many years we know what a
"Soccer Saturday" is like. There is never enough parking and it is a long
day with hundreds of cars rushing to and from. Having attended some of
the Parks and Recreations planning meetings and seeing the proposals,
there isn't nearly enough parking and the amount of space given to a play
area and walking path is a joke. To add the amount of parking that is
needed for soccer, would use a major portion of the entire park or cut into
the schools play area which has already been greatly reduced by the
addition of many modular classrooms.
Our family visits the area weekly and our children attend Blue Hills so we
are very familiar with the area. In a valley were everything is developed or
paved over it is refreshing to have an area that is open and peaceful. Green
lawns, a walking path, children's play areas, some benches and picnic
tables would make the area usable by everyone and would be an asset to the
neighborhood.
The soccer groups need to find another location that is better suited to their
needs not a neighborhood where children still play ball in the streets and
ride their bikes on the streets.
I have been a resident of the Blue Hills neighborhood for over 35 years and I
do not want to see a beautiful neighborhood destroyed by a mass of soccer
fields and the congestion that it would bring.
Sincerely,
The Calvert Family
Jeff, Sally, Taylor and Amy
12088 Covina Court
Saratoga, CA 95070
(408) 517 -1027
934,
April 6, 1999
Dear Saratoga City Council Member,
After hearing of the proposed plans for the Azule Park /Blue Hills playing
field we felt the need to let you know that we do not agree with the proposed
plans. We do not want a single use park developed that will add congestion
to our neighborhood streets.
Our family visits the area weekly and my grandchildren attend Blue
Hills(as did my children)so we are very familiar with the area. In a valley
where everything is developed or paved over it is refreshing to have an area
that is open and peaceful. Green lawns, a walking path, children's play
areas, some benches and picnic tables would make the area usable by
everyone and would be an asset to the neighborhood.
The soccer groups need to find another location that is better suited to their
needs not a neighborhood where children still play ball in the streets and
ride their bikes on the streets.
I have been a resident of the Blue Hills neighborhood for over 35 years'and I
do not want to see a beautiful neighborhood destroyed by a mass of soccer
fields and the congestion that it would bring.
Sincerely,
Mary M haul
12088 Covina Court
Saratoga, CA 95070
(408) 252 -1805
r
1 / V4 -LC
Date: Tue, 06 Apr 1999 2:07:26 PDT
From: Ed Katz <ekatz @hpkatz.pa.itc.hp.com>
To: Saratoga @statenet.com, JIMBOSHAW @aol.com, benliao @cup.hp.com,
fielden2 @aol.com, armstrong_ beverly @cusd.cupertino.kl2.ca.us
Subject: Support for proposed Azule Park Soccer Complex
development.
TO: WHOMEVER MIGHT BE INTERESTED.
As a parent of three sons who lives near Azule Park, I want to give
my
support for a large part of the Azule Park Soccer Complex proposal.
None
of my sons' CYSA Soccer Teams are able to play games (much less
tournaments) anywhere in Saratoga for lack of competitive quality
playing
fields and facilities, and it has been this way for years. We must
*ALWAYS* travel to other communities.
Having recently received the Azule Park Neighborhood Association
(APNA)
Newsletter (Vol. 1, Issue 2), I would like to take this opportunity
to
respond to points raised by it.
APNA GOALS (Their stated goals in the newsletter and my comments):
APNA: 1. NO WEEKEND COMPETITIONS OR PRACTICES. ONLY AFTER SCHOOL
PRACTICES.
Me: It is unreasonable for a few residents to restrict
weekend
usage during the day by other Saratoga families in the
name of
"peace and tranquility ". We all live in this community
and
during reasonable times of the day we should be able to
use
community facilities in appropriate ways.
Why isn't there a similar goal to restrict the use of
Kevin
Moran Park (directly across 85) from having large
weekend
gatherings and picnics?
This is the same kind of arguments we saw with highway
85.
APNA: 2. FIND A *BETTER LOCATION* THAN A QUIET RESIDENTIAL
NEIGHBORHOOD.
Me: Azule Park is *contiguous* to highway 85. How quiet can
a
residential neighborhood be when it is located next to
a major,
six -lane highway? Rather, what could possibly be a
better
place to put such a soccer facility?
Consider Congress Springs.
Congress Springs is also contiguous to highway 85. It
is also
in a quiet residential neighborhood. It is a somewhat
similar
soccer complex though the soccer fields are smallish for
competitive games. Unfortunately, all the fields belong
to
AYSO and none to CYSA.
This is Thus, there is a basic need beyond Congress Springs.
the need that the Azule Park proposal addresses.
Has APNA suggested a better location (presumably within
Saratoga)? It would be interesting to see what
alternatives
they can suggest which are *better *.
APNA: 3. AZULE PARK IS TO BE A COMMUNITY PARK FOR ALL AGES, NOT
A SPECIAL
USE SOCCER PARK.
Me: What's missing from this scenario?
Consider Kevin Moran Park.
Kevin Moran Park is contiguous to highway 85. It is in
a
quiet residential neighborhood. It is a lovely
community park
walk for people of all ages. It is also a very, very short
(I over the highway 85 pedestrian bridge from Azule Park.
attest often jog through Kevin Moran Park and can personally
to its low usage and serenity.)
What APNA.seems to be missing is that Kevin Moran Park
*and*
Azule Park form a *PARK COMPLEX* which straddles Highway
85.
soccer
For non - soccer type residents seeking a community park,
they *already* have it by simply walking up and over the
pedestrian bridge to Kevin Moran Park. For competitive
types unable to play at Congress Springs, they will have
Azule Park.
This is an *ideal* configuration because the highway
separates
and prevents soccer people from infringing upon
picnic'ers,
families, and others seeking a serene park (and vice
verse).
they How come APNA does not see this big picture? Why would
want a nearly identical park so close to Kevin Moran
Park?
I believe the newsletter has slanted some of the arguments, skewed
some
of the facts, and embellished some of the negatives aspects.
The newsletter attempts to portray a bleak picture of traffic,
noise, and
congestion by way of exaggeration, distortion, and a knowing
traffic
congestion "estimate" to evoke fear ( "diminishing value of your
property ") and hostility for this proposal. Yet, one must take the
validity of their "estimate" on faith as no other description for
it is
given. (It must be magic.)
As a small example, there is an attempt to describe the traffic
congestion level by suggesting the increase compared to Blue
Hills School at student drop off /pickup times as "several- fold ".
Further, the claim is that this will be from 117:OOam to 6:OOpm
every
Saturday and Sunday throughout the year." (What constitutes
"several- fold" must also be relegated to magic.)
These are simply beyond credibility. Between the Autumnal and
Spring
equinoxes alone there is not enough daylight to cover this time
span. If
these statements is valid, then obviously, one or more of the
fields will
need to be lighted at night!
DON'T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT!
Contact the City of Cupertino.
Cupertino recently added Creekside Park, a three field soccer
oriented
complex in a quiet residential neighborhood very similar in design
to
what is proposed for Azule Park having daily practices and weekend
games
and tournaments.
Ask them what are the disturbances to the residential
neighborhood
in which this soccer complex is located?
Ask them what is the usage level times?
Ask them what is the traffic congestion like?
Ask them if they experience 117:OOam to 6:OOpm every Saturday and
Sunday throughout the year" grid lock, crowds, noise, etc.
Contact the City of Sunnyvale.
Ask them the same questions about their soccer complex.
Contact the City of Palo Alto about their soccer complex.
Contact the City of Fremont about their soccer complex.
ASK OTHER QUESTIONS!
Can APNA justify a small group of residents desires superseding
that of
the larger community's needs? We do *all* live in this community.
Has APNA been able to suggest better alternatives?
Has APNA contacted the above neighboring communities? Have they
reported
their findings to justify their position?
Has APNA offered anything factual other than mysterious estimates?
CONCLUSION
There is a long overdue need within Saratoga for such a facility
that
currently does not exist. The Azule -Kevin Moran Park Complex is
ideally
suited for everyone's needs. The Azule Park proposal, though not
perfect, goes along way towards meeting the larger needs of the
community.
March 29, 1999
Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commision
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
On 3 -27 -99 Quito Little League had it's opening day games. They were held at
Rolling Hills School, Campbell, CA at More Avenue and Pollard Road. Rolling Hills is
within walking distance from Marshall Lane School so Quito Little League does have a
location in this area..
At 10:30 a.m. it was very alarming to see 80 cars on Pollard Road, 42 on More
Avenue in front of the school plus a full parking lot of 57 cars, not even counting the side
streets lined with cars and recreational vehicles. We counted 179+ cars. Pollard Road is
a main through street and can handle a lot of curbside parking. I couldn't imagine that
kind of congestion at Marshall Lane School. In fact, there were so many cars there was a
traffic director there.
In addition to the parking and congestion there were portable toilets on the grounds.
There were also portable grills where people were cooking, a truck selling T- shirts and
other paraphernalia, and a large circus -like air tent requiring ticketed admission for the
children to play in.
Does all of the above belong in the Marshall Lane residential neighborhood? Would
you want it in your neighborhood? Would you want it next to your home?
Let's keep the integrity of our Saratoga Neighborhoods. Marshall lane is not a
suitable sportsfield site.
Sincerely,
Geraldine L. Barrett
PS: Our group took photographs of all the above mentioned. Enclosed are a few sample
pictures that depict just how inappropriate this would be at Marshall Lane School.
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Date: March 1, 1999
To: Saratoga City Council and the
Saratoga Parks & Recreation Commission
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
From: William E. Estes
12301 DeSanka Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
Subject: Announcement of Formation of APNA
I have been asked to 4istribute a copy of this announcement to you.
APNA stands for "Azule Park Neighborhood Association ". We are an active association
of concerned Saratoga residents.
As residents who live across from the Blue Hills School, my wife and I are
unhappy with the traffic density we have right now. It is only reasonable that residents in
this area would oppose any proposal which would increase traffic density substantially,
as the proposed three soccer field complex would do.
We should emphasize that we are not just an organized opposition group.
We would prefer to work constructively with the Parks and Recreation Commission and
the City Council to seek alternative solutions.
Sincerely,
9
William E. Estes
0
February 28, 1999 Volume 1, Issue I
Who are we: We are a group of neighbors who are
concerned about the proposed sports complex devel-
opment planned for Blue Hills School field and unde-
veloped Azule Park. Our group covers the neighbor-
hoods on the West Side of Highway 85, which sur-
round Blue Hills School.
Our mission: We want to provide a voice for the
majority of people who are opposed to the develop-
ment of the Azule Park area for a sports complex.
The current proposal is to build three soccer fields, a
parking lot, restrooms and a concession stand for use
year round. We are pro -kid and for organized sports
and we do not object to the current .usage of the
field. We are very concerned about the major nega-
tive impact that building a sports complex will have
on the neighborhood. Instead of the sports complex
we would like to see a community park that Saratoga
residents of all ages would be able to enjoy as well as
find an appropriate site for playfields.
Committees: To further our objectives the APNA
has formed several committees. The first committee
is Park Planning, which will work towards a plan for
the community park. There is a communications
committee that is responsible for getting the word
out to the neighborhood about what is happening. A
third committee is formed to act as liaison with the
Cupertino School Board. The School Board also
must approve the city plan for the playfields.
NOTICE: The Saratoga City Council will be
meeting with the Saratoga Parks and Recreation
Commission task force to present their proposal on
March 9 7:30PM at the Adult Day Care Center.
There will be a public comment period so we would
like to have as many people in the community tum
out to voice their concerns about this proposal.
Please come and show your support.
The history: Nine years ago a consultant was engaged
to provide a Master Plan for Parks and Recreation in the
City of Saratoga. The funding for this plan was to come
from developer's fees that are paid to the City for each
home built. These fees are for the express purpose of
building Parks and Recreation facilities. They revert back
to the developer if they are not spent within a specified
period of time.
Nine months ago a task force was formed to look
into Playfield development as this priority had been up-
graded due to the deterioration of Congress Springs
field. The task force included representatives from the
Park and Recreation Commission, the City and User
groups but not the community.
We formed last month after the City Council
meeting where the plans for this development were re-
viewed. It became apparent to us that the groups in favor
of this development were well organized and had mo-
mentum because they had been able to work with the
task force to develop the proposal while the local neigh-
bors were excluded. We voiced our concerns to the Park
and Recreation Commission at their February 1 meeting
and they agreed that they would delay the process for six
weeks. On February 7 members of APNA met with two
city council members who came to meet with us to hear
our concerns. While they listened to us they also pro-
vided_ us with their point of view on this issue. We
learned that the primary issue for the City Council is to
make sure the money is spent in a manner that provides
the maximum benefit to the residents of Saratoga.
Therefore we need to make our own proposal.
Many of the members of the community have expressed
that would like to have a community park that could be
used by Saratoga residents of all ages. Our neighborhood
group would like to see this happen.
IF YOU AGREE WITH US YOU ARE E" TIED
TO JOIN US. You can contact any member of the
communications committee whose names are in-
cluded on the neat page.
The concerns: The main concerns of the neighborhood are Traffic, Parking and Safety, although not in that
order. These concerns are not theoretical either but are based on the current experience of the neighborhood,.
There are a maximum of 14 players plus coaches on each soccer team. This means that for each field
there will be at least 32 cars (assuming 2 coaches) per field during each game and depending on how tight
the games are scheduled this could mean twice that many. This means that there potentially could be as many
as 768 cars on a weekend day. (32 cars X 3 fields X 8 hours per day. Play could happen on both Saturday
and Sunday and could go all year round if all possible user groups (AYSO, CYSA and adult soccer groups)
are included. These calculations do not include weekday practices or camps either.
Another traffic factor is AYSO has stated that they plan to have only older kids playing on the field.
The impact of this plan is that many of the drivers will be teenage and hence less likely to follow the traffic
laws which will increase the safety hazard.
A second concern is parking. Currently the Blue Hills School has 47? spots. In the plans is the addi-
tion of 63 spots. While this amount may seem adequate, it is not clear that there is enough money to pay for
the parking lot and this would force parking onto Goleta, Sea Gull, DeSanka, Knollwood and Kirkbrook Av-
enues, narrowing the residential streets and blocking driveways, mailboxes, etc. One further concern in park-
ing deals with the use of the fields during tournaments. During tournaments teams tend to stay at the field.
While this can reduce the traffic flow slightly it will make the parking situation worse.
In addition to the safety concern mentioned above, there is a concern regarding egress to and from
Goleta Avenue onto Sea Gull. Both ends of the street are bounded by blind corners making it difficult to see
on- coming traffic. Sea Gull has become a major thoroughfare because it connects Cox Avenue to Saratoga -
Sunnyvale. Therefore many people speed down Sea Gull. When we couple this with the fact that many of the
drivers will be teenagers, concern grows that there will be an increase in the number of accidents. Also, part
of Goleta has no sidewalk so it is feared that the potential for a major tragedy grows.
CONTACTS: If you would like to contact City Hall to express your opinion regarding this project, the fol-
lowing address, phone numbers and email addresses are included for your use.
Saratoga City Council
13777 Fruitvale Ave.
Saratoga, CA 95070
Email: Saratoga @statenet.com
Fax 868 -1280
Jim Shaw, Mayor 257 -1084
Stan Bogosian , Vice Mayor 867 -0182
John Mehaffey 868 -0160
Nick Streit
Evan Baker
983 -1040 (Office)
255 -1092
All emails and letters are copied for all City Council members so you only have to address one letter
if you wish to express your opinion.
If you would like to join our group and get on our phone list to be notified of meetings, please con-
tact one of the following people from the Communication's committee.
Jim Kastleman 725 -0798
Nick Seroff 252 -9747
Eddie Sweeney 253 -4373
Jacqueline Wescoat 257 -4023
Hugh Wright 343 -1365
djkastleman@webtv.net
nick. seroff@worldnet.att.net
workaholic@hotmail.com
hugh.wright@prodigy.net
page 2
AUIT11'1�
Meetings to be held in affected playfield areas
By STEVE ENDERS
The playfields issue is about to hit home
for a few Saratoga residents who will,
the city hopes, open their front doors
for city and community representatives to find
common ground on the city's playfields issue.
Saratoga's Parks and Recreation Commis-
sion decided Feb. 22 that it's time to hold the
small meetings as promised last month dur
ing lengthy public hearings, which were sup-
posed to result in a final recommendation to
the City Council.
Instead, commissioners voted to hold four
small meetings —one per neighborhood —
where neighborhood representatives will get
a chance to voice concerns to parks commis-
sioners in hopes of striking a compromise on
how the fields are built.
Also at the meetings, representatives from
the user groups, including AYSO soccer and
Quito Little League, will get their say as well. So
far, those organizations have promised main-
tenance support on the fields. City officials are
concerned that financial support, which has
been verbally offered by the users, could be lost
if plans are significantly scaled back. That could
leave the entire project in jeopardy.
The proposal under consideration is to
make millions of dollars in improvements to
the fields at Foothill Elementary School, Blue
Hills School/Azule Park, Marshall Lane Ele-
mentary School and Congress Springs Park.
At meetings last month, hundreds of Sarato-
ga residents turned out to give opinions on the
playfields matter—most of which were negative.
Many residents have stressed that they don't
want to bear the burden of increased traffic and
parking needs the new fields could create. Addi-
tionally, they're concerned about noise and
trash that could flood the neighborhoods.
At the Feb. 22 meeting, commissioners refo-
cused their goals and decided on the logistics of
the meetings. The main goal, they agreed, was
to build new playfields— that's what the com-
munity said it wanted in 1996 when asked to
prioritize spending for the parks department.
Over the next week, Irene Jacobs, city staff liai-
son to the commission, will send out notices of the
upcoming meetings to the neighborhoods locat-
ed around the four sites under consideration.
In those notices, Jacobs will ask residents to
choose a representative, who will get a set
amount of time to summarize the problems they
think the fields will bring into their communities.
If those neighborhoods aren't well defined or
have more than one homeowner's group, they'll
be asked to consolidate and come to agreement
over who will represent their concerns.
The four meetings will be open to the public
and will be more structured, unlike previous
commission meetings. Each side will get a set
amount of time to air opinions and will then
get time to strike a deal.
Please turn to page 17
MARCH 3, 1999 SARA'TOGA NEWS 9
March 9, 1999
TO: Saratoga City Council
RE: Preserve Our Neighborhood
We need to remember that the Marshall Lane School neighborhood did not ask for or
solicit the proposed fields. This sportsfield problem burdening our neighborhood has
been created by the users and would largely benefit persons outside our city.
Regardless of where players originate, our neighborhood would have a very negative
impact should this idea go any further.
This " process" was begun with no consideration of the area surrounding Marshall Lane
School and its limitations which have been stated over and over.
Help us preserve the qualities that make Saratoga a desirable place to live, a place that
puts neighborhoods first.
Sincerely,
Darwin Barrett
C _!
Frank J. Ammiro
18519 Ravenwood Drive
Saratoga, Ca. 95070
(408) 374 -0361
March 9, 1999
Dear Saratoga City Council:
There are many reasons why you should not proceed with the construction of organized
playfields at Marshall Lane school, as follows:
1. Building these fields will create a nuisance within the neighborhood
surrounding the school by increasing traffic, parking, noise, and safety
problems which will lower the quality of life for the residents.
2. Creating such facilities within the confines of our neighborhood is clearly
against the Saratoga General Plan. I am providing each Council Member
with a document quoting many of the key points from the plan. Pay special
attention to the sections which state that Quito Road is already at capacity; that
noise should be minimized in predominately residential areas by discouraging
or prohibiting through traffic: that new development and its land uses should
be limited to presently planned street capabilities so as to avoid excessive
noise, traffic, and public safety hazards; and the goal to maintain and enhance
the character, quality, and liveability of the city's residential neighborhoods.
3. Many of you were elected on the basis of campaign promises, taken directly
from your campaign materials, as follows: "Emphasize mitigation of noise,
congestion, and traffic in all projects. Preserve neighborhoods by adhering to
the General Plan." (Mr. Shaw). "Support open government that is fair and
responsive to citizens and neighborhoods ". (Mr. Bogosian). "Preserve
neighborhood integrity ". (Mr. Mehaffey & Mr. Baker). We expect you to live
up to the promises you have made by stopping this project.
4. The residents of Marshall Lane, Ravenwood Drive, and Marilyn Lane are well
organized and we will stand firm against any efforts to force this
unwanted project into our neighborhood.
Thank you,
r \ v -�
Frank J. Ammiro
Attachment: Excerpts from the Saratoga General Plan
Jan. 1999
Significant Excerpts from the Saratoga General Plan:
Page 1 - 18 Under Development Policies
#1 Keep Saratoga rural; do nottry to emulate what is popular in other
jurisdictions.
1 - 9 Under land use Policies
#8 Protect residents from noise emanating from certain commercial
activities.
ISSUE #2
Page 24 2.0 (bottom of page) (Goal ) to promote and preserve land uses which
are compatible with each other and with a minimal noise environment.
Page 33 Government constraints heading 4th Paragraph- -Quito Road was identified
at being at service level E which means that further traffic additions
would exceed it's capacities.
Page 20 F City Adminstration
A. Establish more open communication between city and residents ( A )
B. Improve Public Noticing ( FK (L)
Page 2.24 Future use of School Sites
Land use - -open space
Read section on Air QUality
Page 20
CO.8.4 (Policy) Encourage the reduction of local sources of Air Pollution
such as dust, smoke, and Vehicle emissions.
Page 1 of Saratoga Noise Element
Page 23 of above L.U.6.0 Relate new development and its land uses to presently
planned street capabilities so as to avoid excessive noise, traffic, and
public safety hazards.
Page 23 Open Space 08.3.2 The City shall review interim uses of surplus
school sites to determine if the impacts generated by the proposed uses
will have adverse effects, particularly in terms of noise, traffic, and
Parking on adjacent residential areas.
(NOTE ) Marshall Lane School is not surplus but is already used to capacity
525 students plus. ?'_;z:a Child Development Center ( 60 Students )
This sportsfield use is a proposed use.
ISSUE #2
Page 24 2.0 (Goal) to promote and promote land uses which are compatible
with each other and with 'a minimal noise environment.
ISSUE 4
Page 26 4.5 (policy) noise should bey minimized in predominately residential
area by discouraging or prohibiting through traffic.
Page 44 Under Heading Housing-goals, Policies and objectives.
Goal #1 H.I.O promote the opportunity for all residents to have a
sound home and a satisfying environment.
Goal #2 H.2.o. Maintain and enhance the character, quality and live-
ability of the city's residential neighbors.
Page 45 H.2.4 The City shall strive to maintain the qualities that make Saratoga
neighborhoods desirable for families with children.
25 February, 1999
12340 Goleta Ave.
Saratoga, Ca 95070
Kate Alexander
Saratoga City Council
Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission
13777 Fruitvale Ave
Saratoga, CA 95070
Dear Saratoga City Council and parks and Recreation Commission:
I am forwarding the enclosed documentation about the 1996 survey of the Azule & Greenbriar
neighborhood regarding the Azule Park development. This is to complete your records. I
understand that a synopsis of this was sent by Mr. Al Roten on about 31 January 1999.
Sincerely,
Kate Alexander
MAY. The store is open from 6 A.M.one day until 2 A.M. the next day,
seven days a week. This is a store that sells alcoholic beverages.
Some of these beverages are consumed by the occupants and /or drivers
of the vehicles that are using Sea Gull Way. It is not uncommon for
the front of our property to be used as a dumping ground for their
unwanted cans and bottles.
6. CONGRESS SPRINGS PARR WAS COMPARED TO AZULE PARK WITHOUT TARING CERTAIN
FACTS INTO CONSIDERATION. Congress Springs Park is a pie shaped park
with the freeway on one side, the railroad tracks /parking lot on-one
side, and a High Voltage Station on the street side. Looking at the
general lay out of this park, it is next to impossible to park in front
of anyone's home and in anyway block their driveway. The street next
to Congress Springs Park, Glen Brae Drive, does not support vehicles
chauffeuring children from a different residential area, vehicles driv-
ing directly from a convenient store, or vehicles traveling at such
high speeds near the park. Glen Brae Drive near the park has .a very
sharp curve in-the road that requires you to slow down or you'd be
catapulted on to the freeway.
7. THE WEEKENDS ARE THE TIKES SEA GULL MAY DOES NOT HAVE TRAFFIC GENERATED B'
PARENTS CHAUFFEURING THEIR CHILDREN FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF HIGHWAY $85
TO BLUE HILLS SCHOOL AND DAY CARE.
8. LAND IS VERY PRECIOUS AND SHOULD BE USED WISELY. Turning Azule Park into
a community park would DEMAND that part of the land be used for a park-
ing lot. People would use the street nearest the park (Goleta Avenue),
before they would use the school's parking lot and walk back to the
park. Goleta Avenue is lined with homes.
It is my belief that we can find a safer place than Azule Park to promote
soccer games and have a WIN /WIN SITUATION FOR ALL CONCERNED. The represent-
atives from the Saratoga Schools implied that there were school sites in
Saratoga that would welcome organized soccer activities and the surrounding
residents would be supportive.
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TO: CONCERNED HOMEOWNERS AND TAXPAYERS
FROM: AZULE NEIGHBORHOOD PARR COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: UPDATED INFORMATION FROM ONGOING SURVEYS /QUESTIONNAIRES
DATE: MAY 1, 1996
90% of all the people surveyed (200 plus) want the following:
AZULE PARR as a NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
New trees and plants with automatic sprinkling system
Benches
Responsible dog owners
84% of all the people surveyed (200 plus) want NO ACTIVITIES IN THE
PARK AFTER DARK
The majority of people surveyed also want lights along the pathways,
a par course, and children's playground equipment.
An OVERWHELMING percentage of people surveyed (200 plus) DO NOT WANT:
Soccer fields (95 %)
Softball fields (95 %)
Basketball courts (95 %)
Level fields (75 %)
Restrooms (84 %)
In the words of Barbara Walters, "We're in touch, so you be in touch! ".
Jim Schindler
446 -4481
Connie Birdsall
255 -3792
Mary Helmers
446 -0130
Judy Jimenez
446 -9520
Steve Yuen
252 -8301
AZULE PARK SURVEY -- Additional Comments
Freq. Item Mentioned
10 Plant more shade trees to hide freeway and cut down on noise
4 Picnic benches
4 Barbecues
4 Sitting benches
4 Swings (Adult and children)
4 Quiet park
4 Clean it up and leave it alone!
3 Lots of grass
3 No ORGANIZED sporting activities
3 Close proximity to Cupertino and San Jose will attract
Non - Saratoga residents
2 Stop all the traffic on Seagull Way -- block it off at DeSanka
1 Use Non -toxic plants
1 No Sandbox - it becomes a trash box
1 Walkways
1 Bike path
1 Neighborhood swimming pool with toddler pool
1 Water fountain
LI
Petition Regarding Development of Azule Park, Saratoga, CA
We, the undersigned, do not want the area
park, rather a peaceful, neighborhood park
relax and enjoy year round. The attached
the neighbors of Greenbriar want developed
developed into a sports
for young and old to
survey clarifies what
at the site.
PRINTED NAME ADDRESS SIGNATURE
-- C
TABULATED RESULTS OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE:
95% Want AZULE PARR as a neighborhood park.
Reasons: Lacks multiple street access
No parking lot or the ability to establish one
SAFETY: Congested traffic will inevitably cause a
serious accident, resulting in permanent disabilities
or death to one or more people.
95% DO NOT WANT a soccer field, softball field, or basketball court
for the same reasons as given above.
91% DO NOT WANT a handball court
85% DO NOT WANT tennis courts
75% DO NOT WANT level field for sports play
84% DO NOT WANT restrooms
Reasons: It may encourage vagrants
May be used as a place to distribute drugs
May be used as a "Motel 6" for promiscuity
Home is close enough for "relief"
Sanitary reasons
98% WANT new trees and plants as well as appropriate irrigation system
Reasons: With the freeway pollution, trees may emit enough oxygen
to help negate the problem.
Trees may help reduce the amount of noise
Trees, if strategically place, could prevent this park
from becoming a race track for "want -ta -be Evil Knievel's ".
92% WANT benches
64% WANT a par course
Reason: Great exercise program
56% WANT children's playground equipment
66% WANT lights along any pathways
Reasons: Discourage unwanted activities
SAFETY - SAFETY - SAFETY
84% WANT signs clearly stating "NO ACTIVITIES IN PARK AFTER DARK"
93% WANT signs clearly stating " DOG OWNERS MUST CLEAN UP AFTER THEIR
DOG"
OTHER SUGGESTIONS: picnic tables, barbecues, swings for adults as well
as for children
GHTA /AZULE PARK
-2-
continual increase in traffic and congestion, due in part to the
installation of portable classrooms and a Day Care Center at Blue
Hills Elementary, as well as and soccer games and practices after
school, evenings and weekends. Peaking our years of frustrations,
has been the construction of the 85 freeway - with four years of
dirt, dust and noise.
We the people on Goleta Avenue, do not want anything that will
add to the difficulties we have endured, especially in regard to
the traffic congestion. We feel strongly that the site should be
utilized for more than a sports field or community garden - rather
one that would give the whole neighborhood a sense of community and
serenity, especially with the opening of the freeway and the
inevitable noise.
As described in a proposal given to you in 1990, in addition
to changing the name of the park to Ed Gomersall Park, we suggest a
type of park with the following characteristics:
- provide a open and visible area for children and adults
- be aesthetically pleasing from the street
- relatively inexpensive to implement and maintain.
- would not increase traffic congestion
We feel all of this could be accomplished by developing:
a Par Course and drinking fountain
grassy areas with shade trees
a Totlot, benches
a few picnic tables and grills
drinking fountain and trash receptacles
- security lighting
We feel that our proposal would increase the quality of life
in the Greenbrier neighborhood, and maybe offset some of the
discomfort that will be inevitable with the opening of the freeway.
Sincerely yours,
Sally Johnson, President
a
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(l ) �-
Qff
13777 FIMI'VAL AVENUE • SARA \TOGA, CAI_ FORNIA 95070 • (408) 867 -3435
November 1, 1994 COUNCIL.
,Inn Adjoe Burger
l',1ul E Jdcoo.;
Greenbrier Homeowners and Taxpayers Association L ;dh&& 100r "'
c/o Sally Johnson hdlufl ir,C^r.7
19997 Sea Gull Way Cul,Jiv L. WOU&
Saratoga, CA 95070
RE: Proposed Development of Azule Park site.
Dear Sally,
I am responding to your letter to the Parks and Recreation
Commission regarding the future park development at the Azule site.
The Commission welcomes the Associations input and is interested in
the needs and the views of the community when a park site is
scheduled for development. I would like to take this opportunity
to inform the Association of the proposed procedure for the parks
development. At this time there is not a firm development schedule
for the Azule site. As discussed in the meeting on October 25th
Council has requested the Parks and Recreation Commission to review
their Park Development Priorty List for the upcoming joint Council
and Commission meeting scheduled for December 13, 1994.
On the Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda for November 7,
1994, the Commission will review the park development priorty list,
you and anyone from the Association are welcome to attend these
meetings. At these meetings both the Parks and Recreation
Commission and City Council will not be discussing or recommending
what improvements will be developed at this site. In short, the
actual design phase will not begin until funding becomes available
for the project and Council recommends that design and construction
as a Capital Improvement Project. During the design phase, the
City will then conduct a series of workshops to gather information
and input from the community.
Again, thank -you for your letter and I will keep the
Association appraised of any future meeting regarding park
development.
Sincerely,
Bob RizZo
Parks Superintendent
c/ Larry Perlin
BR /jw
Printed on recycled paper
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LETTERS
New play-fields
will increase traffic
I have been referred to as being a
"NIMBY" (Not In My Back Yard), as
being an uncaring parent of my children,
and now I'm a snob who doesn't want-any
more children in my neighborhood. All
this because I want to preserve what is left
of our quiet and safe neighborhood.
The proposed playfields for Marshall
Lane School is the cause. Since I have been
involved with my neighbors in this issue,
all I have heard is how we don't care about
the children, both our own and the com-
munity's —this could be no further from
the truth. As I read the related articles in
the papers I see that the real issue does not
surface. The main reason for my opposi-
tion is the related traffic and parking issues
that come with organized sports leagues.
Marshall Lane School is located on a
dead -end street. All access to the school is
on Marilyn Avenue, which is fed by Raven -
wood Drive and Marshall Lane. These nar-
row streets with no sidewalks are dangerous
for anybody walking on them during normal
school hours. The addition of organized
sports fields will increase the.traffic during
the week and extend it into the weekend.
At a recent Parks and Recreation meet-
ing it was estimated that the traffic load on
Saturdays could be anywhere from 200 to
400 cars traveling back and forth to either
park or to drop off children for the games.
The school has parking for approximately
12 SARATOGA NEWS AfARCN70; 1909
70 cars. The only access to the parking lot is
through a single gate that is j ust wide enough
for two cats to pass through at the same time.
. After the first 70 car's arrive, where will
the remaining cars go? And what will hap-
pen when these cars leave? The Quito
Road intersections at Ravenwood Drive
and Marshall Lane wigbe lined with cars
to Marilyn Avenue. And since there is no
parking along the school grounds on Sobey
Road, this will probably become the "drop
point" for a lot of the kids. Now we have
LETTERS
four streets that will be adversely affected.
It is difficult to get out of my driveway now;
I do not need this on the weekends also.
This poses a major safety problem for
the residents on these four streets and for
the additional foot traffic going to and
from the sports fields. With our narrow
'streets and no sidewalks, children, includ-
ing mine, have to walk or ride.their bicy-
cles in the street. This creates a very dan-
gerous situation for the children.
Continuedfrom page 12
Please turn to page 13
I agree that the grass field is in pretty bad
shape. I have no problem if the city wants to
repair or replace the grass area. This would
be gr,:at for the kids attending the school
and the "general public" who use it after
scho -)l hours. I do not want to sacrifice my
neighborhood for organized sports groups.
JOHN BELLICITr'I
Marshall Lane
Special Meeting
Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting
Administrative Offices, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga
March 9, 1999
6:30 p.m.
Action Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Commissioners Present: Alberts, Clabeaux, Ioannou, Olsen, Swan, Whitney
Commissioners Absent: Friedrich
Others Present: Irene Jacobs, Phi Boyce, Katherine Funk
III. Report on Posting of the Minutes: Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the
agenda for this special meeting was properly posted on March 8, 1999.
IV. "Orchard of Artists Project ": The Parks and Recreation Commission met with
Phil Boyce and Katherine Funk to discuss the "Orchard of Artists Project" that is
currently being proposed for development on the Villa Montalvo property. Four
members of the Commission scheduled a site visit and walked the grounds last
Friday.
Commissioner Swan, head of the Trails Sub - committee, gave a summary of the
report that the committee had submitted to the Commission for review and final
approval; (please see attached document). Commissioner Whitney made a
motion to approve the recommendations from the Trails Sub - Committee and
forwarded these to Planning Staff and the Planning Commission. Commission
Clabeaux seconded the motion and the passed.
V. Joint Meeting with City Council: The Commission spent a few minutes reviewing
what each Commissioner would report since it had been decided at the last
meeting that the entire group would take part in the presentation to the City
Council.
VI. Adjournment
Commissioner Whitney made a motion to adjourn the meeting and
Commissioner Clabeaux seconded the motion. The motion carried and the
meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. to the joint Meeting with the City
Council. (5/0)
Prepared By:
(; UU7-I'M- dqV-I--
I e M. Jacobs
ty Staff Repres ntative
To: Heather Bradley, Associate Planner
City of Saratoga
From: Sheila Ioannou & Marianne Swan
Parks & Recreation Commissioners
Re: Villa Montalvo, 15400 Montalvo Road
Date: March 8, 1999
Montalvo Associates has applied for a building permit for
10 "Artist in Residence" cottages and a common building
on.the hill above Parking Lot 1.
The Parks & Recreation Commission was asked to review the
proposal and provide input on trail issues. Accordingly,
on March 5, 1999 Marianne Swan, Kay Whitney, Elaine Clabeaux
and Sheila Ioannou, Commissioners, met with Kathryn Funk, the
Artist Residency Program Director, for a site inspection.
The Commission is concerned about the loss of some of the
most accessible and actively used trail segments. The
proposed residences will eliminate a section of both
Northern and Southern Orchard Trails, which link Norton Rd.
with Montalvo Rd. and Montalvo. These trails are frequently
used as weekday hour - round -trip hikes, as they are easily
accessed from downtown Saratoga. While the Commission
agrees that the artists' need for privacy makes the use
of these sections impossible, we would like to see alternate
routes established to maintain crucial linkages.
The Parks & Recreation Commission therefore requests that
Montalvo Associates ensure that the owner (Montalvo Associates)
and Lessee (Santa Clara County) reroute the trails around
the proposed development as follows:
1. The Nort'i^rn Or.cb,:-r3 Trail should be rerouted around
the eevnlopment. One ?art should follo w..the Montalvo property
line, the other to!!ard tre Southern Orchard Trail.
2. The Southern Orchard Trail -needs to -be rerouted
to meet the Creek Trail, also starting from Norton Rd.
As the proposed development of the artists' cottages is
currently staked out, and the trails blocked, it is of
utmost importance to keep the Creek Trail accessible.
Maintenance has been neglected on both the Creek Trail and
part of the Southern Orchard Trail. We -A;o1.ild like to see
these conditions improvise immediately.
Heather Bradley
March 8, 1999
page 2
Finally, the Parks & Recreation Commission recognizes that
the development process is still at its early stages, and
that many changes are expected due to geological, financial
and legal issues. We therefore ask that final plans
showing the rerouted trail sections be brought to us before
construction begins, and that no occupancy permits be
issued without an inspection for compliance.
cc: Irene Jacobs, Staff
Parks & Rec. Comm.
Kathryn Funk, Artist
Liasion, Parks & Rec. Comm.
Residency Program Director
Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting
Administrative Offices, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga
March 1, 1999
7:30 p.m.
Action Minutes
I. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 5:40 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Commissioners Present: Alberts, Clabeaux, Friedrich, Ioannou, Olsen, Swan,
Whitney
Commissioners Absent: None
Others Present: Joan Pisani, Irene Jacobs, (please see attached list)
III. Report on Posting of the Minutes: Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the
agenda was properly posted on February 26, 1999.
IV. Approval of Minutes of February 22, 1999 Meetings: The approval of the
minutes were tabled until the next Commission meeting.
Administration:
• Katherine Funk, Project Manager for the Montalvo cottage project, was
present to share her availability for meeting times with the Commission to
meet on site to discuss the affects that the project would have on the existing
trail sites in Saratoga .
Oral & Written Communication: Three members of the public addressed the
Parks and Recreation Commission on the Playfield Project. The concerns voiced
by the public revolved around traffic, safety and quality of life issues that they
felt would be greatly affected should these playfields be developed or improved.
The Commission thanked the public for their ideas, concerns and shared
opinions and the oral communications portion of the meeting was closed.
VI. Old Business:
A) Community Center Improvements- Joan Pisani gave a quick summary
regarding the Community Center Needs Assessment and what had occurred
during Phase I of the process. She then requested that the Commission
approved recommendation of Phase II of the Community Center Needs
Assessment to the City Council. Phase II of the process would consist of a
costing out of the items identified in Phase I. Commissioner Clabeaux made
a motion that the Commission recommend to the City Council approval of
Phase II of the process that would cost $5,000 from the Park Development
Fund. Commissioner Whitney seconded the motion and the motion passed.
( Commissioner Swan abstained from the vote due to her affiliation with
the Community Center as the Pre - school Program Coordinator). The
Community Center Needs Assessment is an approved project on the Park
Development Fund project priority list.
B) Playfield Project Meetings - Questions from the public revolved around
concern that the user groups attending the meetings would have more
representation that the neighbors from the surrounding areas. There was
discussion among the group and Commissioner Swan made a motion that
the Commission would make an effort to have the site meeting consist of the
following breakdown of representatives when possible. All should keep in
mind that the breakdown for each site meeting would be different
depending upon the number of user groups interested in the site and the
response that staff received from the neighbors when requesting a
representative. The make -up of the groups should resemble the following as
much as possible ( User Group representatives- 3; Commissioners- 2; School
representatives- 1; Facilitator- 1; City Staff -2; Community Representatives -
3) Commissioner Ioannou seconded the motion and the motion passed.
(6/0)
C) Joint Meeting with the Council- From previous direction from the
Commission, staff had prepared a list of agenda items to discuss with the City
Council at their joint meeting with the Parks and Recreation Commission on
March 9, 1999. The Commission made some adjustments to the list and staff
was instructed to forward the list to the City Clerk for posting.
VII. New Business:
A. Playfield Community Meetings- Facilitator Proposal: Staff had outlined in a
memo that had been included in the Commission's packet, her reasons for
recommending a third party facilitator be retained. There was discussion
among the Commission regarding the pros and cons. Commissioner
Whitney made a motion to authorize the use of a professional facilitator to
lead the site meeting discussions regarding the playfields. Commissioner
Swan seconded the motion and the motion passed. ( 5/1)
Commissioner Friedrich made a motion that the Commissioner allow staff to
select a facilitator on behalf of the Commission in order to save time in the
process. Commissioner Clabeaux seconded the motion and the motion
passed. (6/0)
B. Congress Springs Park /Contract Renewal: Staff had outlined in a memo to
the Commission her recommendation to maintain the status quo in regards
to the contracts between American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO),
Saratoga Little League and the City for the seasonal use of Congress Springs
Park. Both user groups currently pay the City a flat rate of $1,500 for the
use of the field for the entire season. Staff made a recommendation to the
Council to increase user fee some eighteen months ago. It was not well
received by the community and the Council at that time did not approve the
increase but they did request that the then newly hired Playfield Project
Manager discuss the issue in the Task Force environment.
Staffs recommendation to the Commission was to maintain the status quo
since both user groups had shown a good faith effort to improve the
situation by serving on the Task Force for over a six month period of time.
Since the playfield issue had not yet been resolved there would be no use in
increasing the fee at this time. Commissioner Swan made a motion to
support staffs recommendation to charge the standard $1,500 for the use of
Congress Springs Parks at this time. Commissioner Alberts seconded the
motion. There was further discussion after the motion but, the motion did
not pass. (2/3)
VIII. Reports:
Commissioner Reports: Commissioner Ioannou reported that she and
Commissioner Swan had written a response letter to Steve Enders from the
Saratoga News clarifying some points from a recent article regarding the most
recently approved trail grant.
Commissioner Clabeaux also pointed out to the Commission that a scout troop
had participated in hauling gravel for trail improvements as a community
service project.
City Hall Update: none
Recreation Department Status Report: none
IX. Adjournment
Commissioner Whitney made a motion to adjourn the meeting and
Commissioner Clabeaux seconded the motion. The motion carried and the
meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m. (5/0)
Prepared By:
Irene M. Jacobs r
City Staff Representative
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING
NAME
Don Johnson
Bill Estes
Rosemary Woodward
Brandt Woodward
Gerry Barrett
Joanna Sloan
Norbert Fronczar
John Bellicitti
Darwin Barrett
Joan Greene
Jackie Wescoat
Eunice C. Peterson
Lisa Kurasch
Noya Christensen
Ken Strasser
Ruth Strasser
Brian Duffy
Euna Fought
Ron Sartori
Hugh Wright
Peter Boulton
MONDAY, MARCH 1, 1999
ADDRESS PHONE
19997 Sea Gull Way
408
- 257
-6475
12301 DeSanka Ave.
408
- 446
-1965
18620 Ravenwood Dr.
408
- 379
-4836.
18620 Ravenwood Dr.
408
- 379
-4836
14050 Marilyn Ln.
408
-378
-3899
14041 Marilyn Ln.
408
- 378
-4069
12255 Goleta Ave.
408 - 253
-7702
18500 Marshall Lane
408
- 374
-1742
14050 Marilyn Lane
408
- 378
-3899
12350 Goleta Ave.
408
- 252
-5805
12365 Goleta Ave.
408
- 257
-4023
18561 Marshall Lane
408
- 374
-4268
18665 Ravenwood Dr.
408
- 374
-9472
18510 Sobey Rd.
408
- 379
-4485
18501 Marshall Ln.
18501 Marshall Ln.
408 -
363
-5272
18666 Ravenwood Dr.
408 -
379
-4760
18591 Marshall Ln.
408-
379 -7049
20074 Knollwood Dr.
408 -
863 -0161
12243 Goleta Ave.
408 -
343 -1365
12335 DeSanka Ave.
408 -
252 -3975
�1
t
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING
NAME
Don Johnson
Bill Estes
Rosemary Woodward
Brandt Woodward
Gerry Barrett
Joanna Sloan
Norbert .Fronczar
John Bellicitti
Darwin Barrett
Joan Greene
Jackie Wescoat
Eunice C. Peterson
Lisa Kurasch
Noya Christensen
Ken Strasser
Ruth Strasser
Brian Duffy
Euna Fought
Ron Sartori
Hugh Wright
Peter Boulton
MONDAY, MARCH 1, 1.999
ADDRESS PHONE
19997 Sea Gull Way
408
- 257
-6475
12301 DeSanka Ave.
408
- 446
-1965
18620 Ravenwood Dr.
408
-379-
4836.,
18620 Ravenwood Dr.
408
- 379
-4836
14050 Marilyn Ln.
408-
378
-3899
1.4041. Marilyn Ln.
408
-378
-4069
12255 Goleta Ave.
408
- 253
-7702
18500 Marshall Lane
408
- 374
-1742
14050 Marilyn Lane
408
-378
-3899
12350 Goleta Ave.
408
- 252
-5805
12365 Goleta Ave.
408-
257
-4023
1.8561. Marshall Lane
408
-374
-4268
18665 Ravenwood Dr.
408
- 374
-9472
18510 Sobey Rd.
408
- 379
-4485
1.8501. Marshall Ln.
18501 .Marshall Ln.
408
- 363
-5272
18666 Ravenwood Dr.
408
- 379
-4760
18591 Marshall Ln.
408
- 379
-7049
20074 Knollwood Dr.
408
- 863
-01.61
12243 Goleta Ave.
408
- 343
-1365
1.2335 DeSanka Ave.
408
- 252
-3975
To: Heather Bradley, Associate Planner
City of Saratoga
From: Sheila Ioannou & Marianne Swan
Parks & Recreation Commissioners
Re: Villa Montalvo, 15400 Montalvo Road
Date: March 8, 1999
Montalvo Associates has applied for a building permit for
10 "Artist in Residence" cottages and a common building
on.the hill above Parking Lot 1.
The Parks & Recreation Commission was asked to review the
proposal and provide input on trail issues. Accordingly,
on March 5, 1999 Marianne Swan, Kay Whitney, Elaine Clabeaux
and Sheila Ioannou, Commissioners, met with Kathryn Funk, the
Artist Residency Program Director, for a site inspection.
The Commission is concerned about the loss of some of the
most accessible and actively used trail segments. The
proposed residences will eliminate a section of both
Northern and Southern Orchard Trails, which link Norton Rd.
with Montalvo Rd. and Montalvo. These trails are frequently
used as weekday hour - round -trip hikes, as they are easily
accessed from downtown Saratoga. While the Commission
agrees that the artists' need for privacy makes the use
of these sections impossible, we would like to see alternate
routes established to maintain crucial linkages.
The Parks & Recreation Commission therefore requests that
Montalvo Associates ensure that the owner (Montalvo Associates)
and Lessee (Santa Clara County) reroute the trails around
the proposed development as follows:
1. The Nort''a^rn O.r.cb�r�5 Trail should be rerouted around
the r,ev.�,lopment. One part shoul(f follow..the Montalvo property
line, the other to!?ard tre Southern Orchard Trail.
2. The Southern Orchard Trail -needs to -be rerouted
to meet the Creek Trail, also starting from Norton Rd.
As the proposed development of the artists' cottages is
currently staked out, and the trails blocked, it is of
utmost importance to keep the Creek Trail accessible.
Maintenance has been neglected on both the Creek Trail and
part of the Southern Orchard Trail. We wo111d like to see
these conditions improvod immediately.
Heather Bradley
March 8, 1999
page 2
Finally, the Parks & Recreation Commission recognizes that
the development process is still at its early stages, and
that many changes are expected due to geological, financial
and legal issues. We therefore ask that final plans
showing the rerouted trail sections be brought to us before
construction begins, and that no occupancy permits be
issued without an inspection for compliance.
cc: Irene Jacobs, Staff Liasion, Parks & Rec. Comm.
Parks & Rec. Comm.
Kathryn Funk, Artist Residency Program Director
PREPARED 04/12/1999, 7:13:43
ACCOUNT ACTIVITY
LISTING
PAGE 1
PROGRAM GM360L
ACCOUNTING
PERIOD 10/1999
CITY OF SARATOGA
FUND 310 PARK DVLPMNT CAP PROJ FND
JOURNAL ACCTG - - -- TRANSACTION - - --
YTD /CURRENT
CURRENT
CD DATE PER. CD DATE NUMBER
D E S C R I P T I O N
ENCUMBRANCE
DEBITS
CREDITS
BALANCE
310- 0000 - 101.10 -01 POOLED CASH
GENERAL CHECKING
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/11/99 * *OFFSET **
JOURNAL SUMMARY
8,510.34
AP DISBURSEMENT 19990
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
8,510.34
8,510.34-
310- 0000 - 101.10 -02 POOLED CASH
SAVINGS
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/31/99 0045207
BLACKWELL PROPERTIES
18,630.00
VELASCOM 033199 02
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
18,630.00
.00
18,630.00
310 - 0000 - 101.10 -03 POOLED CASH
PAYROLL /CHECKING
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 0000 - 103.10 -00 CASH WITH FISCAL AGENT FIRST TRUST
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 0000 - 201.00 -00 LIABILITIES
VOUCHERS PAYABLE
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/11/99 * *OFFSET **
JOURNAL SUMMARY
8,510.34
AP DISBURSEMENT 19990
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/01/99 * *OFFSET **
JOURNAL SUMMARY
8,510.34
BATCH TYPE AP 01130
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
8,510.34
8,510.34
.00
310 - 0000 - 210.10 -03 ACCRUED SALARY & WAGES
ACCRUED LEAVE
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 0000 - 330.10 -00 UNRESERVED
DESIGNATED FOR OPERATIONS
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 0000 - 330.20 -00 UNRESERVED
UNDESIGNATED
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 0000 - 399.99 -01 BALANCING OFFSET ACCOUNTS EXPENDITURE CONTROL
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/01/99 * *OFFSET **
JOURNAL SUMMARY
8,510.34
BATCH TYPE AP 01130
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
8,510.34
.00
8,510.34-
� r1 vj
PREPARED 04/12/1999, 7:13:43
ACCOUNT ACTIVITY
LISTING
8,510.34
.00
PAGE 2
PROGRAM GM360L
.00
.00
.00
ACCOUNTING
PERIOD 10/1999
CITY OF SARATOGX
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND 310 PARK DVLPMNT CAP PROJ FND
JOURNAL ACCTG - - -- TRANSACTION - - --
YTD /CURRENT
CURRENT
CD DATE PER. CD DATE NUMBER D
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E S C R I P T I O N
ENCUMBRANCE
DEBITS
CREDITS
BALANCE
310- 0000 - 399.99 -02 BALANCING OFFSET ACCOUNTS
REVENUE CONTROL
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 04/02/99 * *OFFSET ** JOURNAL SUMMARY
18,630.00
BATCH TYPE AJ 01352
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
18,630.00
18,630.00
310 - 0000 - 399.99 -03 BALANCING OFFSET ACCOUNTS
ENCUMBRANCE CONTROL
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/01/99 * *OFFSET ** JOURNAL SUMMARY
8,237.86
BATCH TYPE AP 01130
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
8,237.86
8,237.86
310 - 0000 - 399.99 -04 BALANCING OFFSET ACCOUNTS
RESERVED FOR ENCUMB. CNTL
GJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/01/99 * *OFFSET ** JOURNAL SUMMARY
8,237.86
BATCH TYPE AP 01130
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
8,237.86
.00
8,237.86-
310- 0000 - 399.99 -05 BALANCING OFFSET ACCOUNTS
PRIOR YEAR RESERVE ENC.
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 3030 - 443.04 -00 PUBLIC WORKS
PARK DEVELOPMENT
RJ 04/08/99 09/99 AJ 03/31/99 0045207 BLACKWELL PROPERTIES
18,630.00
VELASCOM 033199 02
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
18,630.00
18,630.00
310 - 9010 - 622.40 -10 SERVICES GENERAL CONTRACTS
EJ 04/08/99 09/99 AP 03/09/99 0077503 BEALS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
SERVICES 26/11 - 2/1/99
PROJECT #: 9704
EJ 04/08/99 09/99 AP 03/09/99 0077524 ENGINEERING DATA SERVICE
ASI SYSTEM LABELS
PROJECT #: 9704
ACCOUNT TOTAL
310 - 9010 - 622.40 -16 SERVICES P.W. INSPECTION SERVICES
ACCOUNT TOTAL
310 - 9010 - 622.40 -17 SERVICES ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
ACCOUNT TOTAL
8,237.86- 8,237.86
272.48
8,237.86-
8,510.34
.00
8,510.34
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
.00
PREPARED 04/12/1999,
7 :13:43
ACCOUNT ACTIVITY
LISTING
PAGE 3
PROGRAM GM360L
ACCOUNTING
PERIOD 10/1999
CITY OF SARATOG;Z
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND 310 PARK DVLPMNT CAP PROJ FND
JOURNAL ACCTG
- - -- TRANSACTION- - --
YTD /CURRENT
CURRENT
CD DATE PER.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CD DATE NUMBER
D E S C R I P T I O N
ENCUMBRANCE
DEBITS
CREDITS
BALANCE
310- 9010 - 622.40 -40
SERVICES
ADVERTISING
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
310 - 9010 - 622.40 -41
SERVICES
PRINTING /BINDING
ACCOUNT TOTAL
.00
.00
.00
.00
FUND TOTAL
8,237.86-
52,398.88
62,518.54
47,379.66
GRAND TOTAL
8,237.86-
52,398.88
62,518.54
47,379.66
Special Meeting
Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting
Administrative Offices, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga
March 9, 1999
6:30 p.m.
Action Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Commissioners Present: Alberts, Clabeaux, Ioannou, Olsen, Swan, Whitney
Commissioners Absent: Friedrich
Others Present: Irene Jacobs, Phi Boyce, Katherine Funk
III. Report on Posting of the Minutes: Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2 the
agenda for this special meeting was properly posted on March 8, 1999.
IV. "Orchard of Artists Project ": The Parks and Recreation Commission met with
Phil Boyce and Katherine Funk to discuss the "Orchard of Artists Project" that is
currently being proposed for development on the Villa Montalvo property. Four
members of the Commission scheduled a site visit and walked the grounds last
Friday.
Commissioner Swan, head of the Trails Sub - committee, gave a summary of the
report that the committee had submitted to the Commission for review and final
approval; (please see attached document). Commissioner Whitney made a
motion to approve the recommendations from the Trails Sub - Committee and
forwarded these to Planning Staff and the Planning Commission. Commission
Clabeaux seconded the motion and the passed.
V. Joint Meeting with City Council: The Commission spent a few minutes reviewing
what each Commissioner would report since it had been decided at the last
meeting that the entire group would take part in the presentation to the City
Council.
VI. Adjournment
Commissioner Whitney made a motion to adjourn the meeting and
Commissioner Clabeaux seconded the motion. The motion carried and the
meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. to the joint Meeting with the City
Council.(5 /0)
Prepared By:
( % I
I e M. Jacobs
ty Staff Repres ntative
To: Heather Bradley, Associate Planner
City of Saratoga
From: Sheila Ioannou & Marianne Swan
Parks & Recreation Commissioners
Re: Villa Montalvo, 15400 Montalvo Road
Date: March 8, 1999
Montalvo Associates has applied for a building permit for
10 "Artist in Residence" cottages and a common building
on.the hill above Parking Lot 1.
The Parks & Recreation Commission was asked to review the
proposal and provide input on trail issues. Accordingly,
on March 5, 1999 Marianne Swan, Kay Whitney, Elaine Clabeaux
and Sheila Ioannou, Commissioners, met with Kathryn Funk, the
Artist Residency Program Director, for a site inspection.
The Commission is concerned about the loss of some of the
most accessible and actively used trail segments. The
proposed residences will eliminate a section of both
Northern and Southern Orchard Trails, which link Norton Rd.
with Montalvo Rd. and Montalvo. These trails are frequently
used as weekday hour - round -trip hikes, as they are easily
accessed from downtown Saratoga. While the Commission
agrees that the artists' need for privacy makes. the use
of these sections impossible, we would like to see alternate
routes established to maintain crucial linkages.
The Parks & Recreation Commission therefore requests that
Montalvo Associates ensure that the owner (Montalvo Associates)
and Lessee (Santa Clara County) reroute the trails around
the proposed development as follows:
1. The Northern Or.ch�r,3 Trail should be rerouted around
the eiev ^lopment. One part should follo -w.the Montalvo property
line, the other to!yard the Southern Orchard Trail.
2. The Southern Orchard Trail -needs to -be rerouted
to meet the Creek Trail, also starting from Norton Rd.
As the proposed development of the artists' cottages is
currently staked out, and the trails blocked, it is of
utmost importance to keep the Creek Trail accessible.
Maintenance has been neglected on both the Creek Trail and
part of the Southern Orchard Trail. We No111.d like to see
tbece conditions improvoe immediately.
Heather Bradley
March 8, 1999
page 2
Finally, the Parks & Recreation Commission recognizes that
the development process is still at its early stages, and
that many changes are expected due to geological, financial
and legal issues. We therefore ask that final plans
showing the rerouted trail sections be brought to us before
construction begins, and that no occupancy permits be
issued without an inspection for compliance.
cc: Irene Jacobs, Staff Liasion, Parks & Rec. Comm.
Parks & Rec. Comm.
Kathryn Funk, Artist Residency Program Director
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