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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-08-2009 PRC Agenda Packet  City of Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission AGENDA   DATE: Tuesday, September 8, 2009  TIME: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.  LOCATION: Saratoga City Hall  Warner Hutton House  13777 Fruitvale Avenue  Saratoga, CA 95070  Call to Order  Roll Call  Report on Posting of the Agenda:  Pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2, this meeting was  properly posted on September 3, 2009.    Accept Agenda Items: No additional items may be added pursuant to Government Code Section  54954.2.  Oral & Written Communication: Any member of the public may address the Commission about any  matter not on the agenda for this meeting for up three minutes.  Commissioners may not  comment on the matter, but may choose to place the topic on a future agenda.  Commissioner Announcements  Approval of Draft Minutes: Draft Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) Minutes for the July 14, 2009  meeting.  Staff Reports:  (This section is informational only; no actions will be taken.)  1. Claudia Cauthorn, Interim Recreation and Facilities Director  2. Crystal Morrow, Staff Liaison  Old Business:  1. Azule Park – Petanque Court Location  Issue:  The PRC has been asked to recommend a location for a petanque court in Azule Park.   Action: PRC will recommend a location for the petanque court.    New Business:  2. Children’s Heritage Garden, Farm, and Heritage Trail  Issue: Kathryn Mathewson and Betty Peck are leading an effort to purchase a piece of property  in Saratoga and hope to turn the site into a City park called the Children’s Heritage  Garden, Farm, and Heritage Trail.  Doing so will require that the Council formally accept  the donation of land and designate it as a City park. Consequently, Matthewson and  Peck are seeking a recommendation from the PRC to the Council to accept the land and  designate it as park space should the property be obtained.    Action: PRC will make a recommendation to the City Council on whether or not to accept and  then designate the proposed Children’s Heritage Garden, Farm, and Heritage Trail site  as park space, should the property be acquired and donated to the City.  3. Amendment to Facility Use Policy and Fee Schedule  Issue: With the upcoming completion of the renovations of Fellowship Hall at the North  Campus, the City has started drafting a use policy for the North Campus to determine  appropriate use and hours of operation for the City facility. Additionally, the completion  Kevin Moran Park requires an update to the fee schedule to allow the City to charge for  rental of this park. The City Council is currently scheduled to take action on the  amendments to the facility use policy and fee schedule at the October 21, 2009 City  Council Meeting.   Action: PRC will make a recommendation to the City Council on the facility use policy for the  North Campus and fee schedule for Kevin Moran Park.   4. Joint Meeting Wrap Up  Issue:  On September 3, 2009, the City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission held a joint  meeting. During the meeting, the PRC members presented ideas for the Commission’s  future and received feedback from the Council on these proposals.   Action: PRC will review the joint meeting, discuss opportunities for the future, and update the  Commission work plan if necessary.   5. Park Adoption Plan   Issue:  At the July meeting, the Commission indicated an interest in creating a plan that would  allow Commissioners to adopt City parks and monitor assigned parks for any issues.   Action: PRC will develop park adoption plan and make park assignments.   Commissioner Reports  Agenda Items for Next Meeting  ‐ November 10, 2009  Adjournment    In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability‐ related modification or accommodation to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at  408.868.1269 or ctclerk@saratoga.ca.us. Requests must be made as early as possible and at least one full business  day before the start of the meeting.    Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Note:  In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials provided to the Parks  and Recreation Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda are available at the office of the City  Manager at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California 95070.  Any materials distributed by staff after the  posting of the agenda are made available for public review at the office of the City Manager at the time they are  distributed to the Parks and Recreation Commission.    Certificate of Posting of Agenda:  I, Crystal Morrow, Administrative Analyst II for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the  meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of Saratoga was posted on September 3, 2009 at the  office of the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 and was available for public review at  that location. The agenda is also available on the City’s website at www.saratoga.ca.us.     City of Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission MINUTES   DATE: Tuesday, July 14, 2009  TIME: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.  LOCATION: Saratoga City Hall  Warner Hutton House  13777 Fruitvale Avenue  Saratoga, CA 95070    Call to Order – 6:31 p.m.    Roll Call   Present: Goldberg, Soukup, Johnson   Absent: Bruno, Wilson  Staff: Cauthorn, Cherbone, and Morrow    Report on Posting of the Agenda:  Pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2, this meeting was  properly posted on July 9, 2009.      Accept Agenda Items: No additional items may be added pursuant to Government Code Section  54954.2.    Oral & Written Communication: Any member of the public may address the Commission about any  matter not on the agenda for this meeting for up three minutes.  Commissioners may not  comment on the matter, but may choose to place the topic on a future agenda.  ‐ No public comments    Commissioner Announcements  ‐ Goldberg announced that the Kevin Moran Park Grand Opening will be held on July 17, 2009 at  4:00 p.m.      Approval of Draft Minutes: Draft Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) Minutes for the May 12, 2009  meeting.  ‐ SOUKUP: MOVED TO APPROVE AS PRESENTED  ‐ JOHNSON: SECOND  ‐ APPROVED: 3‐0    Staff Reports:  (This section is informational only; no actions will be taken.)  1. John Cherbone, Director of Public Works  ‐ Cherbone reported that Public Works is doing some detail work before the opening of Kevin  Moran Park on July 17, 2009. Work includes repainting signs, light poles, and placing picnic  tables.   ‐ Cherbone added that he expects work on Joe’s Trail to start in the fall after the City receives an  agreement from the Santa Clara Valley Water District to start work. Once the agreement is  signed, the City will put the project out to bid.   2. Crystal Morrow, Staff Liaison  ‐ Morrow reported that the City will be holding a garage sale on August 8, 2009 and encouraged  Parks and Recreation Commissioners to participate.     Old Business:  1. Preparation for Joint Meeting with Saratoga City Council  Issue:  The City Council conducts joint meetings with each Saratoga Commission. The PRC is  scheduled to meet with the Council on September 2, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. in the  administrative conference room at City Hall.  Action: PRC will continue to prepare several discussion items for the joint meeting.   ‐ Goldberg noted that she wanted to use this opportunity to refine discussion items for the joint  meeting with the Saratoga City Council.   ‐ Johnson asked if the Commission has an annual brainstorming session and suggested that the  Commission hold a meeting to develop ideas about the needs and interests of the City related to  Parks and Recreation.    ‐ Soukup added that he really hoped to get a better get idea of what the Council thinks the  Commission should be focused on.   ‐ Goldberg indicated that she would like to see if the Commission should update the parks and  trail master plan. She added that the Commission could do the update rather than paying a  consultant to do it.   ‐ Johnson asked if the Commission could play a role in tree planting in City parks.   ‐ Goldberg added that in the past, the PRC had identified potential locations for benches in City  parks. The commission could do something similar with trees.   ‐ Johnson also suggested that the PRC could create beautification plans for public property.  ‐ Johnson noted that some of the City’s parks have undeveloped areas and suggested that the  PRC consider creating plans for these undeveloped areas.    ‐ Johnson suggested that each Commissioner be assigned to adopt a park and notify staff if there  are any problems or areas for improvement.   ‐ Goldberg said that this is something that the Commission used to do and asked that park  assignments be added to the September agenda.   ‐ Goldberg summarized the list of items to be discussed with the City Council:  o Facilitate tree planting and beautification in parks or on City property  o Parks and trails master plan update  o Supporting recreation programs  o Community events that encourage residents to use parks   o Plans for portions of City parks that are undeveloped   o Inventory parks and determine their needs, such as addition of benches or tree  plantings  o Evaluate the City’s park dedication fees and determine if the City is charging the  appropriate amount     2. North Campus Naming Process  Issue: The Council has directed the PRC to lead a public process to name the North Campus.   Action: PRC will finalize plans for the public process to name the North Campus.  ‐ Goldberg suggested that the naming process start after Labor Day.  ‐ Soukup agreed with Goldberg’s suggestion.  ‐ Goldberg explained that the rules for submission and evaluation require that names have either  a historical or environmental connection to the site.    ‐ Goldberg suggested that she and Morrow work together on creating a flyer and submission  form. Once created, Morrow will send both to the Commission for comments.    ‐ SOUKUP: MOVED THAT GOLDBERG AND MORROW CREATE A FLYER STATING THE PURPOSE OF  THE NORTH CAMPUS NAMING PROCESS, THE RULES FOR SUBMITTAL, PROPOSAL DROP OFF  LOCATIONS, A WEB ADDRESS WHERE PEOPLE CAN GET MORE INFORMATION OR SUBMIT  NAMES, AND A CONTACT THAT THE PUBLIC CAN REACH FOR MORE INFORMATION. IN  ADDITION TO THE FLYER, CONTENT FOR A WEB PAGE AND A PRESS RELEASE SHOULD BE  CREATED AND PUBLISHED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTAL SHOULD BE AT  LEAST A MONTH AFTER THE FLYER IS PUBLISHED OR UNTIL THE END OF SEPTEMBER,  WHICHEVER IS LONGER.  ‐ JOHNSON: SECOND  ‐ APPROVED: 3‐0    New Business:  3. Informational Report on Proposed Installation of a Petanque Court in Azule Park  Issue: The PRC has been asked to consider public input on the location of the court in the park  and recommend a location for the court to City staff. This report on the proposed  petanque court at Azule Park is intended to prepare the Commission for a decision at  the September meeting.    Action: Informational item, no action necessary.  ‐ Devin Utter, Saratoga resident, suggested potential petanque court locations in Azule Park,  including suggestions for court sizes and amenities. Utter added that while petanque can be   played on virtually any surface, the most commonly used surface is gravel over packed rock.   ‐ Goldberg commented that when that the Commission visited Azule Park and looked at proposed  locations, the site east of the tennis court appeared to be the best location as it did not require  removal of the horseshoe pits or picnic benches.   ‐ Cherbone added that the cheapest option is to build the petanque court on the site east of the  tennis court; removing grass, concrete, or park furniture would add costs to the project.   ‐ Cherbone noted that staff is currently in the process of determining what could be built with the  $20,000 the City received from Monte Sereno.  He expects work to being in the fall or winter.      4. Recreation Program Enrollment  Issue: During the January 2009 PRC meeting, the Commission decided to discuss opportunities  to help increase enrollment in Saratoga’s recreation programs.   Action: Discuss and create a plan to help encourage residents to enroll in the City’s recreation  programs.  ‐ Cauthorn reported on the Recreation and Facilities Department’s marketing plan, which she  developed with staff several months ago. She added that every city recreation department is  seeing a decline in enrollment, partly due to the economy and also due to increased  competition.   ‐ Cauthorn added that the PRC could help the Department’s outreach efforts by going to public  venues, such as Chamber of Commerce events and the local Farmers’ Market, to promote  Recreation programs and answer questions.    ‐ Cauthorn indicated that If Commissioners are willing to outreach to the community then staff  can provide Commissioners with upcoming event dates, informational packets, and Recreation  marketing materials.   ‐ Cauthorn also noted that enrollment is actually picking up this summer.   ‐ Goldberg asked which events PRC members could attend to encourage registration in  Recreation programs.   ‐ Cauthorn suggested farmers’ markets, Chamber of Commerce events, Village events, and  neighborhood association meetings and events.      5. September Meeting Date   Issue:  Currently, the PRC is scheduled to meet on September 8, 2009. Because Labor Day is  September 7, 2009, Commission Chair Goldberg has suggested moving the date of the  meeting to September 22, 2009.   Action: PRC will determine whether or not to reschedule the September meeting.   ‐ Goldberg asked if the Commission wanted to reschedule the September meeting date, since  September 7th is Labor Day.    ‐ The Commission agreed to keep the meeting date on September 8, 2009.     6. Proposed Ordinance Amending the City Code Requirements for Park Dedication and Fees   Issue:  On Wednesday, July 15, 2009, the Saratoga City Council will be asked to adopt  amendments to the City Code that will increase parkland dedications from a ratio of  three acres per 1,000 residents to five acres per 1,000 residents. Additional changes to  the Code that will ensure it complies with State law are also being proposed.   Action: PRC will review the proposed ordinance and make a recommendation to the City  Council.   ‐ Cherbone indicated that this agenda item is primarily administrative. It will bring the City’s Code  into compliance with the General Plan in regards to park dedication and fees.    ‐ SOUKUP: MOVED TO RECOMMEND THAT CITY COUNCIL ADOPT THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT.  ‐ JOHNSON: SECOND  ‐ APPROVED: 3‐0    Commissioner Reports   ‐ Goldberg provided an update on Kevin Moran Park grand opening events.     Agenda Items for Next Meeting  ‐ No additional items for the next meeting.   ‐   Adjournment – 9:03 p.m.    Minutes submitted by:  Crystal Morrow, Administrative Analyst II  City of Saratoga – City Manager’s Office      City of Saratoga  Memorandum    To: City of Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission  From: Crystal Morrow, Administrative Analyst II  City of Saratoga  Date: September 8, 2009  Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting  Subject: Azule Park—Petanque Court Location      After Council approved installation of a petanque court in Azule Park, the Parks and Recreation  Commission (PRC) was asked to make a recommendation on the location of the proposed  court. The City has allocated $20,000 towards installation of a petanque court in Azule Park.     Two sites in the park have been identified as potential locations. The proposed locations for the  petanque court are listed here:  ‐ Site 1: east of the tennis court  o Between the tennis court and the paved path that runs through the park  o Dimensions of the court are 30 feet by 80 feet (2400 square feet)  o Installation at this site is expected to be less expensive than Site 2  ‐ Site 2: north of the tennis court  o A horseshoe pit is currently located at this site  o Dimensions of the court are 40 feet by 65 feet (2600 square feet)    Playing Petanque:  Similar to English lawn bowling or Italian bocce ball, French petanque is usually played on a  hard dirt or gravel surface. The ideal surface is neither too soft nor too hard, allowing the  petanque balls to roll appropriately. Many petanque courts are made of decomposed granite  and have surface similar to a baseball diamond. While regulation courts are only 13 feet by 50  feet, recreational courts are often built much larger to accommodate more players.     Petanque can be played with as little as 2 people or in teams. The goal of the game is to toss a  hollow metal ball, a boule, as close as possible to a smaller target ball called a jack. Players can  also aim to knock the boules of their opponents away from the jack. One point is awarded for  each of the boules of a single team that lies between the jack and the best placed boule of the  opposing team. The first team to reach 13 points wins the game.     Attachment:  ‐ Resident proposal for size and location of a petanque court in Azule Park  Recommendations for Petanque Area Size and Location at Azule Park The regulation size court for petanque tournament play is 13 feet wide by 50 feet long (4 meters by 15 meters) or 650 square feet. However, only 4 to 6 people play on a tournament court. This is too small for a recreational petanque area. For family or recreational play, we recommend the petanque area be sized for two large games. Each game could have as many as 10 players, so each game area should be roughly equivalent to two regulation sized courts. This is equivalent to a total area of 2600 square feet. This is our recommended goal for a petanque area at Azule Park. Two locations at Azule will accommodate a petanque area very close to this goal with the least impact to existing park activities. One location is alongside the tennis court. A court 30 feet wide by 80 feet long (2400 square feet) fits nicely in this area. A par exercise station and three small trees would have to be relocated. The second location is the horseshoe pit area. A court 40 feet wide by 65 feet long (2600 square feet) fits in this area if the horseshoe pits and tables are relocated. We recommend either one of these two locations. (See attached sketch.) Other park locations are also possible, but might involve removal of existing grass. We also recommend the following features: • Terrain: three inches of crushed rock plus three inches of grey decomposed granite, at grade (not perfectly level but conforming to existing grade) • 4 x 4 wood-border • One entry for wheelchair access • Two benches or tables • Shade trees 6/ 1 9 / 2 0 0 9 Te n n i s C o u r t Pa t h Tw o R e c o m m e n d e d L o c a t i o n s fo r P e t a n q u e C o u r t a t A z u l e P a r k N (n o t t o s c a l e ) Bl u e H i l l s S c h o o l P l a y g r o u n d Pa r Pa r 30 80 H o r s e s h o e s 4 0 6 5 EI T H E R OR SARATOGA CHILDRENS GARDEN, FARM AND HISTORICAL CREEK TRAIL PROPOSAL (September 2009) 1. THE CHILDREN’S GARDEN: Buckman property, 14285 Saratoga Avenue: 1.3 acres with a 1920s wooden arts and crafts building; the land is owned by Eric Buckman. It is adjacent to the Peck Historical Garden with its many children and nature programs. 2. THE FARM: Santa Clara Valley Water District 3.5 acres with entrance on Walnut Avenue. Much of it is flat and sunny with about 1650 ft. of creek trail natural areas. 3. HISTORICAL CREEK TRAIL: The proposal is for a natural base trail along the north side of the creek on the Water District right of way. It will be on the edge of three privately owned parcels of land. Two are on Arbeleche Lane (one is a 7 unit HUD project) and the third is at Neales Hollow on Saratoga Sunnyvale Rd. The creek trail between the Village and the farm and is about 1100 feet (one-quarter mile) to the Village. It will connect to the high school through the Farm and along two Alta Vista Ave. blocks. STEPS WE ARE AND PLAN TO TAKE 1. We have prepared preliminary plans, aerials, and background information/history for the three parts of the proposal. Eric Buckman owns the land on Saratoga Avenue, is supportive of the plans, and has cleared pathways for visitors to view the land. His parents were teachers and his father was one of Willys Peck’s best friends. The urgency is because Eric needs money and is beginning to work with developers whose desire is to place condominiums on his land immediately. 2. We have met with the Water District to help solve some of the creek’s problems and discuss our proposal. They have agreed to allow a trail from the Farm along the Saratoga Creek to the Village and to giving the City their 3.5 acres for a farm. 3. We are educating Saratoga citizens about the uniqueness, importance, and timeliness of this plan. This is done by discussing the plans in the Peck’s home, taking people on a portion or all of the trail and into the properties, and showing them a slide show. We desire to gain support from Saratoga residents and to develop a volunteer support group and raise money. 4. In September and early October 2009 the plans and information will be presented to the Saratoga Parks and Trails Commissions and the City Council. The goal is to get their approval to allow these parcels of land to become Saratoga parks. 5. Upon receiving notice that the City will allow the two parcels of land into the city’s park system, we will immediately go to the Trust for Public Land (TPL) and the Mid Peninsula Open Space District to obtain the $4.4 million to purchase the Buckman land. For over 30 years TPL has been helping governments save important parcels of land which are in danger of development. They have indicated a strong interest in this multi disciplinary approach to creating a unique necklace of urban open spaces. 6. We would also like to establish a foundation to help develop and maintain these city parks and to create unique and needed children and nature programs building on the Peck legacy. It would be headquartered in the Buckman historical home. For further information contact: Betty or Anna Peck Rainville at 408-867-3156 BettyPeck@aol.com or Kathryn Mathewson at 408-292-9595 kmathewson@secretgardens.com SARATOGA CHILDREN’S GARDEN AND FARM ON SARATOGA CREEK TRAIL September 2009 ACTIVITIES FOR BOTH CHILDREN’S GARDEN AND FARM Growing food, harvesting, preserving, storage, cooking, sales Picnicking, eating, BBQ Nature art and crafts (baskets, birdhouses, wreaths, dies for painting, cards, jewelry, sculpture, painting, poetry, paper making Growing seeds, flowers, grasses, gourds, bulbs for activities Making pottery and wood projects Collecting and saving seeds Educational programs and tours (especially for schools) Water oriented education (testing, education, observation, and springs) Dancing and games in the native grass meadow Story Telling Hiding and crawling places (dwarf buildings, caves, holes in trees, willow tunnels) Outdoor Theatre for dance, music, and poetry performances Outdoor classrooms Play, walking, observing nature and exploring everywhere Parking for cars and bikes CHILDREN’S GARDEN SPACE IDEAS Adventure Playground Secret Garden Fairy Garden Tree house, Playhouses Wind in the Willows Garden Plants with stories and history Plants with unusual shapes, seeds, flowers, or colors Native Woodland and Riparian Gardens plants Wildlife Garden for food and habitat (birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, bees, bats) Fragrant Garden Plants Drought and Water Gardens Touching Garden Aviary Poetry Garden Fantasy Sculptural Garden Main House as Foundation office and educational area 1 2 FARM SPACE IDEAS Orchard Vegetable Garden Flowers, Herbs Cold Frames for winter food growing Barn (square dances, classes, performances, community events) Windmill May Pole Dancing Big Meadow for events and gatherings Trails along the creek and that connect to the high school and Village Cultural Gardens (Latino, Chinese, East Indian) Environmental Garden (solar, electric cars, compost and healthy soil) Woodland garden along the creek Demonstration area for native plants and how to use them (especially the native American Indian culture) Native Indian Village along creek Aquarium and pond for fish Bridge over creek that connects to Children’s Heritage Garden Plants that attract beneficial insects around the perimeters of the gardens Picnic Tables Parking for Bikes and Cars Note: All paths and garden rooms to have natural materials such as wood chips or leaves. September 3, 2009 Dear Commissioners and Council Members, At a time when the term “nature deficit disorder” describes the growing disconnect between children and the natural world, a unique opportunity is presenting itself here in Saratoga. This city nestled against the foothills and once part of an agricultural legacy of the Santa Clara Valley still holds the possibility for nature to serve as a quiet teacher and to be a model for children’s good health and well being. While a call to save the environment, the rainforest and endangered wildlife persists, there is open space within our own city limits that deserves attention. The proposal has many levels. The big picture is a children’s garden and farm with an educational center on creekside property with a trial connecting to the Village. There are potentially three combined properties within walking distance of several public and private schools. The garden/farm would allow children and their families to become stewards of the earth as they learn to grow vegetables, fruits and grains and participate in the cycles of the year. Good health also comes through healthy play in nature. The proposal calls for designated play areas. Educational programs emphasizing ecological and environmental awareness, crafts and activities are part of the big picture. The Saratoga Creek runs through the proposed site bringing a new dimension of preserving and utilizing the creek as a community asset. The inspiration for the proposal comes from the many cultural and educational events held by my parents, Betty and Willys Peck, at the Peck Heritage Gardens. As a life-long Saratoga resident, my father has witnessed the changing landscape of the valley. Through his writing, his role as Town Historian and involvement with the Historical Foundation, he has helped preserve the qualities of the town he loves so well. I grew up in a garden where his interests in trains, theater and printing came to life. My mother's passion for children and gardens has bloomed in many ways through the founding of the Los Gatos Saratoga Observation Nursery School, the Saratoga Community Garden and her own Kindergarten at Saratoga School. She continues her celebration of life through the quarterly Kindergarten Forum, the annual May Day gathering, the weekly salon and many other welcoming activities. My 1 2 parents, both authors and creative forces for building a vibrant sense of community, love Saratoga. Their legacy will continue to grow through this proposal. Please come to see the plans and walk the land. There are organized walks on Friday mornings at 10 or please call to make other arrangements before your respective meetings. Your interests and questions are important. For further information contact Betty Peck at (408) 867-3156, bettypeck@aol.com or Kathryn Mathewson at (408) 292- 9595, kmathewson@secretgardens.com. I look forward to meeting you. Sincerely, Anna Peck Rainville 14275 Saratoga Avenue, Saratoga, CA (408) 872-1456 annarainville@aol.com 1 Crystal Morrow From:Kathryn Mathewson [kmathewson@secretgardens.com] Sent:Thursday, September 03, 2009 1:50 PM To:Crystal Morrow Cc:annarainville@aol.com; 'Betty Peck' Subject:Children's Garden, Farm, and Saratoga Heritage Creek Trail info Attachments:Saratoga Creek Trail, Farm, Children's Garden.doc; Saratoga Creek.pdf; Saratoga Children's Garden Ideas.doc; Saratoga Anna's Letter to City 9-09.doc TO: Chrystal Morrow and Parks and Recreation Commissioners: We are looking forward to presenting our plans for the Children's Garden, Farm, and Saratoga Heritage Creek Trail Presentation on September 8, 2009 at 6:30 pm. Our minimal goal for this meeting is to get your approval to include two parcels of land along Saratoga Creek (Water District's 3.5 acres and Buckman family at 1.3 acres) into the Saratoga parks system and send your support to the City Council. This is urgent because the Buckman property is in danger of being developed into condominiums. To get funding from the Trust for Public Land we need City Council support for this. The development and maintenance of these parcels will be similar to what the City of Saratoga has with the Hakone Japanese Garden. This means a foundation will develop the land, provide programs to the public, and maintain the two parcels. To allow you opportunity to study our proposal I am sending you in advance the following: 1. Proposal Description and the steps we are taking 2. 4 plans (Property lines and public ownerships, Historical notes and current usage and problems,Master Plan for the Creek Trail and the Farm, and Master Plan for the Children's Garden) 3. Aerial of the area showing property lines 4. Proposed Activities and space ideas for the Children's Garden and Farm 5. Email from Anna Peck Rainville with an invitation to walk the land 6. 2 published articles by Anna Peck Rainville regarding the importance of children and nature today If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call or email me, Betty Peck (408-867-3156) or Anna Rainville Peck ( Kathryn Mathewson 408-292-9595 kmathewson@secretgardens.com 1 Crystal Morrow From:annarainville@aol.com Sent:Thursday, September 03, 2009 2:12 PM To:Iveta Harvancik; Crystal Morrow Subject: correctedFwd: Children's Garden, Farm and Heritage Creek Trail Invitation to Walk the Land Hello: I have corrected Kathryn's email address on this version. This would be the one to send out, please. Thank you so much. anna -----Original Message----- From: annarainville@aol.com To: cmorrow@saratoga.ca.us; iharvancik@saratoga.ca.us Sent: Thu, Sep 3, 2009 10:50 am Subject: re: Children's Garden, Farm and Heritage Creek Trail Invitation to Walk the Land Dear Commissioners and Council Members, At a time when the term “nature deficit disorder” describes the growing disconnect between children and the natural world, a unique opportunity is presenting itself here in Saratoga. This city nestled against the foothills and once part of an agricultural legacy of the Santa Clara Valley s till holds the possibility for nature to serve as a quiet teacher and to be a model for children’s good health and well being. While a call to save the environment, the rainforest and endangered wildlife persists, there is open space within our own city limits that deserves attention. The proposal has many levels. The big picture is a children’s garden and farm with an educational center on creekside property with a trial connecting to the Village. There are potentially three combined properties within walking distance of several public and private schools. The garden/farm would allow children and their families to become stewards of the earth as they learn to grow vegetables, fruits and grains and participate in the cycles of the year. Good health also comes through healthy play in nature. The proposal calls for designated play areas. Educational programs emphasizing ecological and environmental awareness, crafts and activities are part of the big picture. The Saratoga Creek runs through the proposed site bringing a new dimension of preserving and utilizing the creek as a community asset. The inspiration for the proposal comes from the many cultural and educational events held by my parents, Betty and Willys Peck, at the Peck Heritage Gardens. As a life-long Saratoga resident, my father has witnessed the changing landscape of the valley. Through his writing, his role as Town Historian and involvement with the Historical Foundation, he has helped preserve the qualities of the town he loves so well. I grew up in a garden where his interests in trains, theater and printing 2 came to life. My mother's passion for children and gardens has bloomed in many ways through the founding of the Los Gatos Saratoga Observation Nursery School, the Saratoga Community Garden and her own Kindergarten at Saratoga School. She continues her celebration of life through the quarterly Kindergarten Forum, the annual May Day gathering, the weekly salon and many other welcoming activities. My parents, both authors and creative forces for building a vibrant sense of community, love Saratoga. Their legacy will continue to grow through this proposal. Please come to see the plans and walk the land. There are organized walks on Friday mornings at 10 or please call to make other arrangements before your respective meetings. Your interests and questions are important. For further information contact Betty Peck at (408) 867-3156, bettypeck@aol.com or Kathryn Mathewson at (408) 292- 9595, kmathewson@secretgardens.com. I look forward to meeting you. Sincerely, Anna Peck Rainville (408) 872-1456 Vi st a H o l l o w Al t aWalnutAve. S e a g r a v e s Squi r r el P l .V i c t o r W o r d e n W y . Mari onWay Ar bel eche Burns Ln. Barksdal e L n. Brookwood Way SARATOGA L a P a l o m a O r c h a r d Lut her i a A v e . R d . O r c h a r d P a r k P a l o m a A v e . P l . 0 150 300 450 60075 Feet ± National Kindergarten Alliance P.O. Box 309, Agua Dulce, Texas 78330 Connecting Children to Nature April 15, 2008 Dear Members and Friends of the National Kindergarten Alliance, As kindergarten teachers, we know that nature has always been one of our first teachers. Through a richness of diversity in patterns, textures, forms, and color, she graciously serves a feast for our senses, the faithful turning of seasons and the lawful cycle of life. On her beaches, under her canopies, even in her relentless and abiding presence in cities and sidewalk cracks, nature patiently invites us to participate. Powers of observation are honed, limbs exercised, senses nourished, feelings quickened and wonder awakened. What more could we want for the young child? This letter is to inform you that April has been designated Children and Nature Awareness Month by the Children and Nature Network (C&NN), a national organization catapulted to the forefront following the overwhelming response to Richard Louv’s timely book, The Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder. Concerns for children’s health have caused communities to organize and work collaboratively; there are currently 47 regional movements across the country dedicated to reconnecting children with nature. In January 2008, I was privileged to represent the National Kindergarten Alliance at one of these collaborative meetings at the Silicon Valley Community Foundation in Mountain View, CA. My colleagues included the head of pediatrics at Kaiser Permanente, the director of the Alliance for Childhood, professors from Stanford’s Department of Education, representatives from Hooked on Nature, Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital, London’s Adventure Playgrounds, The Health Trust and Healthy Silicon Valley, Children and Nature Network and Children in Nature. It was inspiring to hear the work in progress on behalf of the wellbeing of the young child through advocacy in play, health, education and nature. How can our scripted lessons compare with watching hatching chicks, tasting the first falling snow, smelling the freshness of evergreen branches, and hearing the hoot of an owl in an old growth forest? The National Kindergarten Alliance encourages you to take the initiative to reconnect children with nature. As kindergarten teachers we can nurture children’s relationship with nature through the joy of discovering the first sprout peeking through the soil, the crunching of dried leaves along trails, or the feeling of mud between our toes in creeks. We live in a time when such experiences must be intentional for the health of children and the future of the earth. Included you will find a list of resources for reference and practical suggestions for the fortunate children in your care. Sincerely, Anna Rainville for the Board of Directors of the National Kindergarten Alliance National Kindergarten Alliance – Leading Kindergarten in the 21st Century Fax: 361-998-2333 www.nkateach.org RESOURCES The Children & Nature Network (C&NN) was created to encourage and support the people and organizations working to reconnect children with nature. C&NN provides access to the latest news and research in the field and a peer-to-peer network of researchers and individuals, educators and organizations dedicated to children's health and well-being. Children and Nature 2008: A Report on the Movement to Reconnect Children to the Natural World http://www.cnaturenet.org/uploads/CNMovement.pdf A valuable C&NN resource includes an executive summary of two volumes and over forty research reports that include a full citation and a PDF if available, or a link to each study in its entirety, or contact information if the study is not available online. The first volume focuses on the benefits of nature and the second volume on evidence of changes in children’s experience of nature. http://www.cnaturenet.org/research/volumes/C16/16 April marks the release of the second edition of "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder," by Richard Louv. This revised edition includes a "Field Guide" with 100 practical actions we can take; 35 discussion points for book groups, classrooms, and communities; new and updated research from the U.S. and abroad; and a progress report on the movement The web site for Richard Louv has compiled helpful resources for parents, teachers, and community leaders to help them encourage children's enjoyment of the great outdoors. These resources include Nature Activities for Kids and Families, Good Books for Kids and Families, and Helpful Links. http://richardlouv.com/children-nature-resources National Wildlife Federation has created a wonderful website introducing the “Green Hour”. By giving our children a "Green Hour" a day -- a bit of time for unstructured play and interaction with the natural world -- we can set them on the path toward physical, mental, and emotional well-being. http://www.greenhour.org/ The Health Benefits of Parks - As the nation's leading conservation group creating parks in and around cities, The Trust for Public Land launched its Parks for People initiative in the belief that every American child should enjoy convenient access to a nearby park or playground. This new, fully footnoted white paper—The Health Benefits of Parks: How Parks Help Keep Americans and Their Communities Fit and Healthy—draws from the latest research and topics include: • Parks, greenways, and trails enable and encourage people to exercise. • Exposure to nature improves psychological and social health. • Play is critical for child development. • Parks help build healthy, stable communities. http://www.tpl.org/tier3_cd.cfm?content_item_id=21053&folder_id=175 The Alliance for Childhood promotes policies and practices that support children’s healthy development, love of learning, and joy in living. Their public education campaigns bring to light both the promise and the vulnerability of childhood. On the website is information about a new 55-minute PBS documentary, produced by Michigan Television, now available for public screenings by schools, universities, and community organizations. The brainchild of Elizabeth Goodenough, the film examines the social and technological trends that conspire to rob children of their birthright: time and opportunity for unstructured, spontaneous play, especially outdoors in nature. http://www.allianceforchildhood.org/ Thanks to Mary Roscoe of Children in Nature Collaborative (info@cincbayarea.org) for compiling the list of resources. Think Globally, Play Locally: A Coast-to-Coast Perspective of Reclaiming Play Spaces and Play By Anna Rainville for the Alliance for Childhood, November 8, 2008 first published in ecology.com A brilliant blue-sky Sunday afternoon in June: a perfect day to search for secret gardens in Manhattan’s lower east side. Here are some of the carefully tended treasures of a city that holds 600 community green spaces. On this Sunday, my two companions and I with map and lists in hand were in search of places where children play. What we found were a surprising number of community gardens where, clearly, the adults were having as much fun as the children working in the plots or sharing a freshly harvested meal while the children played along the sheltered paths or under drooping willow branches. Near an outcropping of huge boulders, I heard young voices coming from inside a large bush. Suddenly two heads popped out of the broad-leafed fort, giggled at the sight of surprised spectators and disappeared under the green. I caught a glimpse of the same sprightly two making their way over a trail of stepping stones leading to a lower level of the garden. This small section of the city block, transformed by willing neighbors, sparked the children’s imaginations and inspired their play. How rewarding to find such refreshment just down the street and around the corner! One can almost anticipate the presence of a garden in the neighborhood by the sudden change of density. In a city whose foundation is so tightly sealed any exposed portion of earth sends out a cry of delight! Instead of towering brick buildings-- an unexpected patch of sky, a fresh waft of scents, leafy greens and shimmering light through stately branches against a high fence with a gate and sign of welcome. Each garden whether on a spacious corner lot or tucked between crowded dwellings serves a neighborhood providing a place for both children and adults to spend time in nature. Their history harkens back to the ‘70’s when residents whose interest in changing the quality of neighborhoods resulted in claiming neglected or abandoned lots and turning them into gardens. Organizations, such as Green Thumb, Green Guerillas and the New York Restoration Project, formed at that time and continue to be key players in the greening of the city. Their efforts provide essential venues where children and nature meet. While children of the lower East Side are at play in the community gardens, across the country in the West, another greening is taking place. Recently I attended a conference in San Francisco sponsored by San Francisco Green Schoolyard Alliance. The room, lined with tables representing area schools and organizations, hummed with stories, advice, and encouragement for transforming blacktops, rooftops and empty lots into thriving gardens and play spaces. School play grounds, with emphasis on play and ground, are experiencing a revival as community gathering places. New designs and priorities address an expanded sense of play and the urgency for reconnecting with nature. Guest speaker, Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder, commended the participants on their vision and perseverance on behalf of the health of our children and planet. By naming the dilemma, Louv has galvanized many existing children-in-nature advocacy groups to join forces. Currently more than forty such regional movements are bringing together people in the areas of health and education and the environment. One example is in Silicon Valley where Children in Nature Collaborative hosted an October event for over 80 guests, including 35 organizations, all guided by their commitment to the healthy child. Bouquets of garden flowers and tall grasses, a delicious autumnal lunch, time for conversation, consideration of a strategic plan for local action and inspiration from lawmakers, social activists and designers all combined to create an atmosphere heralding change and meaning for the youngest earth stewards. A festive mood prevailed, the kind where one knows the right thing is about to happen. Over the last few months, from coast to coast, I have been very encouraged to meet with individuals and corporations who are passionate about their advocacy for children, play and nature. However, there remains a gnawing concern for those who are working every day with our children: the teachers. As a board member of the National Kindergarten Alliance, I hear distressing accounts of diminishing recess opportunities, scripted lessons, premature academic expectations, and the decrease of unstructured play in favor of more instructional time. At the fall meeting, the topic of play and the impact made by its absence in school and home settings revealed a startling urgency. One member, Penny Pillack, a former kindergarten teacher and now principal of a school in south Texas, commented that 85-90% of the disciplinary referrals to her office are from the unstructured play time. Children, losing the ability to develop social and conflict resolution skills through the art of playing, resort to physical and violent alternatives. Marilyn Murdock, a long-time Alabama kindergarten teacher, observed that four and five year olds entering kindergarten have no “walkin’around sense,” a phenomena she attributes to the lack of unstructured play time. The rigorous curriculum barrels ahead without the necessary breathing spaces for play let alone time outside. The question is always, how does one manifest change? My two companions in the June garden search are leaders in that realm: Joan Almon, co-founder and co-director of the Alliance for Childhood and Penny Wilson, playworker from London’s Adventure Playgrounds. Joan, recognized internationally for her years of experience in early childhood education, speaks eloquently about child development and the need for play. Led by Joan and co-founder and co-director of the Alliance for Childhood, Ed Miller, the Alliance’s current campaign centers on unstructured play with all its manifestations. Besides facilitating play, Penny is adept at inviting people of all ages to recall and savor their own play memories as a step towards acknowledging the importance of play for a healthy foundation. At the first annual conference on play held at Sarah Lawrence College, Penny led this exercise in such a profound manner that by the time the stories concluded, the room had transformed into a lush field of possibilities. The incidents of remembered play spanning decades, outdoors and inside, alone and with friends, spoke convincingly of the true value and power of play. The experience repeated itself with workers of the Battery Park Conservancy and the New York City Parks and Recreation. Reclaiming play spaces in nature and the right for unstructured play go hand in hand: all research points to a dynamic and successful merge. Take heart in the example of the downtown Denver Play Plan, an ambitious project underway to create green imaginative play spaces, large and small, designed for optimum play and community within 1/8 mile of every city resident. Initiatives like this really do make it possible to think globally about the greening of the planet and still play locally. Our biography of place-- the land and unique vegetation which served as the backdrop for our childhood-- becomes increasingly more important as those sacred places that live in our memory are bulldozed, developed, eliminated. Preserving green spaces is not just a national issue: the small, intimate patches of green in backyards and corner lots require the same respectful concern as the acres of wilderness and wooded havens. Here is where lessons grow under our feet and all around, inviting us into patient observation and wonder. As our first teacher, nature informs our senses, expands our capacities and opens us to mystery. Early impressions of running barefoot over tickling grass, looking out from one’s perch in a favorite climbing tree or picking fragrant stems of lilac are carried into our adulthood where, if we are lucky, they remind us to, literally, return to our senses. For me, images of the backyard creek, wading up and down the pebbly bed, searching for squirmy pollywogs, and building rock dams and forts from fallen branches still come alive. My mother, now in her late eighties, still holds the nights she spent as a farm child sleeping on the hay wagon under the blazing Milky Way of the night sky as one of the pivotal points in her life. It is serious business to be a child. Great care must be taken to choose all the right fundamental experiences from which to grow and thrive. Play is the perfect beginning. Nature deepens and enhances possibilities. Play in nature is the best gift of all, for everyone. Parks & Recreation Commission TO: Chair: Denise Goldberg Commission Members: Vice Chair: Lerry Wilson Vita Bruno Mark Johnson Thomas Soukup FROM: Interim Recreation & Facilities Director Claudia Cauthorn DATE: September 8, 2009 SUBJECT: Amendment to Facility Use Policy and Fee Schedule. ____________________________________________________________ Facility Use Policy – North Campus With the impending completion of the renovations at the North Campus Fellowship Hall, a few adjustments need to be made to existing facility use policies. In order to craft a policy that will be effective and meet the needs of both the City and the surrounding neighbors of the North Campus site, a community engagement process was initiated to gain insight as to the issues that will arise with the commencement of activities at this location. A meeting announcement (attached) was sent to all residents within a 300 foot radius of the North Campus site as well as to known interested parties on August 25, 2009. The announcement was also posted on the City’s website and a news release was sent to the Saratoga Weekly. The community meeting took place on Tuesday, September 1, 2009 at 6:00 P.M. in the Administration Wing (fireside room) of the North Campus. 16 persons were in attendance as well as four staff members. Staff initiated the meeting by thanking the residents for coming to help construct a use policy that will meet the needs of all parties. The constraints on crafting this policy are that, given the City’s financial situation, the North Campus has been looked to as a revenue source and yet due to its’ proximity to the surrounding neighborhood these uses may need to be limited to mitigate traffic and noise issues that will affect the residents. A lively and very helpful discussion ensued with the primary concerns of late night hours and the noise generated from evening uses voiced by residents. The issue of the Taiko drummers practicing at the site was also discussed and staff has indicated that this group will relocate to the Administration building once the Fellowship Hall is open and the current occupant in the Administration Building (an aerobics class) will move to the Fellowship Hall. The group consensus was that activities should begin no earlier than 8:00 A.M. daily and cease by 9:00 P.M. on weeknights (Sunday through Thursday) and by 10:00 P.M. on weekends (Friday and Saturday). This means that the event organizers must be cleaned up and all attendees gone from the premises by the times indicated. These operating hours will enable the City to rent the facilities to 1 2 some of the groups and types of uses currently requested at the Joan Pisani Community Center and will not cause undue hardship on the surrounding residential neighborhood. It was further agreed that doors and windows remain closed at all times during events to keep the noise levels to an acceptable level. However, the time restraints outlined at the neighborhood meeting will constrain the City’s ability to generate revenue at this location as it will require that a group will have to end activities by 8:00 P.M. on weeknights and by 9:00 P.M. on weekends in order to clean up and load excess materials into their vehicles. A good number of the requests currently received for rental uses at the Joan Pisani Community Center well exceed those limitations. As an example for the period of January 1 through June 30, 2009, fifty-nine rental uses were booked. Thirty-two of these rentals ended after 10:00 P.M. most of which ended at midnight or later. We recently received a call (on 9/2/09) from the Saratoga Rotary Club wishing to have a special event at the Fellowship Hall with an end time of 10:00 P.M. on a Monday night in November. They are awaiting the outcome of this policy to determine if they will host their event here or at some other location. Staff is concerned that limiting the ending time for operations to 9:00 P.M. on weekends (plus the 1 hour needed for clean up, loading and evacuating the parking lot) will result in significantly fewer uses at the North Campus than needed to cover operating expenses. Other issues discussed at the group meeting were keeping the doors and windows closed during events to prevent noise from leaking out to the neighborhood and enacting a smoking ban at the site so users would not be inclined to go outside and socialize while smoking (hence eliminating extra noise). Neighbors indicated that the church that occupied the site previously had an ending time of 9:00 P.M. on weeknights and 10:00 P.M. on weekends plus ½ hour to clear the parking lot of guests. City staff is in the process of placing “Quite Zone” signs in and around the parking lot to remind users to be respectful of the neighbors. It was also suggested that a “hot line” be set up where residents could call for assistance if an event becomes disruptive. The neighbors were also concerned that there might not be enough parking spaces to accommodate users and that the overflow parking would intrude into the neighborhood. The Parks and Recreation Commission is requested to evaluate the findings generated from this community meeting and to provide input on the operating policy as appropriate. Feedback from the Parks and Recreation Commission will be included in the Council Report and City Council is expected to take formal action on this issue at their October 21, 2009 regular meeting. Fee Schedule – Kevin Moran Park Additionally now that Kevin Moran Park is complete, a fee schedule for use of that park needs to be adopted. Staff recommends that the fees be consistent with fees charged for other City of Saratoga parks. The attached proposed fee schedule is consistent with the fees charged at El Quito, Wildwood and other City parks. No fee schedule needs to be adopted for the North Campus as fees were incorporated into the most recent fee schedule. PARK & FACILITY RENTAL FEES  FY2009/10    Kevin Moran Park    Resident  Non‐resident  Picnic Area  (2) ‐ no Barbeque    $35/day/area  $50/day/area  Bocce Courts (2)    $10/hour/court  $15/hour/court  Tennis Court     $10/hour  $15/hour  North Campus North Campus Neighborhood MeetingNeighborhood Meetinggggg When: Tuesday, September 1, 2009 Time: 6:00 P.M. Where: North Campus -Admin Building 19849 Prospect Road, Saratogapg We are approaching completion of the remodeling at the City’s North Campus site In order to begin activities Citys North Campus site. In order to begin activities there, we would like your ideas on the scope of activities and hours for operations. Please join us to share your thoughts and opinions on this topic. Light refreshments will be served. For more information please contact: City of Saratogayg Claudia Cauthorn, Interim Recreation Director 868-1250 or ccauthorn@saratoga.ca.us   City of Saratoga  Memorandum    To: City of Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission  From: Crystal Morrow, Administrative Analyst II  City of Saratoga  Date: September 8, 2009  Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting  Subject: Joint Meeting Wrap Up      The Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) held its joint meeting with the City Council on  September 2, 2009. During the meeting, the PRC presented ideas for the future of the  Commission and received Council response to these proposals. This agenda item has been  created to provide the PRC with the opportunity to review the discussion, explore opportunities  for the Commission, and update the work plan.     The Commission last reviewed its work plan in January 2009. At the time, the work plan only  included items up until July 2009. Items on the work plan created in January included:  ‐ Joint Meeting with the Youth Commission (completed March 2009)  ‐ Discussion on Recreation Department enrollment (completed July 2009)  ‐ Informational report on field use (completed May 2009)  ‐ Discussion on Joe’s Trail  ‐ Preparation for the joint meeting with the City Council (completed May 2009 and July  2009)  ‐ North Campus naming (ongoing)  ‐ Observation of Tollgate property developments (ongoing)        City of Saratoga  Memorandum    To: City of Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission  From: Crystal Morrow, Administrative Analyst II  City of Saratoga  Date: September 8, 2009  Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting  Subject: Park Adoption Plan      During the July 2009 meeting, the PRC decided to create a park adoption plan for  Commissioners. Each PRC member would be assigned to monitor City parks, record any issues,  and report them to the Public Works Director.     Park Assignments  The City maintains a total of 14 parks/open space areas, which are listed below. The PRC will  need to determine which Commissioners will be responsible for monitoring the parks listed  here.     Park Name Park Location  Azule Park 12777 Goleta Avenue  Beauchamps Park Beauchamps Lane and Bowhill Court  Bellgrove Park Bellgrove Circle  Blaney Plaza/Historical Park 20450 Saratoga‐Los Gatos Road  Brookglen Park 12734 Brookglen Drive  Calabazas Creek Picnic Area Next to 12175 Saratoga Sunnyvale Road  Congress Springs Park 12970 Glen Brae Drive  El Quito Park 12855 Paseo Presada  Foothill Park 20654 Seaton Avenue  Gardiner Park 19085 Portos Drive  Heritage Orchard Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale Avenue  Kevin Moran Park 12415 Scully Avenue  Ravenwood Park 13830 Ravenwood Drive  Wildwood Park 20764 4th Street     Recording Options  During the discussion on the park adoption plan, it was suggested that each Commissioner use  a park map to indicate problems or issues. Each Commissioner could take the map during  inspections to make record any issues and then give the maps to the Public Works Director.     Schedule  In addition to adopting parks and determining recording options, Commissioners will need to  decide how often parks will be inspected and when results are to be reported to the Public  Works Director.