PRC MIN 2006-08-23 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of August 23, 2006 Page 2 Elizabeth Travers of 27 Lowell Street said that she was "aghast" at the recommendations, specifically: 1. Increasing the amount of people which requires an exclusive use permit from 25 to 50 people. She felt that 50 people was too many for smaller parks, larger groups bring in more cars, and there is little or no parking at parks. 2. Would like to allow only Redwood City residents to be able to obtain exclusive use permits 3. Does not want to see jumpers allowed in any City park 4. Questioned what 15 feet means in terms of allowing structures in parks; did this mean linear or square feet. She felt that this size structure is too large to allow in parks. 5. Does not want BBQs to be allowed in parks 6. Questioning how the City will manage all of these changes. She would like to see weekend monitors in parks. 7. Asked for clarification of "escalated fines in Drug Free Zone" Director Centeno said this refers to the California Health and W ellness Code and that there are elevated fines for people who are arrested for using illegal drugs in parks. Director Centeno summarized each point Mrs. Travers offered, and also clarified that a 15 foot structure means in any direction. The maximum size could by 15' x 15' x 15 ' (or 225 square feet). Commissioner White thanked Mrs. Travers for her comments and wanted to also offer clarification and reasons why the Sub-Committee made certain suggestions including: 1. Liability with Jumpers - By using a permit reservation system, the Director may require proof of insurance and renters would have to sign a liability waiver. 2. Fifteen feet for a structure addressed shade issues that park users have expressed as important to them. 3. Staff did recommend that permits should be required for groups of 25 or more, but the Sub-Committee felt this number was too low and suggested it be increased to 50. Commissioner White felt that most parties have more than 25 people in attendance. 4. The Sub-Committee recommended removing the only building reference in the current City Ordinance which was the Veterans Memorial Senior Center. Commissioner Sargent said the 15 foot structure definition and size limit is acceptable to him. He also said he believes jump structures would be safer in parks than on people's own driveways or yards. Commissioner Wright said he believes most jump structures are electric powered and not gas powered anymore. Chairperson Slusser offered the following comments: 1. A 6 foot leash is standard and we should accept this change from 12 feet down to 6 feet. 2. Has concerns with any gas powered equipment in parks and felt they are a hazard and are noisy.