HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin - BC - 2009.02.05BURLINGAME BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 5, 2009
The regularly scheduled meeting of the Beautification Commission was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
by Chairperson Lahey.
Chairperson Lahey welcomed new Commissioners Karen Dittman and Mary Hunt and asked that
they introduce themselves to the Commission. Following the introductions, the meeting was called to
order.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chairperson Lahey, Commissioners Benson, Carney, Dittman, Hunt, and McQuaide
Absent: Commissioner Wright
Staff: Parks & Recreation Director Schwartz, Interim Parks Superintendent Foell, and
Admin. Secretary Harvey
Guests: Jean Ann Carroll (1525 Meadow Lane); Eric & Daniele Botelho (1529 Meadow
Lane); Paul Sahlin (1537 Meadow Lane); Charles Voltz (725 Vernon Way); Avery
Diamond (1604 Easton Drive); Susan Gambrioli (1541 Westmoor Road); Mark
Zagorski (1536 Westmoor Road); Erin Stannard (1528 Westmoor Road); and Sharon
O'Byrne (1533 Meadow Lane).
MINUTES — Minutes were approved as submitted.
CORRESPONDENCE
Letter from Erin Stannard (1528 Westmoor Road) appealing the City Arborists approval to remove a
protected Redwood tree at 1533 Meadow Lane.
Letter to the Burlingame Historical Society from Superintendent Foell thanking them for the
generous donation of $1,200 for placement of a bench in the Washington Park Fragrance Garden in
memory of Marilyn Short.
Beautification Commission Responsibilities: Municipal Code 3.28.050 Powers and duties.
Draft letter to Realtors (composed by Commissioner McQuaide) requesting they provide important
information to their clients with regard to City of Burlingame tree policies.
Responsibilities on Broadway for Parks Division Staff verses Broadway Merchants responsibilities
submitted by Superintendent Foell.
FROM THE FLOOR
Avery Diamond, 1604 Easton Drive, stated his neighbors are complaining about leaf blowers and
asked where he could direct those concerns. Director Schwartz commented that staff would contact
him and refer him to the Code Enforcement Officer for the City of Burlingame.
There being no further comments 'From the Floor', Commissioner Lahey requested and the
Commission approved that the meeting order be changed to accommodate the public who were in
attendance.
NEW BUSINESS
Appeal of the Permitted Removal of a Private Redwood Tree A 1533 Meadow Lane
Superintendent Foell informed the Commission and the public of the hearing process and procedure
and the Agenda was corrected to read. 1533 Meadow Lane.
NEW BUSINESS
Appeal of the Permitted Removal of a Private Redwood Tree (a) 1533 Meadow Lane — (Contd.) "1
Arborist Porter reported that the applicant at 1533 Meadow Lane requested a permit to remove the
Redwood tree due to safety concerns and surrounding hardscape. Arborist Porter stated that he
approved the removal because, although outwardly the approximately 80 year old Redwood tree
looks good, it is quite structurally unsound, having multiple co -dominant trunks. He noted that the
tree could be pruned and the leaders cabled to help make the tree safer but that it might not be a long
term remedy, would be cost exorbitant to the homeowner, and would not necessarily be guaranteed.
Commissioner Benson asked Arborist Porter to comment on the tree's lean and the close proximity to
the other tree on the property. Arborist Porter responded that the multi -trunks are leaning outward;
all the weight of the limbs is on the outside; the two leaders are pushing apart, and the tree is within
10 feet of another Redwood tree.
Commissioner McQuaide asked if removal of this Redwood tree would affect other nearby Redwood
trees. Arborist Porter stated removal of this tree should not affect the nearby Redwood tree.
Chairperson Lahey asked what Arborist Porter might recommend to make the tree safe. Arborist
Porter stated that removing the middle leader which is beginning to rot and fall apart at the top,
would leave a big cut on the trunk, inviting pathogens, but should be done if the tree is to remain. He
added that thinning the branches on the outside to reduce the weight and cabling the remaining
leaders could help to alleviate safety concerns.
Commissioner Carney asked Arborist Porter if nothing were done to the tree how fast might the tree
decline. Arborist Porter responded that the next major storm could cause some problems with the
tree but that, he could not say how fast the tree would "decline". "1
Arborist Porter addressed other Commission questions with regard to future growth rate of tree,
effectiveness of corrective pruning, and when asked by Commissioner Benson about wind breaks in
the area, Arborist Porter noted that this Redwood tree and the Redwood tree on the adjacent property
are the wind breaks.
Chairperson Lahey opened the public hearing.
Appellant Erin Stannard, 1528 Westmoor Road, stated that the tree is old and beautiful and hates to
see the tree be removed because the trees affect property values and privacy. Ms. Stannard added she
hoped trimming and cabling could be done; that, the Commission would uphold the appeal; and that
removal of the Redwood tree not be approved.
Applicant Sharon O'Byrne, 1533 Westmoor Road, stated she did not want to remove the tree but
became concerned about the trees safety after an independent arborist expressed concern about the
central leader, that the tree had been topped approximately15-20 years ago, and instructed her to
monitor movement during windy days. Ms. Byrne commented that Christmas Day was very windy
and it was at that time she observed the central leader move, leading her to apply for a permit to
remove the tree. She concluded that she could not bear the responsibility if something were to
happen to someone because of the tree.
Paul Sahlin, 1537 Meadow Lane, stated the previous owner planted the tree in 1941-42 as a living
Christmas tree, noting that the tree is situated near a P.G.&E., Cable, Telephone easement. He stated
that P.G.&E. has "butchered" the tree but has not trimmed or maintained the tree for a number of
years now. Mr. Sahlin stated that the tree only poses a minor nuisance to his property, is a beautiful
tree, and would be unfortunate if the tree had to be removed.
NEW BUSINESS
Appeal of the Permitted Removal of a Private Redwood Tree (a, 1533 Meadow Lane — (Contd.)
Jane Carroll, 1525 Meadow Lane, stated that everyone loves the tree and it provides a habitat for the
L birds, that it should be the homeowners call if safety of a tree is questionable and the homeowner
should be able to decide as to what makes her feel safe or not.
Eric Bottello, 1529 Meadow Lane, stated his property takes the brunt of the tree noting that during
recent, storms limbs just missed his windows, but hit and damaged the fence. Mr. Botello continued
that the roots are lifting the hardscape on his property. He is concerned about future damage to his
homes foundation, that they love the tree, but believes the pros and cons need to be weighed with
regard to the safety concerns.
Mark Sagorsky, 1536 Westmoor Road, stated that the tree is beautiful, he can see it from his back
yard and that it would be very sad to see the tree removed. Mr. Sagorsky noted that the City Arborist
stated that the tree is approximately 80 years old but heard that the tree was planted in 1942, making
it younger.. He concluded that this tree is one of the important things in the neighborhood. It attracts
wildlife and provides habitat. Mr. Sagorsky concluded that the tree's health and stability should be
reassessed.
Susan Gambrioli, 1541 Westmoor Road, asked if tree had actually caused any damage, and had it
been documented? Ms. Gambrioli concluded that she "loves" having the tree in the neighborhood,
hopes that the appeal will be upheld, and that the tree will not be approved for removal.
Chairperson Lahey closed the public hearing.
The Commission further discussed. Commissioner McQuaide asked Arborist Porter if newly placed
flagstone could affect the tree's roots if covered and if root pruning would be harmful. Arborist
Porter responded that root cutting could make a tree less stable, but that some root pruning could be
done by a qualified arborist. Commissioner Benson asked if there were any evident signs of decay.
Arborist Porter responded that there were no outward signs of decay.
Chairperson Lahey stated that there are a few trees in the neighborhood, she struggles with removal
of a Redwood tree and asked how pruning/cabling the middle spur would keep it safe.
Arborist Porter responded that cabling keeps branches from splitting during high winds and added 2
to 3 cables at the top of the tree could make it safer. He concluded that although cabling can be done,
the City of Burlingame has not performed cabling on trees because anything man made can fail.
Commissioner Benson asked if cabling is used as the last resort. Arborist Porter responded that
cabling is not necessarily a last resort, but is used as a tool in maintaining trees.
Commissioner Carney asked what the cost might be to trim the tree and install cables. Arborist
Porter responded that to cable a tree it could cost $4,000 - $5,000 and trimming might cost anywhere
from $2,000 - $3,000 because it would require a climber.
Chairperson Lahey stated that if removal were approved she expressed concern that the tree would
only be replaced with one 24" box size tree. Parks & Recreation Director Schwartz clarified that the
Commission could make other requirements with regard to replacements.
Commissioner Benson then moved that the appeal be denied, and the tree be approved for removal as
per Arborist Porter's findings: The tree is structurally unsound, having multiple co -dominant trunks;
the tree's root system is causing some damage to surrounding hardscape; and that replacement with
one 24-inch box size tree be required; seconded, Carney. Motion failed 3 — 3 — 1 (absent/Wright).
NEW BUSINESS
Appeal of the Permitted Removal of a Private Redwood Tree (a) 1533 Meadow Lane — (Contd.)
Commissioner McQuaide moved the appeal be upheld and removal not be approved because there
other options are available; seconded, Hunt.
Chairperson Lahey stated that she would like to have more information before approving removal of
this tree and asked if the motion could be amended to include "further information from an
independent, certified arborist be submitted by the applicant for the Commissions reconsideration".
Commissioner McQuaide approved the amendment to the motion; seconded, Hunt.
Commissioner Benson commented that obtaining an independent arborist report for the
Commission's reconsideration would be solely up to the property owner, noting that Arborist Porter
routinely protects trees and she knows he had a difficult time approving removal of this tree.
The motion was restated as amended: Commissioner McQuaide moved the appeal be upheld and the
tree not be removed because there are other options available, but that, finther information from an
independent, certified arborist can be submitted by the applicant for the Commission's
reconsideration; seconded, Hunt. Motion carried 5 —1 (opposed/Benson) — 1 (absent/Wright).
Chairperson Lahey advised the applicant and appellant would receive written confirmation of the
Commission's decision as well as appeal procedures.
Following the hearing, Chairperson Lahey returned to the agendized order of business.
OLD BUSINESS
Arbor Day/Saturday, March 7, 2009 (i , 9:00 am — Bayside Park/Report
Superintendent Foell reported that 17 new Redwood trees would be planted at Bayside Park. The
ceremony will be held on Saturday in hopes of generating more participation from service clubs and
families in the City. Superintendent Foell also noted that since the City's "Tree fund" (used to
replace and add City street trees) would be depleted after the street tree planting in the spring, the
Arbor Day ceremony would serve as a "kick off' for a fundraising campaign to replenish the fund.
Superintendent Foell stated that he developed flyers that can be distributed throughout the
community. Commissioner Hunt suggested the Commission distribute flyers to the local service
clubs in the City and suggested that names of donors could be placed in the Recreation brochure.
Superintendent Foell asked the Commissioners to notify the Parks office as to how many flyers each
will need for distribution.
Business Landscape Award 2009
Commissioners reported that information had been handed out to businesses in the local business
districts. Two applications have been received to date and the deadline for receiving applications is
April 1. Commissioner Benson reported that she had contacted the Rotary Club to promote the
award but had no response to date. Commission asked that this item be continued to the next
meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Networking with Realtors Rei!ardinp- Community Tree Information
Commissioner McQuaide submitted a draft of a letter for local realtors and asked the Commission to
review. Commissioner McQuaide reported that she spoke with a representative from the San Mateo
County Realtors Association and may speak to that group at a future meeting. Commissioner
McQuaide stated that if the draft is approved, she would like to include a flyer that would
communicate City's tree policies and the benefits trees provide to community; realtors would then
distribute the flyers to their clients. The Commission approved the draft letter. Superintendent Foell
will develop the flyer to accompany the letter to the realtors.
Commission's Level of Involvement — Broadway Planters
Chairperson Lahey asked that this be placed on the agenda for further discussion and stated that she
would like to see the Commission have a "hands on" project but noted that a full commitment would
be required.
Commissioner Benson stated that she continues to maintain and plant the merchant's planters and has
been for the last 5 years; BID pays for replacement plants and faux plants, but there is ongoing cost
due to vandalism and irrigation problems as well as ongoing maintenance due to litter and cigarette
butts.
Superintendent Foell submitted to the Commission for their review: Beautification Commission
Responsibilities: 3.28.050 Powers and duties and Park Division Responsibilities and Broadway
Merchants Responsibilities on Broadway. Superintendent Foell advised that the Commission can
take on other projects that are not specifically requested by Council but before taking on big projects,
it is always best to check in with Council. Following a brief discussion, it was a consensus of the
Commission that this item be tabled to the April meeting when all the Commissioners could be
present.
Commission's Volunteer Monitoring of Grant Trees/Guidelines
Superintendent Foell stated that the planting of 172 street trees had been completed and that
volunteer monitoring for the grant match can begin. He stated that staff developed a checklist to be
used for monitoring the tree plantings and divided up the list for the Commission to conduct the
monitoring. Superintendent Foell then reviewed the checklist with the Commission. Superintendent
Foell asked that the Commissioners complete the inspections and turn in their checklists at the March
50' Commission meeting.
Street Tree Fundraising Committee
Superintendent Foell stated that a fundraising effort is needed to raise money for the City's Street
Tree Fund. The Parks Division currently plants replacement trees and new trees in the City's planter
strips, 3 times each year. Funds raised in the community will be used to replenish the tree fiend that
will soon be depleted after spring 2009 street tree planting. Superintendent Foell asked that
Commissioners volunteer to serve on a Street Tree Fundraising Committee to help develop
fundraising strategies. Commissioner Benson thought a good slogan that Fiona Hamilton suggested
during the centennial tree planting discussions could be used as part of the fundraising campaign:
"$100 for 100 trees for the next 100 years."
Chairperson Lahey and Commissioner Ditttiian volunteered to serve on the Street Tree Fundraising
Committee and will report back to the Commission at the March 5`h meeting.
REPORTS
Superintendent Foell
1) P.G.&E. crews are inspecting trees that may be interfering with lines and requested
permission to perform several removals. Supervisor Disco has issued permits for the removal
of several small sucker trees in different locations in the City.
2) Complaints were received from the Broadway merchants regarding trees blocking signs; City
tree crew will conduct some selective pruning on the Broadway trees.
3) Rocca Restaurant on Broadway received complaints from several patrons and requested a
small planter be removed that is near the handicap parking. Supervisor Disco granted the
request; crews will move the planter and the owner of Rocca Restaurant will be responsible
for watering the plants in the relocated planter.
4) Commissioners Dinner will be at the Rocca Restaurant on Broadway on Friday, March 130'.
Contact the City Manager's office for more information.
REPORTS
Superintendent Foell — (Contd.) ''IN
5) Council is requesting 2 Commissioners from each City Commission to serve on the Walk of
Fame Committee. Commitment will require one meeting for 1.5 — 2 hours. Chairperson
Lahey and Commissioner Dittman volunteered to serve on the Council's Walk of Fame
Committee.
6) Superintendent Foell commended the Commission on the well organized way in which they
conducted the evening's public hearing.
Commissioner Carney
Commissioner Carney reported that new plantings at the entry of Mollie Stones grocery store look
very nice.
Commissioner McQuaide
Commissioner McQuaide confirmed with staff that the item, Beautification Commission Meeting
Start Time, be placed on the March 2009 Agenda.
Commissioner Benson
Commissioner Benson stated she conducted 2 rose pruning workshops with 8 Master Gardeners in
the Washington Park Rose Garden and the Park Road Rose Garden, and trimmed the plants on
Burlingame Avenue and Broadway.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Karlene Harvey
Recording Secretary
1.1