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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin - BC - 2009.10.01BURLINGAME BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION October 1, 2009 The regularly scheduled meeting of the Beautification Commission was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chairperson Lahey. ROLL CALL Present: Chairperson Lahey, Commissioners Benson, Carney, Dittman, Hunt, McQuaide, and Wright Staff: Parks Supervisor Disco and Administrative Secretary Harvey Guests: Mark Wilson (1556 Alturas Drive), Helaine Darling (3100 Margarita Avenue), Madeleine T. Fiore (1560 Alturas Drive), Kevin OsBorne (208 Stanley Road), Robert Guzman (4842 Kingdale Dr. — S.J.), Lois Miller (15720 Loma Vista Ave. — Los Gatos), Cathy & William Ng (1568 Alturas Drive), Michelle Woo (1556 Alturas Drive). MINUTES — Minutes were corrected to read, under REPORTS — Commissioner Benson ... "Commissioner Benson reported that the 'Adopt -a -Planter' program (established by the Citizens for Better Burlingame) is no longer functioning; planters have been abandoned, are not being planted or professionally watered because of lack of funds, and one half to one third of the plants have died." Notification to Commissioners Hunt, McQuaide, and Wright informing them of their term expiration on the Beautification Commission and advising of application process. Correspondence and related reports for appeal(s) for permitted approval to remove 6 Poplars, 3 Black Acacias, and 1 Pine tree at 1568 Alturas Drive. Letter from the Beautification Commission to artist Dale Perkins, thanking him for his donation of time and talent toward the Business Landscape Award, and his gift of a water color rendering of the Earthbeam Natural Foods business on Broadway. FROM THE FLOOR There were no comments `From the Floor'. OLD BUSINESS Arbor Day Celebration — March 2010 Supervisor Disco reported that the Arbor Day ceremony will be held at the Burlingame Lion's Club and trees donated by the club will be planted on the parking lot side of the Lion's Hall. The date and time of the ceremony has yet to be determined; the community and children from the local elementary schools will be invited to participate. Commissioner Wright volunteered to speak to the local schools and promote the Arbor Day ceremony. NEW BUSINESS Appeal of Decision Approvinp- Removal of 6 Lombardv Poplars, 3 Black Acacias, and 1 Monterey Pine at 1568 Alturas Drive — Supervisor Disco reported that he received a request of removal for the private trees in July; approval for removal of the trees was based on the following determinations: • Black Acacias - due to their poor condition and the potential for whole tree failure • Monterey Pine — due to poor structure, leaning, and showing signs of decline and decay • 6 Lombardy Poplars — due to included bark, decay, weakened attachments, leaning over structure, invasive roots, and situated in a confined space near a retaining wall. Supervisor Disco added that he asked Arborist Porter (before retiring) to consult on the decision to approve removal and Arborist Porter agreed with the decision, based on the above findings. Subsequent to notification of adjacent properties in the area, the decision was appealed by property owners at 1555 Alturas Drive and 3100 Margarita Avenue; the latter noting a Planning Commission decision in August of 2000, that required the north NEW BUSINESS - Appeal of Decision Approving Removal of 6 Lombardy Poplars, 3 Black Acacias, and 1 Monterey Pine at 1568 Alturas Drive — Contd. Western corner of the property at 1568 Alturas Drive "be maintained with bushes and trees as a condition to add a second story addition to the property, that will obscure the view of the addition from the neighboring property" -� ... (Letter dated September S, 2000 from City Planner, Margaret Monroe). Supervisor Disco concluded that the property owner hired an independent arborist, Roberto Guzman, who inspected the trees and submitted an Arborist report. Mr. Guzman's report agrees that the trees are in decline and should be removed. Commissioner Wright asked if additional replacement trees could be required as a condition of the removal. Supervisor Disco stated yes, that he required 5 — 24" box size trees because there are many trees on the property, but that a couple more trees could be added to that number as a condition of the removals. Commissioner McQuaide asked what type of replacement tree would be required. Supervisor Disco stated the property owner would be required to plant replacement trees from the 4 — 6' street tree list (which has larger canopies). Commissioner McQuaide asked if the Poplar trees are holding the soil; Supervisor Disco noted that the retaining wall is holding the soil and that the roots from the Poplar trees will likely damage the retaining wall. Commissioner McQuaide asked if the leaning Pine is more hazardous to the house than any other normal lean of a tree. Supervisor Disco stated that any leaning of a tree is significant and this Pine tree is on a hill, weighted on the downhill side. He commented that all the trees have been poorly maintained which has caused the existing problems with the tree; and that the Pine tree would likely succumb to disease over the next 5 years. Commissioner Hunt noted that she is familiar with Poplar trees and how the roots could cause damage to a foundation. Supervisor Disco stated that he had not noticed any damage to the foundation, but added that even if the trees were trimmed and lowered, over the next 5 years they would succumb to decay. Commissioner Dittman asked about the "fungus" in the report and what the "fungus" might be, how long-lived the Poplar trees might be, and to comment on the Pine tree. Supervisor Disco stated that the "fungus" was likely heart rot and that Poplar trees are not long lived (like an Oak tree might be), but perhaps would live 50 years. He concluded that the Pine tree does not look healthy and is showing signs of Pine Pitch canker. Commissioner Hunt asked if the tree stumps would be removed and if the replacement trees would be planted in the same area. Supervisor Disco stated the tree stumps would not be removed and the replacement trees could be planted anywhere on the property; that they would not need to be planted in the same area. Commissioner Dittman asked if the replacement trees could be planted to provide a screen. Supervisor Disco noted that the Planning Department required bushes and trees be planted to provide a screen in the upper western corner of the property. Chairperson Lahey opened the meeting for Public Hearing and recognized Helaine Darling, 3100 Margarita Avenue. Ms. Darling stated the removal of the trees affects her property and that of her neighbors; that, the trees were originally planted to retain soil. She added that she disagreed that the Pine tree leans toward the house as well as with the comments that the trees are diseased, and that she believed the trees could be pruned and shaped instead of removal, adding that because the addition impacted privacy, the Planning Commission in 2000 required the landscaping be maintained to preserve the park like setting. She concluded that she is concerned about soil erosion and requested an environmental impact study be conducted, stating that she understood the homeowners concerns about safety, but stated she was distressed about losing the protection of the greenery causing the view of the house to no longer be obscured. Ann Nannini of 1555 Alturas Drive stated that she knew the previous property owner who told her that the Poplar trees were originally planted 40 years ago because of soil erosion in the area that caused the hillside to wash out; that, Margarita Avenue was supposed to go straight through but couldn't due to the "washout" in the `50's, and that, pilings were put in for the addition. She concluded that the last property owners wanted to remove the Pine tree, but were told by the City that they could not remove the tree. NEW BUSINESS - Appeal of Decision Approving Removal of 6 Lombardy Poplars, 3 Black Acacias, and 1 Monterey Pine at 1568 Alturas Drive — Contd. Madeleine Fiori, 1560 Alturas Drive stated that the Poplar trees and fruit trees were planted to hold the soil; that soil erosion in the area is of great concern and feared soil erosion if the trees were removed. She concluded that she understood her neighbor's concerns about the safety issues with the trees and the expense, but the trees �-- provide a wind break and prevent soil erosion. Roberto Guzman, arborist for 35 years, stated that his recommendations in the report for removal of the trees were based on safety and the potential for whole branch failure, and were the basis of his report. The Poplar trees would be removed but the stumps and roots would remain and would take up to 100 — 175 years to decay. He added that the Pine tree could be pruned, but the tree is diseased, the structure is gone, and would likely only live another 5 years, adding that the trees would be replaced with new healthier trees that would provide canopy. Mark Wilson, 1556 Alturas Drive stated that most Pine trees have some disease, and that the disease is fairly wide spread but the Pine trees would still live; adding that he thought the Poplar trees could live another 50 years if watered. Helaine Darling stated that no one can guarantee the soil is not going to move and reiterated that an environmental impact study should be required and that if the trees were to be topped and pruned, it would prevent them from falling over. Linda Carlton, 1552 Alturas Drive stated that it is unfortunate that their new neighbors would be faced with thinning/topping the trees, and perhaps even treating the fungus and many are concerned about large trees coming down, but soil erosion is a bigger concern particularly that the hillside washed out in past years. Lois Miller, Landscape Designer noted that the trees would be removed and the stumps and roots would remain. She added that area around the stumps not be relandscaped but that new deciduous and evergreen trees (Chinese Tallow and Brisbane Box) would be planted along the property line, replacing the screen and adding root system to the hillside. She also noted that there are Live Oak trees outside the property, up on the hill. She concluded �-- that there is a big empty lot next to the property and there are no signs of slippage in that area. Cathy Ng, 1568 Alturas Drive stated that she understood and shared her neighbors concerns regarding soil erosion, but also needs to address the safety issues with regard to the trees; noting that limbs from the trees are already falling and she hoped to come to a compromise decision that would please all. Chairperson closed the public hearing. Commissioner Dittman asked Supervisor Disco if the Pine Pitch Disease was wide spread, if it was treatable, and if the Commission could see the landscape plans. Supervisor Disco stated the disease is wide -spread, is not treatable and removal of several Pine trees in Washington Park over the last 3 years was due to Pine Pitch canker. Lois Miller, Landscape Designer, then submitted the plans for Commission review. Commissioner Wright stated she understood the concern about soil erosion and asked what an environmental impact report would conclude. Supervisor Disco stated an environmental impact report assesses how changes in an area could impact the overall environment of the area; his primary consideration when determining tree removals is primarily based on a tree's health and structure with regard to the safety of a tree. Commissioner Benson stated that Poplar tree's roots grow toward water, are planted too close, have co - dominant branching, have not been maintained, and should be removed. She added that the stumps would not be ground, so the roots would hold the soil, noting that the Ng's are also building retaining walls and gardens all around the property. Commissioner Benson added that the new trees planted close to where the line of Poplar trees are, with the addition of shrubs, would provide the same or even more coverage, and would make the property better and prettier. NEW BUSINESS - Appeal of Decision Approving Removal of 6 Lombardy Poplars, 3 Black Acacias, and 1 Monterey Pine at 1568 Alturas Drive - Contd. Commissioner Hunt commented that she is a realtor and is conscious of properties on hillsides with regard to soil erosion and that a soil engineer's report would cost approximately $500, but she added, the trees are mess -� and should be removed. Commissioner McQuaide agreed, but wondered if the Pine could be thinned and pruned and asked if the planned planting of bamboo is going to be in boxes? Lois Miller (Landscape Designer) stated that the bamboo would be contained with root barriers so it would not encroach on other properties. Commissioner McQuaide commented that she is concerned about all the remodeling on Alturas Drive that had not included tree planting, but the trees on this property would need so much work. Commissioner Carney stated that from a distance the canopy of the Poplar trees is beautiful but she could see that they are a safety concern. Commissioner Lahey stated that Alturas Drive is barren and the Poplar trees are what you see as you approach the area noting that the Pine tree has Pine Pitch canker, has lost foliage, and is not well balanced; the Acacias are a mess and the Poplar trees are not well balanced; all of which are a very good example of trees that have been poorly pruned and not well maintained and asked if there were any other options that could be considered. Supervisor Disco stated that the Pine could be pruned and cleaned out but would likely succumb to the Pine Pitch canker within the next 5 years, the Poplar tree in the upper western corner could be topped and trimmed, adding more trees in area and then removal at a later date. Commissioner Lahey stated she would like to see more replacement trees added if 10 trees are removed. Following the discussion, Commissioner Benson moved the Arborists report from Parks Supervisor Disco and the independent Arborist report from Roberto Guzman be followed and approval to remove the trees be upheld, with the exception of the Poplar tree in the upper western corner, and that, the applicant be required -� to plant 7 - 24" box size trees At which time when the screen in the upper western corner is established, (as directed by the Planning Commission at the August 28, 2000 meeting as a condition allowing a second story addition), the applicant would be allowed to apply for a no fee permit to remove the remaining Poplar tree, seconded, Wright. Motion carried 7 - 0 - 0. Chairperson Lahey advised that the applicant and appellants would be notified by mail of the Commission's decision and that the decision could be appealed to the City Council. Chairperson Lahey asked that the Commission break for 5 minutes before other items on the agenda be considered. After the break Chairperson Lahey called the meeting to order and changed the order of the Agenda to accommodate members in the audience. NEW BUSINESS Adopt -a -Planters on Burlingame Avenue Chairperson Lahey asked Park Supervisor Disco to review the history of the Burlingame Avenue landscape maintenance. Supervisor Disco stated that in the late 1970's the Parks Department would run hoses up and down Burlingame Avenue in order to water the planters. Over the years, with street improvements in the area, irrigation lines have been cut and water has not been available for at least 25 years. The Parks Department planted drought resistant purple lantana in the planters approximately 15-20 years ago which have done o.k. In 2000, the Citizens for Better Burlingame implemented the ' Adopt -a -Planter' program which provided for new plantings, maintenance, and watering of the aggregate planters. In 2004, the program was turned over to the Downtown Business Improvement District (DBID) with the merchants agreeing to assist with hand watering throughout the summer months from hose bibs fronting some of the businesses. When the DBID disbanded in 2006, the newly formed Downtown Burlingame Business Association (DBBA) took over the management of the planter program, but with the downturn of the economy, currently has no funds to continue the watering of the planters. 4 NEW BUSINESS Adopt -a -Planters on Burlingame Avenue — Contd. Chairperson Lahey thanked Supervisor Disco for his report and stated that the Commission will be considering the Beautification Commissions role, if any, and to determine where or if the Commission would want to take responsibility. Kevin Osborne thanked the Commission and stated that the program was to be self sustaining but the DBBA has few sponsors this year and funding is running in the negative. A trailer and watering tank was secured by the CBB and the last watering contract was at a cost of S40 hour, taking approximately 4 hours to water planters; during the dry seasons the planters require watering 2 — 3 times each week. He added that some of the businesses try to assist with the watering, but there are not many water spigots. Commissioner Hunt stated that it breaks her heart to see so many vacant stores and dead plants on Burlingame Avenue; with no one watering the planters, sponsorships have dropped off. She noted that San Mateo hires someone to water the planters in the downtown area. Commissioner Wright noted that she had seen a woman with an orange vest watering planters in the City of Millbrae. Supervisor Disco stated that Millbrae Parks is under Public Works and funding may be different. In 2001, the Parks Division had 13 Park Maintenance workers and are now down to 7 Park Maintenance workers, requiring cutting back on the maintenance of the median islands and parking lots, so the Parks Division would not be able to take over watering of the planters on Burlingame Avenue. Kevin Osborne stated that someone would need to water from 5 am to 9 am (4 hours), 2-3 times each week during the hot season, with at least 100 gallons of water each time; and that perhaps someone could be hired at $20/hour at a yearly cost of approximately $8,000. Following the discussion, it was a consensus of the Commission that a fact finding committee be formed to determine how other cities fund downtown landscape watering and to also research ideas for the remarketing and re -accessing the Adopt -a -Planter program. Commissioners Benson, Hunt, and Carney volunteered to serve on the Committee and will report their findings to the November 5 b Commission meeting. Community Garden — `-- It was a consensus of the Commission that the discussion on Community Garden be tabled to the November 5*' Commission meeting. REPORTS Parks Supervisor Disco • Landscape crew added new landscaping to the entrance of Washington Park at Concord Way. • Washington Park and Ray Park were aerated, seeded, and top -dressed. • Annual Sycamore pruning will begin in Dec/Jan and will conclude in March 2010 • Contract pruning of City owned Eucalyptus trees have been delayed due to ongoing discussions with the Union. This year's scheduled pruning would be on Burlingame Ave. and Skyline Blvd. • PG&E will soon be moving ahead with the Eucalyptus trimming on El Camino Real. Administrative Secretary Harvey • Currently identifying available planting sites and making preparation for the mailing to property owners for the Grant Tree Planting in the northern section of Burlingame. Planting of approximately 250+ trees will be conducted in November and December 2009, completing the Grant Tree planting project, and adding an additional 450 trees over and above the City's ongoing street tree planting program. • Approximately 105 trees will be planted by the City's tree crew during the October street tree planting. • In August, a total of 161 City trees were trimmed by the City's tree crew and 45 requests for tree service were received from the public. In addition, the tree crew is continuing to water young trees that are not being adequately watered by property owners. • PW installed a new trash receptacle on 1100 block of Chula Vista. Special thanks to Vince Falzon and crew, John Zimmerman and Matt Dabney for making it happen. • A signed petition by residents on the 1400 block of Balboa has been received by the Parks Division, requesting that the 1400 block be identified as a block "themed" with Catalpa trees. The item will be placed on the November agenda for public hearing. REPORTS - Contd. Chairperson Lahey -N Chairperson Lahey reported that the City Hall Holiday Tree Lighting will go forward this year. She also stated that she wants the Commission to continue promoting donations to the City's tree fund for street tree planting. Supervisor Disco added that for this year he was able to transfer monies for the purchase of trees because the CCC's offered to do their trail work in Mills Canyon at no cost for this year only, but after the October planting there will only be $3000 remaining. Administrative Secretary Harvey added that per tree cost is now averaging $40.00 and the October planting consisted of 105 trees; after the January 2010 planting is completed, there will be no funds available to purchase trees for the April 2010 planting. Commissioner Benson Commissioner Benson reported on her recent activities: 1) Cleared suckers in tree wells south of Broadway 2) Completed inventory of newsracks on Burlingame Avenue and, 3) Watered planters on Burlingame Avenue. Commissioner Benson asked Supervisor Disco if the dying Mayten tree on Burlingame Avenue would be removed. Supervisor Disco stated the dead wood and dead branches would be trimmed out, but for now the tree would remain. Commissioner Benson then thanked Supervisor Disco for removing and replacing the 3 female Gingkos„e-rt- Commissioner Benson reported that 37 merchants on Broadway have agreed to display the children's holiday art project in their shop windows. Commissioner Wright Commissioner Wright submitted Dale Perkins post card watercolor rendering of Earthbeam Natural Foods for Parks & Recreation Director Jim Skeels, and then read a letter from Dale thanking the Commission. Commissioner Wright also noted that she would like to invite the schools to participate in the City tree fundraising campaign. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm. Respectfully submitted, karlene Harvey Recording Secretary