HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packet - BC - 2024.10.03Beautification Commission
City of Burlingame
Meeting Agenda
BURLINGAME CITY HALL
501 PRIMROSE ROAD
BURLINGAME, CA 94010
Burlingame Community Center
850 Burlingame Avenue
6:30 PMThursday, October 3, 2024
Members of the public may view the meeting by logging into the Zoom meeting listed below. The
meeting video will be uploaded to the City’s website after the meeting. Members of the public may
provide written comments by email to vflores@burlingame.org.
Emailed comments should include the specific agenda item on which you are commenting or note that
your comment concerns an item that is not on the agenda or is on the Consent Calendar. The length
of the emailed comment should be commensurate with the three minutes customarily allowed for
verbal comments, which is approximately 250-300 words. To ensure that your comment is received
and read to the Beautification Commission for the appropriate agenda item, please submit your email
no later than 5:00 PM on October 3, 2024. The City will make every effort to read emails received after
that time but cannot guarantee such emails will be read into the record. Any emails received after the
5:00 PM deadline which are not read into the record will be provided to the Beautification Commission
after the meeting.
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Page 1 City of Burlingame Printed on 9/26/2024
October 3, 2024Beautification Commission Meeting Agenda
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3. MINUTES
Draft Minutes September 5, 2024a.
Draft MinutesAttachments:
4. CORRESPONDENCE
5. PUBLIC COMMENT
Speakers may address the Commission concerning any matter over which the Commission has
jurisdiction or of which it may take cognizance that is not on the agenda. Additional public comments
on agenda action items will be heard when the Commission takes up those items. The Ralph M. Brown
Act (the State local agency open meeting law) prohibits the Commission from acting on any matter that
is not on the agenda. Speakers are asked to fill out a "request to speak" card located on the table by
the door and hand it to staff, although provision of name, address or other identifying information is
optional. Speakers are limited to three minutes each, although the Commission may adjust the time
limit in light of the number of anticipated speakers.
6. OLD BUSINESS
7. NEW BUSINESS
City Council Presentation of Landscape Awards Discussiona.
8. REPORTS
9. UPCOMING AGENDA ITEMS
Next Regular Meeting: November 7, 2024.
Notice: Any attendees wishing accommodations for disabilities should contact the Parks & Recreation
Dept. at (650) 558-7330 at least 24 hours before the meeting. A copy of the agenda packet is available
for review at the Community Center, 850 Burlingame Avenue, during normal office hours. The
Agendas and minutes are also available on the City's website: www.burlingame.org.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Burlingame Beautification Commission
regarding any items on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at 850 Burlingame
Avenue during normal business hours.
Page 2 City of Burlingame Printed on 9/26/2024
1
BURLINGAME BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION
Draft Minutes September 5, 2024
The regularly scheduled meeting of the Beautification Commission was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by
Chair Batte.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Batte, Commissioners Bauer, Chu, Khoury, and Kirchner
Absent: None
Staff: Parks and Recreation Director Glomstad, Parks Superintendent/City Arborist Holtz, and
Recording Secretary Flores
Others: None
MINUTES
Commissioner Kirchner made a motion to approve the August 1, 2024, Regular Meeting minutes. The
motion was seconded by Commissioner Khoury and was approved. 5-0
CORRESPONDENCE
None
PUBLIC COMMENT
Secretary Flores read a public comment that came in via email from Burlingame resident Raquel Rozas:
Dear Beautification Commission, We hope this message finds you well. We are writing to express
our deep concerns regarding the large eucalyptus tree in front of our residence at 1805 Easton
Drive. Due to prior obligations, we cannot attend the September 5, 2024, meeting in person;
however, we would like to submit our comments for your consideration. This tree poses severe risks
in two ways: it threatens our home and our neighbors' due to the possibility of falling, even under
normal weather conditions, and it obstructs the stop sign in front of the Easton Library, where
several children cross daily. The obstruction significantly reduces the visibility of the stop sign,
creating a dangerous situation where drivers may not see the sign in time to stop safely, putting
pedestrians, especially children, at risk. The stop sign is completely obscured from 150 feet (see
attachment), leading to dangerous, last-minute stops by drivers. Additionally, the tree’s structural
integrity raises significant concerns. We are worried that, without prompt removal , it could fall,
causing catastrophic damage to our home and neighboring properties. This presents an ongoing
and immediate danger to our lives and the safety of the community. We urge the Commission to
prioritize this issue and work with PG&E to expedite the tree's removal. The safety of several
families, including small children, is at risk, and we cannot afford further delays. Thank you for
your attention to this matter. We would appreciate it if our comments could be read into the record
during the meeting. Please feel free to contact us if further information is needed. Raquel and
Michael Seitz
Secretary Flores read a public comment that came in via email from Stacks Restaurant:
Good Morning: As I have enjoyed and my customers and the general public the beauty that Stacks
corner is…. Since the city has changed the rules of parklets, outdoor seating etc, We have had to
remove many of the investment of our planters to play by the rules. Along with that, there is a lady
that has continued to write the city, one I will call just a plain “Hater” That has made it difficult
2
for us to maintain our beautiful corner. I want to share the sadness of the once great recognition
from our award to the involvement we live in today. Not only me but many of the restaurants feel
the city is moving in the wrong direction with our beautiful outdoor seating and landscapes? I think
it is important that it’s addressed being you have a committee like yours, and yet the city council is
sending a much different message. Thank you for your time. Respectively Geoffrey. Stacks
Restaurant
PRESENTATION
None
OLD BUSINESS
None
NEW BUSINESS
1. Update on Large Eucalyptus Tree Management
Arborist Holtz explained that his update and presentation were in response to a public comment the staff
and the Commission received the previous month, as well as other concerns residents have expressed about
how the Eucalyptus trees are being managed.
Arborist Holtz explained that the City has nine groves of Eucalyptus trees, three of which are designated as
heritage groves. Heritage was a designation that came up in the 1970s for trees that are unique, possibly
historical in nature, or contribute significantly to the character of Burlingame. The three heritage groves are
Easton Drive, El Camino, and Francard Grove. He discussed Francard Heritage Grove’s unique ownership
and how the designation came about, and he dispelled any idea that the City is removing all trees from this
area. He confirmed that the goal is the balance between what is important in the spirit of the community
and public safety. He explained that the SFPUC Grove, owned by the County and City of San Francisco,
was inherited by the City for maintenance during the Public Works pedestrian improvements that were done
north of Oak Grove Avenue.
Arborist Holtz explained the unique history of Eucalyptus trees within the City. He explained that 2023
was a challenging year in our community due to weather events. He stated that some of the Eucalyptus trees
are older and that decay was discovered in many trees. Further, he explained how the current infrastructure
makes managing these trees challenging. Arborist Holtz explained the criteria for street tree removal
process and the Tree Risk Assessment used industry wide that is also utilized in-house.
He stated that Francard Grove 1 (donut shop to Oak Grove) experienced failures in 2021 and 2023 that led
staff to engage with a private arborist to assess the trees and develop mitigation efforts. Staff did not accept
the recommendation of removing over 100 trees; only 50 were removed at that time and the rest pruned to
help retain trees for a longer period. After that decision, the City received two more independent arborist
reports with significantly more testing and greater recommendations for removal. He stated that the City is
actively engaged with a contractor to remove 62 trees, which amounts to approximately one of every three
trees owned by the City. Francard Grove 2 (north of Oak Grove) had a failure in 2021, resulting in the
previous Arborist engaging in a private arborist report, resulting in the removal of 20 trees in 2022.
Additional failures across the tracks occurred in 2023, leading to further removals and significant
reductions. Arborist Holtz emphasized that the area had 87 stumps that were more than 10 years old and
were not a part of the recent removals.
3
Arborist Holtz provided a summary of the Themed Block history of the Easton Drive Grove and the citizen
initiative that followed the 2023 weather events. He reported that all but one property had accepted the
replanting species and had worked with staff on tree placements throughout the grove.
Arborist Holtz explained that throughout his time with the City, he had been called out multiple times of
whole tree failures on Burlingame Avenue. The previous arborist engaged a specialist to use a LiDAR (light
detection and ranging) device to map the roots and resistograph the trees, but it was still not a good indicator
to prevent tree failures. He stated that four trees failed 2010-2020, two trees failed in 2023 on a vehicle and
building, and three were in active failure in 2023. He made the decision to remove the remaining trees, and
replacements per the theme block designation have been planted.
Oak Grove Avenue experienced one significant failure that caused a lot of damage, and three more were in
active failure in 2023. Arborist Holtz and Supervisor Burow provided an assessment and found significant
decay in this area, prompting the removal of a significant amount of trees. Further, he explained that the 16
trees that were removed a month ago were not planned by the City , and he was unaware of PG&E plans
ahead of time. He stated that most of the replacement plantings of Red Oaks have been completed, but work
was stopped due to the School District approaching the City about putting in an access route.
Arborist Holtz reported that Rollins Road (adjacent to the railroad) saw significant challenges. He stated
that the area had hundreds of trees compromised due to months of flooding. This led to multiple tree failures
across the train tracks, vehicles parked nearby, and electrical conductors. Supervisor Burow assessed the
trees in the area and removed a significant number of trees. Commissioner Bauer asked if there was a way
to improve the drainage in the area. Arborist Holtz explained that it is not his expertise but believes it would
require a subdrainage system and is unsure how that would be accomplished with the existing root structures
that are present. Although it would be challenging, he believed it could be possible. Commissioner Kirchner
asked whether there was public access to the area. Arborist Holtz confirmed there is not. He spoke of
possible future projects that would make the area accessible and a recreation area, although there is not
presently enough bandwidth to undertake a project.
Prior to March 2023, there were trees in active failure at different times that needed to be removed at
Bayside Park. When March 14, 2023 hit, 20 trees failed across the fields and Airport Boulevard. Some of
the remaining trees were removed because they were in similar conditions. Trees have been replanted in
this area.
Arborist Holtz reported that Skyline Boulevard had one tree in active failure and one low-lying area that
did not have a drain system, causing some trees to be flooded for months on end. This led to the removal
of trees, and the remaining trees were significantly pruned.
Lastly, Arborist Holtz reported on the SFPUC Grove and stated that the City did a significant amount of
work because the trees were so deficient. Two trees failed in 2024 after the City inherited the maintenance
of them. The City and County of San Fransisco did not have an inventory or maintenance records of the
trees in this grove. A lot of the trees were multi-trunk trees that came up from the base with significant
decay, grown from previous stumps or tree removals that are weakly attached and have a higher propensity
for failure. The City made the decision to remove a large number of trees and reduction prune those that
were to remain.
4
City Arborist Holtz reiterated the replanting plans of each grove. He explained that Francard Grove
replanting is currently on hold at the request of JPB, pending the grade separation determination. Easton
Drive and Burlingame Avenue have been replanted with the approved theme block species. Rollins Road
is expected to be replanted with hundreds of Native Oak and Willow plantings and irrigation by JPB and
maintained by them for ten years before turning them over to the City. Similarly, Skyline Boulevard will
be replanted with Native Oaks by the JPB. Bayside Park has been replanted with a sustainable multi-species
approach. SFPUC is currently preventing the replanting of their property. Arborist Holtz expressed his hope
of entering into an agreement with SFPUC to replant if we follow their planting standards. He explained
that the City does not plant trees larger than 24-inch boxes and that smaller boxed trees would catch up and
naturalize quicker within a few years. Arborist Holtz described potential replacement species and explained
that the goal is to plant trees in a sustainable manner.
Commissioner Khoury inquired further about species that may be suitable replacement trees for Rollins
Road. Arborist Holtz explained that aside from swamp trees, most tree species do not want their roots
submerged in water.
Commissioner Kirchner observed that the tree removals and pruning efforts have been dramatic within the
last 2-3 years. He is most interested in the replanting plans and is a proponent of vertically adding trees.
Arborist Holtz agreed that the total number of trees removed can seem very dramatic, but many were as
small as 4 inches in diameter. He stated that although replanting efforts in the area losing trees may not
come close to the number of trees removed, staff is constantly looking for new locations to plant new trees.
Commissioner Chu inquired further about the objection from SFPUC to replanting and whether it had to be
due to infrastructure issues. Arborist Holtz does not know the exact reasoning but believes it may be due to
concerns about future liabilities. He is very hopeful that common ground can be found to allow for
replanting at some point.
Commissioner Khoury asked if concerns over wildfires have been considered when determining replanting
species. She stated that it is a good idea to plant more than one species in many cases. Arborist Holtz
explained he has very little concern about fires in our urban environment but that a replanting plan would
include a multi-species approach.
Chair Batte asked if there was a reason the stumps have remained in place along California Drive and other
locations. City Arborist Holtz agreed that it was an eye-sore, but it is an expensive endeavor, and staff does
not have the bandwidth to proceed with all the stump grindings at this time.
Arborist Holtz explained that staff had been proactive in managing the SFPUS trees. While Parks staff had
been ready with an action plan in October of 2023, work did not occur until Spring 2024 due to the SFPUC
and Burlingame Public Works needing to approve an encroachment permit for traffic control.
Commissioner Bauer commented on Arborist Holtz and his staff being in an emergency situation for the
past year and being put in a difficult situation regarding the work necessary in all of the Eucalyptus tree
groves. She complimented Arborist Holtz on the thoughtful and intentional planning being conducted to
move forward.
5
The audience asked for clarification on the area noted as Francard Grove 1 and Francard Grove 2. City
Arborist Holtz identified areas using a map and specified what sections the City, SFPUC, and JPB own.
Chair Batte opened the floor to public comment.
Leslie McQuaide, a Burlingame resident, stated her concern over losing the windbreak advantage we get
from our large trees. Also, she inquired about looking for funding through the Arbor Day Foundation to
help with tree maintenance, as we have maintained our Tree City USA designation for many years.
Jennifer Pfaff, a Burlingame resident, commented on the Skyline Boulevard Grove that was part of the
Mills Estate 150 years ago. She commented on oak trees, whether they would be good windbreak trees, and
the value they bring to the area. Also, she believed Francard Grove 1 and 2 plans must match on both ends
and be treated as one grove. She shared her tree species preferences.
Diane Condon, a Burlingame resident, spoke of a lack of a watering program for the first five years and
believes that any replanting plans need to include a water program. She spoke of the reforestation program
of the Oakland Hills and quoted the article stating, “if the state becomes hotter and drier, the Australian
species will thrive in these conditions.” She explained that the City of Burlingame has the right plan and
advised against changing to other tree species that may fail. Lastly, she spoke negatively of the tree work
done on Oak Grove Avenue.
Chair Batte closed public comment.
REPORTS
City Arborist Holtz reported on the Fall Street Tree Planting occurring in October, which was one of the
largest done at one time. He explained that we have engaged with a contractor for more Eucalyptus work
throughout the City, including Francard Grove. He expects Cuernavaca Park to open in late October. Also,
the Mills Canyon Landslide Repair Project is estimated to be completed by the end of September. He
reported that we went out to bid for Laguna Playground Renovation and will be engaging those services
towards the end of September. Lastly, he reported that the Transit Hub project remains under construction.
Director Glomstad reported that three Commissioner terms will open in the fall and is hoping some
Commissioners will reapply. She stated that the Commissioner Dinner would take place on September 13,
2024, and encouraged all that could attend to join. Further, she explained that Parks and Recreation would
have a section at the Fall Fest on Sunday, October 27, 2024, and encouraged Commissioners to sign-up for
a shift. Lastly, the shared that the Town Square Project went out to bid and is hopeful we will have a contract
by October.
Commissioner Kirchner reported that the Parks Forever Foundation and the Historical Society of
Burlingame are conducting a fundraiser to remodel the historic cupola.
Commissioner Khoury reported that the purchase of holiday decor for this season has been completed.
Chair Batte asked about any updates regarding the landscape awards. Secretary Flores confirmed that draft
award letters were emailed to Commissioner Khoury and Kirchner and will be mailed to recipients if no
further feedback is received.
UPCOMING AGENDA ITEMS
6
Chair Batte stated that a citizen approached her about artwork within the City but wasn’t sure if it fell within
this Commissions purview. Director Glomstad explained that other cities collect a percentage fee from
development projects to help fund artwork, but the City of Burlingame does not. The City relies on
donations. It does not stop private businesses or developers from doing their own art . She stated that the
Library also has art projects when the opportunities arise. Commissioner Bauer asked if anyone had
proposed including the 1% fee to collect the funds necessary, as other cities have done. Director Glomstad
stated that a fee study would need to be proposed and Council approved. Further, she explained that the
Rollins Road plan did include a fee and would act as a test case.
Chair Batte inquired about clearing and cleaning the sidewalks. Arborist Holtz confirmed the restaurants
are responsible for cleaning the areas around their storefront. Director Glomstad suggested that Chair Batte
contact Community Development to involve the City’s Economic Development specialist.
Commissioner Bauer asked if any action needed to be taken about the two public comments received.
Arborist Holtz explained that the City received confirmation that PG&E will remove their hardware from
the tree on Easton Drive on September 24, 2024, and the tree removal will proceed. Director Glomstad
confirmed that the Stacks Restaurant public comment would be under the purview of City Council and the
Public Works Department.
Commissioner Chu inquired if the City had ever collaborated with the school districts to identify planting
opportunities. Arborist Holtz confirmed that we work mostly with the High School District due to the
proximity and similarity of landscape and tree size and that they look to the City for guidance when
questions may arise but have not partnered with planting opportunities. Director Glomstad explained that
public schools are a unique case, seeing as their projects and plans are reviewed at a state level and not by
the City, leaving little room for the City to have input on plantings associated with construction.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m. The next Beautification Commission
meeting is scheduled for October 3, 2024.
Respectfully submitted,
Veronica Flores
Veronica Flores
Recording Secretary