Minutes for Public Works Commission
Special Meeting
December 1, 2021
Commissioner Arata and Commissioner Funabashi was absent at this time F.2. EXCLUDED CONSENI CALENDAR ITEMS
G. MEETING MINUTES
Chair Simpson reguested a correction to be made onhe minutes, Chair Simpson nominated Commissioner Funabashi for Chair.
Motion by Vice Chair Minne, seconded by Commissioner Class to approve the Minutes as corrected
yes: 5
Nos: 0
Commissioner Arata and Commissioner Funabashi was absent at this time H. PUBLIC PARTLGTPATION ON NON-AGENDA PEMS
PUBLIC P ARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
None
I. ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS AGENDAS
Rob Osborne began a Power Point presentation on City's First Tree Ordinance.
Background: Concern regard trees being removed off property, specifically park way strips, may be done without permit and City knowledge. April 20, 2021, Council asked to bring the issue forward. August 17, 2021, ordinance was brought to Council with draft ordinance that was put together by residents. Commission review on November 10, 2021.
Element 1: Establish protected tree that have specific criteria, unique species or historical significance or age. Current practice is to protect all city trees and removal of trees occurs only for unavoidable conditions. Trees are reviewed thoroughly for tree removal request.
Element 2: Construction related situations such home reconstruction, parkway tree may be in the way. Appeal of tree removals would have to be approved by Council. When plans come in, trees removal for a construction of a driveway would be the last resort. Staff recommendation is to maintain current practices and keep flexibility and work with residents.
Element 3: City has not done before, protection trees on private property. There is no current practice. This element can be controversial, City residents want control of their property.
Element 4: Establish approval and create list of prohibited species. Current practices include an existing recommended tree list, trees that do well. Staff recommendation is to maintain current list.
Rob Osborne completed presentation.
Rob Osborne asked Commission to give Mara Lang and Laura MacMoran as much time as they need to complete their presentation.
2 Minutes for Public Works Commission
Special Meeting
December 1, 2021
Mara Lang began a Power Point presentation. Mara Lang began with her background. Resident from district 1 of South Redondo for 13 years. Spoke to Council about establishing a tree ordinance and help get Redondo Beach to be considered a "Tree City USA". Policies and procedures are still in development.
Introduction: Using trees to help control climate change. Help prepare extreme heat wave. Mara Lang has conducted research from other cities with tree ordinances.
Current Conditions: Improving parkways to help prevent waste. Filling empty spaces can reduce tripping hazards and crime currently over 2,000 empty planting spaces. Cities that pass tree ordinance terms hired consulting firms to cover all criteria. Tree removal without replacement.
Data received from Public Works staff.
Proposed ordinance overview: Plant 100 trees. May take 4 years to replace empty space.
Heritage trees hold significant value and are irreplaceable. Prohibiting removal of parkway trees to provide driveway access. Not against construction of driveways but if there are alternative options such as moving driveway to the other side then it should be considered. Position of authorization to remove trees is unclear. Prohibiting removal of heritage tree from front, rear, and side yard private properties. Streets with narrow parkways or no parkways may miss out on a tree if the ordinance is passed. If parkway space is available there should be a tree planted. Mara Lang expressed how polite and professional Alberto Alejandre is.
Mara paused the presentation to answer questions.
Commissioner Garcia pointed his question to Rob Osborne about the outline of the tree ordinance, historic trees and consideration safety of the surrounding of the tree. Commissioner Garcia was confused what staff is requesting from the Commission. Ted Semaan replied to Commissioner Garcia, Rob Osborne explained the 4 elements Council wanted staff to share with Commissions for input, Mara Lang and Laura MacMoran explains the details of the tree ordinance.
Commission agreed to hold any questions from Mara Lang's presentation until after Laura MacMoran completes her presentation.
Laura MacMoran began her presentation.
City needs binding regulations and enforcement in order to fulfill certain policies. Laura completed her own data analyst, District 5 has special attributes such as: high number of properties on 50-foot-wide lots and high number of subdivisions without parkways, low number of streets with 60-foot rights-of-way and parkways, and some opportunity sites/under-planted public non-park property. There is an existing code that requires a tree or planting of a tree in the front yard if there is property has no parkway. New single-family homes owners have the option to mitigate their storm water run off to have a tree planted. These home owners in LA County may be able to choose 2 trees. Laura focused on Robinson street because of its unusual right-of- way design, southerly parkway is narrower than northerly parkway. Even though the southern side is narrower, trees can still be planted. It is important to have diversity in trees in case of disease. All subdivision codes for a new lot, requires a tree. Estimated 20% of homes are missing a parkway tree, this effecting the goal of 100 trees a year. Most South Bay cities have formal policies in their municipals code regarding trees only Hawthorne and Redondo Beach do not.
Going case-by-case basis is not enough, a regulation should be established. It is possible to control the parkway areas.
Laura MacMoran ended her presentation and open the floor for questions. 3 Minutes for Public Works Commission
Special Meeting
December 1, 2021
Chair Simpson shared that the presentation was interesting and thorough, he also wanted to ask for Laura and Mara how they respond to the 4 elements, staff reports and what the Council is asking, does not reflect what is said in the presentation. Mara replied, items in her presentation specifically referenced what Council asked, Mara added that she may have covered more than what was asked. Laura did cover information regarding the tree ordinance but it was important to discuss because it explains what they are trying to accomplish and help support the goal.
Commissioner Bajaj asked a question on element 3, if the proposal would refer to all trees on the property. Mara replied, protect all trees on private property but the location is not specified.
Laura added that this element has to do with construction and heritage trees, if construction were to happen on private property then certain regulations would have to be followed.
Gene Kim shared the ecomments from the public participation.
Michael Chang asked the Commission to support the tree ordinance. City if Redondo Beach needs to build a healthy and sustainable community. With removal of different trees, it is important to have a tree ordinance to protect the trees. Trees will help make a better environment for future generations. Opposing the ordinance can cause a multitude of harm to the City.
Deirdre Brand stated the fact that Redondo Beach has no tree ordinance is stunning. This is result of development-centric leadership making building easy and nature disposable. Adopting a strong tree ordinance is essential. Hire qualified arborists. Suggest Commission to develop a tree ordinance that is smart, proactive, and punitive. A fine of $2,000 will not be enough for developers that are building $2,000,000 properties. The recommendation is to the City that the ordinance needs to meet the times we are in.
Holly Osborne stated, please support the tree ordinance. The urban canopy provides shade, 15 degrees temperature difference. Increasing temperatures have effect on death rates and California is responding late to this crisis of heat waves. Preserving the tree canopy is part of resolving this issue in Redondo Beach. Please pass the tree ordinance.
Jim Light stated, support the establishment of the tree ordinance. It is understood that there are some issues with the ordinances submitted. There is a significant amount of tree without replacement. Cannot remember any trees being replaced on the Catalina median or new trees planted on parkways or medians with exception of the Riviera Village. The City very few native species, it is time to update pallet, remove exotic trees and add native tree that require less water.
There is a loss of tree canopy in the City. It is time to adopt a specific ordinance.
Susan Couig stated, she supports the tree ordinance. Trees provide shade, help the ecosystem, increase oxygen and reduce carbon dioxide. My street is missing at least 10 trees in the parkway, it is noticeable. She also agrees it increases property value. As a Public Safety Commissioner She discusses safety and crime but is happy to endorse the tree ordinance. She believes there is a correlation. Thank you.
That concludes the ecomments.
Chair Simpson open the floor for discussion.
4 Minutes for Public Works Commission
Special Meeting
December 1, 2021
Commissioner Glass began the discussion, he supports trees, disappointed in North Redondo.
North Redondo is a post WWII area with narrow streets with minimal room for trees.
Recommends to City to plant tree in private property next to the side walk. It would be difficult to plant trees in the middle of the side walk because those in wheel chairs cannot move through.
There are less than 5 trees on his street. Developments in North Redondo do not have much front space, planting a tree in the front would give them no space. Back yards at these developments may only be about 8 feet deep and when the tree matures then the roots will disturb the property.
Concern for the construction that will occur on Manhattan Beach Blvd and what kind of trees will be planted there.
Commissioner Garcia began his comments, he appreciates MacMoran and Lang for their enthusiasm. He believes everyone in the Commission supports trees. Historic trees should protect unless it becomes a danger to society, there should be no restrictions to safety. Construction on private property has to do with Community Development more than Public Works. Northern California has a different tree list than Southern California because of climate. We need support from Public Works for tree maintenance. These are practical things that City Attorneys office may agree with. Ted Semaan replied to Commissioner Garcia's comment, Council wanted input from multiple commissions. There will be a meeting with the Planning Commission in January.
Vice Chair Minne began his comment, thank MacMoran and Lang for the presentation. He supports trees, important for climate change and water resources. Vice Chair Minne ask about the inventory of trees in the City, do we know where all the trees are and when they were last planted. Ted Semaan replied to Vice Chair Minne's questions, Public Works uses a software called Harbor Access that updates regularly whenever a tree is maintained and puts value on each tree, the bigger the tree is the more valuable it is. Chair Simpson asked if this database was strictly for trees only on public property. Ted Semaan replied with yes and directed the attention to Alberto Alejandre asking if the database focuses on City parks. Alberto Alejandre confirmed that it does include City Parks. Vice Chair Minne thanked Staff for answering his questions.
Heritage trees should have case-by-case basis and it seems like it already happening. If a historic tree is removed then multiple trees should take its place not just one. Vice Chair brought another question of where should these replacement trees go, property owner should be responsible for paying for the replacement, should be an ordinance if not done so. Ted Semaan commented, mature trees have a great value to them if a home owner choose to pay for the replacement of that tree then the funds go into the Tree Replacement Fund. Chair Simpson asked who pays for the removable of a parkway tree? Ted Semaan replied, the it is the property owner's responsibility to pay for the value of the tree. Vice Chair's recommendation to complete an evaluation of the tree value. Median should have large trees instead of dwarf trees. Recommends that the Public Works be part of the discuss in a tree removal process in private property.
Appreciates Lang's comment on diversifying the tree list.
Chair Simpson asked if a tree is to be removed from the park way, there has to be permission by the City, Ted Semaan confirm that statement is true. How often do homeowners chop down trees and what are the consequences, Ted Semaan replied that it does happen and there is no proof who had done it. Few times residents will call the police department if they witness someone cutting down a tree. Chair Simpson wanted clarification if staff presentation contains polices and procedures that have not been included in a municipal code and are there existing municipal 5 Minutes for Public Works Commission
Special Meeting
December 1, 2021
codes regarding trees? Ted Semaan replied, there is no codes relating to sale properties, construction on a property does require a tree to be planted is in the code.
Chair Simpson allowed Lang to share a comment. Lang acknowledged Commissioner Garcia's concern of safety, establishing protection of historic trees would not interfere with any safety precautions Alberto Alejandre needs to take. It is not to take power away. Lang explained that discussion of a tree removal process is not public facing. The knowledge of tree removal process does go to commission then that gives structure. Tree canopy committee will process differently than a commission.
MacMoran stated that herself and Lang have a slide to present that explains what the Recreation and Parks Commission voted on.
Lang shared the slide. MacMoran read aloud the 4 motions Recreation and Parks made.
Commissioner Glass comment on the planting trees and how it has not been stated.
Commissioner Garcia agreed with Commissioner Glass. Commissioner Bajaj comment focused on the second item on the slide, formalizing a policy to protect park way trees from driveway expansions. MacMoran responded to Commissioner Bajaj's comment, there needs to be parameters in how far a driveway can go and refining the policy. Commissioner Bajaj suggest to have City Attorney review item 3 on the slide. Ted Semaan reassure that City Attorney will review the motions when it is taken to Council. Commissioner Garcia commented that it is up to the jurisdiction of the Planning Commission of the replacement of trees, he did not make any comment regarding switching sizing.
Motion by Commissioner Minne, by seconded Commissioner Bajaj to have Public Works Commission supports determining a definition and procedure for heritage trees and public process for any removal of a heritage tree. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
Commissioner Arata and Commissioner Funabashi absent.
Motion by Chair Simpson, seconded by Commissioner Garcia to have Commission recognize process in place already limits removal of trees from driveways is adequate and adopt staff recommendation to make no change.
Commissioner Minne needed clarification from staff of what the recommendation was. Rob Osborne replied that the staff recommendation was to maintain the current practice.
Commissioner Bajaj commented that there is no policy or guideline, create a policy is the intent, support staff in formalizing the policy.
Commissioner Glass disagrees with Chair Simpson and agrees with Commissioner Bajaj.
Commissioner Glass suggest Chair Simpson to amend the motion and change the verbiage.
Ayes: 2
Nos: 3
Motion failed.
6 Minutes for Public Works Commission
Special Meeting
December 1, 2021
Motion by Commissioner Garcia, seconded by Vice Chair Minne to have the process stay the same but it is written down and incorporated in the overall tree ordinance. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Commissioner Arata and Commissioner Funabashi absent.
Commissioner Garcia attempted to make a motion: This be under the jurisdiction of the Community Development Department and not Public Works issue, private property trees and plants should come under Planning and Community Development Chair Simpson attempted reword the motion, Public Works Commission supports the municipal code covering trees on private property.
Commissioner Glass commented on why doesn't the City have regulation of removal of trees on private property.
Motion by Chair Simpson, seconded by Vice Chair Minne to have Commission supports the municipal tree code to allow the City to cover removal some trees that are on private property.
Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. Commissioner Arata and Commissioner Funabashi absent.
Motion by Vice Chair Minne, seconded by Commissioner Garcia to support, review, advise, and expand an acceptable tree species list.
Ted Semaan requested clarification in the motion if it focusing on private property or the right of way. Vice Chair Minne will keep the motion the same, his intent was not to restrict planting of trees on private property. Commissioner Garcia commented, there should be a separate species list for private property and right of way. Chair Simpson believe there should not be a formalize list and to follow staff recommendation. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
Commissioner Arata and Commissioner Funabashi absent
K. MBER ITEMS AND REFERRALS TO STAFF
ommissioner Glass: Is there a considetation of number of parking spaces that maybe lost due to the width of the driveway, if so it should. Ted Semaan responded that width of the driveway is taken into consideration, there is maximum number of 20 feet and theresate limitations. Gene Kim responded that stafedoes note and review. Is there way to remind property owners to plant trees when require to do so? Ted Semaan replied, requesting for the addresses of those properties and staff will investigate.
Commissioner Garcia: The police department has been picking up and behavior on the Esplanade has been better.
mmissioner Bajaj: Berly and 190", pavement markings and LED lights should turn on, Gene Kim responded they should be turned on soon. Request to have the western route looked at.
Vice Chair Minne: None
Chair Simpson: Andrews Park is looking good. Traffic lights on Green and Randge are problematic, suggest to investigate on making left turns protective. Ted Semaan responded that it a CAP project and it is being worked on.
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