Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout01 19 2021 P&R Comm Packet Agenda CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO MEETING OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION TELECONFERENCE MEETING NOTICE Tuesday, January 19, 2021 7:00 p.m. Welcome to the Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission. If this is your first time, the following is a general outline of our procedures: Please note that due to the COVID-19 outbreak, this meeting is teleconference only, and will be conducted pursuant to the provisions of the Governor’s Executive Order N29-20 issued on March 17, 2020 allowing for deviation of teleconference rules required by the Brown Act and pursuant to the Order of the Health Officer of San Mateo County dated March 31, 2020. The public may view or comment during this meeting from a computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone: Join Zoom Meeting https://ssf-net.zoom.us/j/83299989737?pwd=OHppZ2dtOUhNcHdmVDU1K1dGREU3Zz09 Meeting ID: 832 9998 9737 Passcode: 647839 The purpose of conducting the meeting as described in this notice is to provide the safest environment for staff and the public while allowing for public participation. Commissioners Aires, Battaglia, DeNardi, Firpo, and Lock, and Vice Chair Uy and Chair Camacho and essential City staff will participate via Teleconference. Members of the public may submit their comments on any agenda item or public comment via email or Parks & Recreation main line. PURSUANT TO RALPH M. BROWN ACT, GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54953, ALL VOTES SHALL BE BY ROLL CALL DUE TO COUNCIL MEMBERS PARTICIPATING BY TELECONFERENCE. In accordance with California Government Code Section 54957.5, any writing or document that is a public record, relates to an open session agenda item, and is distributed less than 72 hours prior to a regular meeting will be made available for public inspection at the Parks and Recreation Department in the Municipal Services Building. If, however, the document or writing is not distributed until the regular meeting to which it relates, then the document or writing will be made available to the public at the location of the meeting, as listed on this agenda. Public Comment: Please note that dialing in will only allow you to listen in on the meeting. To make a public comment during the GoToMeeting session, join the meeting from your computer or mobile device, enter your name, and request to comment through the “Chat” function and a staff person will add you to the queue for comments and unmute your microphone during the comment period. In the alternative, you may also provide email comments received during the meeting will be read into the record. Please be sure to indicate the Agenda item number you wish to address or the topic of your public comment. California law prevents the Commission from taking action on any item not on the Agenda (except in emergency circumstances). Your question or problem may be referred to staff for investigation and/or action where appropriate or the matter may be placed on a future Agenda for more comprehensive action or report. COMMENTS ARE LIMITED TO THREE (3) MINUTES PER SPEAKER. Thank you for your cooperation. Remote Public Comments: Members of the public wishing to participate are encouraged to submit public comments in writing in advance of the meeting. The email and phone line below will be monitored during the meeting and public comments received will be read into the record. The City encourages the submission of comments by 6:00pm on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, to facilitate inclusion in the meeting record. A maximum of 3 minutes per individual comment will be read into the record. Comments that are not in compliance the Commission’s rules of decorum may be summarized for the record rather than read verbatim. Email: [email protected] Electronic Comments received by email will be monitored during the meeting and read into the record. We ask that you limit your electronic comments so that they comply with the 3 minute time limitation for public comment. Parks & Recreation Hotline: (650) 829-3837 Voice messages will be monitored during the meeting, and read into the record. Your voicemail should be limited so that it complies with the 3 minute time limitation for public comment. If you have special questions, please contact the Director of Parks and Recreation. The Director will be pleased to answer your questions when the Commission is not in session. KRISTY CAMACHO CHAIRPERSON ROBERT UY BETTY BATTAGLIA VICE CHAIR COMMISSIONER WILLIAM LOCK MICHAEL AIRES SECRETARY COMMISSIONER RUTH DeNARDI STEPHEN FIRPO COMMISSIONER COMMISSIONER SHARON RANALS ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER/ DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION GREG MEDIATI DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION Agenda CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING Teleconference Meeting Tuesday, January 19, 2021 7:00 p.m. A G E N D A I. Call to Order II. Roll Call III. Pledge of Allegiance IV. Agenda Review V. Approval of Minutes of the October 20, 2020 Meeting VI. Citizen Participation (Citizen comment on items not agendized/informational only) VII. Beautification Committee VIII. Old Business A. Election of Parks and Recreation Commission Officers B. Capital Programs Update C. COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update D. Sign Hill Fire Remediation Work Update IX. New Business A. CPRS District IV Awards and Statewide Conference B. Proclamation Honoring Susan Filereto, Retired Administrative Assistant II X. Friends of Parks and Recreation XI. Items from Commission XII. Items from Staff A. Calendar of Events B. 2020 Year in Review C. Administrative Update XIII. Adjournment Next Meeting: Regular Meeting: Tuesday, February 16, 2021 CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES FROM TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 I. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. A regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of South San Francisco was held on Tuesday, October 20, 2020, via teleconference due to the COVID- 19 pandemic and local Shelter in Place health orders. II. ROLL CALL: Present: Commissioners Aires, Battaglia, Camacho, DeNardi, Firpo, Lock, and Uy Absent: All were present. Staff: Sharon Ranals, ACM/Director of Parks and Recreation Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Angela Duldulao, Recreation Manager Kari Jung, Administrative Assistant Erin O’Brien, Recreation Supervisor Philip Vitale, Deputy Director of Capital Projects III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Skipped. IV. AGENDA REVIEW: There were no changes to the agenda. V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 15, 2020, MEETING: Approved by motion. Motion: Commissioner Firpo / Seconded: Commissioner Lock. VI. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION: None. VII. BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE Deputy Director Mediati reported that there has not been a Beautification Committee meeting since February of this year and there is nothing new to report. VIII. OLD BUSINESS: A. 2020-21 Annual Co-Sponsored Group Update Manager Duldulao reminded the Commission that this is a continuation of renewing the Co-Sponsorship Groups that has been underway since July and in addition to the groups presenting this evening, there are two additional groups outstanding. The AARP group will not be meeting again until after the new year and will not be in need of any City facilities. The Ballet Folklorico group is in the process of completing their packet and are expected to present at the next meeting. She then reintroduced Kay McGough of the Italian American Citizens Club with a reminder that the Commission postponed the group’s renewal in August pending the group’s action to change some of the language and their bylaws regarding their membership required to be US citizens or legal residents. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 2 IACC President McGough informed the commission that she shared their concerns with the Board of Directors who were in agreement with the proposed changes and as of the 16th of October the changes were overwhelmingly approved. The changes to the documents have been shared with Angela and are: • Pages one and three of the bylaws that had the language related to citizenship removed. • Similar language has also been removed from their membership application. IACC President McGough requested that the Commission reconsider the approval of the co-sponsorship agreement. Commissioner Uy inquired with what the documents now say. McGough read from the documents, “all Members who paid annual dues and are otherwise in good standing have not been suspended or banned from the club have the right to vote on any subject to be decided by the membership new members will have the right to vote at the first general meeting,” and “the names of those who have extended will be placed on a ballot, a copy of which will be provided to be 11 board members for voting, the one person with the most votes will be a new board chair.” She further stated that the entire document is without any of that discriminatory language. Chair Camacho inquired for confirmation that the language has also been removed from the application. McGough read from the application, “please fill out the application and contact me for the mailing address when the application is approved by the IACC board of directors and when space is available, you will be notified to appear at the next general meeting.” Chair Camacho inquired if they had more members, since the application. McGough clarified that they have fewer members as they have not been able to take in any new members this year. Chair Camacho reminded of the SSF residency requirement and McGough explained that only SSF resident applications would be accepted until the residency requirement is met. Manager Duldulao reminded that the residency requirement also applied to board members and that President McGough has advised that elections will continue after in-person meetings resume and will address that residency requirement with the next elections. Chair Camacho requested a motion to accept the Co-Sponsored Agreement for the Italian American Citizens Club of South San Francisco. Commissioner Denardi shared that she would abstain from voting on renewal of IACC since she is a member. Commissioner Battaglia made the motion and Commissioner Firpo seconded. The motion was carried unanimously. Manager Duldulao introduced Woody Rael, President of the South San Francisco Shetland Pinto Mustang Baseball. President Rael shared that he oversees the “rookie players,” the T-Ball players up to seven and eight year olds which are the Shetland and Pintos. The Mustangs, 9 and 10 year olds are now referred to as double A. He further explained that they accept all Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 3 players, boys and girls, teaching a little about the game of baseball, good sportsmanship and hopefully that transfers over into being a good citizen. Commissioner DeNardi inquired if he takes the team to Cooperstown or if one of the booster does. President Rael explained that is under the Cooperstown Foundation, but he provides input. Chair Camacho expressed gratitude for the efforts to get the league up and running over the pandemic. Chair Camacho requested a motion to accept the Co-Sponsored Agreement for the South San Francisco Shetland Pinto Mustang Baseball Leagues. Commissioner DeNardi made the motion and Commissioner Firpo seconded. The motion was carried unanimously. Manager Duldulao introduced Juan Bustos, President of the South San Francisco Youth Baseball Managers Association. President Bustos shared with the Commission that he handles the 5th-6th grade and 7th- 8th grade leagues, referred to as the Bronco and Pony leagues and the Cooperstown team, which is an annual trip. Unfortunately, the trip had to be canceled this last year. Last year we had think nine teams, teams and 12 so over 100 kids participating, which was slightly lower than was the year before, but we're hoping to grow those numbers next year, and you know, hopefully, being able to get out, get out and get competitive and play some games this year, next year as well. Commissioner DeNardi inquired about the funds raised in relation to the casino event that was to take place in March and was cancelled because of the pandemic. President Bustos explained how the fundraisers are ran, with a chairperson is in charge of collecting whatever money is are donated sales are made on deck for it through our form they fill out their form turn in any checks cash. Anything else that goes along with it line item count that it goes to the team treasury. Each year the team treasurer than takes all that verifies those funds, make sure that they're all accounted for, make sure every time is collected and accounted for, then it finally goes to the league treasurer who deposits into a separate account. We do have a separate account them connected with the league and he is the one that gives the final count on. Commissioner DeNardi inquired if the separate account is a nonprofit account. President Bustos confirmed. Chair Camacho inquired if each of the accounts are audited which President Bustos confirmed that the league prepares and files their tax returns and their P&L statements each year, but doesn’t necessarily go through a formal audit. Commissioner DeNardi inquired what the plan for the monies collected for the 2020 Cooperstown Team would be, since they were unable to attend. President Bustos shared that some of the donations were returned (when requested) and the remaining funds are being considered by the team and parents for going to a tournament sometime in the spring as well as providing some souvenirs. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 4 Commissioner Firpo inquired, for clarification, if anybody that said that they wanted their donation back, received their donation back. President Bustos confirmed, that “to the best of my knowledge, yes, and some were even offered back without being asked just, you know, we know how things are right now, especially with some of them are small business owners that have been really good supporters of us.” Commissioner Uy expressed his gratitude for the program and what it does for our community. Chair Camacho requested a motion to accept the Co-Sponsored Agreement for the South San Francisco Youth Baseball Managers Association. Commissioner DeNardi made the motion and Commissioner Firpo seconded. The motion was carried unanimously. B. Capital Projects Update: Deputy Director Vitale shared an update on the Gardiner Park project with the Commission, highlighting that while the new design is similar to the previous it includes the following improvements including an accessible ramp, a couple of benches, a drinking fountain, new lighting through the whole park, the addition of seven trees, and a plan to have a mural at the rear of the site. He introduced that the artist selected for the mural is Sirron Norris, who has done public artwork in San Francisco for over 15 years, in addition to numerous other private projects. Deputy Director Vitale shared that the construction is in final inspections and a ribbon cutting event is scheduled for next week. Then, following the opening of the park staff will start an online survey for Commissioners and community members to vote on some themes to consider for the mural. In December, staff will roll out the artist’s design and alternatives based off of the selected theme. In January a final design will be presented to the cultural arts commission, Council and this Commission as well. And then from there we'll look to do installation in February. Chair Camacho shared that she is excited about the survey being done with choice ranking in lieu of having to just pick one. She further inquired if staff can video the process as the artist proceeds so that a time-lapse video could be created afterwards. Commissioner Lock shared that the work on the project is a great addition to the neighborhood and the residents that live close by are anxiously waiting for the opening. Deputy Director Vitale inquired, due to limited space, how many Commissioners would attend the ribbon cutting for planning purposes. Chair Camacho indicated that she has a conflict, Vice Chair Uy and Commissioners DeNardi and Aires indicated that they will attend. C. COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Manager Duldulao shared that the state first introduced the new tiers last month, under which they are opening up counties. Since the last meeting, San Mateo County has Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 5 moved from tier one, which is widespread, to tier two, which is substantial, which is good news. The difficulty in our planning is that we don't know when we'll get to tier three which is really when we can actually realize some change in our program in terms of opening indoors and doing just doing more for the community. We're continuing many of the virtual and in person programs that I introduced to you last month, those have been going on pretty well except for the poor air quality that unfortunately hampered some of our outdoor efforts. Unfortunately, the timing of the poor air quality coincided with the timing of our opening of some of our programs. So those were a little bit slow. To start off, but now that we've had good air and some nice weather. Staff has set air quality measures for determining when to proceed or cancel programs as the air quality issues may be recurring year over year. • Unhealthy air quality level of 150 or higher: all of our outdoor activities will be cancelled, indoor activities will be reviewed on a case by case basis, and our child care programs will be closed as well. Manager Duldulao turned the floor over to Supervisor O’Brien to discuss upcoming programming. Supervisor O'Brien shared a few updates on our upcoming events and fun happening for the October Halloween season. Friday, October 23 is the Ghostbusters drive-in movie which we've had a great and the community response. We’ve met with the vendor at the site and have been able to increase our numbers to about 130 cars, which is an approximately 450 people. Cars will be able to enter the site at 5:30 p.m. and the move will begin at 6:30 p.m. Supervisor O'Brien shared that last week the Department sent out ghostly greetings, which included a couple Halloween themed activities for the community, a virtual Halloween costume contest and a great jack o' lantern hunt. In November, we are bringing our Thanksgiving fun run about as a virtual event this year. We're asking is just people can run their walk or jog a 5K on your in your neighborhood, a new part of town, or on your treadmill, and you would just record that digitally with an app. Registration is open and there'll be prizes awarded for all the age groups and they'll be listed posted on the website, once the, once the scores come in. The race itself is open from November 14 to November 22. During the month of December, with gatherings being limited the way they are, our team creatively started working on a Winter Wonderland event. Keeping social distancing in mind, the Department is bringing Winter Wonderland to Orange Park. The displays would be up through the entire month of December. Chair Camacho shared that Winter Wonderland thing sounds really excited exciting. She inquired if the sculpture garden could also be lit up with holiday lights. Supervisor O’Brien agreed and stated that staff was looking into the possibility of an interactive voice/singing light somewhere along the way and the sculpture garden was definitely worth looking into. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 6 Commissioner Lock shared that he walks with his granddaughter looking for the jack-o-lantern artwork is enjoyable. He did share that he would not attend the drive-in since there is limited capacity and would be better for more of the community to attend. He thanked staff for all of the hard work and creativity. Chair Camacho concurred, that if there is a waitlist, it would be better to turn her spot over for a community member. Supervisor O’Brien confirmed that there is a waitlist, and turning those spots over would be appreciated. Commissioner Aires inquired about the best form of communication for residents to look out for these events, as many hear about it after it is too late. Supervisor O’Brien shared that staff is always looking for new and better ways to get the word out, but that the newsletter and the Department’s social media accounts, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as our www.ssf.net/rec webpage will link you to the most current happenings as well. Commissioner Battaglia inquired if you are limited to your car, or if you can get out the car during the movie. Supervisor O'Brien explained that all of the information that's gone out and it's printed on everyone's receipts and ask them that they are asked to stay in the car with the exception if you need to get out and use the restroom. Portable restrooms will be on site. Other than that, we are asking people to stay in their vehicles for the movie. Commissioner DeNardi inquired if people are able to decorate their car exteriors and trunks. Supervisor O’Brien explained that is an option, however there would not be a parade, or the ability to wander around and view all of the cars. Commissioner DeNardi further shared her excitement for the Winter Wonderland, stating it reminds her of when she was a little kid and her mom used to take her to the downtown Emporium. She thanked staff for the efforts and bringing joy and normalcy to the holidays. Manager Duldulao shared the Dia de los Muertos / Day of the Dead virtual art show has received 39 pieces of art from 19 artists and we're looking forward to putting that out soon with a corresponding craft that will be handed out at movie night. Manager Duldulao reminded the Commission that indoor programming will not be offered until after the New Year and staff is not printing a full activity guide, but we're sending out a post card each quarter, establishing some sort of routine, meaning we know we're going to have winter classes that will likely be virtual possibly will explore an indoor option, depending on if the tiers change. Deputy Mediati, on behalf of Manager Richardson, presented a quick update that on October 2, park restrooms and playgrounds had reopened with precautionary signage with regards to playground capacities, hygiene, and handwashing requirements. Deputy Mediati expressed thanks to staff for the efforts to reopening so quickly, within two days of the California Department of Public Health. Notice that playgrounds can reopen Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 7 based on great deal public pressure were able to reopen those quite quickly. He also thanked Recreation staff with helping with the regular cleaning of those playgrounds. Chair Camacho shared kudos to the staff and the whole team for really pulling together to make it happen. Deputy Mediati included facility maintenance staff for their tremendous efforts as well. IX. New Business: A. Cancellation of November or December Meetings Chair Camacho opened the floor to discuss cancellation of the November and/or December meetings. Deputy Mediati stated that there have been occasions in the past when both meetings were cancelled and a single special meeting has been held in place. Commissioner Firpo expressed that cancelling both meetings and allowing staff additional time off would be appropriate, considering the workload involved. He further suggested that an information only meeting could be called if necessary. Commissioner Lock concurred cancelling both meetings would be a good idea pointing out that staff would create the work to conduct a meeting if pressed to do so. Commissioners DeNardi, Battaglia, Uy, and Aires all concurred. Chair Camacho requested a motion to cancel the November and December Parks & Recreation Commission meetings. Commissioner Firpo made the motion and Commissioner DeNardi seconded. The motion was carried unanimously. X. Friends of Parks and Recreation: Manager Duldulao advised the Commission that the bench commemorating Richard Holt has been ordered and is expected to arrive in November. XI. Items from Commission: Commissioner Firpo shared that he is looking forward to the events coming up with this November and December, especially the Winter Wonderland. He thanked South San Francisco Fire Department and their partners for the work they did putting out the fire at Sign Hill. He gave kudos to staff for the great job they're doing. Commissioner Lock inquired when Parkway Middle School site would be open to the public. Director Ranals shared that during the pandemic the school district is not issuing any permits for any reasons at any of their sites. The City has raised this issue and it will have to be reviewed further after the pandemic ends and sites are reopening. Commissioner Lock concurred with Commissioner Firpo regarding the path and then inquired about companies that are supposed to maintain open parking slots. Director Ranals shared that Genentech has reopened lots with public stall with the exception of those affected by ongoing construction. Commissioner Lock commended the firefighters for their response to the fire, as well as Parks staff for the firebreaks that prevented further burn. Commissioner Battaglia shared that she has been walking a lot and looking and enjoying everybody's rocks that you pick up and move them to somebody else's house as a gift to them, Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 8 Commissioner DeNardi shared her appreciation of the hanging baskets on Grand Avenue and the ivy around the parking garage and neighboring businesses. She thanked staff for all their work. Commissioner Aires expressed to staff, “you're appreciated and everything that you do is valued now more than ever.” Commissioner Uy shared that his youngest son had a lot of fun playing horseshoes, lawn darts, and corn hole at the Park to Parks program. His children are enrolled in the Childcare program and the program is excellent and appreciated and should be expanded if distance learning continues much longer. He has been walking a lot and the bay trail is beautiful. A lot of people are taking advantage of the Dog Park and Centennial Way Trail. Deputy Mediati shared that the City is in discussion with BART and considering programming the trail further, but in exchange for maintaining all their lands within the City. Commissioner Uy suggested that the land south of Spruce would be ideal for paved over multi use courts so people could use it for various things like soccer/futsal. And that would want to take up a fraction of the space, but that would allow something like 40 kids to play at any given time. Commissioner Uy indicated that staff did a great job supporting the firefighters and everything else. He inquired if there was anything that staff could do to mitigate how quickly everything caught fire. Deputy Mediati explained that the grasses burn very quickly. The issue is really the larger biomass, like the big logs typically won't burn so it's the logs are smaller than 10 inches that fuel the fire to go up to the canopy and that's when we get the really big hot fires that do a whole lot of damage. We did see some of that on Friday. Removing large or a moderate size rounds of wood from the ground and pulling those out or chipping them on site is a best practice, and something we will be looking at doing. Staff has improved our defensible space and increased fire breaks in the past year. Deputy Mediati expressed a huge kudos to the recreation staff. The staff at the MSB was called at approximately 1:00 p.m. and within minutes, they opened up an evacuation center. Chair Camacho expressed her gratitude to staff. She appreciates the information received via Administrative updates and Senior Connections. XII. Items from Staff: A. Calendar of Events. Deputy Mediati briefly reviewed the upcoming items. ACM Ranals further explained the take home Wreath Making Workshop and confirmed the fees. Manager Duldulao shared a change Santa Comes to Town is not happening, but Santa will be part of the Winter Wonderland event on the 12th. Additionally, Winter Camp will not be held this year, due to COVID restrictions. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of October 20, 2020 Page 9 Kristy Camacho inquired if the ballet program was holding a virtual Nutcracker this year and Supervisor O’Brien explained that they are working on a DVD from the last two years and potentially posting it on YouTube. B. Administrative Updates Chair Camacho inquired if Commissioners had any questions related to the previously shared administrative updates. No questions were posed. XIII. Adjournment: 9:24 p.m. Respectfully submitted by Kari Jung, Administrative Assistant II Staff Report DATE: January 19, 2021 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Election of Parks and Recreation Commission Officers RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission elect officers for 2021. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION Consistent with the City's Ordinance, the annual election of officers is to be held in January of each year. It is recommended that the current Chair ask for nominations from among the Commission to elect a new Chairperson. Following an election of the new Chair, the newly elected Chair shall conduct elections for the new Chair Pro-Tem and Secretary. By: Greg Mediati Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Staff Report DATE: January 19, 2021 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Jacob Gilchrist, Director of Capital Projects Philip Vitale, Deputy Director of Capital Projects SUBJECT: Capital Programs Update RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission receive an update on the Community Center and Library and Caltrain Plaza Public Art projects. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION The City’s Capital Projects team will be prepared to verbally present an update on the construction of the new Community Center and Library facility and artist selection for the South San Francisco. A brief update is also summarized below. Community Center/Library Construction Update In November 2020, the City Council awarded a construction contract to Swinerton Builders, Inc. for the construction of Community Civic Campus Phase II – Library/Parks and Recreation. This is a major step in progressing toward building the City’s new home for the Library and Parks and Recreation Departments. As previously discussed with the Commission, Council elected to award the entire scope of work, including the playground and enhanced landscape that was reviewed with the Commission. The contractor began removing debris and installing the construction fence in early January and work will begin in earnest over the next several weeks. Construction is anticipated to last approximately 28 months and will wrap up in the Spring of 2023. Staff will provide periodic updates to the Commission over the duration of construction. Caltrain Plaza Public Art As part of the South San Francisco Caltrain Station Improvement, a new pedestrian tunnel and half acre plaza are being constructed at the intersection of Grand Ave. and Airport Blvd. The cornerstone of a new transit hub in South San Francisco, this plaza is imagined to anchor the eastern end of historic downtown. The plaza includes a lawn, planting areas, an icon tree, lighting and integrated seating. A prominent pathway connects city sidewalks and adjacent properties to the station platform through a pedestrian tunnel with a dedicated art wall roughly 130 linear feet by 7 feet tall. The plaza is visible from Grand Avenue, the main thoroughfare of the downtown, the Highway 101 on and off ramps and the busy Airport Boulevard. Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 19, 2021 Subject: Capital Programs Update Page 2 In October 2020, City Council appropriated $500,000 toward public art for the Caltrain plaza and tunnel. A request for proposals was advertised nationally in November 2020, seeking an artist or artist team, to create the design and commission public art to capture the identity of the city as represented by its heritage and culture. Art opportunities include, but not limited to: • Tunnel gateway, wall and ceiling mural, mosaic, lighting, digital or video projection • Plaza sculpture, free-standing or integrated into the landscaping • Kinetic sculpture The City received 15 proposals from artists near and far. The seven-member Caltrain Plaza Art Selection Committee (CPASC), composed of two City Councilmembers, two Cultural Arts Commissioners and three Mayor-appointed community members will review and rank the proposals over the coming months. Finalists will be interviewed by the CPASC in March 2021 and recommendations to City Council for award of art commission is planned for April 2021. Art installation will begin in Fall 2021 with plaza opening and art dedication ceremony in Winter 2021. By: Philip Vitale Deputy Director of Capital Projects Community Civic Center: Phase II Library and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater / Council Chamber:ĂŶƵĂƌLJϭϵϮϬϮϭ In 2015, residents approved a ½-cent sales tax to fund the replacement of the MSB, home to Police and Parks & Recreation. •Converted department store•Seismically unsound•No longer serves community needsCommunity Civic CampusPhase I: Police Operations & 911 Dispatch CenterPhase II: Library, Parks and Recreation Community Theater/Council ChamberLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber3 Community Civic Campus Library and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber5 Community Civic CampusPhase I Police FacilityScheduled to open Fall 2021Phase II LibraryParks & RecreationCouncil ChambersStart of Construction Winter 2020Scheduled to open Spring 2023 VIEW FROM EL CAMINO REALLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber8 Community Civic Campus VIEW FROM PARK Library and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber9 Community Civic Campus VIEW FROM PARKLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber10 Community Civic Campus VIEW FROM DROP-OFF/PARKING LOTLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber11 Community Civic Campus COUNCIL CHAMBERSLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber12 Community Civic Campus LARGE EVENT SPACELibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber13 Community Civic Campus LEVEL 1 – ENTRY LOBBY Library and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber14 Community Civic Campus BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF PLAYGROUNDLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber18 Community Civic Campus •Pre-qualification Package Released: April 6, 2020•Pre-qualification Responses Received: May 1, 2020•Bid Package Advertised: Sept 4, 2020•Bids Opened: October 23, 2020•Swinerton Builders: $75,608,971.00 (low bid)•Webcor Construction: $77,710,000.00•Skanska USA Building Inc.: $81,475,000.00•Hensel Phelps Construction Co.: 81,964,000.00•Post Bid Interview & Confirmation: Oct 28, 2020PROCUREMENT PROCESSLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber19 Community Civic Campus •Construction Contract Base Bid $ 75,608,971•Construction Contingency $ 10,000,000•Additive Alternatives (Add Alt 1-5) $ 5,764,000•Permits, FF&E, and Outfitting $ 9,627,029TOTAL PROJECT COST: $101,000,000PROJECT BUDGETLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber20 Community Civic Campus •City Council Award of Contract: Nov 9, 2020•Construction Start: Dec 11, 2020•Groundbreaking Event: January 2021•Final Completion: March 31, 2023 (840 calendar days per contract)PROJECT SCHEDULE – NEXT STEPSLibrary and Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber22 Community Civic Campus Caltrain Plaza Public ArtParks and Recreation Commission January 19, 2021 ThemeEmbody aspects of South San Francisco’s identity as it relates to heritage and culture. Scope●$500,000 Budget ●Single or multiple pieces within the plaza and/or tunnel●Design, Fabrication and Installation Request for Proposals(November - December)Advertise Request for ProposalsProposal Review(January)CPASC identifies a shortlist of artists/teamsFormal Presentation(March)Shortlisted artists/teams presents design and approach to CPSAC30 minsCPSAC identifies final artist/team and recommends to City Council for award 15 minsAward of Contract by City Council Award(April)Selection(March) Caltrain Public Art Selection Committee (CPASC)CCity Council(2)Mayor Mark AddiegoCouncilmember Buenaflor NicolasCultural Arts Commission(2)Commissioner Ryan CampagnaCommissioner Peter Foley Community Members(3)To be appointed by the Mayor on 1/13/21 Proposals●Deadline January 5, 2021●15 submissions ●Mural, sculptures, lightings ●Plaza and tunnel Thank You Staff Report DATE: January 19, 2021 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Recreation Manager SUBJECT: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission receive an update on the current status of Departmental modified operations in response to COVID-19. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION At the last Parks and Recreation Commission of calendar year 2020 held on October 20, staff reported on the declining rate of covid cases and San Mateo County’s elevation from Tier 1 to Tier 2 on California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy (Blueprint). The tiers in order of greatest to least severity are: • Tier 1 - Widespread: Many non-essential indoor business operations are closed • Tier 2 - Substantial: Some non-essential indoor business operations are closed • Tier 3 - Moderate: Some indoor business operations are open with modifications • Tier 4 - Minimal: Most indoor business operations are open with modifications In October 2020, staff had been looking forward to implementing more in-person programming including planning some recreation classes and activities indoors, in modified form as allowed by public health regulations. Unfortunately, since that last meeting, COVID case rates have reached record-breaking highs and continue on an upward trajectory which are partially attributed to gatherings over the various fall and winter holidays. Moreover, on December 3, 2020, the State of California issued additional regulations outlining when Regional Stay Home Orders would go into effect once regions fall below 15% intensive care unit (ICU) capacity. San Mateo County is in the Bay Area region, along with Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Napa, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Santa Crus, Solano, and Sonoma. San Mateo County became subject to the Regional Stay Home Order on December 17, 2020. The Regional Stay Home Order instructs Californians to stay at home as much as possible and to stop mixing between households that can lead to COVID-19 spread. It allows access to critical services and allows outdoor activities, including use of playgrounds, to preserve Californians’ physical and mental health. Under the order, critical infrastructure, schools, non-urgent medical and Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 21, 2021 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 2 dental care, and childcare and pre-K are allowed to remain open. More information about the order is available at https://covid19.ca.gov. The timeline summarizing San Mateo County’s change in status on the Blueprint since October is as follows: October 28, 2020 – Tier 3 November 17, 2020 – Tier 2 November 21, 2020 – Tier 1 December 17, 2020 to present – Regional Stay Home Order in effect The Regional Stay Home Order can be lifted once a region’s four-week ICU projection shows a capacity of greater than or equal to 15%. As of January 11, 2021, ICU capacity is at 0.7%. Program Status As of this report, recreation programming has been limited to specific essential in-person services and virtual programs as further described in this report. While the Regional Stay Home Order does allow for certain fitness-related activities to take place, the City’s current policy direction is to limit recreational in-person activities until the County is out of the Regional Stay Home Order. In addition, the City has implemented a stricter policy requiring most office staff to work from home except for necessary office visits as approved by management. Aquatics – Orange Pool is closed. In early December, the guidelines for pool operations was changed to add “drowning prevention classes, including swim lessons with certified instructors, are permitted in indoor and outdoor swimming pools in all tiers, as they are deemed essential.” This would involve a programmatic change to how the pool had previously only been allowed to offer lap swim under Tier 2. Staff has a plan in place to implement swim lessons once Orange Pool is allowed to open. Childcare - The Department’s preschool and expanded learning program for school age children has carried on without interruption, except for a planned two-week break over the weeks of Christmas and New Year. On December 10, the South San Francisco Unified School District board of trustees decided that schools would remain in distance learning until San Mateo County’s COVID case rates return to Tier 3. In the meantime, the district will focus on expanding learning hubs to assist students struggling with distance learning. Staff is looking forward to adding one classroom to the Los Cerritos expanded learning program (capacity of 10-12 students) in the near future and continues to partner with the district on efforts to support students during distance learning. Classes – Following the hopeful trend of declining COVID cases in late October, the Classes Program had created a winter class schedule anticipating being able to offer some modified, in-person, indoor recreation classes. Also for the first time since COVID began, the Department had planned to open its office at the Municipal Services Building for limited in-person office hours on November 30 and December 7 in response to feedback from community members about needing in-person registration assistance. The Department kept its office hours on November 30, however, most in-person classes had been cancelled or postponed by then. The Department subsequently Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 21, 2021 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 3 cancelled the office hours on December 7 after confirming a winter class schedule comprising of mostly virtual classes. Cultural Arts – Following the success of the virtual “Día de Muertos/Day of the Dead” art show, the Cultural Arts Commission continues to plan additional virtual events. The next virtual art show will be a photography show themed, “Living in Virtual Times,” and will take place from February 14 through March 14, 2021. Pre-registration to enter is required by January 27, 2021. Rentals – This program continues to support essential services in City facilities including blood drives most recently hosted on December 2, 2020 and January 11, 2021, and a food drive that took place in mid-December. The next blood drive is scheduled to take place on February 2, 2021. The Rentals Program has established a new permitting process to permit South San Francisco gyms and fitness studios to schedule and use the City’s outdoor spaces, however, this process was put on hold upon the State’s announcement of Regional Stay Home Orders. Senior Services – Like Childcare, the Senior Services Program has carried on with little interruption by the changes in COVID tiers. The essential tasks of food delivery, information and referral, and wellness calls continues to take place on a regular basis. Please see the December 24, 2020 bi-weekly memo to City Council included in the Administrative Update for highlights of this program’s most recent activities. Sports – Terrabay Gymnasium and Recreation Center reopened on November 2, 2020 for the first time since the citywide closure of City facilities in mid-March with the offering of open gym basketball and badminton by reservation. Unfortunately, this program was short-lived with the rapid change in the County’s COVID tier status soon after forcing the closure of Terrabay Gym that continues through today. The traditional middle school sports program is still on hold a may not return for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. Staff hopes to continue offering in-person skills camps for youth when allowed by City policy and as COVID rates decline. In the meantime, staff is in the midst of completing negotiations with a vendor to assist the City and local partners in the Northern California Region League that organizes the competitions between middle school sports programs with establishing a new e-sports program. E-sports is a form of sport competition using videogames and is one of the latest trends among recreation agencies. Special Events – While the future remains uncertain, staff planned a draft 2021 event calendar in Attachment 1 reserving key dates in which the Department’s traditional events typically take place. Many upcoming events are likely to be modified, cancelled, or postponed. However, this calendar is a useful tool for planning purposes and is also important in terms of reserving City facilities in the event that in-person events are allowed. Vaccination Plan The State has released a COVID-19 Vaccine Plan that is summarized in Attachment 2. The plan identifies a priority in which the public will be vaccinated, and staff awaits more information from the County on how to obtain a vaccine. The plan identifies three phases – Phase 1A, 1B, and 1C. Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 21, 2021 Subject: COVID-19 Response and Modified Operations Update Page: 4 The Department anticipates that staff members in Childcare, Senior Services, and the Rentals Programs, and Building Maintenance Custodians will have the chance to be vaccinated in Phase 1B. By: Angela Duldulao Recreation Manger August Senior Picnic Fall Registration Begins Cultural Arts BBQ Movie Night Senior Health Fair End of Summer Camp CAC Youth Art Show Spring Camp (TBD) Senior Volunteer Luncheon Arbor Day April TBA 1-2, 5-6 16 or 23 TBA 6 or 13 9 15 20 27 TBA December IPP Wreath Making Workshop Recreation Admin Offices Closed Winter Camp (Tentative) New Years Eve / Programs Closed 5 20-25 20-31 31 May Senior Pancake Breakfast Summer Registration Begins Memorial Day Holiday/Programs Closed September Labor Day / Programs Closed Fall Session Classes Begins Coastal Cleanup Day New Year’s Day/Programs Closed Winter Session Classes Begin (Virtual) Martin Luther King Day- Holiday/Closed Senior Valentine Day Cards for the Troops (Mail-in Event) Middle School Dance (Cancelled) January 1 11 18 15 or 20 TBA 16 10 31 6 7 18 October CAC Art Show Columbus Day / Programs Closed Halloween Extravaganza Middle School Dance February Senior Dance Chinese New Year Party (Cancelled) CAC "Living in Virtual Times" Virtual Photography Show Senior Valentine Dance (Cancelled) Presidents Day/Programs Closed Spring Registration Begins 5 or 12 Feb. 14 -Mar. 14 12 15 22 June Summer Session Classes Begin Movie Night SSF Ballet Spring Performance Summer Camp 7 18 TBA TBA 8-9 11 30 TBA November Holiday Boutique Veteran's Day / Programs Closed Thanksgiving Fun Run Thanksgiving/Programs ClosedMarch Spring Session Classes Begins Easter Egg Hunt (Virtual or Modified) Spring Camp (TBD) 22 27 29-31 July Independence Day/Programs Closed Programs Closed CAC Photography Show 4 5 9-10 July is Parks and Recreation Month!6 11 20 25-26 *TBA= To be announced. Dates subject to change [Updated 1.13.2021] Attachment 1 - 2021 Calendar of Events Attachment 2 California’s COVID-19 Vaccine Plan   https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines Staff Report DATE: January 19, 2021 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Joshua Richardson, Parks Manager SUBJECT: Sign Hill Fire Remediation Work Update RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission be apprised on the status of the response to the Diamond Fire event on Sign Hill. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION On October 16, 2020 at 11:54 a.m., a fire ignited on Sign Hill originating on the western section of the iconic letters. This was the third day of a regional Red Flag Warning with elevated temperatures, reduced humidity, and a steady easterly wind. The wind pushed the fire quickly to the west across the southern face of the hill through the grasses before spreading into the nearby tree groves. The incident commander realized the fire would grow quickly and structures would be threatened. Additional resources were immediately called to the scene to assist. In total, five alarms of fire apparatus from South San Francisco and nearby agencies responded to the emergency. Additionally, an agreement with California Forestry and Fire Department (CalFire) was utilized and provided the City with their associated aircraft, hand crews and wildland firefighting equipment for the incident. The fire burned for nearly three hours before being fully declared under control. Fire crews remained on site for over two days to ensure all hot spots were extinguished and embers would not reignite. Fortunately, the fire was kept to 16 acres and only caused minor property damage to three homes on Mountain Road, and no one was injured, thanks to the fuel load reduction and fire break work completed in recent years and the fire fighters great efforts. Immediately after the fire, the City Manager’s Office, Parks and Recreation Department, Fire Department and Public Works/Engineering staff met to discuss next steps to prepare the hill for the winter months. On October 22, 2020, City Parks and Recreation staff completed a walkthrough and prepared an assessment of the state of the Sign Hill environment and trails to evaluate the scale of fire damage. Based on staff’s assessment, two phases of work were established – short term work to winterize the hill, remove hazards, and make it safe to reopen, and longer term work Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 19, 2021 Subject: Sign Hill Fire Remediation Work Update Page: 2 to expand on the ongoing fuel load reduction and maintain firebreaks on Sign Hill. Due to the emergent nature of the short term work to prepare Sign Hill for wet weather, and potential debris flows, falling trees, or the potential for future fire due to the buildup of fuel in the form of dead trees and brush, it was determined an emergency declaration was needed to expedite the work. At the November 24, 2020 Regular City Council Meeting, the City Council adopted a resolution determining the existence of an emergency as a result of the Diamond Fire, and authorized emergency repairs. These repairs largely include the removal of more than 1,500 trees directly impacted by the Diamond Fire for a contract total not to exceed $900,000. Additionally, the City has executed a contract with Acacia Environmental Construction to perform immediate slope stabilization and erosion mitigation work on newly exposed and vulnerable sloped areas for a contract total not to exceed $110,559. Tree Removals Davey Tree Experts began their work on December 3, 2020 focusing on the area near the Ridge Trail known as Seubert Grove. The tree work needing to be performed on the hill will take numerous months due to the location and terrain where many of these trees are located. The trees that are being removed are largely being chipped on site to help with slope stabilization or are safely stockpiled for use in restoration efforts on the hill. Some tree trunks of twelve inches or greater in diameter may be left on the ground perpendicular to the slope of the hill. The smaller brush is being removed so as not to serve as potential fuel for the next fire season. This work is in accordance with CalFire forestry guidance. As of January 12, 2021 Davey Tree Experts had almost completely removed all dead trees in Seubert Grove and the surrounding areas near the Eucalyptus trail. After this portion of work is completed Davey will move to the other portions of the Ridge Trail and Iris Trail that were damaged in the fire. As each of these trails are made safe, the Parks Division will re-open specific trails and tree work will shift focus to trees adjacent to residences on the hill in a preventative effort for the dry season in 2021. Tree work is expected to continue through March 2021, until bird nesting season, and will resume in late summer after bird nesting season ends, consistent with the Migratory Bird Act which provides protections to bird habitat. A notice to all residents adjacent to work areas on Sign Hill was mailed in early December communicating the ongoing work on Sign Hill. Additionally, staff has shared project updates to the public by way of a press release, the City’s construction coordination newsletter, the citywide e-newsletter, the Parks and Recreation Department’s e-newsletter, and on social media. Staff has also spoken directly with stakeholders, including the Seubert Family, whose father, Al, generously volunteered thousands of hours to plant and care for trees on Sign Hill. Unfortunately, many of these trees were killed by the fire, but there are plans to memorialize his monumental efforts. Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 19, 2021 Subject: Sign Hill Fire Remediation Work Update Page: 3 Erosion Control Acacia Environmental Construction was contracted to perform the erosion control efforts on December 11, 2020. Staff met with Acacia’s project team on December 14 to discuss the project’s priorities and phases of work. Erosion control work began on December 28, 2020, and consists of installation of check dams in drainage areas and culverts, fiber waddle installation on steep slopes, and hydro-seeding barren areas of the hill with a native seed blend, which in addition to the slope stabilization efforts will help re-establish the hill’s native grassland ecosystem. Additionally, tree stumps and root mass from felled trees will be left in place to help with slope stabilization. Mulch from removed trees is also being spread to lessen rain impacts. As of January 12, 2021 Acacia Environmental Construction had completed the installation of check dams in the culverts that line the bottom of Sign Hill behind the homes on Rocca Avenue. Starting on January 11, installation of straw wattle began. Wattle is being installed in the steeper areas of the hill impacted by the fire as well as areas where the fire burned the hottest. In these areas, much of the grass seed bank was destroyed and will need stabilization to ensure these areas do not become compromised through the rainy season. The installation of check dams in concentrated flow areas is also occurring at the same time as the wattle installation. After both the wattle installation and check dams are completed, application of hydro-seed will begin. This hydro-seed mix will consist of all native grass blends to help restore the native biomes found on the hill. The hydro-seeding will cover large swaths of the burnt area and will help suppress and crowd out invasive species that would typically move in after fire events such as this. The erosion control work on Sign Hill is anticipated to be completed by mid-February. CONCLUSION The Diamond Fire was a significant event for Sign Hill and for the City of South San Francisco, and mitigation of the damage will take many months. However, this work provides an opportunity for significant restoration of the natural habitat of Sign Hill. Erosion efforts will tentatively conclude in February. The tree work will continue through much of 2021 due to the large number of trees and difficult accessibility of many of the sites. As trees are removed, certain sites will be re-assessed to determine if there is any need for further erosion control efforts in the future. Staff Report DATE: January 19, 2021 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Erin O’Brien, Recreation Supervisor SUBJECT: CPRS District 4 Awards and Volunteer Recognition Nominations RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission be apprised of the Department’s nominations for the CPRS District 4 Awards and Volunteer Recognition. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION Throughout these challenging times, the need for quality parks and recreation programs and services has rarely been greater. This year, CPRS District 4's Awards and Volunteer Recognition program will highlight the outstanding accomplishments of parks and recreation professionals serving as the "key to the community" throughout this pandemic. While there will not be any in- person gatherings to recognize award recipients, awardees will be highlighted on District 4's social media pages throughout the month of February and receive a certificate of recognition. The South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department is proud of the hard work and many accomplishments achieved this past year, including the following nominations submitted for this year’s CPRS District 4 Awards and Volunteer Recognition: Award of Excellence: Gardiner Park Improvement Project Volunteer & Sponsor Citation Award: Jesus Ruiz Professional Merit Award: Susan Filereto Key to the Community: Full Day Childcare Program Award of Excellence: The recent improvements made to Gardiner Park include new playground equipment, new rubberized safety surfacing, a resurfaced basketball court with new backboard and hoop, new lighting, new drinking fountain, and fresh landscaping with drought-tolerate plants. The project creates a much more inviting and safe community park. A mural by renowned artist Sirron Norris is planned to begin this spring. Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 19, 2021 Subject: CPRS District 4 Awards and Volunteer Recognition Nominations Page: 2 This park is located in an otherwise park-poor neighborhood, and creates opportunities for fitness, play, and leisure. As we all know, healthy parks create healthy people and healthy communities – all of which we know are extremely important especially during these turbulent times of being in a pandemic. Volunteer & Sponsor Citation Award: The City of South San Francisco nominates Jesus Ruiz for the 2021 Volunteer Citation Award. For the past 15 years, our South San Francisco Civic Ballet program has been entertaining community members with the annual production of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. Each year the production grows in size and becomes more elaborate than the last. Behind the scenes executing each backdrop change, each lighting and sound cue, and each prop construction is the stage manager, Jesus Ruiz. As the stage manager, Jesus works directly with Parks and Recreation staff, the Artistic Director, instructors, dancers, parent volunteers, and the Unified School District staff. He also spends time mentoring the young stage crew and building comradery around the team. Jesus’ role as the stage manager requires a great deal of time, talent, and dedication. The City of South San Francisco is fortunate that, between balancing a career and a family, Jesus chooses to volunteer his time for the South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department. Professional Merit Award: Susan Filereto, Administrative Assistant II for the City of South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department, is being nominated for the Award of Excellence to acknowledge her for nearly 30 years of dedicated service to the Department and the South San Francisco community. Susan retired on December 30, 2020. Over the years, Susan served as a critical member of the Parks and Recreation Department, supporting the administrative needs of seven different program areas including Aquatics, Childcare, Classes, Cultural Arts, Rentals, Seniors, and Sports. Susan was often the first face to greet community members who visited the office, always providing excellent customer service as she handled their questions and business transactions. The graceful way in which Susan completed her numerous responsibilities do little to acknowledge the strong, positive relationships Susan developed with colleagues in the Department and citywide, as well as with the community. While she will be greatly missed by her colleagues, we proudly celebrate her accomplishments and wish her the best in retirement. Key to the Community: The City of South San Francisco proudly nominates its Full Day Childcare Program for the Key to the Community Award. Just as COVID-19 forced the closure of so many recreation programs and businesses suffered severe financial losses, the City of South San Francisco Childcare Program rose to the challenge in June 2020 by reopening its three, full day licensed preschool sites for 60 children, and kicking off a full day summer camp at three locations serving over 140 children for essential employees. After summer, preschool continued to operate a full day program for 50 children, and school age programs opened in late August 2020 for a full day distance and expanded learning program at its six school locations for over 100 children. Staff Report To: Parks and Recreation Commission Date: January 19, 2021 Subject: CPRS District 4 Awards and Volunteer Recognition Nominations Page: 3 Through this nomination, we applaud our Childcare staff and all childcare professionals, who should be counted among the heroes in the COVID crisis for providing an educational and recreational safe haven for children, and for giving parents the child care services and peace of mind that allows essential workers to go to work. By: Erin O’Brien Recreation Supervisor Staff Report DATE: January 19, 2021 TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Proclamation Honoring Susan Filereto, Retired Administrative Assistant II RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Parks and Recreation Commission receive a presentation of a proclamation honoring Susan Filereto, retired Administrative Assistant II. BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION After 28 years of dedicated service to the City of South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department, Susan Filereto has retired effective December 30, 2020. As an Administrative Assistant II with the Department, Susan is often the first person one sees when visiting or calling the Parks and Recreation office at the Municipal Services Building. For nearly 30 years, Susan has served the City of South San Francisco and has been at the heart of supporting Parks and Recreation operations for most of that time. It is with bittersweet fondness that we share the news of her retirement at the end of December 2020. The Parks and Recreation team is sad to lose such an amazing colleague, but we celebrate her new adventures in a well-deserved retirement. A proclamation signed by Mayor Addiego will be presented at the Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting. By: Greg Mediati Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation RECOGNITION OF SUSAN FILERETO FOR HER SERVICE TO THE CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO AND THE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT December 30, 2020 WHEREAS, Susan began her career with South San Francisco on June 8, 1992, when she was hired as an Office Specialist in the Recreation Division; celebrating 28 years; and WHEREAS, In 2014, Susan was promoted to Administrative Assistant I and in 2017 she was promoted to Administrative Assistant II where her duties increased, including Cultural Arts and Parks & Recreation Commission packet preparation and clerking the meetings, and yet she continued to project a friendly smile at the Recreation office’s front desk to thousands of community members; always providing excellent customer service; and WHEREAS, Susan was a graceful and critical member of the Parks and Recreation Department, supporting the administrative needs of seven different program areas including Aquatics, Childcare, Classes, Cultural Arts, Rentals, Seniors, and Sports; and WHEREAS, Susan was a key component in the Department’s transition to a new registration software server, and patiently assisted with the training of several colleagues, as well as helped thousands of community members navigate their way through the new process; and WHEREAS, Susan has been selected as a California Parks and Recreation District 4 2021 Professional Merit Award recipient, which will be presented in February 2021; and WHEREAS, Susan’s colleagues send well wishes and said, “Susan was perfect for her job-always professional, organized, flexible, willing to train, thoughtful, and fair.” “Susan was the heart of the Department and the South San Francisco community.” “Susan had the most outstanding customer service skills of anyone I have ever worked with;” and WHEREAS, Susan could always be found volunteering her time at various Parks and Recreation events, and is an active parishioner at St. Veronica’s church; and during retirement she plans on working in her garden, cooking, exercising, and spending more time with her family and dog; and WHEREAS, Susan has been happily married to Leo, Street Sweeper, and an amazing mother to Anthony, Parking Enforcement Officer, civil service runs deep in the Filereto home, and Susan has left a legacy in the South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department and will be missed by her teammates; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Mayor Mark Addiego and the City Council of the City of South San Francisco do hereby commend Susan Filereto for her outstanding service to the South San Francisco community, and proclaim January 19, 2021 as Susan Filereto Day. ________________________________ Mark Addiego, Mayor ________________________________ Mark Nagales, Vice Mayor ________________________________ James Coleman, Council Member ________________________________ Buenaflor Nicolas, Council Member PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT EVENT CALENDAR Month: January 2021 Day Date Event Time Location Friday 01 New Year’s Day/Programs Closed Saturday 02 Sunday 03 Monday 04 Tuesday 05 Wednesday 06 Thursday 07 Friday 08 Saturday 09 Sunday 10 Monday 11 Winter Session Classes Begin Virtual Tuesday 12 Wednesday 13 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Zoom Thursday 14 Friday 15 Saturday 16 Sunday 17 Monday 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Programs Closed Tuesday 19 Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting 7:00 p.m. Zoom Wednesday 20 Thursday 21 Cultural Arts Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. Zoom Friday 22 Saturday 23 Sunday 24 Monday 25 Tuesday 26 Wednesday 27 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Zoom Thursday 28 Friday 29 Saturday 30 Sunday 31 PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT EVENT CALENDAR Month: February 2021 Day Date Event Time Location Monday 01 Tuesday 02 Wednesday 03 Thursday 04 Friday 05 Saturday 06 Sunday 07 Monday 08 Tuesday 09 Wednesday 10 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers Thursday 11 Friday 12 Saturday 13 Sunday 14 CAC “Living in Virtual Times” Virtual Photography Show (February 14 – March 14, 2021) Virtual Monday 15 Presidents Day/Program Closed Tuesday 16 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting 7:00 p.m. Wednesday 17 Thursday 18 Cultural Arts Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. Friday 19 Saturday 20 Sunday 21 Monday 22 Spring Registration Begins Tuesday 23 Wednesday 24 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers Thursday 25 Friday 26 Saturday 27 Sunday 28 PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT EVENT CALENDAR Month: March 2021 Day Date Event Time Location Monday 01 Tuesday 02 Wednesday 03 Thursday 04 Friday 05 Saturday 06 Sunday 07 Monday 08 Tuesday 09 Wednesday 10 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers Thursday 11 Friday 12 Saturday 13 Sunday 14 Monday 15 Tuesday 16 Wednesday 17 Parks & Recreation Commission meeting 7:00 p.m. Thursday 18 Friday 19 Cultural Arts Commission meeting 6:30 p.m. Saturday 20 Sunday 21 Monday 22 Spring Session Classes Begin Tuesday 23 Wednesday 24 City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. MSB Council Chambers Thursday 25 Friday 26 Saturday 27 Easter Egg Hunt Virtual or Modified Sunday 28 Monday 29 Spring Camp (TBD) Tuesday 30 Spring Camp (TBD) Wednesday 31 Spring Camp (TBD) South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department While the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent fiscal constraints have limited our ability to offer many of the community’s favorite programs and events, the Parks and Recreation Department is proud to share the accomplishments summarized in this report, and highlight the essential role that parks and recreation professionals, spaces, and services have played in response to the pandemic, and recognize our staff’s creative approach to providing much needed socialization, food distribution, health and wellness activities, childcare programs, in addition to other essential services. C A L E N D A R Y E A R I N R E V I E W - 2 0 2 0 Provide opportunities for physical, cultural, and social well-being; ensure effective development, scheduling, use and maintenance of public facilities, parks, and open space; and deliver services in a creative, timely, efficient, and cost-effective manner. At the end of each year, the Parks and Recreation Department provides the public with a summary of projects and activities for the calendar year, and reflects upon the extent to which we accomplish the Department’s core mission: A d vis or y Bo d ies The Parks and Recreation Department is advised by several legislative and volunteer review boards, including: City Council; Parks and Recreation Commission; Cultural Arts Commission; and Beautification Committee. We are accountable to the community, and welcome your feedback, either directly to staff, or through one of these advisory bodies. Co -Spo n so re d Gr ou p s/ No n -P r of i t Sup p or t The Department co-sponsors a number of non-profit community organizations that provide thousands of hours of volunteer service to support recreational and enrichment opportunities for residents. Co-sponsored groups include: Youth Baseball Managers Association, Youth Baseball Shetland/Pinto/Mustang/Pee Wee League, American Association of Retired People (AARP), Ballet Folklorico Infantil de South San Francisco, Aquatics Club, United Youth Soccer Club, the Historical Society, the South San Francisco Mothers Club and Italian American Citizens Club. The Friends of Parks and Recreation is a special non-profit group that undertakes membership drives and fundraising efforts to support city programs. They also serve as volunteers at numerous Parks and Recreation events. For the past several years the group has funded the purchase of special furnishings and equipment, sponsored program tuition for children, and collaborated on grant applications to support health and wellness in the local community. We hope you consider being a Friend! Ph y si c a l and Me n tal H ealt h According to a survey conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, 83% of adults find exercising at local parks, trails and open spaces essential to maintaining their mental and physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to improve the sanitation of public spaces, park restrooms are being cleaned more frequently and the City’s 35 playgrounds are sanitized on a weekly basis. In addition, we proudly share the many events and activities highlighted in this report as opportunities to support the physical and mental health of community members of all ages. E ss e nti a l Se r vic es 2 C h ildc a re Our Childcare team began providing support to enrolled families in the early days of the pandemic by quickly transitioning to virtual programming soon after the shelter in place order was first issued in mid- March. Although this did not immediately address the childcare need, staff hoped to relieve the anxiety of the uncertain times by giving children the chance to maintain a virtual connection with childcare teachers and classmates, and distributing fun and educational activity packets to keep kids occupied. The virtual program eventually transitioned to in-person childcare services, with the Childcare team providing in-person childcare services to over 300 preschool and school age children of essential workers, starting with an 8- week summer program in June -August, to the full day distance learning hubs that have been in place since late August. Our Childcare team continues to partner with the school district to navigate the impact of schools returning to in-person learning and how best to support families with their childcare needs. Sen ior Se rv ice The Senior Services team has been at the heart of keeping local seniors and older adults informed and connected to vital services through over 4,500 wellness and socialization phone calls made to Adult Day Care clients, seniors who have participated in past programs, and any seniors who have been referred to the team as needing services. In addition, the Senior Connections Newsletter has produced four special editions that has been sent to over 500 people each distribution. Each newsletter contains a directory to a variety of essential community resources and includes puzzles and games. In addition, thanks to two food donation programs – one in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank and the other, a donation program in partnership with Rocko’s Produce – Senior Services Van Driver Joe Anderson has delivered nearly 7,000 boxes of food to seniors in need. Es se n tial M ee t ings & Eve nts While many indoor programs have been cancelled or limited, Parks and Recreation staff have continued to host safe and essential services in modified form in both indoor and outdoor facilities including two food drives, a wildfire evacuation center, five blood drives (the blood collected will save over 500 lives!), flu vaccine clinics, voting centers, CPR trainings, and other essential government meetings and trainings. 3 The year started off as usual in January and February with events such as the middle school dance, special events for seniors to celebrate Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year, the Cultural Arts Commission’s General Art Show & "All You Need is Love" Karaoke Night, and an Improving Public Places planting event on Sign Hill. We are so glad our Senior Services team was able to host our Valentine's for the Troops event, producing over 2,00 valentines sent to our armed forces stationed all over the world. Sadly, we had to cancel several events including the Senior Health Fair and Easter Egg Hunt, and the much-anticipated City Hall 100th Anniversary and Fireworks Display event, but COVID did not stop us from offering the following new or modified events: Di a d e Mue rt os / Day of th e De a d Vi r t ual Art Sh ow This was the Cultural Arts Commission’s first virtual art gallery exhibit, celebrating the cultural traditions of Día de Muertos/Day of the Dead. There were 19 artists from various Bay Area cities who submitted a total of 36 entries in assorted 2- dimensional and 3-dimensional media. This well-received event has inspired more virtual art shows coming soon. S pe cia l Ev en ts Hi g h li g ht s Hall owe en D ri ve-I n Mov ie Over 450 community members enjoyed a Halloween themed drive-in movie showing of the 1984 blockbuster hit, Ghostbusters. This was the Department’s first ever drive-in movie event and many community members were thrilled by the nostalgia of attending a drive-in movie again, while others were excited to attend one for the very first time. 4 7 th Annu a l Thanks g i vi n g Fun R un (V ir tual) Thank you to the 113 registered participants who helped us keep this time-honored tradition alive, although it was in modified form. This event was offered virtually for the first time. Participants were invited to walk or run any 5K course of their choosing between November 14 - November 22 and submit their walk/run completion times for awards and raffle prizes. Wi n ter Wo n derland Throughout the month of December, many South San Francisco community members have enjoyed the festive holiday window displays at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building. On Saturday, December 12, a few lucky residents were treated to an enchanting holiday display as the scenes came to life. The Parks and Recreation Department successfully accommodated over 500 visitors to the live Winter Wonderland event. 4 Visit our Virtual Recreation and Resource Center at www.ssf.net/virtualrec Thanks to donations from the Friends of Parks and Recreation and Kaiser Permanente, we were able to pilot many new virtual classes and offer them for free to the community during the Spring and Summer months, with the number of registrants reaching a peak of over 400 community members per session. Virtual classes continue at half of the cost of an in- person class and include a variety of offerings such as fitness, dance, and art. Junior Giants, a free summer youth baseball program, was modified into an engaging virtual format that was enjoyed by over 300 youth. V i rt ua l Pro gr am s I n -P e rs o n Con ne ct i on s Outdoor Fitness and martial arts classes, as well as youth sports camps for basketball and flag football Over 3,000 lap swimmers were able to swim at Orange Pool with advanced reservation while the pool was allowed to be open from June 29 - August 22 and November 2 - November 16. We established a new Tennis Reservation Program at Orange Park. The courts were available to rent Monday-Sunday between the hours 8:00 am – 1:00 pm from June 15, 2020 - November 30, 2020. Tennis players reserved over 1,000 hours on the court despite having to close the reservation system at times due to poor air quality from the California fires. This program has been suspended during the winter months, and is under review to be continued thanks to positive feedback we have received from the tennis players. Park to Park – This new program brought free outdoor activities to the community at different parks around SSF including Orange Memorial Park, Alta Loma, Avalon, Westborough, Paradise Valley and Irish Town Greens. Over 150 participants enjoyed the program over the 11 weeks it was offered, Monday-Thursday from 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm. The scheduled activities included cornhole, soccer, horseshoes, frisbee, flying kites and more. This program has also been suspended for the winter. Despite the challenge of poor air quality that affected the state due to California fires, we were pleased to offer several outdoor recreation opportunities for in-person connections following state and county covid guidelines: 5 Ar t i n SSF M ain t e na nc e E ff or ts South San Francisco High School graduate, Helen Wilborn, was awarded the 2020 Jack Drago Cultural Arts Commission Youth Art Scholarship. A robust Public Art Survey was developed to gauge community response to SSF’s art programs. An audio tour feature was incorporated as part of the Orange Park Sculpture Garden experience. Videos of selected sculptures were added to the resources on the Cultural Arts webpage. The first virtual art show, celebrating the Day of the Dead traditions, was launched. Two marvelous sculptures were installed, a whimsical Giraffe and a mini Sphere, both acquired through generous donations. It’s an exciting time for art in South San Francisco with plans to begin developing a Public Art Master Plan in 2021, and City Council’s approval of an ordinance that establishes a new art impact fee requiring developers to spend one percent of their construction budget on public art or make a cash contribution of half a percent of their construction costs for the purchase of public art. In addition, the Parks and Recreation Department and Cultural Arts Commission accomplished the following: 6 S ign H ill In October of 2016 the historic Sign Hill caught fire in an event now dubbed “The Diamond Fire.” In that fire event, approximately 16 acres were burned with thousands of trees being damaged or killed. In response to this fire, the Parks Division started securing contracts through the month of November and work on the hill began in early December. Tree removals, erosion control, and preventative work are all being performed to keep residents safe and restore the hill’s native landscape. Prior to this event, the Parks Division had performed fire mitigation work near the homes on Rocca Ave and Carnelian Road. Naturalist and habitat restoration work has also been occurring on Sign Hill since 2019 and has had a major impact on the native species and habitats that can be found on Sign Hill. This work also helps the hill become more fire resilient while benefiting our native ecosystems Awa r d s a nd R ec o gn i t i o n C a lif ornia Park s and Re cr eati on S ocie ty (C PR S ) Di st ri c t IV Aw a rds Volunteer Award: Rena Donati (Cultural Arts programs); Woody Rael and Jim Elder (SSF Youth Baseball programs) Award of Excellence: Circle 3.0 Tree Planting Program Distinguished Professional: Richard Holt, former Parks and Recreation Commissioner On the evening of Friday, February 27, staff, volunteers, and Commissioners attended the CPRS District IV Awards and Volunteer Recognition Dinner at the Mountain View Community Center in Mountain View. At the event, South San Francisco received the following awards: 7 Fac i lit y Improv eme nts Magnolia Center Painting & Refresh Municipal Services Building Social Hall Floor Refresh Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building reception area remodel Once the public is invited back into our community centers, you may notice that some of our spaces might have a new look. C OVID Re spo nse The health and safety of our staff and patrons is important to us. Thanks to our Facility Maintenance team, all city buildings have upgraded HVAC filters, public entrances have hand sanitizer dispensers, and sneeze guards have been installed at front counters. F i s c al Rep or t The City of South San Francisco was not immune to the fiscal constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as all City department were impacted by budget reductions. The reductions, in addition to the limitation of program offerings caused by COVID, has sadly resulted in the need to furlough many of our Parks and Recreation colleagues. Despite these challenges, we are pleased to share the following budget highlights that have made our work possible: 8 Inn ovat ion Fund Although the Department was affected by nearly $2 million in budget reductions, City Council recognized the essential role of Parks and Recreation in serving the community during the pandemic and established a $300,000 Innovation Fund to allow the Department some flexibility in offering essential programs and services to meet the constant change of COVID. This fund was also made possible thanks to the advocacy of many parks and recreation supporters in the community. Thank you! Do nati ons a n d Gr a nts California Department of Education, After School Education and Safety (ASES) Grant - REAL After School Program, $247,695 CalRecycle, $16,703 Friends of Parks and Recreation, $6,800 Genentech – COVID Response, $50,000 Kaiser Permanente Northern California Benefit Programs - Get Moving SSF (repurposed grant), $10,198 Metropolitan Transportation Commission Priority Conservation Area Grant – “Sign Hill master planning and habitat restoration work, $135,000 Quality Counts San Mateo County - Quality Improvement Grant, $4,003 San Mateo County Childcare Relief Grant – Big Lift / Little Steps Preschool, $20,636 San Mateo County Measure K – restoration and weed eradication on Sign Hill, $37,800 annually in 2019 and 2020. San Mateo County Office of Aging and Adult Services – Senior Services, $28,051 San Mateo County Office of Aging and Adult Services – CARES funding, $14,780 SC Properties – $50,000 for athletic field improvements Silicon Valley Community Foundation – Big Lift / Little Steps Preschool, $200,000 See’s Candies – Generous amounts of assorted sweet treats were distributed through various community events and programs and enjoyed by over 1,000 staff and community members. We received over $800,000 in grants and donations this year! Ca pit a l P roje c t s 9 C omm u nit y C ivi c Cam p us Phase II - Ne w C omm u nit y C ent er /L ibr a ry Following the early 2020 start of construction for the Community Civic Campus Phase I - Police Operations Center and 9-1-1 Dispatch Center, in November 2020, we reached a major milestone on Phase II when City Council awarded the construction contract for the new Library, Parks & Recreation and Community Theater/Council Chamber. Construction began the first week of January 2020! This new 80,000 square foot state of the art library, recreation center and city council chambers will serve the residents of South San Francisco for years to come. S ou t h San F ran c is c o C a ltrain S tati on Im p ro vem ent The South San Francisco Caltrain Station Improvement includes a new pedestrian tunnel and half acre plaza that will be built at the intersection of Grand Ave. and Airport Blvd. As the cornerstone of a new transit hub in South San Francisco, this plaza is imagined to anchor the eastern end of historic downtown and is expected to be completed in Winter 2021. In mid-November 2020, the City issued a request for proposals for public artwork to be located in the new plaza and will be finalizing the selection of artist(s) in early 2021. G a rdi n er P a r k The newly renovated Gardiner Park was officially opened with a small ribbon cutting event on October 27, 2020. The renovation includes new play equipment, site furnishing, lighting, fences, railings, and planting. Although the celebration of this park opening was small due to COVID-19 regulations on group gatherings, we are pleased to offer this new outdoor attraction for the community to enjoy. This new park will also include the installation of a mural by renown Bay Area artist, Sirron Norris. Community input on mural design alternatives will take place in early 2021 and the mural is expected to be installed by Spring 2021. P r esc h oo l Ex p a nsi on O p p or tuni tie s To address the growing need for early learning opportunities in our community and the growing preschool waitlist, in 2020 the City Council allocated funding for the construction of an additional preschool facility in the Westborough area – the neighborhood with the greatest concentration of individuals on the preschool waitlist. The Department is currently exploring sites and will begin design and construction in 2021. V o l un t e e r I nit i a tiv e s 10 Sign Hill S tew a r d s The Measure K funded program dubbed “Sign Hill Stewards” is the Parks Division efforts for restoration on Sign Hill. Sign Hill Stewards is the volunteer effort that helps assist Division staff with tasks on the hill. This year only a few small volunteer events were held in light of the pandemic. However, this program has garnered a rather large interest and dedicated following. During times of the year where small gatherings were permitted, individuals or households were allowed to perform volunteer work on the hill sporadically. C oas t a l C lean u p The Coastal Cleanup, an annual event sponsored by the Parks Division and San Mateo County statewide Coastal Clean-up effort, was held remotely on September 26 in various locations in the city. Usually residents perform clean up work around the Bayfront Trail, but because of the COVID-19 pandemic, residents signed up for this event before hand and were given a virtual safety briefing before going around their own neighborhoods to pick up debris. Residents also downloaded the “Clean Swell” app, which allows participants to catalog what types of trash they are collecting to provide metrics to the Parks Division. Due to the nature of the pandemic, our turn out was lower than previous years, with 15 volunteers collecting over 25 pounds of trash (451 pieces). Impr ov ing Publi c P laces (IPP) V olu n tee r Eve nts This year IPP has largely not gathered except during the early months of the year. Prior to the pandemic, IPP was able to perform a planting on Sign Hill where volunteers assisted in planting native species on Sign Hill beneficial to pollinators. IPP safely gathered two more times throughout the year with a very small group of volunteers. These events were a maintenance clean-up day at Sellick Park and a tree planting event at Sister Cities Park. S ta f fi n g C ha n g es B es t Wis hes! Susan Filereto, Administrative Assistant II – Susan Filereto, our Administrative Assistant II, was often the first person you saw when coming into the Parks and Recreation office at 33 Arroyo Drive, and it was often her voice you heard when calling our office. For nearly 30 years, Susan has served the City of South San Francisco and has been at the heart of supporting Parks and Recreation operations for most of that time. It is with bittersweet fondness that we announce her retirement at the end of December 2020. The Parks and Recreation team is sad to lose such an amazing colleague, but we celebrate her new adventures in retirement! City Council – Thank you Rich Garbarino and Karyl Matsumoto for your many years of support for Parks and Recreation! Cultural Arts Commissioners - Thank you to Teresa Avelar, Loretta Fornaciari, Jessica Madrid-Nickle, Florida Ventura for your work shaping art initiatives and events in South San Francisco! Best wishes to these amazing colleagues who have moved on to their next adventures: Wel c ome ! Zachary Kust, Parks Maintenance Supervisor – The Parks Division promoted Zach Kust to Parks Maintenance Supervisor from his former position of Tree Trimmer. Zach has been with the Parks Division since 2016 and is a valuable asset to the P&R team. Park Maintenance Workers – In 2020 the Parks Division was also fortunate to hire three parks maintenance workers prior to the pandemic. These staff members are Bodhi May, Erik Aronson, and Karina Quintero. Welcome to our newest members: 11 W E W A N T T O H E A R F R O M Y O U ! Opt to rec eive our email n e ws letter to stay up to da te on n ew p r ograms and of ferings. To be ad ded to the rec ip ien t list, e m ai l your request to we b-r ec@ssf .net o r call (6 5 0)8 29-3800 f or more informatio n. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: October 22, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Parks Update Playgrounds and Restrooms Opening In recent weeks, Parks staff have been preparing to open both bathrooms and playgrounds. Starting on October 2, playgrounds were opened to the public with safety precautions and signage about health protocols and rules. With assistance from Recreation Division staff, playgrounds are disinfected daily, focusing on high touch areas such as slides and swings among others. Additionally, signage is posted at playgrounds informing residents of the maximum capacity at each playground as well as providing health guidance for those using playgrounds. Staff are establishing queueing areas for visitors to wait if playgrounds are at capacity. The Parks Division will also periodically disinfect playgrounds with a hose attachment that uses a chlorine solution to disinfect structures. Park restrooms are also being opened. Restrooms will be cleaned thoroughly a minimum of two times each day by Parks staff. In addition to increased cleaning frequencies, each restroom will also have signage stating the cleaning frequency as well as guidance to help enforce social distancing and health protocols while using park facilities. The increased requirements for opening these facilities presents a challenge to the Parks Division to balance all of the regular duties that the Division performs in addition to COVID protocols at these facilities and the guidance employees must follow while working with other staff. Thankfully, the Recreation Division and Facilities Division have been able to assist with supplies and staff to help share the burden in a unified response to re-opening public facilities. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: October 29, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Day of the Dead / Día de Muertos Virtual Art Show October 26 – November 22, 2020 Location: Online at www.ssf.net/culturalarts The Cultural Arts Commission’s first virtual art gallery exhibit, celebrating the cultural traditions of Día de Muertos/Day of the Dead, opened on Monday, October 26. Due to delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic, preparations got off to a later-than-normal start for this art gallery show. In spite of these challenges, there was a satisfactory response to the Call for Entries. Nineteen participating artists from various Bay Area cities submitted a total of 36 entries in assorted two-dimensional and three-dimensional media. Feedback from a few of the artists was positive. They were thankful to have the opportunity to exhibit, lamenting the fact that so many traditional Day of the Dead celebrations were cancelled. Entries were judged by San Mateo County Fair Day of the Dead coordinator and local expert, Evangelina Portillo. The online exhibit platform is Padlet.com. Viewing will be open to the public at no cost. The link to the gallery will be available through www.ssf.net/culturalarts. View the link to see artwork from these award-winning artists and more: BEST OF SHOW “Ofrenda de Luz 2” by Karla Lopez 2-DIMENSIONAL 1st - “Ofrenda de Luz 2” by Karla Lopez 2nd - “They Called the Cops and Soot Fell from the Sky” by Max Martilla 3rd -“La Catrina” by Entropy 3-DIMENSIONAL 1st – “Catrina figurine” by Jacqueline Quintanilla 2nd – “Ruby and Her Pearls” by Amy Steinmann 3rd – “Frida Catrina Barbie” Jacqueline Quintanilla Bi-Weekly Update October 29, 2020 Page 2 of 5 47th Annual Thanksgiving Fun Run (Virtual) November 14 – 22, 2020 (see flyer in Attachment 1) Location: Participant’s choice Cost: $5 ages 13 and up. $15 for a t-shirt. Kids 12 and under are free. Councilmembers are invited to join the community in the Department’s first virtual Thanksgiving Fun Run. To participate in this event free of charge, please RSVP to Angela Duldulao, Recreation Manager, at [email protected] or (650) 829-3827. This year, t-shirts are only being ordered upon request. If you would like to receive your free Fun Run t-shirt featuring a masked turkey to acknowledge the year of COVID, please include your t-shirt size with your registration. Sizes are available in youth large, adult small, adult medium, adult large, adult XL, and adult XXL. This year, the public registration fee has been reduced from the $21 adult pre-registration fee to $5 for ages 13 and up. T-shirts can be purchased for an additional $15. The Department changed the fee structure this year in order to recognize that many community members are facing financial hardship, and to provide the community with a low-cost and family-friendly reason to enjoy the outdoors. All registered entries will be eligible for the top award per age group, and be entered in a drawing for fun raffle prizes. More information and sample 5k routes are available at https://www.ssf.net/departments/parks- recreation/events/thanksgiving-fun-run. Winter Wonderland at Orange Park Month of December (see flyer in Attachment 2) Santa visits on Saturday, December 12, 2020, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Location: Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building Community members of all ages are invited to view the Winter Wonderland window displays at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building at Orange Memorial Park during the month of December. The event will feature one special day on Saturday, December 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., when Santa and his North Pole friends will bring Winter Wonderland to life. In order to manage the crowd, public viewing will be available by appointment and pre-registration is required. Registration opens on Monday, November 16 at 6:00 a.m. at www.ssf.net/rec or by calling (650) 829-3800. Halloween Drive-In Movie Recap On Friday, October 23, over 450 community members enjoyed a drive-in movie showing of the 1984 blockbuster hit, Ghostbusters. The event was held at the parking lot of the former shopping center at the corner of El Camino Real and Spruce Avenue. The parking lot safely accommodated over 115 cars, each filled with excited attendees. Many community members were thrilled by the nostalgia of attending a drive-in movie again, while others were 2020 Fun Run T-shirt Design Bi-Weekly Update October 29, 2020 Page 3 of 5 excited to attend one for the very first time; but, collectively most just seemed delighted to be able to gather as a community in a safe manner. A huge thank you goes to the many City Departments that had a hand in making this event possible. Leading up to the drive-in movie, the Economic and Community Development Department connected Parks and Recreation staff with the property owner, the Parks Division performed weed abatement and additional site cleaning, and the Public Works Department’s street sweepers made several passes to clean the lot. The night of the event, the Police Department provided security and helped with traffic control as needed. The Parks and Recreation team was instrumental in coordinating and executing a smoothly-run community event, especially during a pandemic. Staff even managed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces with their festive themed Ghostbusters attire! Overall the event was a great success. Recreation Division Response to Sign Hill Fire The Recreation Division management team mobilized quickly and seamlessly to address the impact of the Sign Hill fire on Friday, October 16. Upon learning of the fire, Childcare Program Supervisor, Laura Armanino and Assistant Childcare Supervisor, Kimberly Morrison visited the nearby childcare sites to assess the situation. While the fire posed no immediate threat, out of an abundance of caution, the Childcare team quickly moved to inform parents who have children at those sites about the fire and ask them to pick up children. Affected childcare sites include Martin and Spruce Elementary Schools, and Siebecker and Little Steps Preschools. Senior Services Program Supervisor, Kelli Jo Cullinan, arranged to have the 20-passenger and 9-passenger senior vans parked at Siebecker Preschool to move staff and children to Orange Memorial Park if an immediate evacuation became necessary. Both Kelli Jo and Senior van driver Joe Anderson were on standby to assist. Parents were informed to meet their children at Orange Memorial Park if they did not find them at their childcare site. Children at all schools were picked up quickly without any issues. Around 1:00 p.m. that day, Recreation Supervisors Mike Mulkerrins (Rentals & Sports) and Erin O’Brien (Communications & Community Civic Campus), moved to set up the MSB Social Hall as an evacuation center with help from Recreation Coordinators Austin Navarro and Veronica Ortiz. Coincidentally, staff were on site, which allowed for an immediate response. The evacuation center hosted 13 adults, 3 children, and two pets, with the first visitors showing up shortly after the announcement about the evacuation center was made public. People with pets were housed in the nearby Belloni Room. Two representatives from San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services visited and nine CERT members assisted with directing people to the building entrance. Ashley Crociani, student intern from the City Manager’s office, also assisted by greeting people at check-in. The evacuation center closed shortly after 5:30 p.m. The only other activity that was cancelled due to the fire were private tennis lessons, which were scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m. at Terrabay Recreation Center. While Terrabay was not in the evacuation zone, it was identified by the Fire Department as located within a warning zone. Staff transform into the Ghostbusters to greet movie night guests. Bi-Weekly Update October 29, 2020 Page 4 of 5 Childcare Update Winter Camp Cancelled See Attachment 3 for a notice shared with Childcare families regarding the cancellation of Winter Camp. Winter Camp is offered during the weeks of Christmas and New Year (not including City holidays), providing an important childcare service to working parents while allowing children a fun and safe environment to spend their winter break away from school. Unfortunately, this year, due to COVID guidelines requiring maintaining stable cohorts, the Department has decided to cancel Winter Camp. This will also give Childcare staff, many of whom have been working under the covid restrictions since the summer, a much-needed break. SSFUSD message regarding hybrid learning On October 6, South San Francisco Unified School District Superintendent Shawnterra Moore sent a message to school district families and the community about the District’s plans to transition to phase 2 of their reopening plan, possibly after the new year. A copy of this message is available in Attachment 4. Phase 2 involves inviting small groups of students with the most need back to campus to receive academic support. Childcare Program staff continue to work with the principals at each school site in which the Department operates a Full Day Childcare Program to develop a plan for operating under phase 2. This includes identifying students who will be participating in hybrid learning so that the Department can try to keep similarly scheduled children in stable cohorts, and identifying additional classroom space for exclusive use. Many families who elected not to enroll in the program in the fall expressed an interest in returning to the program once school transitions to hybrid learning, or after the new year. Identifying additional classroom space will be a critical factor in the Department’s ability to manage the stable cohorts as well as serve the anticipated growing demand for childcare. The Department may also need to hire additional staff to support the program. Plans are still in flux as the Department waits for more complete transition plans from the District. Fall Sports Camps While COVID restrictions still do not allow team sports games for youth, Sports Coordinator Bill Stridbeck has successfully implemented an alternative in the form of outside sports camps, which are allowed by the COVID guidelines. During the fall, the Sports Program normally offers RAPP (elementary school-aged) basketball and middle school flag football and volleyball. With very limited staff, Bill has been able to offer K-2nd grade and 3rd – 5th grade basketball camps along with a 5th – 8th grade flag football receiving camp while complying with the public health regulations. Registration for each program is as follows: Completed Camps: • 3rd-5th grade basketball camp was full with 10 participants. • 5th-8th grade flag football camp was full with 12 participants. Camps beginning week of October 19: • K-2nd grade (M/W from October 19-November 4) – 9 participants • K-2nd grade (T/TH from October 20-November 5) – 12 participants Bi-Weekly Update October 29, 2020 Page 5 of 5 Great Plates Program extended through November 7 The Senior Program team continues to provide seniors with critical information and referral services, connecting them with meal services such as San Mateo County’s Great Plates Delivered program, which delivers nutritious daily meals to qualified residents from participating restaurants. The program has been surviving month to month based on available funding and has most recently been extended to November 7, 2020. More information is available at https://www.smcgov.org/food. Great Plates Delivered Program Information Served in San Mateo County Served in South San Francisco Total No. Participants 2,531 477 No. Meals Served to Date 757,233 125,982 Funding Spent to Date $16,659,126 $2,771,604 Thanksgiving 5K FUN RUN!FUN RUN!FUN RUN!47TH ANNUAL47TH ANNUAL47TH ANNUAL South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department Medals will be awarded to the top three runners in each age group. All registered runners will be entered into a drawing for some fun raffle prizes. Saturday, November 14 - Sunday, November 22 Join our 47th annual Thanksgiving Fun Run, virtually! Throughout the week of November 14-November 22, registered participants will run, jog, or walk their own 5k. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate! Registration required. Cost: $5.00 (13Y & up) / Free (12Y & under) Step 1: Register Step 2: Run, Jog or Walk Step 3: Submit results FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION VISIT WWW.SSF.NET/REC For assistance, Ph: (650) 829-3800, Email: [email protected] Choose your location!Choose your location!OnlineOnlineOnlineOnline Purchase a shirt for an additinal $15.00 Attachment 1 Winter Wonderland at Orange Memorial Park E X P E R I E N C E T H E M A G I C O F T H E H O L I D A Y S A L L D E C E M B E R L O N G ! Community members, of all ages, are invited to view the Winter Wonderland window displays at the Joseph Fernekes Recreation Building at Orange Memorial Park. The display will be up throughout the month of December for all to enjoy! O N E S P E C I A L D A Y ! S A T U R D A Y ,D E C E M B E R 1 2 ,2 0 2 0 1 0 :0 0 A M -4 :0 0 P M * (B Y A P P O I N T M E N T O N L Y ) J O S E P H F E R N E K E S R E C R E A T I O N B U I DL I N G A T O R A N G E M E M O R I A L P A R K *R E G I S T R A T I O N O P E N S M O N D A Y ,N O V E M B E R 1 6 A T 6 :0 0 A M W W W .S S F .N E T /R E C O R C A L L (6 5 0 )8 2 9 -3 8 0 0 Experience the magical Winter Wonderland as it comes to life. Come wave to Santa and his North Pole friends, but make sure to register in advance as spaces are very limited. Attachment 2 Winter Camp Cancelled We are sad to announce that we will not be holding our Winter Holiday Camp this year. Currently our staff are assigned to cohorts and are working in our full day programs at our after school sites. The purpose of cohorts is to limit close physical contact only to those in a cohort as it decreases opportunities for being exposed to the virus while giving the opportunity for social interaction between individuals within the cohort. Keeping the same people in the same small cohort group, rather than mixing and mingling, helps reduce the chance you or someone else will get COVID-19. If someone does get sick, it is also easier to trace a person’s close contacts when cohort members are known. Cohorts are also recommended to be maintained for at least 3 weeks before changing; Winter Camp is a 2 week program and does not align with this guideline. Because of these safety measures we will not be operating a 2 week winter camp program and creating new cohorts that will increase the risk of exposure to staff and children. We will miss seeing everyone over winter break but wish you a Happy Holiday Season. Attachment 3 Notice to Childcare families regarding cancellation of Witner Camp 10/26/2020 South San Francisco Unified School District https://ssfusd-ca.schoolloop.com/news/view?d=x&id=1601975353641 1/1 News Superintendent's Message on Reopening SSFUSD 10-6-20 Posted 10/6/20 Dear SSFUSD Community, With the rst six weeks of school ocially under our belt, I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on our distance learning plans and the outlook for our district reopening with regard to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. On September 22, 2020, San Mateo County moved into the red tier (tier 2) of the State of California’s new COVID-19 tracking system. The red tier means there is“substantial” spread of the COVID-19 virus in the county. According to the state’s new tracking system: “Schools may not reopen fully for in-person instruction until thecounty has been in the Substantial (Red) Tier for two weeks.” (14 consecutive days) Based on these guidelines, our district had already begun exploring ways to transition to phase 2 of SSFUSD’s reopening plan. As you may recall, phase 2 of our reopening plan involves inviting small groups of students with the most need back to campus to receive academic support. Please note that this does NOT mean we are planning to move to Phase 2 in the immediate future. Practically speaking, it is more than likely that SSFUSD will remainin 100% distance learning through the month of December. Our transition to phase 2 would begin after the new year so as not to disrupt learning in the middle of thetrimester/semester. In the interim, we are planning for the implementation of learning centers/hubs at a few selected school sites; specic information and criteria about these learning centers/ hubs will be forthcoming shortly. This topic and our target date for transitioning to phase 2 will be discussed at an upcoming board meeting. Much work needs to take place before we can move to phase 2. We must develop plans in conjunction with our sta and labor groups on issues including how to: (1)Conduct regular testing of sta. (2) Determine which teachers will return to campus and which students they will teach. (3) Create learning hubs/centers inpartnership with local agencies. We will also need to take our preliminary thinking and potential plans before the school board on October 22, 2020, to seek approval for our next steps and identify atarget date for a phase 2 transition, and only if public health conditions warrant it. In the meantime, we will continue to monitor the health data and work with our principals to ensure they are monitoring and implementing COVID-19 safety protocols at all schools. We will also provide advanced notice to sta, parents, and students to support planning eorts should a transition to phase 2 prove feasible. As always, the health and well-being of our students and sta remain our foremost concern. Thank you again for your continued support and commitment to our school district. We hope that you are staying safe and staying healthy. Sincerely, Shawnterra Moore, Ed.D. Superintendent  -------------------------- Estimada comunidad de SSFUSD, Después de seis semanas de escuela, quiero aprovechar esta oportunidad para proveer noticias sobre nuestros planes para la reapertura de nuestro distrito con respecto a lapandemia del coronavirus (COVID-19). El 22 de septiembre de 2020, el Condado de San Mateo se trasladó al nivel rojo (nivel 2) del nuevo sistema de rastreo de COVID-19 del Estado de California. El nivel rojo signica que hay una propagación “sustancial” de COVID-19 en el condado. Según el nuevo sistema de seguimiento del estado: "Las escuelas no pueden reabrirse completamente para la instrucción hasta que el condado haya estado en el nivel sustancial (rojo) para dos semanas." (14 días consecutivos) Como resultado, nuestro distrito ha comenzado a explorar cómo pasar a la etapa 2 del plan de reabrir SSFUSD. En la etapa 2 de nuestro plan de reapertura invitarémos apequeños grupos de estudiantes que lo necesitan más ayuda a volver a las escuelas para recibir apoyo académico. Esto NO signica que estemos planeando pasar a la etapa 2 en el futuro inmediato. En términos prácticos, es probable que el SSFUSD permanezca en el aprendizaje a distancia por todo el diciembre. No queremos interumpir el aprendizaje con una transición a la etapa 2 en el medio del trimestre/semestre. Mientras tanto, estamos planeando la organización de centros de aprendizaje en algunas escuelas; se presentará información sobre este tema en breve. Discutirémos estetema y una fecha para la transición a la etapa 2 en una reunión próxima del consejo escolar. Mucho trabajo tiene que ocurrir antes de pasar a la etapa 2. Tenemos que desarrollar planes en conjunto con nuestros empleados sobre cómo: (1) hacer pruebas regulares deCOVID-19 para empleados. (2) determinar qué maestros regresarán a las escuelas y qué estudiantes los enseñarán. (3) Crear centros de aprendizaje en asociación conagencias locales. También tendrémos que aparecer antes del consejo escolar el 22 de octubre para buscar aprobación de nuestros planes potenciales e identicar una fecha para una transición a la etapa 2, y sólo si las condiciones de salud pública lo justican. Mientras tanto, seguirémos monitoreando las estadísticas de salud y trabajando con nuestros directores para asegurar que están monitoreando e implementando losprotocolos de seguridad de COVID-19 en todas las escuelas. Si una transición a la etapa 2 está factible, proveerémos aviso avanzado a los empleados, padres y estudiantes.Como siempre, la salud y el bienestar de nuestros estudiantes y empleados son nuestra principal preocupación.  Gracias de nuevo por su apoyo y compromiso con nuestro distrito escolar. Esperamos que se esté salvo y saludable. Sinceramente, Shawnterra Moore, Ed.D.  Superintendente Attachment 4 CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: November 5, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Parks Update Coyote Sightings and Signage At the request of Vice Mayor Addiego to address recent concerns about coyotes being present in neighborhood parks and open spaces, the Parks Division is creating permanent signage to be installed in various park areas. The signs will be informative and provide residents with insight on how to handle a coyote encounter and how to stay vigilant when using parks, especially around dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active. While the Parks Division cannot physically remove these animals, staff have also been working to provide clearance of any large shrubs adjacent to open space that promote hiding spaces or den space. Design Tech High School Interns The Parks Division has teamed with Design Tech High School of Burlingame to host two interns for two weeks. These students will be working with our Sign Hill restoration staff performing invasive species removal and creating interpretive signage for Sign Hill, among other things. Additionally these students, whose schooling focuses on graphic design, will be helping create signage for coyote warnings for the various parks around the city. These internships occur every semester and the Division hopes to accommodate two interns each time the opportunity presents itself. Building this relationship will help supplement “Sign Hill Stewards” volunteer efforts in the aftermath of the recent fire. These interns will be directly supervised by staff and will be working in areas not affected by fire on Sign Hill. The Department also continues to engage SSFUSD students as well. Agents of Discovery In an effort to innovate and engage the public in a new, safe, and socially distant way, the Parks Division has begun a partnership with an app developer, Agents of Discovery. This company provides a game that can be downloaded on any smartphone that engages the public with points of interest created by City staff. At each point of interest, there is a customized virtual game, known as a “mission,” that provides information or learning opportunities for those who participate. Several other agencies in the Bay Area have used this app to engage the public and get people outdoors safely during the pandemic. Bi-Weekly Update November 5, 2020 Page 2 of 3 Parks and Recreation staff can access and change the locations, information, and games at each site as often as they want. Once the program is fully up and running, it is envisioned that this app can help bring attention to such things as the sculpture garden and art galleries, nature walk points of interest, special events, or whatever staff deem appropriate. The app also allows for virtual rewards to be given, which may be redeemed for real prizes for those who accomplish enough missions. In the coming weeks, staff will work to get the program up and running. This app is an exciting new opportunity for the Department to highlight the many special areas in the city and future events. Sign Hill Fire Response Since the fire event on Sign Hill, the Parks Division has been focused on how to respond to this emergency. The Division has reached out to Public Works and the Fire Department to provide some guidance when it comes to geotechnical issues and fire breaks that are desired. Largely the Parks Division has adhered to Cal Fire regulations when performing work on the hill and will continue to do so. The Division is currently drafting a plan for near term emergency work as well as a long term solutions for prevention and mitigation of hazards created by the fire. The Division is coordinating with Swinerton Project Management to help oversee this large, multi-faceted project and has meetings with forestry, geotechnical, and erosion control experts to perform assessments on the hill. In conjunction with this work, field staff are also assisting in the response to make Sign Hill safe to use, and help capture the full scale of work that needs to be performed to mitigate damage. Some of this work includes removal of brush piles left behind by fire crews, removing accessible hazards and other fire dangers, as well as mapping the hazardous trees and extent of the burned area. In total, approximately 16 acres of the hill were burned and an estimated 1,500 trees will need to be removed that were fire damaged. Additionally, fire breaks will need to be created and fuel reduction will need to be performed throughout the Sign Hill area. This work will necessitate the removal of many more trees through the coming years in order to create a comprehensive fire break and properly managed open space. While it is unfortunate to see many of these trees of being removed, it is an opportunity to return Sign Hill back to its natural grassland state. In addition to the plans being drafted for the near term, the Parks Division is also working on securing grant funding to create a Sign Hill Master Plan that will incorporate trail building, species restoration, and fuels management on the hill for the future. Bi-Weekly Update November 5, 2020 Page 3 of 3 Facilities Update COVID 19 Preventative Measures Building Maintenance staff continue to work on building sneeze guards for the childcare facilities, as well as other departments in the City. At the Corporation Yard, Building Maintenance staff ordered custom sneeze guards and brackets that mount to the cubicles in the front office. Once the brackets arrived, staff purchased sheets of plexiglass. Staff then cut and mounted the plexiglass to the bases. The combination of ordering the bases and cutting the plexiglass in-house was the most professional and economical solution for the Corporation Yard. Building Maintenance staff will continue to assist departments with sneeze guards and other office safety practices. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: November 12, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update November Recreation Opportunities Orange Pool Reopening Monday – Friday, 5:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tuesday/Thursday evenings, 6:45 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. $6 fee per lane, 45-minute time slot Orange Pool reopened on Monday, November 2, after being closed for 71 days due to the State of California’s new COVID-19 guidelines. The pool was allowed to reopen under San Mateo County’s new designation in the “moderate” tier according to the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Currently, Orange Pool accommodates 54 to 72 swimmers daily on Monday - Friday, and 36 swimmers on Saturdays. Since reopening, all registration time slots have been full and continue to fill up quickly. Resident and non-resident swimmers have been very excited to return to Orange Pool. Staff has implemented priority registration for South San Francisco residents to give them more opportunity to reserve a preferred swim time. Staff has received a lot of positive feedback on the safety and operations of Orange Pool during COVID-19. Pending improving COVID-19 conditions and if allowed by state and county guidelines, staff plans to offer additional family swim times and swimming lessons in the new year. Terrabay Gymnasium Reopening Open Gym Basketball Monday – Friday 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Single play only - one on one play is allowed if in the same household Open Gym Badminton Monday – Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Singles only (no doubles) $6 fee per court Terrabay Gymnasium and Recreation Center reopened on Monday, November 2 for the first time since the citywide closure of City facilities in mid-March. The gym will be open to open gym basketball and badminton by reservation, following a similar model established by the Orange Park tennis court reservation program. Reservations can be made online at www.ssf.net/rec-catalog. Drop-ins will be accepted if space is available. Residents are excited to get back to exercising at Terrabay Gymnasium and Recreation Center. Bi-Weekly Update November 12, 2020 Page 2 of 4 Orange Park Tennis Court Reservations Monday – Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. $6 per court, 2-hour time limit The Department continues to offer the public the opportunity to reserve tennis courts at Orange Park until November 30. Over 600 permits have been issued to tennis players since the tennis court reservation process began on June 15, 2020. Players continue to comment on how much they enjoy the reservation system. Reservations can be made online at www.ssf.net/rec-catalog. Park to Park Recreation Program Orange Memorial Park: Monday – Tuesday, 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Alta Loma Park: Wednesday – Thursday, 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. The Park to Park program, which began on September 8, has been extended through Thursday, November 19 and will operate at Alta Loma and Orange Memorial Park, providing outdoor games and sports equipment for families to enjoy a day of activities outdoors. Sports Program staff members Bill Stridbeck and Jim Reidy continue to lead the program which will now run for 11 straight weeks. Over 100 participants have enjoyed this program. Passing of Aquatics Staff Member, Cindy Gonzalez We are sad to share news of the passing of one of our valued staff members, Cindy Gonzalez, who worked as a cashier at Orange Pool over the past year. Please see below for the message shared with Aquatics staff members by Brian Noce, Acting Aquatics Supervisor. From: Noce, Brian Sent: Monday, November 2, 2020 7:14 AM Subject: Passing of Cindy Gonzalez Hello everyone, I have some sad news to share with you. On Saturday, October 31, we lost a great friend and co-worker, Cindy Gonzalez. Cindy was a long time swimmer at Orange Pool and worked as a cashier over the past year. Cindy was truly a joy to be around and was a pleasure to work with. Cindy’s fun and outgoing personality brought tremendous energy to the staff she worked with and the patrons who swam at the pool. We will greatly miss her and keep her in our hearts. I will send out information on service arrangements later today or tomorrow. Thank you. Brian Noce Acting Aquatics Supervisor City of South San Francisco [email protected] (650) 875-6959 A family enjoys a game of spike ball at Park to Park. Bi-Weekly Update November 12, 2020 Page 3 of 4 Recreation Staff Sanitize Playgrounds There are 24 park playgrounds and 11 Common Greens playgrounds in South San Francisco. Recreation Division staff have been assisting the Parks Division with the sanitization of these locations throughout the City, Monday through Sunday. Staff have been spraying playgrounds with safe chemicals to help kill any germs or viruses that may be on the structure. Parents continuously thank staff for being proactive in going out each day to help clean and sanitize the playground equipment as well as answer any questions they may have. Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building Used as Four-Day Vote Center The Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building was used as a four-day vote center from October 31 – November 3. The site had ample parking for in-person voting and accommodated a drive-through ballot box along Tennis Drive. The use of the building helps alleviate the traffic congestion from Main Library voters. The site was staffed by part-time Recreation Division employees who worked a total of 50 hours over four days. In all, the building had 546 in-person voters. The total number of drop-off ballots has not been confirmed as of this report. Cultural Arts Update The ArtPlace America (ArtPlace) 2020 Virtual Summit took place October 26 – 30. Cultural Arts Specialist, Ercie Santos, attended several of the over 50 workshops offered through this free event. Participation ranged from 15 people in the smaller breakout sessions to over 600 individuals in the daily plenary discussions. Founded in 2011, ArtPlace America is a collaboration among a number of foundations, federal agencies, and financial institutions that was started to support and strengthen the field of creative placemaking. At the end of 2020, they will complete their strategic plan that has worked to enlist artists as allies in planning and developing equitable, healthy, and sustainable communities. This was also their final annual summit. The overriding focus of the week was equity. Workshops and affinity groups also addressed community health, finding funding, arts advocacy, racial justice, education, creative placemaking and other topics. Although all the workshops attended offered valuable and interesting information, one of the two that were particularly enlightening was “Creative Measurement Tools for Placemaking,” which defined concepts for illustrating how creative community development programs build community power and belonging, as well as exploring the use of the outcome measurement tools. The other stimulating workshop was “Placemaking during COVID-19.” It was interesting to follow the project Voters stand in line at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building Recreation staff member Mike Borovina sanitizes playground equipment. Bi-Weekly Update November 12, 2020 Page 4 of 4 development of the Smart Growth America’s Arts & Transportation Rapid Response project in the Nevada Bonnville Transit Center. The team developed creative solutions in the iconography and positive messaging to help resolve pandemic challenges faced by the Regional Transportation Commission. The insight provided offered possibilities for transference to other projects. Finally, of the two discussions attended, the one that inspired Cultural Arts Specialist Ercie Santos was “Navigating Power in Creative Placemaking.” The panel explored the hypothesis that there are potentially three ingredients to navigating power, which are building trust, repairing harm and collaborative decision-making. All the presentations are accessible on the ArtPlace YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuRFvudqolsotvOQNDY6p1v5fvqtcgqBx. More information about ArtPlace America is available at https://artplacesummit.org/. RSVP Reminder: Winter Wonderland The Parks and Recreation Department is delighted to offer the South San Francisco community a new holiday experience. Throughout the month of December community members are invited to view the holiday window displays at the Joseph Fernekes Recreation Building at Orange Memorial Park. The whimsical scenes are sure to lift the holiday spirit, and will be on display from sunrise to sunset throughout the month of December. Councilmembers are invited to join us on Saturday, December 12 as the magic of the holidays brings the Winter Wonderland to life. Due to COVID-19, the number of attendees is limited and requires pre-registration. If you wish attend and see Santa and his North Pole friends please RSVP by Friday, November 13 to Erin O’Brien at [email protected] or (650) 829-3811 with one of the following options: A. Please reserve a timeslot for me a. Please indicate your preferred timeframe and we will assign you a specific registration window i. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ii. 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. iii. 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. b. Please provide the number of attendees in your family (this number should include yourself and up to six other additional family members) c. Please provide the number of attendees in your family that are under the age of 18 years B. I will only be briefly stopping by and will not need a reserved timeslot. (Please note that a stop by should only consist of you and one other individual) C. I will not be attending on December 12th Senior Connections Newsletter Fall 2020 Edition See Attachment 1 for the Fall 2020 Edition of the Senior Connections Newsletter, published by the Department’s Senior Services Program. The newsletter is mailed to subscribers and is also available online at www.ssf.net/seniors. Senior  Save the Date....8 2020 Fall Magnolia Center Connections  Food and Meal Services ……….........2  Puzzles and games…….….……......10 Special Edition https://www.ssf.net/seniors Magnolia Center is getting a make over! We look forward to welcoming our returning and new clients. Stay safe, stay healthy. - Magnolia Staff 2 Special Edition Food & Meal Services City of South San Francisco: City of South San Francisco Magnolia Senior Center Food Box Program: Due to generous donations from the SSF City Team and SSF citizens, we have set up a Food Box program for seniors, over 60 years old and living in SSF, to receive a healthy and delicious food box from a local produce company, Rocko’s Produce. If you need a food box, please call Kelli Jo Cullinan, Senior Services Supervisor, at 650-829-3822. Thank you to the SSF Team and our community for helping to serve our seniors during these challenging times. Stay healthy and take care. Second Harvest Food Bank 1-800-984-3663 https://www.shbf.org/ YMCA Community Resource Center 1-650-276-4101 https://www.ymcasf.org/community-resource-center-ymca Meals on Wheels 1-650-323-2022 https://www.penvol.org/mealsonwheels/ St Vincent De Paul provides meal assistance to the elderly. 344 Grand Ave. (650) 589-9039 Chajinel Foundation provides nutritious food to homebound older adults in South San Francisco. Call 650-741-6107 or e-mail [email protected]. https://www.chajinel.com/ General Food Assistance for San Mateo County: Second Harvest Food Bank: If you are not a senior citizen, but you are experiencing food insecurity in your household, you can call the Food Connection Line at Second Harvest Food Bank at (800) 984-3663 or text "FOOD" to 1-408-455-5181 or email [email protected]. Jewish Family and Children's Services- The Food Bank and the grocery shopping assistance is open to all. Food can be delivered throughout San Mateo County, except the Coast, for those 60 years and over. Shopping to be paid for by client with cash, credit card or check. Food bank is limited to items in their bank and is free. JFCS can be reached at 650-931-1860 or email them at [email protected]. Grocery Stores and More that Have Hours for Older Adults City of South San Francisco larger grocery stores: https://www.ssf.net/home/showdocument?id=19154 Bay Area stores that have “Senior Hours”: https://sf.funcheap.com/city-guide/grocery-store-senior-hour/ San Mateo Great Plates Delivered Program California’s Governor Newsom started a home delivered meals program for people who are needing to stay at home due to Covid-19. If eligible, you can receive free home delivered meals from restaurants in your neighborhood. Please call the Aging and Adult Services Hotline at 1-800-675-8437 for eligibility information and to apply for SMC Great Plates Delivered Program. Support Services & Information Special Edition Due to the current COVID-19 Shelter in Place Order, many community organizations have made changes to their services, hours and staffing. These resources are current as of the time of this newsletter being updated. Please call ahead or visit a program's website for more information. Updated 8/17/2020  Benefits: Social Security National: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) https://www.ssa.gov/onlineservices/ Field Office Locator https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp  Caregivers Resources for Those Caring for Older Adults, Adults with Disabilities Impacted by COVID-19 Institute on Aging Services: 415-750-4111 https://www.ioaging.org/services San Mateo County In-Home Support Services (IHSS) Eligi- bility and Application Aging and Adult Services Hotline 1- 800-675-8437 https://www.smchealth.org/home-supportive-services  Caregiving San Mateo County Public Authority for In-Home Sup- portive Services (IHSS): 650-372-6507 https://www.smchealth.org/public-authority Family Caregiver Alliance: 800-445-8106 toll-free 415-434-3388 local https://www.caregiver.org/ Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900 https://www.alz.org/  COVID-19 Information- San Mateo County San Mateo County services and information on COVID-19 https://www.smcgov.org/ San Mateo County Health COVID-19 Call Center: Available 24/7 For information and referral for health and human services or for non-medical questions about COVID-19, contact 211 at: 2-1-1- (or 1-800-273-6222) or text your zip code to: 898211. https:// www.smchealth.org/coronavirus Social Distancing Video (Available in English, Chinese and Span- ish) https://www.smchealth.org/pod/video-social-distancing San Mateo County services and information on COVID-19 https://www.smcgov.org/ Questions about Social Distancing https://www.smchealth.org/sites/main/files/file-attachments/ smc_health_-_social_distancing_040320_final_0.pdf  Connect with Others: Friendship Line The Friendship line provides counseling and support to older adults and adults living with disabilities in both crisis and non-urgent situations. 1-800–971–0016 www.ioaging.org/services/friendship-line Peninsula Family Service Senior Peer Counseling (650) 403-4300 ext.4322 https://www.peninsulafamilyservice.org/our-programs/ older-adult-services/seniorpeercounseling/ Well Connected: a community made up of participants, staff, facilitators, presenters, and other volunteers who care about each other and who value being connected. All groups are accessible by phone from wherever you are at no cost to you. To register, call (877) 797-7299, or [email protected] https://covia.org/services/well-connected/  Employment/Unemployment Resources Employee Rights: Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/ FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf Employment Opportunities: San Mateo County Public Authority for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) 650 372-8507 https://www.smchealth.org/contact/become-caregiver Peninsula Family Service Financial Empowerment https:// www.peninsulafamilyservice.org/our-programs/financial- empowerment/ State of California Employment Development Department (EDD) https://edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/Filing_a_Claim.htm 3  Connect with Others (continued): Peninsula Health Care District-Older Adult Resource Line All those 60+ in San Mateo County can stay connected to resources and services during this time of “sheltering in place”. An experienced professional support team will be able to connect you to a wide range of community resources including food services. The Adult Resource Line is open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Please call 650-780-7542. 4  Housing: HIP HOUSING:HIP provides referrals for Shared Housing Options & Home Equity Conversions Call 650-348-6660. By appointment only. County of San Mateo Department of Housing: https://housing.smcgov.org/ COVID-19 San Mateo County Eviction Regulations: https://housing.smcgov.org/covid-19-smc-eviction- regulations Office of Governor Gavin Newsom 90 Day Grace Period on Mortgage Payments: https://www.gov.ca.gov/  Pet Care Peninsula Humane Society Making a plan for your pet and pet food bank 650-988-5280 https://phs-spca.org/covid19/  Phone Lines Aging and Adult Services Hotline- San Mateo County’s 24- hour information and emergency response line. It helps older adults, people with disabilities, dependent adults, and caregiv- ers access the services they need to keep them safe. The hot- line is staffed by knowledgeable and experienced social work- ers and public health nurses. (800) 675-8437 https://www.smchealth.org/contact/24-hour-emergency- advice-line Peninsula Family Service 211- Connects Bay Area residents with health & human service programs in their local community: https://www.211bayarea.org/  Prescription Delivery CVS- Must sign up for text alerts or download app to be notified of delivery options: cvs.com/content/delivery https://www.cvs.com/content/delivery NOWRX Free delivery within 5 hours of receiving prescription from South San Francisco to North San Jose. No signature required at delivery with the exception of controlled substances. (650) 386-5761 or www.nowrx.com. Walgreens- Sign up for text alerts and then chose delivery option https://www.walgreens.com/topic/pharmacy/walgreens- express.jsp  Scams: Aging and Adult Services Adult Protective Services: https://www.smchealth.org/aging-and-adult-services- protection County of San Mateo District Attorney Illegal Price Gouging During COVID-19 Emergency: https://da.smcgov.org/price-gouging-covid-19 The United States Department of Justice Coronavirus (COVID- 19): https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus  Stress and Coping: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https:// www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/ managing-stress-anxiety.html Institute on Aging Friendship Line Toll Free: 1-800-971-0016 www.ioaging.org/services/friendship-line Peninsula Health Care District-Older Adult Resource Line All those 60+ in San Mateo County can stay connected to resources and services during this time of “sheltering in place”. An experienced professional support team will be able to connect you to a wide range of community resources including food services. The Adult Resource Line is open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Please call 1-650-780- 7542. Star Vista Main office: 650-591-9623 https://star-vista.org/ Support Services & Information Special Edition  Financial Support Core Service Agencies https://hsa.smcgov.org/core-service-agencies-emergency-safety -net-assistance ClearCaptions is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our seniors during the current COVID-19 situation. Our federally-funded no cost call captioning technology and service makes it easy to stay connected to family, friends, doctors and others, every time, for every call, every day. We provide the following to individuals and communities:  Free Home caption phone deliveries with remote installation assistance  Free ClearCaptions Mobile App for iPhones and iPads with remote installation assistance Contact me today to get connected. Elli Tehrani Territory Manager 408-510-1941 [email protected] Are you having difficulty hearing on the phone? We’re here to keep you connected. 5 Did you know that the Parks and Recreation Department has created an online Virtual Recreation and Resource Center? During these challenging times, the South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department is still committed to providing fun, educa- tional, and recreational resources for community members of all ages. You can access the webpage from your smartphones or computers at https://www.ssf.net/virtualrec. Take a virtual tour through a museum, learn a foreign language, join SSF instructors for an online class, and so much more! Staff are continuously updating the site, so be sure to check back often. SSF Parks and Rec is online ! 6 Refreshing your Driving skills could reduce your auto insurance costs. When you take the AARP Smart Driver™ online course, you could be eligible for a multi-year discount on your auto insurance. Plus safer driving can save you more than just money. The course teaches proven driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. Additionally, you’ll learn:  Important facts about the effects of medication on driving.  How to reduce driver distractions.  How to maintain the proper following distance behind another car.  Proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock brakes and new technology found in cars today.  Techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way, and roundabouts. To Register, Log On to: https://www.aarpdriversafety.org/ For more information call: 1 800 350 7025 We are accepting 2020 newsletter subscriptions. The cost is FREE for our subscribers. Please fill out this form and mail it back to us at: City of South San Francisco Senior Services 33 Arroyo St. South San Francisco, CA 94080 You can also send us your email address to receive an electronic copy to [email protected] Name ________________________ Telephone ________________________ Address Street ________________________ City ________________________ Zip ________________________ Newsletter Subscription Senior Connections subscription is now free! In an effort to better serve our community, Senior Connections newsletter is free for anyone who wishes to be on our mailing list! Simply fill out the subscription form on page 7 and mail it to us. Or, you can request an electronic version by sending an email to [email protected]. We’ll keep you up to date and connected to all the news and events going on for our Senior Community! 7 Please call 650.992-2312 (between 10am and 7pm) to schedule your appointment or book your Sip & Shop date. If no one is available to take your call, please leave a message and your call will be returned. Thank you for understanding that in order to keep you and our volunteers safe:  Please be prepared to have your temperature taken before entering.  Be aware that masks are required to enter and must remain on properly while shopping. The Plymire-Schwarz House Boutique Re-opening in late November restocked with Holiday gifts and much The Holiday Boutique will kick off with special hours on Saturday, November 28th for “Small Business Saturday” 10am to 4pm by appointment only (admittance is free). Sunday, November 29th through Wednesday, December 16th the Holiday Boutique will be open Sundays and Wednesdays from 10am to 4pm by appointment only And then…why not ease into the holidays with some bubbly and shopping? Our December Fundraiser is “Sip & Shop. We are offering a private shopping experience for you and up to 5 of yours guests. Spend 3 hours (4pm- 7pm) shopping, sipping bubbly and joying hors d’oeuvres for a non-refundable donation of $100 for your group. Available dates: Friday, December 4 Saturday, December 5 Friday, December 11 Saturday, December 12 Friday, December 18 Saturday, December 19 Looking for something fun? Why not ZOOM with us? As we are heading into another month of shelter in place, Magnolia center is looking at alternatives to keep everyone in the community connected. In an effort to adapt to these changing times, Magnolia center is looking to put together an online activity group! We are open to ideas and we’re looking at using Zoom as a way to play games, do group activities, or just staying connected and having fun. If you are interested in joining us and exploring the many options available, please let us know! Contact us at 650-829-3822 or send us an e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected] 8 South San Francisco by Frank R. Castellano Settled in South San Francisco over fifty years ago, Still can envision the vast vegetable farms, of products planted row after row. East Grand Ave. was the hub of great activity, With its huge steel mills, paint companies, stock yards, and meat processing plants, there was great productivity It was then, a unique, quaint, and yet a primitive town, Only a few “Model T” and “Model A “ Fords could be seen “chugging around” Visitors would use the phrase that South San Francisco “was like going to the country”, The bellow of the cows nearby, plus the sight of them munching. The population was around six thousand people at that time, Everyone seemed to know each other, which worked out real fine. At the time, the population was predominantly of Italian origin, Many were prominent businessmen. City Hall, still majestically stands, A true replica of Independence Hall, still honored throughout our land. A very small police and fire department, located in the basement of City Hall, Volunteer firemen, always ready on call. Still remember the “original” All Souls Catholic Church burning down to the ground, A very sad sight for its teary-eyed parishioners seen milling around. Attended quite a few “wedding receptions” at the “Old Fraternal Hall”, They were great, and I enjoyed them all! The “State Theater” was the place to go, Was always jammed with people, whenever there was a good show! Writing this poem has sort of put me into a nostalgic mood. South San Francisco will always remain my most precious jewel! 9 Hello, puzzle fans! Here is a new type of puzzle for you to try out! Take a look at the letters in the red outline. They spell “Petunia”. The shaded “E” in the middle is the “center letter”. Can you find more words in the hex-grid? All of the words to look for form a hexagon with a special letter in the middle. Try to find the following words in the grid and write down the “center letter”. 1. Petunia - E_ 2. Recital - __ 3. Quality - __ 4. Patient - __ 5. Rooster - __ 6. Antique - __ 7. Nostril - __ Now, put together all the center letters together, what do you get? _____________________ Answer: 1.E 2.T 3.Q 4.A 5.R 6.U 7.R “QUARTER” Spot the difference! Thanksgiving is right around the corner and we’ve got a little puzzle for you. Can you spot 10 differences between these two pictures? Answer at the bottom. 1) Spider on tree. 2) Buckle on hat. 3) Dog’s tongue. 4) Dog’s tail. 5) Vine on pumpkin. 6) Mushroom on stump. 7) Waddle on Turkey. 8) Snail’s direction. 9) Shape of rock. 10) Leaf on fern. Answers: 10 11 Riddles to ponder…. For this issue of Senior Connections, I would like to go with a different kind of riddle, a longer story format. See if you can figure out these out. There are many famous quotes we all hear all the time, but we may not know where they come from. Here are some quotes; see if you can match them up to the person that said them. Q1: A penny saved is a penny earned. Q2: You can fool some of the people all of the time, you can fool all of the people some of the time, but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time. Q3:Never argue with stupid people, they will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience. Q4:Don’t criticize what you don’t understand. You’ve never walked in that man’s shoes. Famous Quotes Once upon a time, there was a baron who invited girls from the village to visit his castle. The baron was proud of the apples he grew in his orchard, and he asked them to take an apple with them before they left. There were 10 girls visiting. The room they were in had 10 apples sitting in a basket. Each girl took 1 apple with them before leaving. However, in the end, there was still 1 apple left in the basket. How could this be? A man was travelling and came upon a small town. He needed a haircut and looks for a barber. He finds two barbers in the small town, each with their own shop next to each other. Both of these barbers worked alone. The first barber had a messy beard and an ugly haircut. The second barber had a nicely trimmed beard and a nice haircut. The traveler thinks for a moment, and decides to get his haircut from the first barber. Why does he do this? 1st riddle: The last girl took the basket with the apple in it. 2nd riddle: The man realized that the barbers must cut each other’s hair. He goes to the first barber because he does a good job on the second barber. ANSWERS: 1. Mark Twain 2. Benjamin Franklin 3. Elvis Presley 4. Abraham Lincoln ANSWERS: Q1: Benjamin Franklin Q2: Abraham Lincoln Q3: Mark Twain Q4:Elvis Presley South San Francisco Senior Services P.O. Box 711 South San Francisco, CA 94080 Magnolia Center Senior Services Information Magnolia Center/Adult Day Care/MSB (650) 829-3822 [email protected] Contact Us Magnolia Center pictured above. Websites: https://www.ssf.net/ https://www.ssf.net/seniors https://www.ssf.net/virtualrec CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: November 19, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Parks Update Natural Resources Program High School Interns Over the past two weeks, the Parks Division hosted two high school interns for a short work experience with our Sign Hill Natural Resources Program staff. These students worked with the program for two weeks. Their duties included restoration work on the hill, such as sheet mulching and invasive weed removal, as well as creating coyote information signage for parks city-wide notifying residents of safety protocols if they see a coyote in our parks. They also created a coyote safety flyer for social media posts and the Parks and Recreation webpage so the information can be easily accessed. Additionally, the interns spent a day working with San Bruno Mountain Watch, who also had two interns, removing invasive weed species on San Bruno Mountain. This day helped teach them the interconnected nature of Sign Hill and San Bruno Mountain. This program concluded on November 13 and was very successful. The interns had never visited Sign Hill and learned a lot about becoming involved in their local natural areas. Their task of creating the signage also showed them the overlapping fields where design meets conservation. This overlap is known as “interpretation,” as interpretive experiences in nature are designed to teach and engage the public about their surroundings. Hazardous Tree Removal at Buri Buri Park Due to the recent high winds, a large cypress tree near the rear parking lot at Buri Buri Park has become compromised and will be removed in the coming days. The tree split from torsion or twisting forces, which is one of the more hazardous types of tree failure. Due to the size, location, and potential hazard this trees poses, the Parks Division is contracting this removal to a specialized Bi-Weekly Update November 19, 2020 Page 2 of 3 tree care company because a crane is needed to perform the work safely. Irish Town Green The Parks Division has slowly been working on restoring Irish Town Green on Airport Boulevard between Armour Avenue and Linden Avenue. Recently, Parks staff were made aware that there may be some available CDBG funding to support this project. Staff has obtained estimates for pathways extending from Armour Avenue and Airport Boulevard, to meet the existing pathway that surrounds the field. Additionally, quotes have been obtained to repair and install more fencing at the site to keep it safe for users. Parks staff have submitted a new proposal and are currently working with ECD staff to secure the additional funding to complete this part of the larger project. Completion of this phase will allow residents to access the park safely and easily from the “Old Town” portion of the neighborhood instead of having residents walk all the way to Linden Avenue to access the site safely. Sign Hill Fire Response In response to the fire on Sign Hill, the Parks Division has been working to complete a strategy of how to address issues in the short, mid, and long term. Since the last update, the Parks Division has obtained geotechnical and erosion control analysis of the impacted areas and received cost estimates to perform hazard tree removal, as well as fuel load reduction tree removals. The Division’s next step is to secure contractors to perform the erosion mitigation efforts and begin the tree removals, once City Council has been presented the scope of work and approves the expenditures required to perform such extensive mitigation efforts on November 24. Bay Nature Award Recently, the Parks Division’s own Natural Resource Specialist, Emma Lewis, was awarded the prestigious award of “Young Leader” by Bay Nature for their 2021 Local Hero Awards. Emma was nominated due to the magnificent program she has created for our local Sign Hill. With the help of staff, Emma has built a robust volunteer program, that engages all ages of South San Francisco residents. She has also worked on creating interpretive educational opportunities to teach residents about what they can find in their own community despite the urban influence that is ever present. Most importantly, Emma’s work has helped preserve our native habitat on the hill to help protect our endangered local butterfly, the mission blue butterfly. Her work has had a major impact on the hill and she has worked to link Sign Hill with San Bruno Mountain, which are geographically and biologically connected though separated by urban zones. She has also become involved with the San Mateo County Weed Management Area (SMCWMA) helping Bi-Weekly Update November 19, 2020 Page 3 of 3 coordinate invasive plant control in a united effort across the county. Additionally, she is a new board member of San Bruno Mountain Watch. This connection further builds Sign Hill’s connection to San Bruno Mountain and the relevancy that South San Francisco has in the natural resource community. Emma’s ingenuity, intelligence, and passion for the work she does cannot be overstated and she has been an invaluable asset to the Parks Division team. Her future is bright with opportunity and staff are always looking forward to, and working on, what is next for her, Sign Hill, and the rest of our open space in South San Francisco. Facilities Update Main Library Power Surge On Friday, November 13, Building Maintenance staff was notified of a power surge in an electrical panel at the West Orange Library. The Library was evacuated and the Fire Department was called to respond. Out of an abundance of caution, the power was turned off to the rest of the building was closed. On Monday morning, Public Works electricians and Building Maintenance staff investigated the root cause of the power surge. It was determined that the transformer for the exterior lights had failed. The electrician disconnected the transformer and restored the power to the rest of the Library. Staff will source a replacement transformer, as quickly as possible, but Library staff can safely re-enter and resume operations. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: November 25, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Upcoming Holiday Events While COVID-19 limits the City’s ability to host popular, traditional holiday events such as Santa Comes to Town or the Improving Public Places Wreath Workshop fundraiser, staff have come up with other creative ways to celebrate the holidays in a COVID-safe manner. Please see the attached Holiday Events list for more information. COVID Return to Red Tier: Impact on Recreation Programs On Tuesday, November 17, San Mateo County moved back into the substantial (red) tier of the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy Roadmap after enjoying about three weeks on the less- restricted, moderate (orange) tier. The following list highlights the impact of this move on recreations programs. Aquatics – Orange Pool is now closed. After reopening on November 2, with the County’s move to the orange tier, Orange Pool had to close once again on November 17, when the County regressed to the red tier. Indoor pools are only allowed to open in the orange tier. This closure impacted 11 City staff members who will be returned to furloughed status. Although open only briefly, pool patrons enthusiastically returned to the pool for lap swim, immediately filling all reservation times as soon as they became available. Considering that outdoor pools can operate in the red tier, staff has reached out to school district staff to explore the possibility of operating one of the school district’s outdoor pools. A response from the school district is pending. Childcare – No change. The Childcare Program continues to carry on with serving preschool and school age children. Staff are in the midst of negotiating the use of additional classroom space on school campuses, anticipating the growing demand for childcare services after the new year, as well as modified space needs once schools operate under a hybrid learning model. Earlier this month, staff was able to expand the REAL After School Program to include one new classroom of 12 students at Los Cerritos Elementary School. The REAL After School Program is a state grant-funded program that is offered for free to participants at Los Cerritos and Martin Elementary Schools. Under COVID, the REAL Program initially only opened at Martin Elementary School, combining services for Martin and Los Cerritos students. However, the demand to serve students Bi-Weekly Update November 25, 2020 Page 2 of 3 has grown as parents and teachers identify students who are struggling with distance learning at home and are being referred to the REAL Program for additional support. Classes – Some changes. This fall, the Classes Program carried on with virtual classes after a successful pilot period over the spring and summer. Fall virtual classes were offered for a fee at 50% off the cost of in-person classes. In addition, the Department began offering in-person recreation classes outdoors for the first time since COVID began imposing restrictions on in-person gatherings. All fall classes are scheduled to end in late November to early December. The Department has since planned for a winter session of classes to start in mid-January that originally anticipated being able to have a limited offering of indoor, in-person classes, as well as virtual classes. Unfortunately, the County’s regression to the red tier makes it unfeasible to offer most indoor, in-person classes due to the severe room capacity restrictions that would limit the number of people indoors. For the most part, capacities decrease from 25% of the total capacity in the orange tier to 10% capacity in the red tier. If the County further regresses into the widespread (purple) tier, all indoor classes will be cancelled. Only outdoor activity is allowed under the purple tier. Staff is working with Recreation Instructors to determine which classes can continue in-person, which will transition to a virtual class option, and which will be cancelled altogether. While the schedule is still to be determined, outdoor classes might not be scheduled during the winter due to the potential impact of rainy weather. Winter class offerings can be viewed at www.ssf.net/rec-catalog. Please note that this schedule is subject to change. Cultural arts – No change. Following the success of the its first virtual art show celebrating Día de Muertos / Day of the Dead, the Cultural Arts Commission and staff are in the process of planning a virtual photography show to take place some time in February. The call for entries will be available in mid-December. Rentals – Some changes. The Orange Memorial Park Tennis Court Reservation Program, which was a new program that began as a result of COVID, is scheduled to end on November 30. While the program has been well-received, it will take a hiatus during the winter months, with the possibility of returning in the spring of 2021. The Rentals team continues to manage the use of City facilities for essential City meetings and events including blood drives, food drives, and staff trainings. If the County further regresses into the widespread (purple) tier, it is likely that the City will host fewer in-person meetings and events. Seniors – No change. The Seniors Program will continue to provide critical information, referral, and support services to seniors. This includes providing meal delivery to seniors through the City’s partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank and a partnership with Rocko’s Produce that is funded by private donations. Bi-Weekly Update November 25, 2020 Page 3 of 3 Sports – Some changes. Terrabay Gymnasium and Recreation Center reopened on Monday, November 2 for the first time since the citywide closure of City facilities in mid-March. The gym currently offers open gym basketball and badminton by reservation, following a similar model established by the Orange Memorial Park tennis court reservation program. Indoor open gym can continue under the red tier since the activities being offered are within the capacity restrictions under the red tier, but will have to move outdoors or cancelled if the County regresses to the purple tier. Open gym reservations can be made online at www.ssf.net/rec-catalog. The middle school sports program remains on hiatus and staff is in the midst of alternative programming to offer to this age group. Staff is also planning to continue offering in-person, outdoor, skill-building clinics in select sports. More information on this topic will be available in a future report. The Park-to-Park program, which provided free outdoor activities at various parks around the city each week, ended on Thursday, November 19 after eleven weeks of programming. The program ended in anticipation of inclement weather during the winter months. Over 150 people participated in the Park-to-Park program, which included activities such as cornhole, soccer, horseshoes, frisbees, and kite flying. Community members who participated were very pleased with the chance to play outdoors again. (two photos, above) Staff and participants enjoying Park to Park City of South San Francisco Holiday Events When Event Location Cost/Registration Thursday, November 26 4:30 p.m. Holiday tree lighting! Sign Hill Free Month of December Sunrise – Sunset Winter Wonderland Community members of all ages are invited to view the Winter Wonderland window displays at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building. Viewing can be enjoyed at your convenience for the month of December. Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building (Outdoor Patio) 781 Tennis Drive Free Call (650) 829-3800 for more information. Apply by: December 15 Winners announced: December 18 Home for the Holidays Decorating Contest Stay home this holiday season and participate in our first Home for the Holidays Decorating Contest. Decorate the exterior of your home for a chance to win a donation in your name to the 2020 Holiday Drive. Virtual Free To register, visit https://bit.ly/ssfholidaycontest For more information, contact [email protected] or (650) 829-6665 Sunday, December 6 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Wreath Kit Fundraiser The Improving Public Places Committee invites community members to join their annual wreath making fundraiser. Due to covid-19 restrictions, this year registered participants will be scheduled in small groups to pick up wreath kits to assemble at home. Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building (Outdoor Patio) 781 Tennis Drive $30 per wreath kit Pre-registration required and is nearly sold out. Call (650) 829-3800 for information about remaining pick up times available. Saturday, December 12 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Winter Wonderland Live! Experience the magical Winter Wonderland at the Joseph A. Recreation Building as it comes to life. Come wave to Santa and his North Pole friends. Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building (Outdoor Patio) 781 Tennis Drive Free Pre-registration is required. This event is SOLD OUT. Monday, December 14 TBD Drive-In Menorah Lighting More information coming soon! TBD Free Monday, December 21 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 2020 Holiday Drive Pre-qualified families receive food boxes and gift cards in partnership with YMCA Services and Second Harvest Food Bank Cash donations and volunteers needed. Call Marie at (650) 877-6666 for more information. Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building (Outdoor Patio) 781 Tennis Drive Free Pre-registration through YMCA is required. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: December 10, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Recreation Division Update Happy Retirement to Susan Filereto Susan Filereto, our Administrative Assistant II, is often the first person you see when you come into the Parks and Recreation office at the Municipal Services Building, and it is often her voice you hear when you call our office. For nearly 30 years, Susan has served the City of South San Francisco and has been at the heart of supporting Parks and Recreation operations for most of that time. It is with bittersweet fondness that we announce her retirement at the end of December. The Parks and Recreation team is sad to lose such an amazing colleague, but we celebrate her new adventures in retirement! Susan’s last day will be on December 30, 2020. Recreation Office Holiday Hours Following the Department’s practice piloted last year, the Recreation Division’s administrative offices will be closed for one week from Monday, December 21 through Friday, December 25. During “normal” times prior to COVID, the closure would have resulted in a shutdown of all community centers and Orange Pool. During COVID, the closure primarily impacts the Department’s virtual office hours to the public via the main phone line at (650) 829-3800 or [email protected]. The impact to the public is expected to be minimal since most recreation programs are either on a pre-scheduled intermission, or have been suspended due to COVID restrictions. A few items to note include: • The only recreation activity expected to continue during the closure is the delivery of food boxes to South San Francisco Seniors by Senior Services Van Driver, Joe Anderson. Joe has been delivering 80 to100 boxes per week in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, and also thanks to produce boxes purchased from Rocko’s Produce using private donations. Food box deliveries and Rocko’s Produce donations are managed by Senior Services Program Supervisor, Kelli Jo Cullinan. For more information, or to donate, please contact Kelli Jo at [email protected] or (650) 829-3822. • The Childcare Program usually hosts Winter Camp for school-aged children during the weeks of Christmas and New Year. Winter Camp will not be offered this year because COVID requirements about establishing stable cohorts make it unfeasible to offer the program at this time. • Preschool programs are typically closed during the weeks of Christmas and New Year, and will be closed as usual this year. During the closure, full time staff have the option to use vacation or administrative leave to take time off, or can choose to work on alternative work assignments. The one week closure began in acknowledgement of the Recreation team’s obligation to supervise recreation programs and events occurring seven days per week, Bi-Weekly Update December 10, 2020 Page 2 of 5 including evenings. Staff have appreciated the opportunity not to be on call, and those who choose to work over the holiday period appreciate the opportunity to get organized for the upcoming year. COVID Return to Purple Tier: Impact on Recreation Programs On Saturday, November 28, San Mateo County moved into the widespread (purple) tier of the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy Roadmap after spending just over a week in the substantial (red) tier. In addition, on December 3, Governor Newsom announced regional stay home orders for regions with less than 15% intensive care unit (ICU) capacity. The regional stay home orders currently do not apply to San Mateo County, but trends indicate the County may be impacted later this month. The following list highlights the impact of the move to the purple tier on recreations programs. AQUATICS – Orange Pool, which closed on November 17, will stay closed for now, but may reopen to swimming lessons, even if San Mateo County remains in the purple tier. The industry guidance for gyms and fitness centers, under which pools are categorized, was updated on December 3 to note that “Drowning prevention classes, including swim lessons with certified instructors, are permitted in indoor and outdoor swimming pools in all tiers, as they are deemed essential.” Staff is considering the opportunity to resume swim lessons. If offered, the earliest such lessons could take place would be mid to late January in order to get the staff into place, as well as provide staff training. Prior to this change in the industry guidelines, the Department only offered lap swim to ages 16 and up. Staff has reached out to the school district to see if operating the outdoor pools at one of the high schools might be allowed, but the City’s request was denied. The district cited mechanical and logistical concerns among the reasons for not approving the City’s request. In addition, the district expressed concerns about teachers and students who are on campus potentially being exposed to pool users, who would have to walk through campus in order to access the pool. CHILDCARE – No change. The Childcare Program continues to carry on with serving preschool and school age children. If the governor’s regional stay home orders are put into effect, it would not impact childcare programs that are already open. CLASSES – Some changes. Since early November, the anticipated class offerings for the winter session that are scheduled to begin in mid-January have been drastically reduced to only offering virtual classes. The Department had created a virtual studio at the MSB to support instructors who do not have access to the equipment and/or space at home to record their own virtual classes, but this option would not be allowed in the purple tier as it is an indoor operation. The schedule originally planned to resume some indoor classes for the first time, but this is also not allowed in the purple tier. While it may be possible to offer outdoor classes, staff is choosing not to pursue this option at this time given the potential impact of inclement winter weather. Winter class offerings can be viewed at www.ssf.net/rec-catalog. Please note that this schedule is subject to change. CULTURAL ARTS – No change. Following the success of the its first virtual art show celebrating Día de Muertos / Day of the Dead, the Cultural Arts Commission and staff are in the process of planning a virtual photography show to take place some time in February. The call for entries will be available in mid-December. RENTALS – Minimal change. The Rentals team continues to manage the use of City facilities for essential City meetings and events including blood drives and food drives. It is likely that the City will host fewer in-person meetings and events while in the purple tier. Hourly Rentals staff have also been redeployed to assist with sanitizing park amenities and playgrounds. Bi-Weekly Update December 10, 2020 Page 3 of 5 SENIORS – No change. The Seniors Program will continue to provide critical information, referral, and support services to seniors. This includes providing meal delivery to seniors through the City’s partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank and Rocko’s Produce that is funded by private donations. SPORTS –Terrabay Gymnasium and Recreation Center is closed after being allowed to open for modified, drop-in basketball and badminton in November while the County was in the orange and red tiers. The middle school sports program remains on hiatus and staff is in the midst of alternative programming to offer this age group. Staff is also planning to continue offering in-person, outdoor, skill-building clinics in select sports, and e-sports activities. More information on this topic will be available in a future report. Tennis Court Reservation Program Completed for 2020 The Orange Park Tennis Court Reservation Program was started in response to COVID guidelines and has continued through the months due to positive community feedback. This program will be put on hold during the winter months due to anticipated inclement weather, and staff intends to reevaluate the program and may bring it back in the spring. The courts were available to rent for a $6 fee from Monday – Sunday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. From June 15, 2020 – November 30, 2020, there were 765 permits issued for a total of 1094 hours reserved despite having to close the reservation system Monday, August 24, 2020 to Friday, September 4, 2020 due to poor air quality from the California fires. The courts were staffed by part-time recreation leaders during those months and the feedback from the participants playing on the courts was extremely positive! Many players expressed hope that the program will return after the winter. Virtual Thanksgiving Fun Run 2020 Recap The Department hosted the first ever virtual Thanksgiving Fun Run this year. Participants were able to walk or run any 5K course of their choosing from November 14 – November 22. There were 113 total registered participants and three winners from each of the following age groups: • 12 & under (Male & Female) • 13-19 (Male & Female) • 20-29 (Male & Female) • 30-39 (Male & Female) • 30-49 (Male & Female) • 50-59 (Male & Female) • 60-69 (Male & Female) • 70 & Over (Male & Female) The top overall male runner was Austin Navarro (20:28), a Parks and Recreation staffer, and the top overall female winner was Danielle Bisho (20:39) from San Francisco. The Department also received some great pictures of families and the locations of where they participated. Staff hope to move forward in future years with the option for participants to choose a virtual option for participating in the Fun Run. Visit Winter Wonderland in December Community members of all ages are invited to view the Winter Wonderland window displays at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building at Orange Memorial Park. The display will be up the entire month of December for all to enjoy. Bi-Weekly Update December 10, 2020 Page 4 of 5 Photo: Scenes from Winter Wonderland Bi-Weekly Update December 10, 2020 Page 5 of 5 Parks Division Update Priority Conservation Area Grant Award Staff was recently notified that the Department was successful in being awarded $135,000 for restoration work and creating a comprehensive master plan for Sign Hill. The Priority Conservation Area (PCA) Grant, administered by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) will be formally awarded in December. The funding from this grant will be used to continue our restoration efforts on Sign Hill. Additionally, it will fund the planning for Sign Hill’s trail realignment, conservation efforts, and a general overall management plan for the entire hill. This is especially timely due to the recent fire that occurred on the hill in October. This grant will help the City strategically plan and make informed decisions about maintenance and operations on Sign Hill, and will provide a more resilient and healthy place for residents to enjoy long into the future. Buri Buri Tree Removal On November 25, a hazardous cypress tree was removed in Buri Buri Park. The tree was very large and had large vertical fissures in the trunk due to twisting forces. Due to the size, precarious nature of the removal because of the fissures, and proximity to homes, a crane was necessary for removal and the project was contracted to a tree care contractor. The removal went smoothly with no damage to park assets. Sculpture Installation Parks staff have been preparing to install two sculptures – one in the Orange Park Sculpture Garden and the other in the median located at Maple Ave and Lux Ave. A giraffe sculpture, donated by a generous benefactor, will be installed in the Sculpture Garden near the bocce courts. On the median at Maple Ave and Lux Ave, a three-foot diameter corten steel orb, donated by artist Ivan McLean will be installed. These sculptures will be installed between December 7 and the 18 and will bring some unique pieces to South San Francisco’s public art collection for residents to enjoy. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: December 17, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Parks Update Sign Hill Seed Donation Creekside Science is donating 3,000 lupine seeds to the Parks Division to benefit mission blue butterfly habitat restoration efforts on Sign Hill. In 2018, Creekside Science was awarded a Disney Butterfly Conservation Initiative grant for their work with the federally endangered mission blue butterfly. This grant covered the creation of a lupine host-plant seed expansion garden. This year, their efforts were so successful that they had extra seed to share with organizations that protect the mission blue butterfly. Sign Hill is one of the last places in the world where the mission blue butterfly survives. Unfortunately, the main lupine host plant on Sign Hill, Lupinus albifrons, is susceptible to a fungal disease during wet years. For sites with small butterfly populations, like Milagra Ridge and the Marin Headlands, this fungal disease can devastate butterfly populations. Creekside Science is hoping to solve this problem by donating seeds for all three lupine host-plants to diversify butterfly food sources. Not only will this donation expand and enhance mission blue butterfly habitat on Sign Hill, but it will also ensure our butterfly population is resilient to future extreme weather events. Sign Hill Fire Response Removal of the many damaged trees from the October fire on Sign Hill is progressing well, with efforts beginning near the Ridge Trail, focusing on the area known as Seubert Grove. In the months ahead, we will continue to see significant changes on Sign Hill. Staff has been in contact with the Seubert family to apprise them of the work, and future plans for the creation of a Seubert meadow to honor their father’s stewardship of the hill. In tandem with tree removal work, the City is contracting with Acacia Environmental Services to mitigate any erosion concerns that have arisen from the recent fire. WRECO, a geotechnical engineering firm, provided an assessment of the burned area and designed erosion control systems to address any areas of concerns. This erosion assessment and their recommendations will guide Acacia Environmental Services and the Parks Division through the erosion control efforts on Sign Hill in the coming months. Bi-Weekly Update December 17, 2020 Page 2 of 3 Ballfield Maintenance Parks staff have begun their annual winter maintenance of baseball fields. Avalon Field as well as the Baden School Fields are closed for maintenance. The rest of the fields will be closed at the end of the year due to the leagues providing baseball camps. However, during and shortly after rain events, the fields are not permitted to be used to help preserve the turf and safe playing conditions. The work to be done on the fields will include ripping and grading the infields, dethatching and leveling the outfield, mound and home plate work, over-seeding and fertilizing turf, and general repairs of amenities adjacent to the fields amongst other activities. The Parks Division continues to work with the leagues to accommodate both maintenance and sports use activities to ensure that field users can play safely during their camps and when regular play is allowed to resume. Sellick Park The Sellick Park entrance sign was vandalized earlier this year and the Parks Division took this as an opportunity to enhance the entrance to the park. The sign was rebuilt, footings were constructed, electrical systems for the sign lighting was repaired, old landscaping was removed, and irrigation was rerouted to help protect the sign from water damage. Prior to this work, the old sign was frequently sprayed by sprinklers, expediting the decay of the wooden legs holding the sign up. Now, the sign will have new landscaping that is drip irrigated as well as new LED lights that will better illuminate the sign at night and conserve energy. Winter Preparation Efforts in Parks In preparation for the coming winter, the Parks Division has been proactively clearing drains and culverts around the city to make sure drainage is at maximum efficiency in the event of heavy rains. In addition to this, the Parks tree crew is working to abate any recently dead or declining trees in areas of high vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Most notably, two medium sized dead Monterey pine trees were removed on the Westborough Boulevard median, just west of Callan Boulevard. In addition to this work, the Parks Division is also working to prepare for the rapid growth of weeds that occurs after our wet season. Parks staff are mulching areas in parks to help suppress weeds and absorb moisture that otherwise turns into runoff. Staff are also applying pre-emergent on right-of-way areas that become very large weed abatement tasks in the dry months. This work now will help the Parks Division be prepared for the fire season. Facilites Update Orange Pool Door Replacement Last week, Building Maintenance staff and contractors installed new emergency evacuation doors at the Orange Pool building. The existing doors were original to the building and were showing signs of rust and deterioration. The doors are now fully functional and ready for use, once the pool reopens. Bi-Weekly Update December 17, 2020 Page 3 of 3 Fernekes Building Reception Area Update This week, Building Maintenance staff and furniture contractors are installing a new reception desk in the Fernekes Recreation Building. The old desk was removed to make room for a new desk, security partition and sneeze guards. The area will also include doors on either side of the desk to keep the public in the reception area, while allowing staff to access the office space. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: December 24, 2020 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Cultural Arts Commission Elects New Chair and Vice Chair At the Cultural Arts Special Meeting on December 10, the Cultural Arts Commission elected a new Chair and Vice Chair. Michael DeNatale was voted in as Chair, replacing Shane Looper. Ryan Campagna was voted in as Vice Chair, replacing Michael DeNatale. The election for the Commission’s leadership roles have historically taken place in January, however, former Chair Looper called for an earlier election given that she has completed her term as a Commissioner and expects to be off of the Commission as soon as her seat is filled. Essential Services Update – Senior Services Program Magnolia Senior Food Box Program in Partnership with Rocko’s Produce Since March, over 600 boxes of food purchased from Rocko’s Produce have been delivered to South San Francisco seniors. This program began in the early stages of the COVID crisis thanks to a generous donation from a South San Francisco resident and it has continued to operate through donations from individuals, city employees, businesses, grants, and other funding. The cost of each box is $50 and recipients receive fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs and other products that provides nutrition for several days. Support for Second Harvest Food Bank Delivery In addition to delivering food boxes from Rocko’s Produce, Senior Services Van Driver Joe Anderson continues to deliver food boxes from Second Harvest Food Bank to South San Francisco seniors. Joe has delivered to over 2,600 residences, delivering over 6,600 boxes of food for the community. Staff time spent on meal delivery to seniors has been identified as an allowable grant expense during COVID by the San Mateo County grant that funds many of the Senior Program’s activities. Senior Team Program and Activity Update The Senior Services team has been providing wellness and socialization phone calls to all Adult Day Care clients as well as individuals who have come to Magnolia and the Municipal Services Building for senior activities, programs, and special events. To date, the team has made over 4,500 wellness and socialization calls to residents. The Senior Connections Newsletter has produced four special editions that is sent to over 500 people each distribution. Thanks to newsletter editor and Recreation staff member John Lau, and Recreation Supervisor Kelli Jo Cullinan, the newsletter is informative and fun! Van Driver Joe Anderson delivers a Rocko’s Food Box to a senior. Bi-Weekly Update December 24, 2020 Page 2 of 5 Activity and information packets are also organized and created by Marianna Roman, Adult Day Care Coordinator, and sent to seniors. Each one has an abundance of information and creative activities for seniors to enjoy. Over 800 information and/or activity kits have been distributed since April. Senior staffers Fran Guevarra and Bruce Haroldson are keeping in contact with many of the Senior Program’s volunteers and participants as well as working on special event planning and cleaning up Magnolia Center. The Building Maintenance team has also been busy at Magnolia Center painting the entire second and third floors, as well as providing minor repairs. The Senior Services team is looking forward to welcoming everyone back to a refreshed Magnolia Center once we are able to gather together again. Until then, staff continue to work hard for older adults and seniors in South San Francisco. Social and Wellness Letters from Kaiser Permanente In partnership with Kaiser Permanente, staff sent out over 200 cheerful letters from Kaiser Permanente staff members to the older adults and seniors who usually come to Magnolia Center. The letters will provide a little extra joy for the holidays to those who need it most. The Kaiser Permanente team created beautiful and creative notes, cards, and letters and brought them to Magnolia Center where the Senior Services team assembled and addressed them. AbilityPath Volunteers Bring Holiday Presents to Adult Day Care Clients at Magnolia Center The AbilityPath volunteer crew that frequented Magnolia Center prior to COVID and volunteers to assist with cleaning, activities, special events, and programs provided some beautiful gifts that will be sent to Adult Day Care clients the week of Christmas. Magnolia Plaza Residents Knit and Crochet for the Childcare and Senior Programs The Department extends a big thank you to the residents and staff at the Magnolia Plaza Senior Housing Community for knitting and crocheting some very warm and attractive hats and socks for children in the REAL Program and seniors who receive food boxes. Former Councilmember Karyl Matsumoto worked with the staff at Magnolia Plaza to provide the gifts to Parks and Recreation programs. The REAL Program added the gifts to their holiday store, where the students can pick out gifts for their family members as well as pick something for themselves to make the holidays a bit happier this season. Coordinator Marianna Roman prepares an … Marianna Roman prepares an activity kit for seniors. AbilityPath delivers gifts for Adult Day Care clients REAL Program children model warm knitted and crocheted hats donated by Magnolia Plaza residents and staff. Bi-Weekly Update December 24, 2020 Page 3 of 5 Rotary Club Provides Lunch for the Senior Services Team On Wednesday, December 16 the South San Francisco Rotary Club delivered a delicious lunch from Teani’s Deli for the Senior Services team. Staff appreciates being acknowledged by the SSF Rotary Club for the work we are doing to provide services to older adults and seniors in South San Francisco. The SSF Rotary Club has been a partner in several programs and activities and the Department looks forward to working with them again in the future. See’s Candies Donation for Parks and Recreation Programs and Activities See’s Candies provided a sweet donation of many cases of scotch kisses, milk chocolate balls, and peppermint swirls to Parks and Recreation programs, special events, and activities this December. Thanks to the work of the Senior Services team who assembled bags of treats for all of the programs and events, the Department was able to distribute the treats to over 300 families that attended the Winter Wonderland – Live! event (each family received a bag of peppermint swirls from one of Santa’s elves as well as some that were sent down the Gingerbread Man Candy Shoot for the children to catch); over 300 families enrolled in the Department’s preschool and elementary school programs; Senior Services Program food boxes; City food drive on Monday, December 21, where 600 people were expected to attend; and appreciation gifts for Parks and Recreation staff members who have been working hard this year to continue to serve the community. Winter Wonderland – Live! Throughout the month of December, many South San Francisco community members have enjoyed the festive holiday window displays at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building. On Saturday, December 12, a few lucky residents were treated to an enchanting holiday display as the scenes came to life. The Parks and Recreation Department successfully accommodated over 500 visitors to the live Winter Wonderland event. Pre-registration was required to participate. While the Department wishes we could have accommodated more community members, the safety of those in attendance was a main priority. One participant commented that “This is a perfect SSF Rotary Club delivers lunch for the Senior Services team. The Senior Services team prepares 1000+ bags filled with donated See’s Candies sweets for distribution at a variety of citywide activities and events. Bi-Weekly Update December 24, 2020 Page 4 of 5 COVID event. My family and I felt safe the whole time, and we were a little weary going into the event. You guys did a great job.” Attendees were even treated to a package of peppermint candy, donated by See’s Candies. The creation of this event was made possible thanks in part to the adoption of an Innovation Fund as part of the Department’s operating budget, giving the Department some financial flexibility to create alternative community programs during COVID. The beautiful window displays were also enhanced by donated holiday items collected by staff and their family and friends. As further testament to the Department’s efforts to minimize the impact to the budget, the entire Recreation Division’s supervisory team, including ACM/Director Sharon Ranals, Deputy Director Greg Mediati, Recreation Manager Angela Duldulao, and Parks Manager Joshua Richardson volunteered to work the Winter Wonderland-Live! event in order to reduce the cost of part-time staff and bring holiday cheer to the community. If you were unable to experience the live Winter Wonderland on December 12, you can still experience a bit of the magic of the holidays throughout the remainder of December. A video highlighting the Winter Wonderland -Live! event is also available at https://youtu.be/d7UlEZwQJIU. Winter Wonderland is made possible thanks to the creative efforts and hard work led by the “Cheer Team:” (left to right) Brian Noce, Kelli Jo Cullinan, Erin O’Brien, Laura Armanino. The Department’s mid-management and executive team volunteer their time to bring Winter Wonderland to life. Bi-Weekly Update December 24, 2020 Page 5 of 5 American Red Cross Blood Drive Results 2020 The Department partners with the American Red Cross to host blood drives each year at the Municipal Services Building. The results from the five 2020 blood drives are below. GOAL UNITS Friday, January 3, 2020 29 35 Wednesday, July 1, 2020 40 35 Tuesday, September 8, 2020 40 35 Thursday, November 12, 2020 40 40 Wednesday, December 2, 2020 35 26 TOTAL 184 171 total units Units x 3 = 513 lives In 2020, despite this year of COVID, protests, power outages, and wildfires, the City did not cancel any drives that were scheduled. In fact, staff was able to add two more much needed drives as compared to 2019. There are four confirmed dates for 2021: February 2, 2021 (only 5 donor spaces remaining), April 6, 2021, July 2, 2021, and September 7, 2021. Staff is looking to add more dates at the end of next year. If interested in donating in the future, please go to www.redcrossblood.org. CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: January 14, 2021 TO: Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers FROM: Greg Mediati, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Bi-Weekly Update Parks Update Common Greens Pathway Repairs Parks staff hired contractors with Precision Concrete to perform grinding of sidewalk tripping hazards in the Stonegate Common Greens area. Parks staff will continue to inspect and repair other Common Greens areas for similar concerns. In addition to the pathway repairs, the Parks Division is repairing staircases that lead to residents’ backyards in the Westpark Common Greens areas. Some tasks are being performed in-house, but larger demolition and replacement is being contracted to Bay Area Paving. Sellick Park Entrance Sign Update As previously reported, the entrance sign at Sellick Park was vandalized earlier this year. Since then, the Parks Division has worked to repair the sign and improve the surrounding landscaping. Parks staff used this opportunity to re-route the irrigation, create a new planter area, and replace the old non-functioning lights with energy efficient LEDs. These improvements give the front of the park a fresh, new feel and will reduce water and electrical consumption, while making it more visible and easier to maintain. Sign Hill Fire Mitigation Update Tree removal work and erosion control efforts on Sign Hill is still in progress. Thus far, tree work has largely been performed in the Seubert Grove area to remove hazardous trees where the Ridge Trail and Eucalyptus Trail connect. Work in this zone is anticipated to be completed in the coming weeks. Once complete, the Ridge Trail may be reopened. Bi-Weekly Update January 14, 2021 Page 2 of 2 Erosion control efforts are also ongoing, focusing on areas under tree canopy that has been lost, and the soils there have not seen direct rain impact for many years. Contractors have installed check dams in the brow ditches that line the base of the hill parallel to Rocca Avenue. This week, fiber wattle installation began in areas prescribed by erosion control engineers. Fortunately, the recent light rains have spurred growth of some grasses in burned areas, which is very helpful for stabilization of the slope and slowing sheet flows.