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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07.17.18 CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Tuesday, July 17, 2018 I. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 pm A regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission of the City of South San Francisco was held on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at the Municipal Services Building, 33 Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, California. II. ROLL CALL: Present: Commissioners Camacho, Garrone, Flores, Holt, Lock, Uy, and Battaglia Absent: None Staff: Sharon Ranals, Director of Parks and Recreation Greg Mediati, Parks Manager Angela Duldulao, Recreation Manager Marie Patea, Administrative Assistant III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE IV. AGENDA REVIEW: No changes. V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Camacho requested to clarify her comment about being hopeful that no fee increases for next year, stating that she hopes for no additional recreation class fee increase for next year. Minutes were approved with the change by Commissioner Camacho and a second by Commissioner Lock; unanimous. VI. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION: None VII. OLD BUSINESS: A. 2018/19 Annual Co-sponsorship Renewal Supervisor Cullinan made a recommendation to the Commission for approval of Co- Sponsorship renewals. Youth baseball, Woody Rael runs Shetland, Pinto, and Mustang leagues. Cathy Meza stated that there are 22 teams in the league. She stated that their numbers have decreased but still had a pretty good season with three different age groups. The Memorial Day tournament showcased the All Star Teams. Woody stated that the 8-year old team, “they are especially proud of.” They will continue playing in tournaments until they get to their world series. Eight years old pitch with special rules. Chair Garrone congratulated and thanked Woody and Cathy. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 2 Juan Bustos, runs the Bronco and Pony leagues for 11-14 year olds. This year 144-150 players are registered and their numbers fluctuate between 130 – 200 players. They have two tournament teams that will continue on and go to Cooperstown to compete. On Copperstowndreamspark.com people can follow along on the website and watch the games. A lot of fundraising goes on to support the team and their families. This is the 19th year and a great community event. They are happy to represent SSF. Supervisor Cullinan introduced Martha from Ballet Folklorico, The group is primarily of Mexican decent ages 5 – 14. The goal of the group is to not lose the culture of their heritage. The dancers perform at public events, high school, St Dunstan’s, and Movie in the Park. The dancers have fun performing. Supervisor Cullinan stated that Karen at AARP is out of town but appreciates the support. Aging friendly and active aging are the goals of AARP. Supervisor Cullinan said that the Aquatics club should come before the Commission in September. Vice Chair Battaglia made a motion to accept these groups / Commissioner Flores seconded; unanimous. VIII. NEW BUSINESS: A. Childcare Program Services Update Director Ranals noted that the August study session with City Council on Childcare and Seniors programs was cancelled. Staff is looking to the Commission for feedback on the programs. Laura Armanino, Childcare Supervisor presented on the three licensed preschools and Big Lift program that is grant funded and four licensed before school/after school programs. The REAL program (Los Cerritos and Martin) is no charge for the family and children are required to stay until 6pm. She noted that Summer Camp is currently in session. Traditional Camp is traditionally at Orange Park and Ponderosa Elementary School. Enrichment and Sports Camps are at Terrabay gymnasium. Teen Camp ages 13-14, and Full of Fun Camp, a 3 week program for participants ages 14 - 20+ generally meets at Ponderosa. Spring and winter camps K – 12 years old are all at capacity. Sports camp has space this summer but all other camps are full. Supervisor Armanino mentioned a new curriculum for ages 10-12, Camper Families which is a cross-age mentoring program for social emotional growth. The Big Lift program offers health screening, including vision, where a student was identified with vision impairment and after vision correction said, “I can see the letters on Sign Hill.” She also reported on a stewardship grant that was recently awarded. It is a 3-week, 1 day a week stewardship on San Bruno Mountain that concluded with a camping trip. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 3 Director Ranals noted that the childcare program has some controversial topics such as Big Lift funds the Little Steps program. If funding is not renewed we will consider making it a fee based preschool. Program wait lists, and enrollment process are also controversial. We have the capability to do a lottery for process instead of having people camp out for two nights. We will be looking for direction from the Commission on these dilemmas. Commissioner Flores inquired about the food program. Supervisor Armanino said currently children bring their own lunch and morning snack and the City provides an afternoon snack. Frequently we offer themed snacks and involve the kids in preparing them. The Iron Chef program has a secret ingredient which ties in to the curriculum of nutrition, safety and fun. Field trips and cost of buses was discussed. Eight trips are scheduled and 60-65 participants can be accommodated per bus. Commissioner Camacho asked if there was a way that residents do not have to camp out for two nights before registration. Commissioner Battaglia asked how is the sign up via Civic Rec. Director Ranals replied that some families think that this is a sure way to get into the class that they want. Commissioner Camacho suggested surveying the population and Commissioner Uy noted having the survey in multiple languages. Chair Garrone said that this is his first summer without having children in summer camp and has gained even more appreciation for what childcare staff does. He thanked Supervisor Armanino for all that she and her staff does to keep everything straight and noted that it is an impressive feat. Commissioner Flores offered Supervisor Armanino congratulations on the grant and the Sign Hill camping adventure. Commissioner Camacho mentioned considering a SSF camp out in conjunction with Movie Night. B. Senior Program Services Update Supervisor Cullinan thanked the Commission for having her present on behalf of the Senior Services Program. She noted that the City offers a licensed program through the County for 40 participants and we currently have 20-25 participants on the 2nd floor of Magnolia building. The Adult Day Care program is $37,000+ not cost recovery but grant program funds 3-4 part-time staff, 1 van driver, and that we are currently looking to reclassify one employee. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 4 The program is designed to enhance participants physical and emotional being in order to maintain independence and enhance quality of life. The program also provides respite for caregivers and assistance; which is tremendously valuable to the caregiver. Transportation is provided if needed and meals are provided. Morning table talk is a favorite event that incorporates current events and socialization. Music and movement exercises is another activity and orientation games, memory games, crossword puzzles, karaoke, gardening, etc. The participant cost is $60 per day plus transportation $2.50 - $5 per ride. Cost is on a sliding scale for Adult Day Care. 3rd floor at the Magnolia Center operates 7 days a week and is staffed with 4-5 part-time, 1 full-time employee and many volunteers. Yoga, Zumba, Tai Chi, Computer lab, tech support, open exercise room, ESL, meeting spaces, caregiver support and other community organizations keep this floor and participants active. Special luncheons with informational speakers are regularly planned. Having speakers generally doubles the regular attendance; up to 80 attend. Special programs are hosted to celebrate Fathers’ Day, Mothers’ Day, and cultural events. Some speaker topics include medical care support and referrals, legal aid and tax preparation. The Full of Fun program also uses the Magnolia Center and hosts a Nights of Fun event since the building meets ADA accessibility. Teen Camp classes are also held in the building. Supervisor Cullinan highlighted the Senior Services Program Newsletter and noted that it has been updated with color and fun. The newsletter highlights the instructors and each month staff will highlight a different aspect of the Center. She mentioned a junior bike challenge, which is a 20 minute ride for a total of 67.44 miles in June. Supervisor Cullinan spoke about two trips; one to the San Mateo County Fair, and the other to the SF Airport aviation museum. She is planning to add more trips in the future. Supervisor Cullinan also mentioned the Social Ballroom Dance and cultural luncheons that Lisa coordinates at the Municipal Services Building. Supervisor Cullinan also mentioned that “Aging friendly” is for all ages. She is planning to increase activities for active aging seniors. Statistics state that a senior is ages 40 – 80, and she encouraged all Commissioners to “come join us because fun things are happening at Magnolia!” It is the tagline on Facebook. Director Ranals and Supervisor Cullinan noted that staff is planning to collaborate childcare and seniors programs. Commissioner Lock noted that intergenerational programs in San Francisco are tremendously successful. Programs create stimulation for the elderly and they learn from each other. He commended Director Ranals and Supervisor Cullinan for offering this program and thanked her for increasing the program. Commissioner Uy said that pickle ball is one of the fasting growing sports and for all ages. Retirement communities introduce or give access to their residents to integrate into senior programs. Manager Duldulao thanked the Commission for their positive feedback on the Senior Services Program and for bringing their creativity to the program. She mentioned adding Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 5 a Book club to the Senior Services Program. Perhaps local authors can come and talk after everyone has read the book. Director Ranals mentioned renting Kindles or iPads for larger font needs and they are sometimes easier to hold than a book. Chair Garrone asked Supervisor Cullinan about how she feels about the adult day program numbers. He stated that it is a wonderful program and those in need really need it! Supervisor Cullinan said that program publicity is needed. Recently she had three new intakes and with the highlights in the newsletter and word of mouth, the program will increase. Director Ranals noted that the Book club is a great idea, and pickle ball too. Lines for pickle ball can be painted on tennis courts, hosting a field trip to introduce active seniors to pickle ball could be planned and P&R lending Kindles or iPads for people in need is possible. She noted that having membership cards with our new software system may streamline the registration and drop in classes process. Director Ranals noted that the pressure to increase fees for childcare and seniors is not as strong and funding is received through the Older American Federal program. Vice Chair Battaglia noted that the 2nd floor program is great and inquired about the hours. Supervisor Cullinan said that the hours are generally 8:00 am – 2:30 pm. In closing, Supervisor Cullinan congratulated Manager Duldulao on her promotion and looks forward to working with and for her. She also congratulated Supervisor Armanino on her promotion and looks forward to working next to her for years to come. C. Classes Program Update Supervisor O’Brien thanked the Commissioner for their time! She spoke about the Parks and Recreation Activity Guide and that it is designed, printed and distributed on a quarterly. Supervising the Classes Program includes: 65 part-time hourly instructors, 1800 participants per session, at 5 locations: Municipal Services Building, Joseph A Fernekes Recreation Building, Westborough Recreation Building, Terrabay Gymnasium, and Magnolia Center. Preschool age classes are currently at 28 classes, with 350 kids enrolled (4 mo. – 5.5 yrs.) Some of the most popular classes are: Mommy shuffle, Pre-kinder learner’s class, and Kinder tots with wait lists. We currently offer 200 children classes for about 700 participants. Classes include: dance, music, tennis, and sports ages 8-18. Supervisor O’Brien noted that recently tennis camp is being held at Westborough Park, previously held at Terrabay. All is going well and participants are enjoying the program. Adult and Teen classes are currently at 850 participants and we are looking to increase, per Supervisor O’Brien. She stated that she loves new ideas and connections with Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 6 teachers and welcomed the Commissioners input. She stated that we do offer pickle ball and that the instructor and the drop in class has been well received. She stated that music classes are very popular. Staff is trying to focus on different kinds of dance such as Turn it up Hula, and Exercise with Hula for adults and youth. She stated that drop in classes are offered M-F at varying times and locations and about 15 students per class participate. Long term Supervisor O’Brien is hoping to create membership cards so drop in classes to not have to exchange money. She reviewed the staff report attachment on waitlisted classes. Commissioner Lock asked if some classes are duplicated by the Library. Supervisor O’Brien replied yes and no; noting that Parks and Recreation offers classes and the Library offers workshops. Parks and Recreation has a paid instructor and Library workshops are offered for free. Commissioner Camacho said that she appreciates the statistics on all three program areas in Parks and Recreation. She likes the membership card idea and noted that all restaurants in Canada have portable scanners to scan cards. She personally enjoys Barre core workouts with a childcare option and or without a childcare option. D. Concert in the Park Manager Duldulao reported that this is the City’s 4th year of planning this event. The event will have one stage. With an $82,000 budget and received direction to have a family fun zone, staff is planning to put fun zone activities on the ball field side of the park. Ideas for the fun zone include a rock wall, slide, petting zoo, and mini train from 11 am – 3 pm for the family friendly area. Staff is working to secure the High School Bands from 11 am – 1 pm and the headliner is Malo; Carlos Santana’s brother. Other activities being planned are karaoke, and photo booth in the Fernekes Building and other passive activities on the concert side of the park. Staff is finalizing food trucks, Friends of P&R drink sale options, and both Armstrong, and 47 Hills have been invited to participate. Commissioner Camacho suggests offering beer mugs and wine glasses for sale. Commissioner Holt said that the Family Fun Zone, sounds like something that Kaiser did last year. Director Ranals said that we are not using their party planners but we were inspired by their ideas. Commissioner Holt said that beer and wines sales is a great fundraiser for Friends of P&R. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 7 Commissioner Flores said to consider more sun protection for volunteers and guests than we have had in the past. Manager Duldulao said that staff is looking into renting nicer umbrella tables for the food area and suggested allowing tents around the perimeter. Commissioner Flores suggested picnic tables and food options for kids and he has vendor connections. Commissioner Camacho welcomes carnival food options and suggested having a vendor or service club sell SSF t-shirts and or hats for a Parks and Recreation fundraiser. She requested Greg’s help in sourcing a new hat. Chair Garrone suggested squeezing the family zone over by the playground area. It will keep families together and will allow for overflow in the playground. Commissioner Camacho said that she trusts staff’s judgement about the flow of activities. Commissioner Flores suggested selling kid friendly food near the bouncy house to capture buyers attention while waiting in the queue. Discussion of working with the High School band on communication so they have one set up of instruments that they can share instead of setting up and breaking down two sets of instruments. Commissioner Camacho suggested having Recreation instructors do demonstrations of their classes when the stage is not being used. Commissioner Flores suggested offering LIFT or UBER for attendees and setting up a Snapchat filter and or create a hashtag to celebrate Concert in the Park. Commissioner Uy had concerns about health, safety and cleanliness of the petting zoo. Chair Garrone said that having a petting zoo would be a nice experience for the kids that don’t often get to experience a petting zoo. IX. Beautification Committee Chair Garrone reported that Beautification Awards will be presented at the September 12, City Council Meeting. X. Friends of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Flores reported on Movie in the Park, Coco and he is looking forward to a great turn out. Friends are preparing for September 7, Friends Paint and Wine Night. The Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 8 cost is $50 for registration and forms are on the back table with an Event Brite link. He encouraged all Commissioners to attend. XI. Items from Commission Commissioner Holt reported that he visits the Dog Park monthly and checks in with Al Miller, award winner. Commissioner Holt’s daughter-in-law is having dinner with Joe in Minneapolis. He attended senior activities, a Big Lift meeting, and he was honored by Kaiser for his 340 hours of service. He attended the City Council meeting and received the proclamation for “July is Parks and Recreation month.” Commissioner Lock met with Sheri Law with Oyster Point Dragons and with the development in Oyster Point. They are losing their spot to store their boats and equipment. He inquired if Parks and Recreation staff can be of help. Manager Mediati noted that they used to store their items at Drakes Marine. Commission Uy attended the City Council meeting and said that Commissioner Battaglia did a great speaking about Parks and Recreation month. He attended pickle ball and it was full with a lot of people playing. He is an avid tennis player and loves the idea of permanent lines on the courts for pickle ball. Pickle ball is a great community building sport and he commends staff for bringing it to the City. He said that summer camp is being enjoyed by his son. He enjoys the activities, leaders, and field trips. He said that about six of the soccer kids that he coaches are the in camps and he hears great feedback. Commissioner Flores said that Friends of Parks and Recreation and Friends of the Library has great synergy. He thanked Assistant Patea for the flyers and noted that the Friends of the Library had a good productive meeting and encouraged attendance at their events; noting that the fall book sale is in September. Commissioner Camacho mentioned that she was at Westborough Square and overheard two parents talking about summer camp in Orange Park and how happy they are. She congratulated staff and thanked all of the work! She attended a Joint Subcommittee meeting with the School Board and City Council representative, and a School Board meeting. She gave kudos to Director Ranals for advocating for the department, field usage and upholding the joint use agreement in a non-confrontational and professional way. A playground at Sunshine Gardens is still being discussed. Commissioner Camacho stated that families in the community want it and teachers do not. She suggested that supporters should get together and find the project champions to communicate to the School District and City. She reported that movie night in the park had a low turnout. The weather was cold and if it was nicer weather, she is sure that Coco will have a better turn out. She noted that Mothers Club fundraiser is at Armstrong for Trivia Night on July 18. Chair Garrone said that he is looking forward to Movie in the Park, Coco. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 9 XII. Items from Staff A. Calendar of Events – reviewed by Director Ranals B. Administrative Update Director Ranals stated that fees were approved at City Council. Staff will be serving popsicles and orange slices at the new sculpture ribbon cutting event. Manager Mediati reported that that bee hives have been removed but more bees have moved in. Staff is starting quarterly irrigation. New landscape maintenance contractor, Bright View started about 4-weeks ago. They have hired some Frank+Grossman staff. Director Ranals spoke about Facility Manager, Brian Crume’s update. Director Ranals provided an update on the City Council study session. Community Civic Center cost is currently at $243,000,000 staff is trying to keep the cost at 190,000,000. Council wants to provide more for the community. There was a discussion of a three story building for Parks and Recreation, Library, and Council Chambers. After a lot of discussion at the study session the meeting ended with recommending some underground parking for 100 cars which allows for open space and 120 surface parking spaces. Council prefers a two story building to include Council chambers/theater, Parks and Recreation and Library. She said that there was discussion to forgo the landscape, and council approved the Library to get an additional 5,000 square feet for increased seating area. Parks and Recreation staff did not get to counter at the meeting. Director Ranals said that additional options include getting grant funds, getting help from a fundraising committee. The City may choose to spend down some reserves, but looming PERS liability is a concern and unfunded retirements and health care costs are concerns. She encouraged Commissioners to attend the council meeting. After direction from the City Council meeting a kick off meeting will be scheduled. Commissioner Camacho stated that she spoke to a Councilmember today and the explanation for the additional space was that it is tight in the Library now and a private study room and more work space for youth is needed. The councilmember said that they will probably remove the Council Chambers/theater and City Council meetings will take place somewhere else. Commission Uy said that smaller libraries are the trend with deliveries of books and Kindles, etc. Council foregoing an auditorium for this use is interesting. Commissioner Flores said that no landscaping at the Civic Campus is a concern. Chair Garrone said that currently the Council Chambers is a busy space in itself and losing it will be a loss for the community. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting of July 17, 2018 Page 10 Commissioner Camacho suggests that Council consider the 5,000 square feet should be a multi-use space for both departments. Chari Garrone said that having some underground parking is a plus. Adjourned 9:21 Respectfully submitted by: Marie Patea, Administrative Assistant NEXT MEETING: September 18, 2018