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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - City Council - unsigned - 1989-09-26 415 9/26/89 City Council, Adjourned Regular Meeting Redding Convention Center Redding, California September 26, 1989 7:05 p.m. The adjourned regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Carter with the following Council Members present: Buffum, Dahl, Fulton, Johannessen, and Carter. Also present were Planning and Community Development Director Perry, Recreation and Parks Director Riley, Assistant City Attorney Schouten, Recreation Superintendent Sherer, Senior Assistant Planner Hanson, Budget Services Officer O'Lane, Recreation Supervisor Finlay, City Clerk Nichols, and Secretary to the City Council Moscatello. RIVERLAND RECREATION AREA (P-050-600-200) Recreation and Parks Director Riley stated that the Recreation and Parks Commission has considered the development of a sports complex to accommodate the many softball teams in this area as the number one priority in capital improvement projects. Mr. Riley reviewed the history of the site selection process. He said there is a dire need for a facility to accommodate all the adults as well as the youth in the area who want to participate in a softball activity. Mr. Riley conveyed that there would be more participants if more fields were available. He added that staff and leagues had to turn away teams and participants because of the lack of facilities. He added that it would be staff's recommendation to move the men's and women's teams to the sports complex in order to free Buckeye Field and Alta Mesa Park for youth programs. Mr. Riley stated that it is the recommendation of the Recreation and Parks Commission and staff to proceed with the project. Mr. Riley noted that this action is subject to the Planning Commission's ratification of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR), implementation of mitigation measures, and Council's review of the EIR and adoption of findings. Jerry Dragoo, Dragoo and Associates, reviewed the design of the recreation area. Mr. Dragoo said there is one entrance to the slow pitch and fast pitch fields. He explained that the design includes four slow pitch and two fast pitch softball fields, two adult soccer fields, a grass area, a boat take-out area (which is not a critical part of the design), concession stands and restrooms, a picnic area, and a walking and jogging trail. Mr. Dragoo indicated that trees will be planted to screen the lights and separate the areas. In response to Council Member Fulton's question, Mr. Dragoo conveyed that the paved area will park 313 cars and the two soccer fields will provide overflow parking. Council Member Dahl noted that construction of the complex would provide trees on what is now barren landscape. Mr. Dragoo replied affirmatively. Senior Assistant Planner Hanson stated that the Planning Commission certified the Final EIR. He explained that the EIR was a year in the making and the Planning Commission held four meetings on this issue from December 8, 1988, to this afternoon. Mr. Hanson explained that issues such as traffic, noise, light, the impact on agricultural soils, and its consistency with the Shasta County General Plan have been discussed. 416 9/26/89 Mr. Perry stated that the Minutes from the Planning Commission's meeting of September 26, 1989, and the addendum to the EIR will be available to Council in the very near future. He explained that if Council decides to approve the project, it will be necessary to identify certain findings of the EIR. The Planning Commission will also recommend conditions for approval of the project. He explained that the Commission felt that the process should be the same as if it was for a private developer. Mr. Perry stated that three letters were received. One letter from Shasta County Supervisor Pete Peters asked Council to continue consideration of the EIR. Mr. Perry noted that the EIR is not a matter before Council this evening. A letter was also received from Mr. Daniel Frost, an attorney representing a group opposed to the site, asking Council to either deny the project or continue the meeting for the purpose of receiving further public input. Further, a letter supporting the project site was received from Clyde McCarty, a resident living in the Churn Creek Bottom. Mr. Perry said it is the Planning Commission's request that they be allowed to make recommendations for conditions of approval; and at the next available Council meeting, Council could consider the EIR. He noted that the Council meeting of October 17 will not be a scheduled public hearing. Mayor Carter noted that Council could choose to take input or not at that time. Mr. Perry agreed and noted that he did not want to discourage anyone from providing input tonight. Mayor Carter suggested that tonight's meeting focus on whether the softball complex is a good investment for the community, if the proposed site is a good location, and if the City should proceed with the project at this location. Recreation and Parks Director Riley presented a slide show depicting the proposed recreation area in relation to Interstate 5, the Sacramento River, adjacent commercial, agricultural, and residential properties, the 76 Truck Stop on Knighton Road, and Pacheco School. Mary Jo Burris, 1805 Orchard Lane, Redding, stated that she attended the meetings when site selection was discussed. She pointed out that Mr. Dragoo favored another site over the Riverland Drive site. Ms. Burris explained that the Churn Creek Homeowner's Association has been trying to protect the Churn Creek Bottom since the early 70's. She noted that a community general plan was formulated and efforts to protect the boundaries and the Sacramento River have been made. She said the design for the proposed area is wonderful, but it is an intrusion on the Bottom. Ms. Burris said that Mr. Hanson and Mr. Riley said that this facility could be put anywhere. She added that the proposed recreation area is not in compliance with the Shasta County General Plan and this use will lead to other intensive uses and requests for annexation. She pointed out that the access road is a two lane road that also leads to a mobile home park and she does not see any resolution of the traffic problems that will be created. Mayor Carter encouraged those present to submit written comments if they are unable to present their material within the five minute time line. Regarding Ms. Burris' comments about annexation requests, Mayor Carter stated that he has not seen any evidence on the part of the Planning Commission, City Council, or staff for design of future annexations. 417 9/26/89 Chip Trumble, 1665 Clover Road, Redding, noted that a formal request for annexation was made 1 1/2 years ago that would have included the Knighton Road Truck Stop and other commercial areas. Mr. Trumble said that if the softball complex is allowed, the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) property could be annexed along with the softball park and the 76 Truck Stop. He said the ball park is not the real issue, the City has an appetite for more tax base. Mr. Trumble conveyed that the Americal Farmland Trust will be presenting a letter to Council in opposition to the project. Norman Harris, 1686 Pinewood Drive, Redding, noted that the project will cost an estimated $3.2 million which will include improvements to the Knighton Road overpass and expanding Riverland Drive to four lanes. Mr. Harris inquired where the money will come from. He opined that the project will serve a very small group of people and $3.2 million is a great deal of money to spend on approximately 10,000 people, which would include players, friends, families, and fans. He stated that the money would be better spent on the whole community. Mr. Harris opposed the location and pointed out that recreation can be defined in many ways, such as peace and quiet. He conveyed that he is concerned about the traffic and parking. He said the majority of the softball association members have joined the Anderson leagues because of disorganization and financial problems in the Redding leagues. He suggested a regional facility in Anderson which would include the Anderson, Redding and Central Valley leagues. He added that softball will not generate business or revenue and real estates values in the area will depreciate. Mr. Harris pointed out that the City will incur additional liability insurance. Mayor Carter asked what the sources of funding will be. Mr. Perry stated that park development funds cannot be relied upon. He added that grants will be applied for, but the financing has not been put together yet. Mr. Perry added that the community would develop this project over the years. Bryan Hill, 8758 Churn Creek Road, stated that the Riverland site is not the best location and staff did not consider that funds earmarked for this project cannot be spent outside the City of Redding. Mr. Hill added that this project is in conflict with the County General Plan, the recreation element of the City General Plan, and the Airport Specific Plan. Mr. Hill reviewed the ratings given to the proposed sites and concluded that the Riverland site should be rated between 19 and 22. He stated that many issues were not addressed in the EIR and many of the mitigation measures are not definite. Mr. Hill submitted his statement and it is incorporated by reference herein. Christine Stockel, 1700 Clover Road, Redding, stated that she is the granddaughter of Charles Christiansen. She indicated that the softball park should not be developed at the expense of the Churn Creek homeowners. Ms. Stockel explained that she lives in the proposed expansion area and the Bottom is a lifestyle she enjoys. Mayor Carter pointed out that growth is evident throughout Northern California. People are moving into the area and market forces are pushing this growth. Council Member Dahl noted that the implication is that Council, by eminent domain, is going to take property away from landowners for this project. Mr. Perry explained that a mitigation measure recommended in the EIR is to create a buffer zone by acquiring property. Mr. Perry conveyed that this suggestion was only one of many mitigation measures submitted and acquiring the expansion 418 9/26/89 property by eminent domain is not what the Planning Commission would recommend. Ed Brown, 2584 Neal Lane, Redding, conveyed that he has been involved with baseball for 17 years. Mr. Brown stated that more facilities are needed. Over 104 kids had to be turned away this season in the City of Redding alone. He added that over 10.4% of Shasta County plays baseball and the only reason more do not is because of the lack of facilities. Mr. Brown stated that the kids should be encouraged to get off the streets and play baseball. Luke Mutchie, 4371 Clay Street, Redding, expressed his support for the softball location and stated that a softball complex will be an improvement over the existing thistle patch. He said he will support any attempt to improve the community and keep the children off drugs. Agnes Woodford, 8247 Churn Creek Road, Redding, referred to the question, "is this is a good investment for the community?" She asked which community Council is talking about. She explained that the Churn Creek Bottom residents are opposed to this project. Ms. Woodford said that Mr. Riley's slides do not show the traffic problems on the freeway, offramp or street. She emphasized that this land is agricultural land and the slides are biased because they were taken when the land was brown. Ms. Woodford expressed her concern for the children riding bikes in the traffic. She said the City should not put the softball field in their community, it should be located in the City. Phyllis Solberg, 2887 Berghus Way, Redding, stated that the project is located too far away from the City. Ms. Solberg noted that the EIR states that the project does not impact the neighborhood, but her opinion is different, the neighborhood will be impacted. She pointed out that it was stated that the project is consistent with the truck stop, but Ms. Solberg opined that the truck stop is not consistent either. She conveyed that they are trying to protect the Bottom land and if the project goes, the land will be gone forever. Phyllis Lawler, 9769 Churn Creek Road, Redding, representing the Churn Creek Bottom Homeowner's Association, stated that their appeal of the project for the past several years has been with the Planning Commission and the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). Regarding future annexations, Ms. Lawler stated that they have been told in public and private that Redding and urban development will eventually travel right down the freeway. Ms. Lawler noted that the Homeowner's Association was told that the City could handle the Churn Creek Bottom better than the County. These statements lead them to believe that the City is saying they want to annex the Churn Creek Bottom area. Ms. Lawler noted that park development funds cannot be used for this project unless the area is annexed or the City changes the ordinance allowing park funds to be used outside the City. Ms. Lawler stated that she is not against growth, not against softball, but the Homeowner's Association is against urban sprawl. She pointed out that Council Member Johannessen stated that centralization is a good way to alter urban sprawl, and this is why the Benton Ranch site may be good area for a softball complex. Ms. Lawler added that the softball complex will not generate revenue, what brings business is real industry, not fast food restaurants and motels. She pointed out that this complex will not service the needs of the youth in the community, it is mainly for the adult leagues. 419 9/26/89 Mr. Riley stated that if the complex is constructed, other fields will be available for youth leagues. He noted that this is a dual project because soccer fields are also proposed. Ms. Lawler pointed out that there are only 34 useable acres on this site, so this complex is really only a temporary solution. She indicated that Mr. Dragoo originally choose the Metz Road site which has 200 acres, room for expansion, is already owned by the City, and has utilities. She noted that the Benton Ranch site and the site by Shasta College are also worth considering. She noted that the lights must be baffled on this sight because of the residents and salmon, and the loudspeaker system can only be used 20 days out of the year. She suggested that a site be selected where the loudspeaker can be used all year. Ms. Lawler said the Churn Creek Homeowner's are trying to save the Churn Creek Bottom area, and she asked Council to consider this area a resource and an asset to the community. She asked Council to take a closer look at other sites where the complex could be expanded without condemning someone's property. Gary Cressey, 2363 Clover Road, Redding, stated that he has been a resident of Churn Creek Bottom since 1957. Mr. Cressey stated that the time to build the softball complex is now. He pointed out that when the interstate highway went through Churn Creek Bottom, no one came out to support the opposition. He pointed out that two mobile home parks soon followed. Mr. Cressey emphasized that the area next to the proposed complex is commercial. He also added that a property owner in the Bottom recently cut down two giant oak trees. Mr. Cressey stated that it is time to get on with the project and quit stalling. He said that most of the people who play softball live in the County. Ron Morris, 2772 Alfreda Way, Redding, past President of the Redding Men's Fast Pitch Association, stated that he has been involved with sports for 20 years. He explained that the sport has suffered because of the lack of facilities. Mr. Morris pointed out that our youth has to have a place to play baseball, and Redding can no longer compete on a national level because of the lack of facilities. Mr. Morris stated that it is a good location, and it makes him proud to see the sports complex near the freeway where everyone can see it. He conveyed that a national tournament would bring in a million dollars. Mr. Morris said there is no better site, and if Council procrastinates, there will not be a softball complex. Bert Meyer, 2051 Hilltop Drive, representing the Redding Motel and Hotel Association, pointed out that when the Redding Rebels won the tournament, the whole community felt good. Mr. Meyer said this is a good project, and it is a good site location. Joe Bourland, 8100 Riverland Drive, Redding, owner of a mobile home park on Riverland Drive, stated that if the softball park is located on Riverland Drive, traffic will be aggravated, and he is concerned about the increase in response time for police and fire protection. Mr. Bourland explained that he is concerned about the health and welfare, and peace and quiet of the people in the mobile home park. Mr. Bourland explained that it is his responsibility to protect the interests of the residents. Edd Fowler, 1284 Gravel Plant Road, Redding, stated that the softball complex is a good idea, but it is in the wrong area. Mr. Fowler suggested that the complex be built in the City. He suggested several sites he opined would be preferable. Mr. Fowler expressed his concern about the traffic impact and asked where the water to irrigate the fields will come from. 420 9/26/89 Mr. Hanson stated that CH2M studied the water table and found sufficient ground water. He noted that it may be possible to participate with ACID and draw water from the river to irrigate the fields. Mr. Fowler pointed out that he had a well in another area where the City placed a well and his own well went dry. Mr. Fowler asked what will happen to his well if the City irrigates the softball fields with ground water. He stated that the Bureau of Land Management, Caltrans, United States Fish and Game, Shasta County Sheriffs, and homeowners are against the project. Mr. Perry noted that the Shasta County Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors are against the project; however, Caltrans and other representatives are only dealing with the adequacy of the report and not taking a position pro or con. Tom Dunston, 9158 Churn Creek Road, stated that he has lived in the Churn Creek Bottom for ten to twelve years. Mr. Dunston relayed a story regarding acquaintances that built a business which thereafter failed. When asked why the business was located where it was, the answer was, "because we owned the land." Mr. Dunston suggested that other sites be reviewed and listed the Benton Airpark area, the Clear Creek area, Gold Hills, Benton Ranch, west of Lumber Jack, the Canyon Creek area, Oregon Gulch, Lake Redding park area, and Redding Municipal Airport. Mr. Dunston conveyed that it is their belief that the reason the City wants to place the softball park on Riverland is to set the groundwork for future annexations. He added that notice of the public meeting was inadequate and could have been handled better. He stated that the softball complex will have inadequate parking and it is the result of pathetic planning. Mr. Dunston suggested that Council look at other options. Council Member Johannessen stated that many of these sites were looked at. Bob Dilley, 1722 Clover Road, Redding, expressed support for the location of the softball complex. He conveyed that everyone agrees that a complex is needed. Mr. Dilley said this location has fewer impacts than any other site that has been considered. He pointed out that is it open land, near the Sacramento River and interstate highway, and has lain fallow since the 1950's. He added that this recreation area will give people access to the river. Roger Dawes, 2535 Phil Court, Redding, stated that the softball complex is a good investment and a positive way to fill the needs of the population. Mr. Dawes pointed out that the recreation area will add an incentive for outside industry to come to our area. He explained that quality families do not want to come to area that cannot fill their needs. He added that the sports complex will be a showcase that Redding can point to with pride. Mr. Dawes pointed out that commercial property is located on all sides and there is no way that these properties will return to agricultural lands. Richard Marks, Redding, stated that he is associated with the youth softball leagues. Mr. Marks stated that softball facilities are needed, and in fact, more ball fields than this are needed. He pointed out that the whole County has a traffic problem. He expressed hope that with property planning, the traffic problem can be corrected. Jim Ceragioli, 1861 Shasta Pines Way, Redding, representing Redding Youth Baseball, stated that more youth facilities are needed. Mr. Ceragioli stated that youth between the ages of 9 and 17 are involved; 421 9/26/89 and they had to turn away a number of youths last year because of the lack of facilities. Mr. Ceragioli opined that the site is an ideal location and added that more than one location is needed. Mr. Ceragioli stated that he is involved in the youth league because he wants to see the best for our youth. He pointed out that there are traffic problems all over, and this is not reason to hold up the project. He said that the residents will not see 1,000 vehicles every day; and the traffic will only impact the area prior to and after a game. Larry Solberg, 2887 Berghus Way, Redding, stated that the people are not opposed to softball, they are opposed to not being able to vote on the proposal. Mr. Solberg conveyed that the Planning Commission stated that they were trying to impact the fewest number of people. He opined that the Benton Ranch would be the best site. Mr. Solberg said that beer will be sold in the softball complex, but beer is not allowed in the City's parks. Bruce Foteki, from the Anderson Softball League, stated that he lives near the Anderson baseball park. Mr. Foteki conveyed that there are two senior citizen's subdivision near the ballpark in Anderson, and no problems have arisen. Mr. Foteki conveyed that the teams pay for their own liability insurance, it will not cost the citizens money. Regarding noise, Mr. Foteki stated that he hears more noise from Shasta Speedway and the train than he does from the softball park. He pointed out that land is available for sale near the Anderson baseball park, but the owners want so much money for it, it has not sold. Mr. Foteki stated that more baseball fields are needed and revenue can be generated by holding tournaments. He also pointed out that the complex will hire umpires and grounds keepers. Tom Reeats, 11056 Churn Creek Road, Redding, expressed concern about the impact traffic will have on the area. Mr. Reeats stated that Churn Creek Road is already dangerous and if the children try to ride their bikes, they may not make it. Andrea Wemette, 7080 River Crest Drive, Anderson, stated that she lives across the river from the proposed site. Ms. Wemette stated that the softball complex will allow access into the area and the potential for vandalism is greater. Ms. Wemette stated that she lives near the public fishing access area and violations of City ordinances occur on the City's property. She explained that when a call to dispatch is made, Redding Police Department refers their calls to the Shasta County Sheriff. When the Sheriff is called, they say it is City of Redding property, and they have no jurisdiction because the Sheriff cannot enforce City ordinances, only an agent of the City of Redding can make an arrest. Ms. Wemette asked how this problem can be resolved. She indicated that there is the potential for this to happen at the softball complex also. She noted that both her son and daughter played baseball, and she would love to see a regional complex. She suggested the softball complex be located at Benton Ranch and stated that this will revitalize the downtown area. Council Member Dahl asked who will patrol the recreation area. Mr. Hanson replied that a tentative agreement has been reached between the City and the Sheriff's Department and the Redding Police Department will take the lead. He relayed that the area will be patrolled when not in use and during off hours. Barbara Post, 7081 River Crest Drive, Anderson, stated that she is not against growth or baseball. She conveyed that the problem is with the location. Ms. Post stated that the best part of the proposal is the trail. She conveyed that there are bald eagles and otters on the 422 9/26/89 island next to the site. She said she has no desire to keep this lifestyle to herself, but the wildlife will be impacted. Ms. Post added that baseball can be played anywhere, but where can bald eagles fly. She explained that these are the types of things they are concerned with. Rosemary Hanson, 8450 Riverland Drive, Rapid River Mobile Home Park, stated that they bought this property because it was in a restricted area. Ms. Hanson relayed that traffic is already a problem because of the trucks entering and leaving the truck stop. She said it is difficult for normal traffic, no less than for emergency vehicles. Russell Hunt, 2058 Sonoma Street, Redding, stated that there is no opposition to softball. Mr. Russell said that in this case, the City does not want to have a softball complex in their own backyard. He conveyed that the Benton Ranch site has not been considered. He said the site has an approved EIR and it is near facilities such as motels and restaurants. He suggested that the northern part of the property be used. Mr. Hunt said that the riverland area lacks support facilities, and it should be saved for a future river park. He added that one is not needed there yet. Mr. Hunt said Council has heard the concerns of residents and they have gone unheard. Council's policy is dam the people, go full speed ahead. He noted that the Churn Creek Homeowners have stated that they will take the matter to court and consequently, the softball complex will be held up. He suggested that the issue go before a vote of the people in April. Mayor Carter stated that four out of five Council Members inherited this matter when they were elected. He emphasized that this issue has been an ongoing process, not something that has just materialized. Mayor Carter reiterated that this issue has been before the Council since before his election 3 1/2 years ago. Council Member Johannessen stated that copies of the comments and responses to the EIR are available at City Hall. He stated that it is frustrating to deal with misinformation and he hoped that any disagreement would have some basis in fact and that people would take the time to research those items. He added that it is too easy to make assumptions and it is important to discuss facts as they are. Council Member Johannessen stated that he is concerned about the traffic; however, he noted that Caltrans reviewed the traffic impacts and the report was deemed adequate. Council Member Buffum pointed out that this issue has been with her since her time on the Planning Commission. She stated that other sites were considered and reviewed, and the Metz Road site was deemed a safety hazard because of the railroad tracks. In terms of planning and philosophy, she said the world is a little bigger than Churn Creek Bottom, and while Council does not want to hurt the Churn Creek Bottom, the world is around it. Council Member Buffum expressed her appreciation for Ms. Lawler's comments and the fact that she has done her homework. She noted that cheap shots only hurt ones arguments. She explained that Council is trying to do the best good for the most people and trying to serve the community. Council Member Buffum stated that the annexation issue should not be muddled into this issue. The annexation request was a by product of the need for sewer service by the truck stop. She explained that certain governmental bodies have the right to do things for their citizens, and she pointed out that the County Jail was built in the City against the City of Redding's wishes for the benefit of the community. Council Member Buffum pointed out that placing the softball complex in the downtown area to generate activity is poor 423 9/26/89 planning. Those are two different kinds of needs and a softball complex will not boost the economics of the downtown area. Council Member Buffum pointed out that the County zoned the area north of the proposed site commercial, and there might be more truck stops built. Council Member Dahl stated that Council is trying to take a progressive lead for a growing, mainly urban, community. He noted that there is a clash between rural and urban interests and he added that Council saw this when the sewer plant was proposed. Council Member Dahl stated that not everyone agrees that a complex is needed. He conveyed that Council chose the best site with the least amount of impact. The site is located on an interstate highway and next to a commercial area. He opined that Council does not want to annex the Churn Creek Bottom; it would have too great of an impact on City services. He reiterated that the annexation request was to provide infrastructure for the truck stop. Council Member Dahl stated that he is looking forward to reviewing the EIR and comments from the public hearing. He noted that those comments deserve responses. Council Member Fulton stated that he has been concerned since the beginning about why the complex was not placed in the City. He noted that when the site selections were reviewed, Benton Ranch was not available. Council Member Fulton explained that he is in favor of the site; however, Benton Ranch should be given a little thought. He expressed regret that the complex is placed as far from the City as it is. Mayor Carter stated that Council has to address problems and provide service to the people of Redding. Council has tried to take an objective look at all the sites and be very meticulous. He conveyed that he has lived near Thompson Field all his life, and he pointed out that houses are still being built around the field. Mayor Carter clarified that the Planning Commission will discuss the conditions of approval for the recreation center on October 10, and make recommendations to Council. The City Council will discuss the issue further at the Council meeting of October 17. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, at the hour of 9:37 p.m., Mayor Carter declared the meeting adjourned. APPROVED: __________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________________ City Clerk